❓ Tocumen Airport Frequently Asked Questions: Real Answers

The best and most practical budget option is, without a doubt, the Panama Metro. For just USD 0.85, you can get to the city center quickly and safely, avoiding traffic. The station is located in the corridor connecting both terminals, and you can pay directly at the turnstile with a contactless credit/debit card.

Although MiBus is technically cheaper (USD 0.25), it is not recommended for tourists, as it does not accept cash and it's very difficult to get the necessary payment card at the airport.

App-based vehicles are prohibited from picking up passengers at the arrivals curb. You must exit the terminal, cross the street to the parking area, and meet your driver there. The most common meeting point at Terminal 2 is between columns P17 and P18. Always check your driver's messages in the app. See more.

You have two options. You can walk through the connecting corridor, but be prepared for a long journey of 15 to 25 minutes, as the moving walkways are often out of service. The other option is to use the free shuttle bus, which is more comfortable but requires some waiting time.

The airport offers only 60 minutes of free WiFi. Afterward, the service is paid and considered expensive. For continuous connectivity, you can buy a physical SIM card at kiosks or stores like Xiaomi, or purchase a digital e-SIM before your arrival for greater convenience.

Yes. You will find ATMs from multiple banks (Scotiabank, Banistmo, Davivienda, Banco Nacional, etc.) throughout the terminals. There is also a Banco Nacional de Panamá branch on level 100 of T1 and RedPlus currency exchange offices.

No, it is extremely difficult. It is one of the most serious and universal complaints. Charging stations are very scarce, and most of the existing ones are out of service. It is essential that you bring a fully charged power bank.

It is highly unlikely. Travelers consistently report that water fountains throughout the airport are disconnected or not working. This will force you to buy bottled water at very high prices.

It is a second, thorough security check conducted directly at the boarding gate for flights to destinations with strict regulations, such as the United States. At this point, you will be forced to discard any liquids, even if you bought them just minutes before in the duty-free shops.

Yes. Prices are considered exorbitant by the vast majority of travelers, often double or triple what you would pay in the city. A bottle of water can cost up to $7, and a fast-food meal can exceed $20. If you are on a tight budget, consider eating before you arrive or bringing your own snacks.

Proceed with caution. Many travelers report that prices are not competitive and can even be higher than in regular stores. The recommendation is to know the price beforehand of what you are looking for so you can compare. Additionally, there are complaints about service and the authenticity of some products like perfumes.

Yes, the airport operates 24/7. However, almost all restaurants and shops close at night (approx. 10-11 pm). If you have an overnight layover, you will find yourself in a "food desert" until 5 or 6 in the morning. Only some VIP lounges and duty-free shops remain open.

You can explore the wide variety of shops and restaurants (keeping the high prices in mind). For more comfort, you can access a VIP Lounge, although the food is usually very basic. If your layover exceeds 6-7 hours, you might consider a quick city tour or resting at a nearby hotel.

If you lost an item at the airport, contact the Lost and Found office at +507 238 2938 or by email at [email protected]. You can also use their online form. If your checked baggage did not arrive, you must immediately go to your airline's counter in the arrivals area.

The airport has the basic infrastructure (ramps, elevators, adapted restrooms). However, the actual experience with the assistance service is mixed. There are numerous reports of staff shortages or an unhelpful attitude. To ensure assistance, it is crucial that you contact your airline at least 48 hours in advance.

The rates vary. In Terminal 1, it is a pay-per-minute system with a daily maximum of USD 24.00. In Terminal 2, you have 4 hours of courtesy parking, but leaving the car for more than 24 hours is prohibited. Losing the T1 ticket costs USD 24.00. See more.

Although the airport operates 24 hours, it is not a comfortable place to sleep. There are no designated rest areas, and most seats have fixed armrests that prevent lying down. The floor is cold, and the environment can be noisy or have very strong air conditioning. The VIP lounges that are open 24h are a better option if your budget allows.

No. Tocumen Airport is a 100% smoke-free space. Smoking is prohibited both inside the terminals and in the outdoor areas near the entrances, parking lots, and stops.

Yes, the airport has a free emergency clinic on level 100 of T1. However, it is important to note that there have been user reports of very slow response times in serious emergencies, so the efficiency of the service in critical situations has been questioned.

This is one of the most recurrent criticisms. The experience is very inconsistent. While some employees are friendly and helpful, a large number of travelers report a general attitude of indifference, lack of professionalism, or even rudeness from security, airline, and other service staff. It is advisable to be self-sufficient and patient.