Rent a Car in Panama City

Tips for renting a car in Panama City

While Panama City offers taxis, rideshare services, buses, and a growing metro system, renting a car in Panama City is highly recommended for travelers planning to explore destinations beyond the capital. A rental vehicle provides the flexibility to discover beaches, mountain towns, rainforests, indigenous communities, and lesser-known attractions throughout Panama.

Major rental companies including Hertz, Avis, Budget, Enterprise, National, Alamo, Dollar, Thrifty, and local providers operate at Tocumen International Airport and throughout the city. Airport pickup locations generally offer the largest selection of vehicles and the most competitive pricing. SUVs are especially popular for travelers planning to visit remote areas or national parks.

A rental car allows visitors to explore destinations such as the Panama Canal, Gamboa Rainforest, El Valle de Antón, Coronado, Santa Catalina, Boquete, Bocas del Toro ferry terminals, Portobelo, and the Pacific and Caribbean coastlines. Many travelers use Panama City as the starting point for broader journeys across the country.

Driving in Panama is generally straightforward thanks to modern highways and well-maintained roads connecting major destinations. Traffic congestion can occur in central Panama City during rush hours, but road conditions are generally excellent by regional standards. For travelers seeking flexibility and the freedom to explore beyond the capital, renting a car is one of the best transportation choices available.