How to Reach Panama
You can reach Panama by flying into Panama Tocumen International Airport (PTY) located approximately 20 minutes (17 km) from Panama City. This airport serves as a key hub connecting South America, the Caribbean, and North America, offering excellent connectivity to other regions worldwide. The Westin Hotel Playa Bonita is a 45-60 minute drive depending on traffic from the Tocumen International Airport.
Private Transfers with Panamazing: Panamazing is the hotel’s in-house destination management company that offers private transportation between the airport, Westin Playa Bonita, and Gamboa Rainforest Resort (for those doing a pre or post stay there). Here is the link. If you would like to reserve transportation to the Hotel please contact: reservations@panamazing.com or call (507) 6981-4549.
City Taxis: Licensed, registered taxis in Panama are yellow, and have plate numbers replicated on the sides of the vehicle. They do not have meters, and instead calculate fares based on how many zones are traversed. White unmarked vehicles known as “tourism taxis” operate out of airports, charging slightly more for private transportation.
- Tourism (White) Taxis from Airport: One-way taxi fare between the airport and Westin Playa Bonita is approximately $42-50 USD. Be sure to use these white taxis (official tourist taxis) and confirm the price of your ride before you depart the airport. Taxis do not use meters, and they do NOT accept credit cards – they only accept cash (USD). Tipping is not customary, but it’s good to round up the fare for good service. After you pick up your luggage in the airport, you will find the white tourist taxis outside the exit.
- Regular (Yellow) Taxis: These taxis can be flagged down anywhere. The driver is not likely to speak English, so it is good to show them your destination address in print. These yellow taxis are generally very affordable but take cash only. They do not have meters, and instead calculate fares based on how many zones are traversed. Be sure to have enough $1 USD bills as they may not have change. On occasion taxi drivers will try to charge foreigners more than they should, so it is good to ask how much the taxi ride will cost before entering.
Uber: Uber is widely used in Panama City and serves the airport.