Welcome to Panama: Complete Tocumen Airport Arrival Guide (2026)
Everything you need to know for your arrival at Tocumen International Airport (PTY). Transportation, tips, and recommendations for a smooth arrival in Panama.
Contents
Tocumen International Airport (PTY)
Tocumen International Airport is Panama's main international gateway and the largest hub in Central America. Located 24 kilometers east of Panama City, this modern airport serves as Copa Airlines' main hub, connecting North and South America. With over 16 million passengers annually, Tocumen is one of Latin America's most important aviation hubs.
The airport features two terminals (T1 and the new T2), extensive duty-free shopping, and efficient immigration processing for the millions of travelers passing through each year.
What to Expect Upon Arrival
Immigration Process
Panama's immigration is efficient and straightforward:
- Arrival at terminal - International flights arrive at T1 or T2
- Immigration line - Present passport and completed immigration card
- Baggage claim - Modern carousels with clear signage
- Customs declaration - Green lane for nothing to declare, red for items
Tip: Have your hotel address and return ticket information ready for immigration officers.
Visa Requirements
Panama has generous visa policies for tourists. Citizens from the US, Canada, EU, UK, Australia, and most Latin American countries receive 90-180 days upon arrival (depending on nationality). Requirements include:
- Valid passport with 6+ months validity
- Proof of onward travel (return or continuing ticket)
- Proof of funds ($500 USD or equivalent recommended)
- Hotel reservation or invitation letter
The Friendly Nations Visa program offers extended stays and residency paths for citizens of 50+ countries.
Transportation from the Airport
Private Transfer (Recommended)
The most comfortable option, especially for first-time visitors to Panama City.
- To Panama City hotels: $35-50 USD
- To Casco Viejo (Old Town): $40-55 USD
- To Panama Canal area: $45-60 USD
Book in advance through your hotel or reputable services like Panama Transfers or GetYourGuide.
Official Airport Taxis
Yellow taxis with official airport authorization operate from the designated stand outside arrivals.
- To Panama City Centro: $30-40 USD
- To Casco Viejo: $35-45 USD
- To Amador Causeway: $40-50 USD
Always confirm the fare before departing. Rates are fixed for airport taxis.
Uber and Rideshare
Uber and Cabify operate legally in Panama and offer convenient airport pickups.
- Pick up at designated rideshare areas
- Generally 20-40% cheaper than official taxis
- Cashless payment through the app
- Real-time tracking for safety
- Popular among locals and tourists alike
Metro and Bus
Panama City has a modern metro system, though it doesn't directly connect to the airport yet (expansion planned).
- Metro Bus connects to metro stations
- Very economical ($0.25-1.25 USD)
- Best for budget travelers with light luggage
- Not recommended with heavy bags or late arrivals
Rental Cars
Major international and local rental agencies have airport counters:
- Hertz, Avis, Budget, Thrifty, Alamo
- Local options often cheaper (Dollar, National)
- Driving in Panama City can be challenging (traffic)
- Useful for exploring beyond the city
Practical Tips for Your Arrival
Currency Exchange
- The local currency is the Balboa (B/.) but USD is legal tender
- All prices quoted in Balboas = USD (1:1 fixed rate)
- Panamanian coins used alongside US coins
- ATMs dispense USD
- No need to exchange money - just bring USD
SIM Cards and Connectivity
Stay connected during your Panama adventure:
- Movistar, Claro, and +Móvil have airport kiosks
- Tourist SIM packages: $10-20 USD for 5GB+ data
- Free airport WiFi available (limited time)
- Excellent 4G/5G coverage throughout Panama City
Safety Considerations
Panama City is generally safe for tourists, but take standard precautions:
- Use only official transportation from the airport
- Avoid displaying expensive jewelry or electronics
- Keep valuables in your carry-on
- Casco Viejo is safe but stay aware at night
- Use hotel safes for passports and valuables
Weather Preparation
Panama has a tropical climate with two seasons:
- Dry season (December-April): 28-32°C (82-90°F), sunny
- Rainy season (May-November): 26-30°C (79-86°F), afternoon showers
- High humidity year-round
- Light, breathable clothing recommended
- Umbrella useful in rainy season
Connecting to Popular Destinations
To Panama City & Casco Viejo (30-45 minutes)
The capital offers incredible contrasts - modern skyscrapers alongside colonial architecture in Casco Viejo.
Best option: Private transfer or Uber
Explore our Panama City boutique hotels guide and discover the iconic American Trade Hotel.
To the Panama Canal (45 minutes - 1 hour)
One of the world's engineering marvels. The Miraflores Locks visitor center is the most accessible viewpoint.
Best option: Taxi or organized tour
To Bocas del Toro (1 hour flight or 10 hour drive)
This Caribbean archipelago is famous for turquoise waters, island hopping, and laid-back vibes.
Best option: Domestic flight from Albrook Airport (fly to BOC)
Check out our Bocas del Toro hotels guide.
To Boquete & Highlands (1 hour flight or 6 hour drive)
The cool mountain town of Boquete offers coffee tours, hiking, and escape from the heat.
Best option: Domestic flight to David (DAV) + taxi, or scenic drive
To San Blas Islands (varies)
The pristine San Blas Islands (Guna Yala) offer untouched Caribbean beauty and indigenous culture.
Best option: Small plane from Albrook Airport or boat from Carti
Albrook Airport - Domestic Connections
For domestic flights within Panama, you'll use Marcos A. Gelabert International Airport (Albrook/PAC), located closer to Panama City.
- 30-40 minute taxi from Tocumen
- Hub for Air Panama domestic flights
- Flights to Bocas del Toro, David, San Blas, Contadora
Important: Allow 2+ hours between international arrival at Tocumen and domestic departure from Albrook.
Departure Information
When leaving Panama from Tocumen:
- Arrive 3 hours before international flights
- Departure tax included in ticket price
- Extensive duty-free shopping (Panama is famous for it!)
- Multiple restaurants and lounges
- Copa Club lounge access available
- Currency exchange for remaining funds
Panama's Hub Advantage
As Copa Airlines' hub, Tocumen offers excellent connections throughout the Americas. If you're transiting:
- Transit area between T1 and T2
- Minimum connection time: 90 minutes
- Duty-free shopping accessible during transit
- Transit hotels available within the airport
Conclusion
Arriving at Tocumen International Airport connects you to one of Central America's most dynamic countries. From the engineering marvel of the Panama Canal to Caribbean islands and cloud forest highlands, Panama offers incredible diversity in a compact country.
Explore our complete Panama hotels guide to plan your perfect stay, from modern city hotels to tropical island retreats.
¡Bienvenidos a Panamá!
