Volunteer in Panama | The Ultimate Guide

You want to volunteer somewhere in Latin America, but you don’t know where to go yet. Would you like to visit a place of great biodiversity; and a country to experience various adventures? Do you want to visit the rainforest, and also go somewhere in the Pacific… but the Caribbean sounds too good, as well!? Why not visit a country where you can visit all of them? And, can you do this while doing something good for somebody else? Then you need to volunteer in Panama! 

Twenty years ago, the beautiful Caribbean coast of Panama (Spanish: Panamá) was not as popular as it is today. The country was practically unknown! Nowadays is a preferred vacation site for surfers, travellers and tourists from all over the world. It is a place that features crystalline waters, exotic flora and fauna, and it is also a country that has a rich cultural heritage. Come and volunteer in Panama! This guide is meant to guide you on your decision and give you advice on some of the activities you should do as a volunteer in Panama. I will tell you all about the places you should visit, the food you should try, and some important information you might want to know. I hope you find this guide useful!

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[item title=”Top 6 fun facts about Panama”]

1. Panama is the only place in the world where you can see the sun rise on the Pacific and set on the Atlantic! Only 80km of land separate both oceans.
2. Panama has the most diversified wildlife of all countries in Central America. And it is home to North as well as South American wildlife species.
3. Panama has the lowest population in Central America. Around 70% of its population is of European or Native American descent.
4. Baseball is the most popular sport in the country; along with boxing and soccer.
5. Panama was the first Latin American country to adopt the U.S. currency as its own.
6. Panama City is the only capital city in the world that has a rain forest within the city limits.[/item][/accordion]

Fields of interest in Panama

The name Panama means “abundance of fish, butterflies and trees”-according to ancient, pre-Colombian Panamanian dialect. Panama is a natural land bridge that connects North and Central America, with South America. That’s why Panama hosts animal and plant species from both regions! More bird species live in Panama alone, than in North America as a whole! The country has a lot of protected areas, and more than 29% of its land mass is given over to 15 national parks, a dozen forest reserves, and 10 wild life sanctuaries! This is pretty impressive!

Fauna

Panama is home to 954 indigenous bird species, plus hundreds of migrating bird species. It is also home to 225 mammal species, and hundreds of migrating bird species. Around 214 reptile species and 143 amphibious species live in Panama, as well. Coolest fact of all: Panama is home to the quetzal, a resplendent bird that was sacred to the Mayans and figures prominently in their artwork and pre-Hispanic legends. It was so venerated that in Mayan times, it was forbidden to kill it!

If you love sloths, you can see them in their natural habitat –probably sleeping- during their weekly visit to terra firma. They usually live solitary lives high up in the tree canopy of the tropical rainforest, where they eat and sleep, and spend around 20 hours a day completely inactive!

Panama also hosts five of the world’s seven species of sea turtles and you can spot them along both coasts. Although watching these awesome creatures lay their eggs above the waterline is a great experience, some environmental programs in Panama are trying to raise awareness of the negative impact massive tourism carries, and promote responsible tourism to these areas during the nesting and hatching season.

 Flora

Panama is the land of thick rain forests and of the Holy Ghost Orchid (which is the national flower). The country is home to 10,000 plant species; including around 1,200 orchid varieties, 678 fern species and 1,500 varieties of trees. You will encounter a vast variety of orchids during the annual Feria de las Orquídeas, an orchid fair held in April. These flowers enjoy a special status among Panamanians, and there are National forests, fairs and entire valleys dedicated to this flower and its distinct varieties. It is definitely a great sight and something worth visiting, while you are working as a volunteer in Panama.

Health

Healthcare in Panama is provided through the public and private sector. The public sector is funded through the Ministry of Health and the Social Security System. Healthcare is generally good and affordable, but problems with public health care are usually found in the countryside; on the rural areas of Panama. The main struggle the Panamanian health care system faces is lack of funding and non-availability of doctors. Many of the doctors working in Panama prefer to go to the cities, where they have higher patient loads and where they are -generally- better paid.

Emergency medical services are located primarily in Panama City, where 911 services are available. EMS services dropped off dramatically, and even though tourism is expanding rapidly, services for expats are still limited, and many don’t even know where to obtain an insurance card. Although medical care is cheaper in Panama than in the US, or other highly developed nations -considering the average Panamanian wage-, these services cost virtually the same. Some doctors in Panama are highly trained in the US, but few are board-certified. However, many of them have been trained in high quality medical schools in Mexico, Spain, Panama and Cuba, which are countries known for their excellence in medical training.

Interesting fact: Panama is considered to be the world’s best retirement haven! People choose to retire in Panama, because the cost-of-living is affordable, and there is sunshine all year-round. Also there are a lot of other retirees establishing foreign residency in the country; this means that expatriates will almost immediately find a community to settle in. Additionally to this, people can find grocery stores in Panama City like the ones they would find at any big U.S. city.

Education

Education in Panama is obligatory for the first seven years of the primary education and the three years of middle school; reason why more than 90% of the Panamanians are literate. Despite of this, the education system in Panama has been described as one of the worst in the world! This is mainly so because the educational system has remained unchanged for 30 years, and the government fears to upset the unionised teachers. Needless to say, the educational system in Panama suffers substantial inequalities, and even though public schools are free for the duration of the obligatory study years, only major cities have access to modern facilities.

Technology

The availability of free Internet in Panama, in the so-called “infoplazas” has allowed Panama to advance in its use of new technologies in Latin America. The country has invested approximately $120 million USD in digital inclusion programs. But these attempts to make the country more modern has made it urgent to make huge investments in the sector.

Other programs also are part of Panamas attempt to modernize and innovate, one of them is the Liquid Jungle Lab (LJL): a tropical marine research station on the island of Canales de Tierra, on the Western coast of Pacific Panama. It is part of a private reserve (3,500 hectare) that’s composed mainly of forest, mangroves, and tide pools. This island and laboratory have served as a strategic base for ecologic research of the Coiba National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the country’s largest marine protected area. This site allows scientists to conduct ecologic research of all sorts and continues to inspire scientists from all around the world.

Living costs for a volunteer in Panama

This is just an estimate of the costs of living as a volunteer in Panama. While this is only an approximation of what a single person might spend in US Dollars in the country, you should be aware that costs might vary with time. So, saving money to cover your expenses as a volunteer in Panama is key to have a happy, relaxed trip! We want to give you a general idea of how the country does economically, and how much money you should consider saving to volunteer in Panama, to travel and for leisure.

Hotel $133	Big Mac® $2.93	Coca-Cola® $1.14	Eating out $1o	Rental car $385 /week
Hostel $15	Marlboro™ $5	Beer $0.75	Fuel $0.81	Public transport $0.30

Best time to volunteer in Panama

Dry season (December-March)

As the name indicates, this is the “No-Rain” season. It is also the tourist season, mostly because American and European tourists look for a warmer climate to spend the winter months. Panama has a tropical maritime climate with almost no dramatic variations in temperature during this season. This is maybe the reason why they receive so many visitors during this time. We recommend you to take weather into consideration, when you plan your trip to volunteer in Panama.

Wet or “green” Season (March-December)

 Although rainier than other seasons, this is also a great time to volunteer in Panama. Prices and availability are better, because it is considered to be low season for tourism. It usually won’t rain more than an hour everyday, and temperature is so warm, that you will forget it even rained. Also, Panama is blessed to be far enough south that hurricanes are never a problem. In case you were worrying about this, don’t!

What precautions should I consider as a volunteer in Panama?

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[item title=”Safety”]

First of all, you should be aware that the risk of being mugged or pick pocketed in a big city is more frequent than in small cities. And although Panama is a safe country for travellers, you should still exercise common sense and don’t risk being robbed! Panama is becoming –slowly, but surely- a very popular touristic site and, although the country is usually trouble-free, robberies and criminality still occur. I want to give you some safety travel advice, so you can make the best out of your time as a volunteer in Panama:

• Panama is considered a drug-transit country, and that’s why drug-related violence can occur; especially in marginal areas of the country. Be aware of this, and do not visit violent neighbourhoods or “risk zones”, like Ciudad de Colón, or the Av. Central, Barrio de Calidonia, Chorrillo and/or Curundú barrios, in Panama City.
• Keep your personal belongings and important travel documents with you at all times! It would also make sense to bring attested photocopies of these documents, in case you loose them!
• If you are going out, don’t carry all of your money with you! Avoid to wear jewellery or other fancy possessions as well. Take only the money you will need and leave everything else back home!
• If you are -unfortunately- robbed, do not resist robbery! Your life is more valuable than any item robbers can take away from you!
• Exercise precautions when withdrawing money form a bank or at an ATM: don’t flash it! Try to be discreet!
• Do not use unregistered taxis! Doing so increases the risk of becoming a victim of a crime, extorsion, overcharge, or being kidnapped.
• Exercise caution when travelling alone and don’t visit high-crime areas, like Calidonia, San Miguelito, Juan Díaz, Río Abajo, Veracruz Beach, etc. This advice is particularly important for women travelling alone![/item]

[item title=”Law”]

• Possession, trafficking and manufacture of drugs are serious offences in Panama. You could risk going to prison, so please do not get involved!
• Get all proper vaccinations four to eight weeks before travelling in Panama. It is recommended to get covered against Hepatitis A, and Typhoid vaccines. But, please consult which vaccinations you should renew, before travelling to Panama.
• It is illegal to buy, sell, kill or capture any protected wild animal; as well as trading its parts. Also, please don’t feed or bother Panama’s wildlife! It may harm you –at least one of Panama’s 127 varieties of venomous snakes could!
• Prostitution in Panama is legal and regulated. Prostitutes are required to register and carry identification cards.
• You may bring up to 10 cartons of cigarettes and five bottles of liquor into Panama.
• If you attempt to leave Panama with products made from endangered species –such as jaguar teeth, ocelot skin and turtle shell- you’ll face a steep fine and jail time.[/item]

[item title=”Social Etiquette”]Some codes of etiquette determine social behaviour and expectations, and are considered to be very important in Panamanian culture. It demonstrates respect for their culture and for others. These are just some of the common examples of social etiquette in Panama:

• When entering a place (house, shop, or just passing by), people tend to greet each other with the word buenas, even to complete strangers. This is shortcut for “Buenos días/tardes/noches”, commonly used in the rest of Latin America.
• Men usually shake hands, unless they are close friends or family members (in this case, they will hug). And women usually hug each other or give each other one kiss in the cheek.
• Unlike other Latin American countries, Panamanians are not as touchy!
• When greeting a professional, address them by their professional title: Licenciado(a), Maestro(a), Profesor(a), Doctor(a), etc.
• Panama is a very modern country, and although women have reached high positions, and the current president is a woman, machismo is still very alive amongst men. Catcalls and whistles and street harrassment from men towards women are not an uncommon thing.
• When going to a restaurant, tips of 10% are expected. However, tipping taxis is not necessary.
• Punctuality when meeting friends is not usually respected, so don’t take this too seriously. You might need to get used to this.
• If you are invited to have lunch or dinner at a restaurant, your host will refuse to let you pay but you should bring a small gift to show your gratitude.[/item]

[item title=”Packing Essentials”]

• Apart from the mandatory travel documents, like passport, travel medical insurance information, and visa, you should also keep photocopies or scanned copies of these; in case you lose them.
• Get protected from the sun! Always carry sun cream with you!
• Carry a money belt with you to keep your money secure.
• Carry appropriate luggage with you: daypacks or backpacks for short excursions and trips around the city; as well as soft shell bags, if you plan on taking bus or train rides in the region.
• Pack appropriate clothing and shoes! This means: comfortable, loose-fitting shorts, singlet-tops, kaftans, board shorts, summer dresses, t-shirts, and other items you routinely wear during summer at home.
• Walking shoes are a MUST, as you may find that you end up walking several kilometres a day.
• Over-the-counter medicines are cheap and available, BUT if you need to take special medication, bring enough with you, as it might be difficult to find it here!
• Locks for hostel lockers and also for your luggage!
• Swimwear: you are going to be swimming a lot!
• Don’t forget to pack all the essentials for your electronics –like chargers and pre-charged battery packs.[/item][/accordion]

 Key Phrases

The main and official language in Panama is Spanish, which is widely spoken by most people in the country. But given its history, Panama also cites English as a popular language. Around 14% of the population speak English fluently; it is also the language taught as a second language in schools. The existence of a fusion of various ethnic groups in the country is the reason for this. Some of the traditional Panama languages include Buglere, Yue, Hakka, Embera, Northern Embera, Embera-Catio, Creole French, Panamanian Creole English, among others. As a volunteer in Panama, it will always be highly appreciated, if you try to communicate in Spanish. These are just some phrases, you might want to know!

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Hello: ¡Hola!
Good morning: Buenos días. (boo-e-nos dee-as)
What’s up?: ¿Qué sopá? (keh-so-pa); the stress is on the a.
Do you speak English?: ¿Habla(s) inglés? (a-blas een-gles)

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Goodbye: Adiós (Ah-dee-ohs).
Welcome: Bienvenido(a) (bee-en-veh-knee-doh).

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Thank you: Gracias (Grah-siahs)
Please: Por favor. (Pohr fah-bohr)
Yes: Si
No: No.

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How to spend your free time as a volunteer in Panama

At this point, you have already received an extensive amount of information about what you should expect as a volunteer in Panama. So, it is time that we tell you all about the fun and interesting activities you’ll get to do in this beautiful country. There is certainly a lot to do and see as a volunteer in Panama, so we will just mention some of the various places you should go, and some of the activities and festivals you might want to attend. Have fun!

Sights

Panama is the heart of the Americas, it is the bridge that joins two continents. In the last century, all we knew about Panama was that the “canal de Panamá” (the Panama Canal) represented an important link between East and West in global commerce. But Panama has slowly become an important tourist location and one can certainly understand why: It has pristine beaches, great shopping centres, a lush rainforest, and a big city nightlife. There is lots to do in Panama, these are just some suggestions:

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[item title=”Panama City”] This vibrant city is considered a “beta-” world city, one of three Central American cities listed in this category. The city has numerous tourist attractions, including: Las Bóvedas (“The Vaults”), a waterfront promenade jutting out into the Pacific, the Plaza de la Catedral (Cathedral Square), Teatro Nacional (National Theatre), among others. Panama City is considered to be the most cosmopolitan capital in Central America. The city has it has received the unofficial title of “The Dubai of Latin America”, due to the recent rapid influx of skyscrapers, high-rise buildings, and increasing number of wealthy people in the city. It is both a vibrant metropolis, and a gateway to tropical escapes. [/item]

[item title=”Panama Canal”] It is one of the world’s greatest shortcuts. The Panama Canal stands as one of the world’s greatest feats of engineering. Visitors can cross the canal partially or completely in around 4 to 8 hours. This is the reason why many visitors choose to explore the canal by visiting the Miraflores Locks Museum, where visitors can view the canal from the top floor of the museum.[/item]

[item title=”Isla Taboga”]The Taboga Island is located at about 20 kilometers from Panama City and it is a place to escape stress. It is Panama’s favorite escape out of the city to bathe in its sandy beaches, ride Jet Ski and go fishing. It has charming little houses along the coastlines that gives it a lot of charm, as well as the second-oldest church in the western hemisphere, pretty narrow streets and a great view of Panama City.[/item]

[item title= “Playa Las Lajas”]It is a beautiful beach that extends for more than 13 km (8 miles) along the Gulf of Chiriqui on the Pacific Coast. Las Lajas is a perfect swimming spot and a popular place to surf. This beautiful beach features rustic shacks, cheap restaurants and great hotel chains that attracts hordes of tourists. You won’t regret visiting this wonderful beach!![/item][/accordion]

Festivals & Celebrations

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[item title=”Panama Jazz Festival”] Music plays a special role in Panama’s culture. This is particularly evident during the Panama Jazz Festival, that takes place every year in January in Panama City. It is considered to be one of the most important jazz festivals in the world! This festival attracts lots of tourists and international music talent. Hundreds of performers come together during this time, because it is not only an occassion to celebrate, but also an opportunity to raise awareness of social issues that Panama, Central and South America face. It is definitely a festival you cannot miss![/item]

[item title=”Fiestas Patrias”] It is one of Panama’s most important cultural events. This day commemorates the country’s separation from Colombia in 1903; as well as the nation’s Flag Day. So, this day you are going to witness a patriotic celebration like no other. Panamanian culture is on full display during this event, where parades, marching bands, dancers, and “polleras” (typical Panamanian dress) garnish the busy streets and celebrate not only the nation’s independence, but also Panamanian identity. [/item]

[item title=”Carnaval de Las Tablas”]It is one of Panama’s most popular events. It is a colourful and lively celebration, that takes place every year during the four days preceding Ash Wednesday in March. This tradition has its origins in the 19th Century, and it started as a rivalry between two of Las Tablas religious groups, the Calle Arriba and Calle Abajo. Both of these groups were constantly trying to antagonize each other through music, verses and performances. Over time, this bitter feud was forgiven and today, the carnival symbolizes harmony and togetherness. [/item]

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Food

Welcome to the tastiest part of this blog! You are certainly going to enjoy Panamanian cuisine, which is a fusion of African, Spanish and Native American techniques and dishes, and reflect the diversity of its population. Common ingredients of Panamanian cuisine are corn, rice, wheat, flour, plantains, yuca, beef, chicken, pork and seafood.

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[item title=”Tortillas”] Not your typical Mexican tortillas! Tortillas in Panama are a half inch thick rounds, they are made of corn dough and are deep fried. If this weren’t good enough, they are usually served with a melting piece of cheese on top and eggs. I can assure you, you won’t regret having this for breakfast! (Although maybe your waistline will regret it a little bit). [/item]

[item title=”Plátano maduro”]Ripe plaintains are part of the caribbean cuisine. In Panama, they cut them in long slices and sauté them in oil. Plaintains are very sweet and they make a great sidedish that accompanies most typical Panamanian meals. In Panama they sometimes prepare them in caramelized sugar sauce, seasoned with cinnamon and nutmeg! Proof that Latin Americans don’t do basic snacks![/item]

[item title=”Tamales”]Again: not the mexican kind! Panamanians tamales are more like a square burrito and are made from a dough of ground corn. They are filled with chicken or pork and seasoned with all kinds of spices. They are usually wrapped in a banana leaf and boiled. They make a very handy snack and, if you eat enough of them, you’ll have a hearty, tasty meal.[/item]

[item title=”Sancocho”] Also known as Sancocho de Gallina, this is a hearty chicken soup and it is considered to be Panama’s most typical countryside dish. It is a traditional soup that consists of large pieces of meat, tubers, and vegetables served in a broth. It originates from the Azuero region and some of the basic ingredients are chicken, ñame, and culantro. Yuca, corn on the cob, and otoe are also often added to the mix. Other optional ingredients include ñampí, chopped onions, garlic and oregano. If you are a fan of soups (or stews), you are going to love this dish![/item][/accordion]

Volunteer Requirements

-You should be at least 18 years old to volunteer in Panama (although some programs require a minimum of 22 years old).

-You should have an intermediate level of English knowledge; some programs require advanced English or Spanish knowledge.

-For some programs a health declaration, and a criminal background check is required.

– To be enrolled or have been already finish at high school or university studies; some programs require to have a studies on Social Sciences, Social Work, Community Development, Medicine, Women Studies, etc.

-Some volunteer programs will require for you to send a CV and an application form.

-To have strong inter-personal skills, and experiences in working with a wide variety of people is expected from all volunteers. Other skills like dancing, drawing, sports, etc. can favor you as well!

-You need to commit with the program you choose to volunteer with. This means: do respect the schedule given to you!

Do I need a Visa to volunteer in Panama?

You have arrived to the boring part of this guide: the part where you need to think about the documentation you need to volunteer in Panama! This is also the most important part of your trip, so please plan ahead to avoid any complication. Luckily for you, we made all the necessary research you need to get a Visa as a volunteer in Panama, so you don’t have to –although you probably should!

To volunteer in Panama you need to apply for a Temporary Resident Visa- for humanitarian reasons! This immigration category applies to any foreign person or his/her dependent(s) entering Panama for reasons of work, humanitarianism, education, culture and similars. You can extend your visa, and if your application is approved, you are allowed for a maximum stay of 6 years.

Elegibility:

• A passport with at least 6 months validity, which has at least one blank page for visa (amendment and endorsement pages cannot be used for visa).
• Two (2) recent colour passport size photographs Note: Do not staple or affixed the photographs on the form.
• One (1) completed and signed application form. The application form can be solicited at any Panamanian Consular Office.
• Letter of invitation from the social organization you are working with as a volunteer in Panama, which describes the purpose of the visit and guaranteeing all transportation and living expenses that will incur during stay.
• Confirmed onward or return travel ticket.
• Applicants under 18 years of age should attach a notarized copy of birth certificate + a notarized letter of consent signed by non-travelling legal guardian must be attached if the applicant under 18 years of age travels without the legal guardian.
• If you apply from your country of residence, provide a copy of residence/student Visa. This is to confirm that you are staying in your residence country legally.
• A criminal background check report, that’s legally translated (if document’s language is not Spanish) and apostilled.
• Medical certificate (also translated and apostilled, if necessary)
• Non-refundable Visa fee of approx. $35 USD.

If you still have doubts concerning the documentation you need to volunteer in Panama, do not hesitate to approach the Panamanian Embassy or Consulate nearest to you! And if you have other questions concerning these and other topics, please visit Panama’s tourism site  and get all the answers you need!

How to find opportunities to volunteer in Panama

Explore volunteer programs in Panama and find your very own volunteer opportunity abroad on Volunteer World. Featuring more than 500 volunteer programs and over 600 social projects in 70+ countries, Volunteer World is a one-stop resource for volunteer abroad opportunities. This platform is all about bringing simplicity and transparency to the international volunteer industry.