Car Hire at Tocumen International Airport, Panama

Located to the east of the capital, Tocumen International Airport is the main gateway to Panama City and the wider country. As Central America’s busiest airport, Tocumen offers excellent road connections that make car hire a convenient and flexible choice for travellers wanting to explore both the city and Panama’s diverse regions.

Whether you’re heading downtown, driving out to the Panama Canal or exploring beaches on the Pacific coast, hiring a car at Tocumen Airport gives you full freedom to travel at your own pace.

Picking Up Your Hire Car at Tocumen Airport

Car rental desks are located inside the arrivals area, with collection points just a short walk from the terminal. Most international and local rental companies operate here, offering a wide range of vehicles.

Because Panama is a year-round destination, booking ahead is recommended to secure the best price and preferred vehicle type.

Why Hire a Car at Tocumen Airport?

Explore beyond Panama City
A hire car makes it easy to reach the Panama Canal, national parks and coastal towns without relying on tour schedules.

Ideal for flexibility
Public transport is available in the capital but limited for regional travel. A car offers full control over timing and stops.

Perfect for longer stays
If you plan to visit beaches, volcanoes, rainforests or countryside regions, driving is often the simplest option.

Convenient for business travel
Direct routes into the financial district, convention centres and major hotel zones.

Car Hire with Rhino Car Hire at Tocumen Airport

We partner with reputable rental companies operating directly inside Tocumen Airport, ensuring a smooth start to your trip.

What you can expect
A wide choice of vehicles including compact cars, family saloons, SUVs and 4x4s
Clear pricing with no hidden extras
Fast airport pick-up and drop-off
Flexible booking options for short or extended trips
Optional extras such as GPS, additional drivers, child seats and enhanced insurance

Booking early is advised during high season (December–April) and major public holidays.

Best Places to Visit by Car from Tocumen Airport

Panama City
Around 25 minutes from the airport. Visit Casco Viejo, the Biomuseo and the Amador Causeway.

Panama Canal – Miraflores Locks
Roughly 40 minutes. Watch ships pass through the canal and explore the visitors’ centre.

Gamboa Rainforest
About 45 minutes north of the city. A gateway to wildlife tours, jungle trails and river trips.

Coronado Beach
A popular Pacific coast resort area around 1 hour away.

El Valle de Antón
A mountain town set inside a volcanic crater, about 2 hours’ drive from the airport.

Portobelo
Situated on the Caribbean coast and rich in colonial history, approximately 1 hour 40 minutes away.

Soberanía National Park
A large rainforest reserve located 40–50 minutes from the airport.

Driving Tips for Panama

Driving styles can be fast and assertive in the capital; take care at junctions
Roads are generally good, though rural routes vary in quality
Expect toll roads when travelling between Panama City and the airport or along major highways
Avoid rush-hour travel into the city between 07:00–09:00 and 16:30–18:30
Keep cash or a pre-paid toll card for the Corredor Norte and Corredor Sur
Parking in the city centre can be limited; multi-storey car parks and hotel parking are widely available

Distances from Tocumen Airport

Panama City (downtown) – 13 miles
Panama Canal (Miraflores) – 20 miles
Gamboa – 25 miles
Soberanía National Park – 22 miles
Coronado – 52 miles
El Valle de Antón – 77 miles
Portobelo – 63 miles

Tocumen Airport Car Hire FAQs

Do I need a car at Tocumen Airport?
A car is useful if you plan to visit regions outside Panama City, including the Panama Canal, national parks and beach towns.

Is driving in Panama easy?
Driving is straightforward on main highways, though city traffic can be busy and local driving styles may be assertive.

Can I collect a rental car inside the airport?
Yes. Most rental companies have desks in the arrivals hall with vehicle collection a short walk away.

Is parking easy in Panama City?
Parking is available in hotel zones and car parks, though street parking in central areas can be limited.

What type of car is best for Panama?
Compact cars are suitable for city travel, while SUVs or 4x4s are better for rural areas and mountain routes.

Start Your Panama Adventure

Hiring a car at Tocumen Airport allows you to explore Panama’s capital, jungles, beaches and highlands with complete flexibility. Book your vehicle today and enjoy a smooth, comfortable journey across the country.

Check out this useful information re Driving in Panama by clicking here:  Drive Smart Panama