Panama is a popular destination for travellers, and it is among the list of the top visa-free places to go for Caribbean people. While this country is renowned for its stunning landscapes, there are some areas that tourists are advised to exercise caution when visiting due to safety concerns. Panama is generally a safe destination, but there are still certain neighbourhoods and regions that are known for higher crime rates or other risks. Today, we are looking at some places in Panama that travellers should be cautious of or completely avoid.
1. El Chorillo
First on the list is a place that has a history of gang violence and poverty, which is El Chorillo. With its spot, it is considered to be one of the most violent places in Panama due to frequent reports of shooting incidents and drug-related crimes. The area is vibrant but also has a bad reputation. Tourists, however, are rarely ever victims in this area. Nevertheless, tourists are advised to travel with a local guide when going to El Chorillo or completely avoid the area. Travellers are urged to be extremely cautious at night.
2. Santa Ana
Another area that has a violent reputation is Santa Ana. This region is infamous for high crime rates in illicit activities such as theft, robbery, and gang violence. Although the district has made some improvements in recent years, tourists are advised to exercise caution when travelling in Santa Ana. Santa Ana is close to the city centre, but visitors are urged to stick to well-travelled, more secure areas like Casco Viejo or Punta Paitilla, which are popular with tourists and are safer.
3. Curundu
Curundu is another neighbourhood in Panama City that is infamous for its high crime rates. The area has long been associated with poverty and high levels of crime, particularly gang-related violence. While it’s a district with cultural significance, tourists should exercise caution when travelling to Curundu. If you find yourself near Curundu, ensure you’re with someone familiar with the area and avoid walking alone, especially at night.
4. San Miguel
San Miguel is a less well-known area in Panama that has some safety concerns. This area also has recorded high crime rates. Some of the illicit activities that are frequent in this area include theft, violent crime, and gang activity. It is generally safer to explore other areas in Panama that are tourist hotspots, where security is more robust. It is also best to avoid unfamiliar and lonely areas at night. Avoid wandering into San Miguel unless you are with a local who can guide you.
5. Mosquito Gulf
There is a very remote region in Panama called The Mosquito Gulf. This area is located on Panama’s Caribbean coast. The Mosquito Gulf, which is a hotspot for drug trafficking and other illicit activities, was officially listed as a “Level 4: Do Not Travel” area by the U.S. State Department. This reflects just how dangerous the area is. In the travel advisory provided by the government, it was detailed that the U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services in this region. It was also mentioned that the area is considered extremely hazardous due to its isolation and the presence of criminal activity.
6. Darién Region
Another area that the U.S. State Department listed as “Level 4: Do Not Travel” is the Darién Region. This region is found near Panama’s border with Colombia. Criminal activities such as human trafficking networks, drug smuggling, and guerrilla warfare are frequent in this area. Reports have stated that there is not much police presence in the area, and emergency response times are extremely limited. According to the U.S. State Department, areas in the Darién Region that visitors should avoid include all areas south of Jaque to Manene, Yaviza, Lajas Blancas, and the Colombian border; the city of Lajas Blancas; and the city of El Salto.
