Is Panama safe for solo female travelers?

Panama is generally quite safe for solo female travelers. Most areas, especially tourist destinations, have noteworthy safety measures in place. However, like many travel destinations, it is crucial to remain vigilant, avoid isolated areas especially at night, and keep your valuables safe. Street harassment can occasionally occur, but this is not widespread. Regular caution, similar to any new place, is advised.

Safety rating

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How safe is Panama for solo female travelers?

Travel safety index

4.1 /5

based on 20 experiences from female travelers

Bocas Del Toro, Solo travel

I didn’t bring much money with me, and I found it quite expensive to get around and eat here, definitely tourist prices. Activities were also on the pricier side, and surfing wasn’t very accessible since you can usually only hire boards in town rather than at most of the surf beaches. That said, the diving is fantastic, the scenery is absolutely stunning, and Filthy Friday was a brilliant experience!

Posted: August 25, 2025
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San Blas Islands, Couple travel

Arguably one of the most beautiful places on earth. Only accessible by boat. The San blas islands are owned by the Guna natives who live there. They are extremely friendly and hospitable. They mostly fish and make tapestries called molas for income. There are a few places you can stay on land and a couple restaurants on a few islands. Best way to enjoy the islands is by boat. It is a very safe area and wonderful for snorkeling. They do not allow scuba diving or wind sports to preserve the region.

Posted: July 6, 2025Experienced: July, 2025
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Bocas Del Toro, Solo travel

I was in bocas del toro for 3 weeks and I can tell you the place is wonderful, it’s so preatty you won’t believe your eyes . The people over there are really nice although it can get a little bit dangerous at night in some streets. I wouldn’t recommend walking alone at night as a women but that is basically the same in every place . It’s pretty cheap place but be aware that there is a lot of tourist there

Posted: February 19, 2025
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How safe is Panama for women?

Local safety index

3.4 /5

Based on 15 local experiences

Local crime index

2.3 /5

Based on 15 local experiences

Cristina

Cristina

Panama City

It is a moderately safe city, just make sure to be aware of your surroundings especially in crowded places like bus stations, because of pick pocket people. There are certain areas where I would not recommend going during the day such as El Chorrillo lol Unless you are going with someone who actually lives in the area, so that people can see you are with a local.

Posted: February 22, 2026
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Dhar

Dhar

Panama

Rich areas are safe, beware of the red areas. (Lotería, 5 de mayo, Panamá oeste, Panamá este, Panamá norte, Curundú, Chorrillo, outskirts of Albrook, San miguelito, Los Andes, etc.), as a man you'll only get robbed, as a woman many have already been kidnapped and raped. DO NOT GO OUT AT NIGHT WITHOUT COMPANY (especially if you are from the LGBT community).

Posted: August 1, 2025
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Liz

Liz

Panama

Panama is safe overall if you're someone that is always aware of their surroundings and has their stuff in proper bags. Depending on some areas Panama can be safe in general but don't put yourself in situations or places that could make someone see you're not paying attention around. I don't know how to explain it but please do ask me any questions you want.

Posted: July 21, 2025
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Safety in Panama