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Affordable Adventure: How to Backpack Panama for Under $15 a Day

Hey fellow nomads! If you’re in the costa rica area consider traveling to Panama. From stunning beaches to vibrant cities, and from lush rainforests to historic landmarks, this incredible country has something for every kind of traveler. And the best part? You can experience it all on a super tight budget!

Getting There

My journey began with a long bus ride from Costa Rica to Panama City, Panama’s capital. I scored a steal of a deal using a local bus company, paying under $20 for my ticket! If you’re flexible with your travel dates and times, you can find some amazing deals.

Accommodation

Once I arrived in Panama City, I headed straight to the city center and found a cozy hostel for a whopping $5 per night! That’s right, folks, you can find clean, comfortable, and social accommodation for the price of a sandwich. I stayed in a few different hostels throughout my trip, and they were all around the same price.

Food

Panamanian cuisine is a delicious fusion of Spanish, African, and indigenous flavors, and you can find amazing meals for pennies on the dollar. I lived off of rice, beans, and fresh fruit for under $3 per meal. And don’t even get me started on the empanadas – they’re like a taste explosion!

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Nightlife

Panama’s nightlife is a vibrant and pulsating scene that will keep you dancing till the dawn! From the trendy bars and clubs of Panama City’s El Cangrejo neighborhood, to the laid-back beach bars of Bocas del Toro, there’s a party to be found every night of the week. Salsa and reggaeton rhythms fill the air, as locals and travelers alike move to the beat. And with a drink in hand and the tropical warmth of the night, it’s easy to let loose and soak up the infectious energy of the Panamanian nightlife. Whether you’re looking for a sophisticated cocktail bar or a rowdy dance club, Panama’s got it all – and with a relatively low cost of entry, you can party like a rockstar without breaking the bank!

Transportation

Getting around Panama is an adventure in itself, and it won’t break the bank. I used local buses and minivans (called “diablos rojos”) to get from city to city, and they were all under $5. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even take a shared ride with other travelers for a few bucks.

Activities

From hiking in the stunning Boquete mountains to exploring the vibrant streets of Panama City, there’s no shortage of free or low-cost activities in Panama. I visited the famous Panama Canal for under $10, and it was one of the highlights of my trip.

Tips and Tricks

  • Learn a few basic Spanish phrases – it will go a long way in showing respect.
  • Pack light and comfortable clothing – you’ll be walking a lot and dressing modestly.
  • Try the local cuisine – it’s delicious and affordable!
  • Use public transportation – it’s affordable and efficient.
  • Be prepared for long bus rides – bring snacks and entertainment!
  • Haggle, haggle, haggle! Panamanians are known for their love of bargaining, so don’t be afraid to negotiate prices.

Budget Breakdown:

  • Bus from Costa Rica: $20
  • Accommodation: $95 (avg. $5 per night for 19 nights)
  • Food: $135 (avg. $7 per day for meals and snacks)
  • Transportation: $50 (avg. $2.50 per ride for buses and diablos rojos)
  • Activities: $50 (avg. $2.50 per activity)
  • Total: $350

Highlights of My Trip:

  • Hiking in the stunning Boquete mountains
  • Exploring the vibrant streets of Panama City
  • Visiting the famous Panama Canal and learning about its history
  • Taking a shared ride with other travelers and making new friends
  • Enjoying the delicious local cuisine and empanadas

Challenges and Surprises:

  • The language barrier – not many Panamanians speak English, so be prepared to use hand gestures and translation apps.
  • The heat and humidity – Panama can get very hot and humid, so be prepared with sunscreen and light clothing.
  • The stunning natural beauty – Panama has some of the most breathtaking landscapes I’ve ever seen.
  • The friendly locals – Panamanians are some of the warmest and most welcoming people I’ve ever met.

Conclusion:

Backpacking Panama on a tight budget was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. With a little creativity and flexibility, you can have an amazing time exploring this incredible country without breaking the bank. So what are you waiting for? Book that ticket and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!

Additional Tips and Resources:

  • Research, research, research! Panama has a lot to offer, so be prepared to plan and prioritize.
  • Use travel apps and websites to find the best deals on accommodation, transportation, and activities.
  • Pack light and comfortable clothing, as well as a good pair of hiking boots and sunscreen.
  • Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to show respect and communicate with locals.
  • Consider purchasing travel insurance to cover unexpected medical or travel-related expenses.

Recommended Reading:

  • “Lonely Planet Panama” by Lonely Planet
  • “Panama: A Travel Guide” by David Stanley
  • “The Rough Guide to Panama” by Rough Guides