Panama’s Mobile Networks and How to Get a SIM Card

Introduction

Staying connected in Panama is easy and affordable with a local SIM card. Buying a Panama SIM card for your phone lets you avoid expensive roaming fees and enjoy local call rates and Panama prepaid mobile data plans. Whether you’re a tourist or a new expat, a local SIM gives you access to maps, ride-hailing apps, social media, and more without hunting for Wi-Fi. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about getting a SIM card in Panama – from the major mobile networks and where to buy a SIM, to choosing the best prepaid data plans, using eSIM alternatives, and tips to stay connected.

Mobile Networks in Panama

Panama’s mobile market currently has two main operators: Más Móvil and Tigo. Both companies offer extensive 4G/LTE coverage across the country and very similar pricing and plans. Here’s an overview of the two providers and what to expect:

Más Móvil (Cable & Wireless Panamá) - Branded as +Móvil or Más Móvil, this is the largest network. It has wide coverage, including in many rural areas and islands. In fact, Más Móvil is often noted to have slightly better signal in very remote regions (for example, high up in the mountains or deep countryside), giving it a head start in next-gen network speed (though 4G is the norm nationwide).
Tigo (formerly Movistar) - Tigo is the other major provider, which entered Panama by acquiring Movistar. Tigo’s network coverage is virtually on par with Más Móvil in cities and towns, with widespread LTE available throughout Panama. In extremely remote zones there may be spots where Tigo has no signal while Más Móvil does, but for most travelers this won’t be noticeable. Tigo is known for good customer service and support infrastructure. For everyday use, Tigo’s 4G network is reliable and fast in Panama City, the Canal Zone, beach towns, and other popular areas.

Network Coverage & Quality

Both providers offer reliable service in Panama City and other urban centers, as well as along most highways and in populated rural areas. Dropped calls or dead zones are rare except in deep rural pockets, some indigenous comarcas, dense jungle, or certain remote islands. Many locals say choose whichever SIM is easiest for you, as both networks perform similarly for everyday use.

Prepaid vs. Postpaid Options

When getting cell service in Panama, you’ll encounter prepago (prepaid) and pospago (postpaid) options. For short-term visitors and most newcomers, prepaid SIM cards are the way to go. Here’s how they differ:

Prepaid (Prepago) - This is a pay-as-you-go option with no contract. You purchase a SIM card, add credit or buy a data package, and renew/top-up as needed. Prepaid plans give you full control over how much you spend – you can load only the amount of data or minutes you need for the duration of your stay. For example, if you only need mobile data for two weeks, you can simply buy a 14-day data package and let it expire when you leave.
Short-term travelers almost always use prepaid SIMs, since you can activate service immediately with just a passport and there are no bills to worry about. If you run out of data or credit, you can easily recharge (as we’ll cover below). The prepaid route is very flexible and cost-effective for temporary use, and you won’t be locked into any ongoing payments.
Postpaid (Pospago) - Postpaid plans are subscription-based monthly plans. You typically sign a service agreement (contract) with the carrier, provide a passport or local ID for registration, and are billed every month for a set plan (e.g. a plan with unlimited data or a fixed data allowance plus calls). The plan stays active until you cancel it. Postpaid can be convenient if you’re residing in Panama long-term – you don’t have to remember to reload credit, and your data/voice service is continuous as long as you pay the bill.
Both Tigo and Más Móvil offer postpaid plans that cost roughly the same as using prepaid continuously for a month. However, getting a postpaid plan may require a local billing address or payment method, and it’s generally not practical for tourists or anyone staying only a few weeks. Unless you have specific reasons to get a contract (for instance, you want a high-volume data plan and don’t mind monthly billing), stick with prepaid for simplicity. You can always upgrade to a postpaid plan later if you become a permanent resident.

Prepaid SIMs in Panama are affordable, easy to obtain, and ideal for visitors and short-term use. Postpaid is available (even to foreigners with just a passport) but only makes sense if you’ll be in Panama for the long haul and prefer the convenience of an ongoing plan. Many expats start with prepaid to test the waters, then consider a postpaid plan if they find themselves needing uninterrupted service every month.

Where to Buy a SIM Card

One great thing about Panama is that SIM cards are widely available – you won’t have trouble finding one once you arrive. Here are the most common places and ways to get a SIM card in Panama:

At the Airport - If you’re flying into Tocumen International Airport in Panama City, you’ll likely see kiosks or booths selling SIM cards in the arrivals area. This is the fastest way to get connected right after you land. Both Más Móvil and Tigo sometimes have airport presence (or authorized resellers who can set you up with either).
Convenience comes at a cost, though – SIM packages at the airport are often pricier than in the city. For example, an airport vendor might sell a 7-day tourist SIM package for around $30, whereas the same package in town could cost less than $10. If you need immediate connectivity (for instance, to order an Uber or contact your hotel), the airport option is there. But if you can wait a little, you’ll save money by buying your SIM elsewhere.
Tip: If you do buy at the airport, ensure you understand what plan and how much credit/data you are getting for the price.
Official Carrier Stores - Both Más Móvil and Tigo have official stores and authorized dealers throughout Panama City and other cities. These stores are reliable places to buy a SIM card. Staff will help register your SIM, set it up, and explain the available plans. In Panama City, you can find carrier stores in popular malls (e.g. Albrook Mall, Multiplaza) and commercial areas.
Buying from an official shop ensures you get an authentic, activated SIM and the exact plan or credit you want. The SIM card cost at a carrier store is usually minimal (often around $3–$5 USD for the SIM itself), and sometimes they’ll include some starter credit or a small data package. You will need to show your passport for ID when purchasing the SIM so they can register it to your name (this is required by law for all new SIM cards).
The process only takes a few minutes. If you’re staying in Panama City for a few days, dropping by a Más Móvil or Tigo store on your first day is a good way to get set up with local service at official prices.
Electronics Shops and Kiosks - Beyond the official branded stores, you’ll encounter many independent phone shops, electronics stores, and small kiosks that sell SIM cards for all carriers. These are common in downtown areas, markets, and malls.
For example, in malls you might see booths selling phone accessories that also advertise “SIM cards (chip) for sale.” These vendors can sell you a SIM (often they stock both Tigo and Más Móvil SIMs) and usually handle the activation/registration on the spot. They might charge a small fee for activation (a few dollars) in addition to the SIM price, but generally the total is still low.
One thing to note: a few Tigo stores reportedly do not sell prepaid tourist SIMs directly, in such cases, an independent kiosk or shop in the same mall can provide a Tigo SIM for you. Don’t be shy about asking a shopkeeper for a SIM; it’s a very routine request.
Convenience Stores and Supermarkets - For maximum convenience, you can even find SIM cards in many minimarkets, grocery stores, and pharmacies. In Panama, it’s common to see SIM cards or recharge cards sold at corner stores (often called mini-súper or chinos) and gas station shops.
As said in our travel guide, you can get a prepaid SIM card “in almost every minimarket” (Panama Travel Guide). Larger supermarkets sometimes have a electronics counter or simply keep SIM card starter packs at the checkout. If you buy a SIM at a small shop, the clerk will usually help you activate it by taking your details and sending an SMS to register, or they might direct you to call the carrier’s activation number. Always remember to carry your passport when buying the SIM, even at a tiny shop, since registration is required everywhere.
The upside of buying from a convenience store is that it’s quick and often available after hours (some 24-hour shops stock SIMs), but the staff might not speak much English. If needed, you can say “SIM prepago, por favor” and show your phone – they will understand you need a prepaid SIM.

Tip: No matter where you buy your SIM, ask the seller if they can set up the data plan or top-up for you right away. Often at the point of purchase, they can load an initial prepaid plan (e.g. 7-day data package) using your payment. This saves you from figuring out the activation codes yourself. Keep the SIM card packaging and any instructions you’re given, as it may include useful info like your new phone number and how to recharge next time.

Choosing a Plan & Data Packages

Once you have your SIM card in Panama, the next step is to choose a prepaid plan or data package so you can actually use calls and data. Prepaid mobile service in Panama is very flexible – you can buy packages that last just a day or up to a month, depending on your needs. Both Más Móvil and Tigo offer nearly identical prepaid plans with competitive prices. Here’s how to make sense of the options and pick what’s right for you:

Plan Types - With a new prepaid SIM, you typically start with zero or a small amount of credit, and you’ll want to purchase a data plan bundle (which often also includes calling minutes and sometimes SMS). These bundles are often defined by duration. Common offerings include 1-day, 3-day, 7-day, 10-day, 15-day, or 30-day packages. Some packages provide a fixed data allowance (e.g. a few GB), while others offer unlimited data for the duration of the package. For tourists, the unlimited daily or weekly packages are very popular and great value.

For example, Más Móvil has special tourist prepaid deals such as unlimited data for 7 days for $5 USD, 10 days for $7, or a full 30 days of unlimited data for $15. These come with a small bucket of local call minutes (around 25–30 minutes) included, which is handy if you need to make reservations or call a taxi. Tigo’s prepaid offers are similar – Tigo also offers a 7-day unlimited data plan for about $5, alongside other combos (like ~2.5 GB for 15 days at $10). As you can see, Panama prepaid mobile data is quite affordable: even a month of unlimited smartphone data can cost as little as $15. If you only need data for part of your trip, you can spend just a few dollars for a shorter plan.

How to activate a plan - If the salesperson who sold you the SIM didn’t already activate a package for you, you can do it yourself in a couple of ways:

The easiest method is usually to dial a short code or send an SMS provided in the SIM card brochure (for instance, dialing a number like *123# to bring up a menu of plans, then selecting the one you want). Instructions are typically in Spanish, but you can ask a local or use Google Translate if needed. Many plans can also be activated by texting a certain keyword to a service number.
Another convenient way is through the carrier’s mobile app. Both Tigo and Más Móvil have free apps that let you buy packages and check your balance. Keep in mind the app interface might require a local ID or phone number verification. Some users find it easier to just use recharge cards or the USSD codes instead of the app, especially if you don’t have a Panamanian credit card linked.
Lastly, you can buy a recharge or top-up card (available at supermarkets, pharmacies, and kiosks) for cash. For example, you can tell a cashier you want to add $5 or $10 to your number. They will either give you a voucher with a PIN code to load, or directly recharge your number at the register.
After adding credit, you can then convert that credit into a data/call plan of your choice by dialing the activation code. This two-step process (recharge then activate plan) is common if you prefer to pay cash. It’s a good idea to keep a small balance of a dollar or two even after buying a package, in case you need to make any pay-per-use calls or extend your plan later.

Topping up and renewing - Prepaid plans do not renew automatically (unless you set them up in the app). If your data package expires and you still need service, you will have to purchase a new package or top-up manually. You’ll typically get a text notification when your data or validity is about to run out. At that point, you can reload via a shop or app as described. If you’re on a short visit and your initial plan covers your whole stay, you might not need to top up at all. But for longer stays, it’s easy to recharge. Just visit any corner store or use a credit card online to add more credit. Many locals use the term “recharge” or “recargar” for adding credit.

Calls and texts - The prepaid bundles often include some local calling minutes and texts. If you think you’ll be making a lot of local calls (for example, to tour operators or restaurants), check the package details or ask for a plan with sufficient minutes. Otherwise, you can always make app-based calls (WhatsApp, Skype, etc.) since data is abundant. Panama’s carriers also often provide free unlimited WhatsApp usage with plans (meaning WhatsApp messages and maybe calls won’t count against your data). This can be a bonus for staying in touch.

In summary, choose a plan based on your data needs and length of stay. For most travelers, a one or two-week unlimited data package is ideal. If you’re a light data user, a smaller package (a few GB) could be enough. The good news is you can’t really go wrong – even the largest prepaid plan is reasonably priced, and you won’t be locked in beyond 30 days.

Using an eSIM or International SIM

What if you prefer to set up your phone service before you arrive, or you have a phone with no physical SIM slot? In this case, you might consider an eSIM for Panama or an international travel SIM card. These options have their pros and cons compared to buying a local SIM:

eSIM (digital SIM) - An eSIM lets you download a mobile service profile without needing a physical card. Some travelers like to purchase an eSIM online ahead of their trip, so they are connected as soon as they land. There are third-party eSIM providers (such as Airalo, Holafly, GigSky, etc.) that offer Panama data plans. The advantage is convenience – you can often install the eSIM via an app or QR code and have data working instantly upon arrival. You also don’t have to swap out your primary SIM; if your phone supports dual SIM (physical + eSIM), you can keep your home SIM for calls/SMS and use the eSIM for data. However, eSIM plans for Panama tend to be pricier than local SIM deals.
For example, one popular eSIM provider offers 10 GB of data for around $38 USD, which is over twice the price of a comparable local SIM package. Additionally, local carriers Más Móvil and Tigo currently focus on physical SIMs for prepaid tourists. If ultimate convenience matters more to you than cost, an eSIM is a great option. Just be sure your phone is eSIM-compatible and unlocked. Setting up is usually straightforward: purchase online, scan the QR code, and follow the provider’s instructions to activate the plan for your travel dates.
International SIM Cards - These are physical SIM cards you buy before traveling that can work in multiple countries, including Panama. Companies like OneSimCard, TravelSim, SimOptions, or Simify sell SIMs that you can order to your home. They often come with a set amount of data that works in various countries. For Panama specifically, you might find a Latin America travel SIM or a global SIM that covers Panama. The benefit here is that you land with a working phone and you can use the same SIM if your trip includes other countries.
For instance, one international SIM option provides 10 GB data valid in Panama (and possibly neighboring countries) for about $25 USD. This is cheaper than many eSIMs, but still more expensive than buying a Panamanian SIM locally. International SIMs usually assign you a foreign number (not a local Panama number), which isn’t an issue for data use but might incur extra costs if you need to receive local calls or texts.

In general, if Panama is your only destination and you don’t mind a quick stop at a shop, a local Panama SIM card will give you the most data for your money. If you’re in a rush or on a short trip, an eSIM or pre-bought travel SIM can save time – just know you’re paying a bit of a premium for the convenience.

Pro tip: If you go the eSIM route, double-check the coverage and partner network it uses in Panama (most use either Tigo or Más Móvil’s network). After arriving, if you experience any issues with the eSIM data, you still have the fallback option of grabbing a local physical SIM.

Coverage and Service Quality

Panama’s telecom infrastructure is quite modern, and mobile users enjoy generally good service quality. Here’s what to expect in terms of coverage and performance:

Panama City & Urban Areas - In Panama City (including Casco Viejo, downtown, and the expat-friendly neighborhoods), coverage is virtually 100% for both 4G and basic voice service. You’ll get strong signals in hotels, high-rises, and even inside most buildings. Data speeds in the city are high – 4G LTE can often deliver several tens of Mbps, which is plenty for streaming videos, doing video calls, etc. During peak hours, you might notice minor slowdowns, but nothing too disruptive.
Both Más Móvil and Tigo have dense networks of cell towers in the capital. Additionally, Panama City is the first place where 5G has rolled out: Más Móvil has an active 5G network in parts of the city, which can give even faster speeds (if you have a 5G-capable phone). Tigo’s 5G network is still in early stages, so most Tigo users will be on 4G for now. Other cities and large towns (Colon, David, Santiago, Chitré, etc.) similarly have solid coverage, though 5G is likely only in Panama City at the moment.
Tourist Destinations - Popular tourist spots such as Bocas del Toro, Boquete, San Blas Islands, and Playa Blanca/Coronado beach areas are fairly well-covered by at least 3G or 4G signals. For example, in Bocas (an archipelago), you’ll get cell coverage on the main islands where hotels and restaurants are, but possibly not when you venture to uninhabited islets. In mountain areas like Boquete or the highlands of Chiriquí, coverage is mostly good in town and weaker as you go up into the trails.
As noted earlier, in very high elevations (like the summit of Volcán Barú), Más Móvil tends to maintain signal better than Tigo. Overall, if your Panama travels keep you to well-trodden paths, you shouldn’t worry about being disconnected. On a sailing trip to San Blas or a trek deep in the rainforest, expect some dead zones regardless of carrier.
Rural Areas - Along the highways and in smaller villages, both networks generally provide at least a voice signal, and often 4G data. The Pan-American Highway corridor (which runs West to Costa Rica and east toward Darién) is mostly covered. In the Darién Gap region (far east Panama, very sparsely populated), coverage is minimal; travelers going there usually prepare with satellite phones or local radios, as cellular is spotty.
Aside from extreme cases, Panama’s rural coverage is above average for Central America. If you’ll be living in a rural area, you might ask locals which provider has a tower nearby. In some remote towns, one company’s signal might be stronger simply due to tower locations. But for short visits, this is rarely a concern.
Network Quality - Both Tigo and Más Móvil provide reliable network quality. Call quality is typically clear. You may occasionally experience dropped calls or slow data if you’re at the edge of a coverage zone or during a heavy downpour (tropical rains can temporarily affect signal).
These instances are infrequent. On the customer service front, as mentioned, Tigo often rates a bit higher in customer satisfaction, so if you anticipate needing a lot of help (in English especially), Tigo might be slightly more responsive. That said, many users use Más Móvil without issues as well. Technical support is available via call centers or in-store at both companies.

One thing to note: Panama uses GSM technology (same as the rest of the Americas and Europe), so as long as your phone is compatible, you will get service. There is no CDMA network to worry about (CDMA was phased out), and both carriers support LTE on multiple bands. This means even outside major cities, you’ll likely be on 4G most of the time, not dropping to 2G/EDGE like in some countries.

In summary, you can expect good coverage in Panama City and all major tourist regions. If having the very best rural coverage is important, lean toward Más Móvil. If you value customer service highly, you might lean toward Tigo. For most travelers, the difference is negligible – pick one, enjoy your data, and you’ll stay connected throughout your Panama adventure.

FAQ and Tips

Here are answers to some common questions and additional tips to help you with your Panama SIM card:

Do I need my passport to buy a SIM? Yes. Panama requires SIM card registration, so you must show a valid ID (passport for foreigners) when purchasing. The seller will register your new SIM under your name. Make sure the registration is completed – it’s usually done electronically and only takes a minute.
Will I get a local phone number? Yes, every SIM comes with a Panamanian phone number. It will be printed on the SIM packaging or can be found by dialing a code (or calling another phone to see the caller ID). Having a local number is useful if you need to receive calls or messages (for example, verification codes or booking confirmations) while in Panama.
Is my phone compatible in Panama? If you have an unlocked GSM phone, it will almost certainly work. Panama’s networks operate on common GSM bands (including 850/1900 3G and several LTE bands). Travelers from the USA, Canada, Europe, and most of Asia can use their phones without issue, as long as the phone is not SIM-locked to another carrier. Before traveling, ask your provider to unlock your phone if it isn’t already. Most modern smartphones (iPhone, Samsung, etc.) are quad-band and work globally. Also, ensure your device supports 4G LTE for best speeds; a very old 2G-only phone would not get data service.
How do I check my balance or remaining data? Each carrier has a short code to check balance. For example, you might dial something like *122# or *123# and press call, then you’ll receive an on-screen message with your current balance and data. The SIM card starter guide will usually list the specific code. You can also use the carrier’s app to view your balances and remaining data in real time. It’s a good idea to check once in a while, especially if you have a capped data plan, so you know if you need to recharge.
How long does a prepaid SIM remain active? Prepaid SIM cards don’t last forever if unused. Typically, each time you recharge, your number’s validity extends. For Panama, the validity can range from 30 days up to a year depending on the top-up amount (for instance, a $5 recharge might extend service 30-90 days). If you have no activity for an extended period (a few months), the SIM may expire and the number could be recycled. If you’re a tourist and won’t return soon, you don’t need to worry – just use it for your trip. But if you’re an expat or plan to visit Panama frequently, you can keep the SIM active by periodically adding a small amount of credit online. Even a $5 online recharge every couple of months could keep your Panama number alive until your next visit.
Can I recharge online with a foreign credit card? Yes, it’s possible. The carrier websites and apps often accept international credit cards for top-ups. There are also third-party recharge services (like Ding, Recharge.com) where you enter the phone number and pay with a credit card or PayPal to send credit to the SIM. This can be helpful if you want to add credit while outside Panama or if you prefer an English interface. Just be cautious to use reputable websites for recharging. For most short visits, you likely won’t need an online recharge – buying a scratch card or asking a local shop to add credit is simple enough.
Any tips for using data efficiently? Panama’s data packages are generous, but if you’re on a limited plan, consider these tips: Use hotel or cafe Wi-Fi when available for heavy data activities (but avoid doing sensitive transactions on public Wi-Fi without a VPN). Many plans include free social media usage for apps like WhatsApp, Facebook or Instagram – take advantage of those for messaging or uploads, as they won’t eat into your data (check your specific plan’s terms to see which apps are zero-rated). Also, Google Maps can be used offline; download offline maps of Panama City or other areas while on Wi-Fi, so you use less data when navigating.
Safety and SIM security: Treat your SIM card like cash – if you lose your phone or SIM, someone could use your remaining credit. It’s wise to enable a PIN lock on the SIM (available in your phone settings) so that if your phone is lost, the finder can’t simply put your SIM in another device and use your balance. Also, be aware of phishing texts – if you ever get an SMS asking for personal info or saying you won a prize, it’s best to ignore those. They are not common, but standard caution applies.
Local lingo: In case you need to talk to locals about your phone, some Spanish words might help: saldo = balance/credit, recarga = recharge/top-up, datos = data, minutos = minutes, correo de voz = voicemail. English is widely spoken in Panama City’s tourist areas and in carrier stores, so you should be fine, but a little Spanish can be useful in smaller towns.

Conclusion

Getting a SIM card in Panama is a straightforward process that can greatly enhance your trip. With competitive rates and easy availability, a SIM card in Panama ensures you have maps, messaging, and internet access at your fingertips wherever you go. To recap, start by choosing one of the main carriers, buy a SIM at a convenient location (airport for instant access or in the city for better prices), and pick a prepaid data plan that fits your stay. The local SIM will give you a Panama phone number and plenty of mobile data to share your adventures, coordinate with travel companions, and explore with confidence.

By following this guide, you’ll be dialed in and ready to enjoy Panama without missing a beat online. In a country where even the small shops sell SIM cards and a few dollars buys you a week of unlimited data, staying connected is one less thing to worry about. So go ahead and get your Panama SIM card sorted – it’s one of the first things you’ll be glad you did upon arrival. With your phone connected cheaply and reliably, you can focus on soaking up the Panama City skyline, rainforests, and beaches while still posting that envy-inducing photo in real time.

Sources & Footnotes

[1] Más Móvil Panama
[2] Tigo Panama
[3] Prepaid data SIM – Wiki
[4] Tripadvisor
[5] The Panama Perspective