Unofficial Taxi Overcharging
Meter Refusal and Flat Rate Demands
In Panama, where the US dollar is widely used, taxi drivers often pick up tourists at airports, bus stations, or tourist areas and refuse to use the meter, demanding flat rates like $40 USD for a 15-minute ride from Tocumen Airport to the city center, compared to the fair rate of $20-25 USD. They exploit language barriers and unfamiliarity with distances, sometimes driving inefficient routes to justify higher charges.
- Use only official yellow taxis or book through your hotel to get fixed rates.
- Opt for ride-hailing apps like Uber, which operate in urban areas and show metered fares in advance.
- Research average fares in advance, such as $25 USD for common routes, and have the exact change ready to avoid disputes.
Fake Tour Operator Scams
Throughout Panama, unlicensed operators at transportation hubs or near attractions like the Panama Canal offer discounted tours, such as a boat trip for $50 USD instead of $80 USD through legitimate companies, but then abandon tourists midway or demand extra fees for 'unexpected' costs like fuel, leaving travelers stranded in remote areas like the canal zone.
- Book tours only through registered companies like those at the official Panama Canal Visitor Center.
- Check for ANPAN (Panama's tourism authority) certification on operators' websites or vehicles.
- Pay with credit cards that offer fraud protection rather than cash, and read reviews on sites like TripAdvisor for specific operators.
ATM and Credit Card Skimming
Skimmer Devices on ATMs
In Panama's cash-based economy, scammers install skimming devices on ATMs in busy spots like shopping malls in Panama City or banks in David, capturing card details when tourists withdraw balboas or USD, often leading to unauthorized withdrawals of $200-500 USD shortly after.
- Inspect ATMs for loose parts or skimmers before use, especially in less monitored areas.
- Use ATMs inside banks during business hours and cover the keypad when entering your PIN.
- Monitor your bank statements daily via apps and set up alerts for transactions over $50 USD.