In order to be independent and maximise your holiday experience, we recommend self-drive in the western region of Panama including the provinces of Cocle (El Valle), Los Santos (Azuero Peninsula) and Chiriqui (Boquete). This allows the flexibility to stop whenever you see something interesting. Compared to its neighbouring countries, the main roads are in a good state of repair. Do bear in mind that Panama is a mountainous country, roads can be curvy and signage is generally poor once outside the main cities. However, full directions are provided upon collection of the vehicle and there are relatively few pot-holes.

 

We generally recommend a Group C vehicle, Toyota Yaris or similar. We have selected Budget as our supplier in Panama. They have offices in Panama City downtown, Panama City Airports, David Airport, Pedasi Airport etc..... Therefore vehicles may be picked up in one place and dropped off at another. Drop off charges in the event of returning your vehicle to a different point from which it was collected and this is included in the cost of your holiday (not payable locally).

A UK driving licence (international is preferred), passport and credit card are required when collecting the vehicle along with a security deposit. Check the car over carefully and note all dents and scratches before accepting the car. If the car is returned with dents or scratches, or other damage that was not previously noted, you will be charged and your deposit will not be refunded.

 

The general policy (unless advised otherwise) is to receive the car with a full tank of fuel and to therefore return it full on drop off. If you forget, your credit card will be charged automatically and at above-market fuel prices.

 

Unlimited mileage, roadside breakdown assistance, local taxes and Collision Damage Waiver are included in the company name car hire rates. Minimum age for renting a vehicle is 23 but there is no maximum age. The CDW covers you for damage of your vehicle and any third parties arising from ‘normal’ use of the car. The vehicle must be returned to the office on time otherwise extra charges will apply (payable locally). Reconfirm the drop off time and place of return at the time of collecting your vehicle. There is an extra charge for a second driver of between $3-$5 per day (payable locally).

As in the UK, never leave valuables in the car such as cameras, handbags and suitcases as they may attract thieves. In the event of getting a ticket for speeding or other infractions, do not offer money to the highway patrol officer. All tickets must be paid when you return the car. If the car is towed away, you will have to go the highway patrol office and a pay a fee to get your car back.  There are several tolls on the Pan-American Highway. The charges range from $1-$2 depending on the vehicle type. Please note that we do not recommend you drive at night on the Pan-American Highway.

 

Please see our Discover Panama Fly Drive itinerary >

 

Approximate Driving Times / Approximate Distances

	Hrs	Km
Panama City – El Valle	2.5 hrs	140km
El Valle – Boquete	7 hrs	450km
Boquete – David	45 mins	35km
Boquete – Almirante harbour	3.5 hrs	340km
Boquete – Paso Canoas (border with Costa Rica)	1.45 hrs	140km
Boquete – Chiriquí Archipélago (Boca Brava)	2.5 hrs + 30mins boat	56km
Chiriquí Archipélago (Boca Brava) – David Airport	1.5hrs + 30min boat	115km
Chiriquí Archipélago (Boca Brava) – Azuero Peninsula (Pedasi)	6.5 hrs + 30min boat	380km
Azuero Peninsula (Pedasi ) – Boquete	7 hrs	415km
Azuero Peninsula (Pedasi ) – El Valle	5 hrs	385km
Azuero Peninsula (Pedasi ) – Chitré	1.45 hrs	74km
Chitré  – Santiago	2 hrs	80km
Santiago – Boquete	4.5 hrs	320km
Panama City – Colón (1 hour by train)	1.5 hrs	80km
Panama City – Portobelo	2 hrs	95km
Panama City – San Lorenzo	2 hrs	130 km
Panama City – Boquete	7 hrs	521km
Panama City – Azuero Peninsula (Pedasi)	5 hrs	380km