The stunning country that links Central and South America, having Atlantic and Pacific oceans to both sides, has finally reopened its borders for Tourism. Panama is now open to welcome tourists back to explore its skyscrapers, rainforests, and natural parks! The country reopened for tourism as of October 12, 2020, and here’s everything you need to know before you travel to Panama.
Who Can Enter Panama?
To summarize, Panama is open to all travelers, including foreign visitors.
Are There Testing and/or Quarantine Upon Arrival?
Firstly, travelers should present a negative COVID PCR test taken no more than 48 hours prior to their arrival time in Panama. Secondly, if a passenger’s COVID test was taken more than 48 hours before the moment of arrival, they will be mandated to take a rapid COVID test at the airport before customs and the traveler will have to cover the costs of said test.
That is to say, if the test is negative then there will be no quarantine. Otherwise, the traveler will be required to quarantine at a government-approved location if the test is positive. Moreover, a second test will be taken after seven days of quarantine; if it is positive, the traveler should complete an additional seven days of quarantine.
Other Entry Requirements
- There are currently no restrictions on entry from any country.
- Health insurance is not a requirement for entry but is highly recommended.
- Passengers are subject to temperature screening upon entering the airport.
- Comply with all sanitary control measures outlined by the Ministry of Health of Panama.
- Confirm that you are healthy (no symptoms of any respiratory illness) and have no exposure to COVID-19 within the last fourteen (14) days.
Health Protocols and Safety Measures
- Face masks need to be in optimal condition and must be worn properly.
- Passengers should maintain physical distance, a minimum of two (2) meters in the airport facilities.
- The Ministry of Health can perform random rapid testing at any time.
- Wash hands as frequently as possible.
What’s Open in Panama?
So far as of October 12, here’s what passengers can expect to see in Panama:
- Hotels, motels, hostels, and other accommodations
- Tourism activities and non-essential transportation
- Swimming pools
- Restaurants and cafes with dine-in options but may operate by reservation system in order to avoid crowding
- Tour attractions but reduced capacity (50%) for shared ground transportation vehicles.
- Spas and aesthetic services
- Beaches
- Outdoor activities like parks, water sports, etc
Detailed Restriction/Reopening Information For Panama
Sources: Visit Panama
