Getting around Panama

Transport in Panama — Quick, Practical Guide

City ride-hailing (Uber / inDrive), intercity buses from Albrook, yellow taxis & Yappy, ferries to islands, and car rentals.

Uber works well inside Panama City inDrive can be cheaper and works for longer trips Albrook Terminal connects cities across Panama

In the city: Uber & inDrive

  • Uber: Uber is reliable mainly within Panama City (and a few other cities). Outside the metro area, availability drops.
  • inDrive: inDrive often costs less—you propose a fare and drivers accept or counter; good for city and some intercity rides.
  • Tip: for long trips, confirm final price, payment method (cash/Yappy) and A/C before departure.
Uber cities in PanamainDrive — official site

Example: Panama City → Playa Chame may show around $30 one-way on inDrive; the return can be roughly 2× depending on demand.

Out of town: Yellow taxis / private drivers

Beyond the capital, use licensed yellow taxis or arrange a private driver. Agree the fare in advance. Payment is usually cash; many drivers also accept Yappy (local QR wallet).

  • Negotiate and fix the full fare before getting in.
  • Ask if the driver accepts Yappy; carry small USD bills as backup.
  • Prefer taxi stands or app-booked drivers at night.
About the Yappy app

Public transport from Panama City

Metro & MiBus (in the city)

Use a rechargeable Metro/MetroBus card. Metro + MiBus cover most areas; top up online or at stations and kiosks.

Metro — officialMiBus — routesMetroBus card & top-ups

Gran Terminal Albrook (intercity buses)

From Albrook you can reach Antón, El Valle, Coronado/San Carlos, Chitré/Las Tablas, Santiago/Soná, David/Boquete, Colón and more.

Destinations & services (Albrook)
To Playa Venao: Shuttles such as PinkBus run Panama City ↔ Venao (check schedules; often morning departures).
PinkBus — officialSchedule info (Venao Guide)

Car rental: where & requirements

Pick up at Tocumen (PTY) or in the city. Bring a valid driver’s license and a credit card in your name. Some companies allow 21–24 with an under-25 fee; others require 25+ for all classes. Review CDW/LDW and liability coverage.

SIXT Panama (age & docs)Alamo PTY (requirements)Avis PTY (age policy)
  • Security deposits/holds can be high—use a card with enough limit.
  • Ask about toll devices, cross-province travel and gravel-road clauses.
  • Record video/photos at pickup & drop-off; keep fuel receipts.

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Pick your island

San Blas, Bocas, Pearl Islands — vibes, seasons, access.