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Car Rental at Panama City Airport Tocumen

If you're looking for car rental in Panama City Airport Tocumen, look no further. We offer a wide range of vehicles for rent from 4x4s to city run arounds and family estates.

Panama City is a vibrant capital where modern skyscrapers, colonial charm, and jungle landscapes exist side by side. As Latin America's financial hub and a gateway to the iconic Panama Canal, it’s a city of sharp contrasts — from luxury shopping malls and rooftop restaurants to cobblestone streets in the historic district of Casco Viejo. While the city offers a growing public transport system, including a metro, renting a car gives visitors the flexibility to reach outlying districts, national parks, and hidden beaches.

Driving in the city center is best suited for travelers who are confident urban drivers or those combining a city stay with day trips or cross-country exploration.

Tips for renting a car in Panama City Airport Tocumen

Before you rent
Choose wisely. In 2019 we introduced our multi-product system which helps you choose a car based on your needs and easily see the final price. Car rental insurance can be tricky to navigate and often isn't what you expect, by booking with us direct you'll receive the correct insurance for your rental.

When you collect your vehicle
Plan ahead. We recommend planning your route before you leave, especially when renting a car at an airport. Are you sure where you're meeting your chaperone or where the rental desk is? Your confirmation email will have the contact information for the location, so we suggest saving the number in your phone ahead of time.
 

Have the correct documents ready. We try and keep the check in process as painless as possible but we do need to process certain information for legal reasons so having these ready ahead of time can help speed up the process. Make sure you have your booking details ready, along with your driving licence, passport and valid credit card.

Complete a vehicle check. It's essential when you are taken to your car you complete a Vehicle Condition Report (VCR) and note any existing damage, paying particular attention to the five damage hotspots. If you don't report this, you may be liable for these damages when you return the vehicle. We don't want you to get caught out, so we've put together a handy vehicle inspection video to help you check everything thoroughly.

While you rent
Take care. Unfortunately you may be liable for any damage caused to a vehicle in your care, and this will vary depending on the product you choose. A large proportion of damages to any car can be dings you pick up in car parks, so be mindful when space is limited and park further away and walk a little further to your destination.

When you return your vehicle
Complete a vehicle check. It's time to carry out a VCR again and even more essential to fully log any damage, no matter how small, to ensure you are fully covered and we can process your return effectively. Be sure to check the vehicle as before, paying special attention to the five damage hotspots.

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Driving in Panama City – What to Expect?

 

Driving in central Panama City requires patience, especially during rush hours (7:00–9:00 AM and 4:30–6:30 PM). Expect heavy traffic, aggressive lane changes, limited parking, and frequent construction. Roads are generally paved and in good condition, but confusing intersections, missing signage, and last-minute detours are common. Navigation apps like Waze are essential tools, used widely by locals to dodge congestion and roadblocks.

Drivers often use their horns, and signaling is inconsistent. Motorcycles and buses may overtake unpredictably. Most roads in the city are two to three lanes wide, but congestion can make even short distances take a long time. It’s advisable to avoid unnecessary car use during peak hours.

Speed limits range from 40–60 km/h in the city but are loosely enforced. Be alert for speed bumps, crosswalks, and poorly marked lanes. Traffic police are visible, and checkpoints may occur — especially at entrances to Casco Viejo or government zones. Always carry your driver’s license, passport copy, and rental agreement in the car.

Fuel is easy to find, and most stations accept cash and credit cards. There are several stations within the city center and near the Cinta Costera coastal highway. Note that Panama City uses Corredor Sur and Corredor Norte — toll highways that run along the city’s periphery. Most rental vehicles include a Panapass tag, and tolls will be added to your final bill.

Parking in downtown areas can be tricky. Look for multilevel garages, hotel lots, or dedicated spaces near malls like Multiplaza or Albrook Mall. In Casco Viejo, parking is extremely limited — it’s best to arrive early or use valet services.

If you’re using Panama City as your launch point for a road trip, you'll find that highways leading out of the city (especially Panamericana) are smooth, fast, and well-signposted. Many travelers choose to rent a car for a few days and explore beyond the city after enjoying the capital's highlights.

Useful Information about renting a car at Panama City Airport Tocumen

Side of road

Drive on the right side of the road

Local currency

U.S. Dollar (USD)

Average temperatures

23°C (73°F) – 31°C (88°F)

Driving a rental car in Panama City – Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to drive from downtown to Tocumen Airport?

Typically 25–35 minutes via Corredor Sur, depending on traffic. In peak hours, allow up to 45 minutes.

Is it safe to drive in Panama?

Yes, especially during daylight. Just drive defensively in Panama City and be cautious on mountain or rural roads, especially during the rainy season.

What side of the road do people drive on?

Driving is on the right-hand side of the road, like in the U.S. and mainland Europe.

Are there toll roads in Panama?

Yes — mainly the Corredor Norte and Corredor Sur in Panama City. You’ll need a prepaid Panapass tag, which most rental companies provide.

Is night driving safe in Panama?

Avoid it outside cities. Poor lighting, animals on the road, or sudden potholes make night driving risky in rural areas.