Jonas B Says:
How safe is it in Panama?
IL Panama Editor Jessica Ramesch Says:
Hi Jonas,
Whether you’re comparing crime statistics, tourist guides, or travel advisories for the region’s different countries, you’ll find that Panama is one of the safest countries in Latin America.
In fact, Panama ranks at number 68 in World Population Review’s “Crime Rate by Country 2023” report—lower than the U.S., which ranks at number 56.
So, does it follow that Panama is free from crime? No… I’ve traveled the globe and I’ve never encountered a country that was free from crime or corruption.
In every country, there will be some dangerous areas (due to localized organized crime or gang-related activity), but also many safe ones. In Panama it’s generally very easy to tell when a neighborhood is poor and thus certain to have more crime. Most are not areas you would accidentally stumble into.
In areas popular with expats, your biggest concern is likely to be petty theft or break-ins. Random violence is practically unheard of here. Panama has a large police force and crimes against tourists or foreigners are seriously dealt with.
Home-invasion-style robberies can be violent, but they are rare, especially in communities favored by expats. It’s neither quick nor easy to obtain a firearm permit in Panama, and a long-running moratorium on importation has helped keep gun prevalence relatively low. Gun-related offenses have major consequences in Panama.
On occasion, visitors to Panama make the mistake of letting their guard down completely—something they’d never do back home. In any unfamiliar city or town, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and to do what you can to blend in. Ask questions, use your city smarts, and you’ll see just how easy it is to live and travel safely in Panama.
Read my complete guide to safety in Panama here.
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