Tocumen International Airport (PTY) is Panama's main airport, about 24 km east of Panama City in the district of Tocumen. This is what to sort out before you land and what to expect afterwards: the terminals, getting online and the way into the city.
Before you land
A SIM bought in Panama is signed up to its user at the counter, passport in hand. The eSIM is bought on this page and installed at home, so nothing waits at Tocumen.
Keep the QR code where you can open it without a connection, printed or on a second device. The QR code shows on your order page seconds after payment, so bookmark that page or save the code before you leave it.
Getting online
Tocumen's Wi-Fi is free. Pick the airport network and accept its terms, then add the eSIM while you wait for your bags (install the eSIM). The plan roams on a Panamanian partner network and your phone shows its name, so turn on data roaming for the eSIM line after landing (switch it on after landing). Panama's networks are Tigo, Claro and +Móvil.
Your usual SIM stays in the phone with your number, and WhatsApp keeps the same number while the eSIM carries your data. Travelling through Central America? The plan on the Panama eSIM page covers Costa Rica and three more countries with one eSIM.
From the airport to the city
The official taxi rank is outside arrivals. Fares into the city are not metered, so agree the price before you set off, or use a licensed desk inside the terminal. App cars have signposted pick-up points outside the terminal; check the plate before you get in.
The drive into Panama City takes about 30 minutes outside rush hour, and longer in the morning and evening peaks. The port and the canal are further on, so allow more time if your hotel is on the far side of the city.
Good to know
- Time. Panama is on UTC-5 all year, with no daylight saving time.
- Emergencies. Call 911 for the police, the fire brigade or an ambulance.
- Travelling on. The same plan keeps working in Costa Rica and Mexico, with no second eSIM to buy.
