What does Panama cost?
Price-wise, Panama is above its Central American neighbors (Guatemala, Nicaragua), but significantly below European levels. Due to the dollar peg, there are no exchange rate surprises, and prices are transparent and predictable. Panama City is the most expensive region, San Blas and rural areas the cheapest.
Price Examples (Guidelines 2025/2026, in USD)
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| Espresso in a café | $1.50–3 |
| Lunch menu (Fonda / Comida corriente) | $3–5 |
| Dinner in a restaurant | $10–25 |
| National beer (Balboa/Atlas, 0.5l) | $1–3 |
| Cocktail in a rooftop bar | $8–15 |
| Uber/Taxi in Panama City (10 km) | $3–6 |
| Bus Panama City → Boquete (7h) | $15–20 |
| Domestic flight Panama City → Bocas | $80–150 |
| San Blas trip (2 days/1 night, all-inclusive) | $150–250 |
| Hostel dorm | $12–18 |
| Double room 3★ hotel | $50–90 |
| Overwater cabanas (Bocas, per night) | $80–250 |
| Panama Canal Miraflores entry | $15 |
| Coffee farm tour (Boquete) | $25–55 |
