A layover in Howard is one of those happy accidents of air travel. Panama Pacific International Airport sits just 100 minutes from the city center by Local Bus, and even a short visit can be surprisingly rewarding. This guide covers everything you need to get out of the terminal and back in time for your next boarding call.
Before You Step Outside BLB
Three things to verify before you walk out of BLB:
- Can you legally enter Panama? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 100-minute journey each way by Local Bus, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the USD. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
Transport from Panama Pacific International Airport to Downtown
You have two main options for getting from Panama Pacific International Airport into town:
- Local Bus: About 100 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 120 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Howard might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$9 USD
- A meal: ~$18 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$37 USD
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Where to Leave Your Bags
You can store your luggage at Not available at the airport.. Rates typically depend on bag size and duration.
If the airport lockers are full or inconveniently located, services like Bounce and Stasher list verified storage spots in and around Howard as well.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
If you head into Howard, here are two things worth checking out:
Amador Causeway is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
Casco Viejo (Old Quarter) is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. No tickets or reservations needed — just explore at your own pace.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside BLB, you can spend time at BLB Duty-Free Shop or try Panama Pacific Terminal Relaxation Area. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Where to Eat
In Howard
If you make it into town, Mi Ranchito (Amador Causeway) is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Mercado de Mariscos.
Inside BLB
If you’re staying in the terminal, Panama Pacific Express Cafe is your main option. BLB Snack & Beverage Kiosk works too if you want something quick.
Need a Nap? Options at BLB
Long overnight layover? Your options at BLB include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Panama also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and BLB is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Howard and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in Howard exploring the streets or relaxing at BLB, the key is to make the time feel worthwhile. A quick city visit can turn a tedious wait into the highlight of a long travel day.
Just keep your boarding pass handy and leave plenty of time to get back. Happy travels.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.