Getting around Panama City and other urban areas usually comes down to three main options: traditional taxis, Uber, and the newer service InDrive. Each comes with its own set of advantages and drawbacks, and which one is “better” often depends on where you are, the time of day, and what you’re looking for in terms of cost and convenience. For visitors and locals alike, understanding the differences can save both time and money.
Taxis in Panama are everywhere, especially in the capital. You can usually flag one down within minutes, but the catch is that many taxis don’t use meters. Instead, fares are often negotiated upfront, which can be confusing if you’re not familiar with local pricing. For short trips, they’re usually inexpensive, but drivers may charge tourists more than locals. On the plus side, taxis are abundant even in areas where ride-share apps sometimes struggle to find drivers.
Uber, on the other hand, has brought more predictability to getting around. Prices are displayed before you confirm your ride, so there’s no haggling involved. Most travelers find Uber cars more comfortable and drivers more professional compared to random taxis. However, availability can be an issue outside Panama City, and at peak times prices can surge higher than taxis. Still, for many, the convenience of paying through the app and not having to negotiate is worth it.
Then there’s InDrive, which has been gaining popularity in Panama. Unlike Uber, where the app sets the fare, InDrive lets passengers propose the price they’re willing to pay for the ride. Drivers can either accept, counter with a different amount, or decline altogether. This system often works out cheaper than Uber, especially during rush hours when Uber’s surge pricing kicks in. That said, not everyone is comfortable with the back-and-forth bidding process, and sometimes it takes longer to confirm a driver.
So, which option is best? If you want quick and easy access, taxis are still the fastest to find on the street. If you value safety, transparency, and app-based payments, Uber usually wins. And if you’re looking to save money or don’t mind a bit of negotiation, InDrive is worth trying. In the end, the smartest travelers in Panama often keep all three options in mind and use whichever makes the most sense in the moment.