Are you looking for a destination with international brands, competitive prices, and no visa requirement? Then Panama is your best option. With excellent air connectivity, modern infrastructure, and a wide range of shopping centers, the country has established itself as one of the most attractive shopping destinations for Latin American travelers.
This year, from October 3-5, Panama is preparing to welcome visitors from across the region with Panama Black Weekend 2025, the largest shopping event in Central America and one of the most important in Latin America. More than 3,000 businesses in 16 shopping centers will offer discounts of up to 70% on more than 20,000 brands, creating a unique experience that combines tourism and shopping on a grand scale.
Visa-Free Panama: Easy and Hassle-Free Shopping
If you're from Colombia, Argentina, Brazil, Mexico, Chile, or Peru, you can enter Panama without a visa. All you need is a valid passport to enjoy a quick getaway, jet-lag-free and within reach of everything just a short flight from several regional capitals.
With a 7% sales tax, the lowest in the region, and Copa Airlines' Stopover program, which allows travelers to stay up to 7 days at no additional cost on airfare, Panama offers a favorable environment for those looking to maximize their budget and the ideal opportunity to combine a business trip or vacation with shopping.
Shopping centers for all tastes (and budgets)
Panama has a wide variety of shopping centers where you'll find everything from outlets and department stores to luxury boutiques with competitive prices and exclusive coupons for international tourists. Here are some of the highlights:
Albrook Mall: One of the largest shopping centers in Latin America, with more than 700 stores, an entertainment area, movie theaters, and a connected metro station. It's ideal for the whole family and perfect for wholesale or individual purchases, with very competitive prices.
Los Pueblos Shopping Center: Just minutes from Tocumen International Airport, this shopping center is ideal if you have a long layover or want to take advantage of the last few hours before your flight. It features stores like Zara, Mango, Calvin Klein, Tommy Hilfiger, Levi's, and more.
Westland Mall, Los Andes Mall, Megamall, Altaplaza Mall, Balboa Boutiques, Atrio Mall, Santiago Mall, Town Center, Soho Mall, Chiriquí Mall, Plaza Terronal, Colón 2000, and Federal Mall: These are modern centers with shops, restaurants, a playground, and a family atmosphere. It's an excellent option for combining shopping with entertainment.
What to buy in Panama?
Fashion and accessories: Sportswear, luxury clothing, and accessories for all tastes.
Technology: Cell phones, laptops, headphones, video game consoles.
Perfumes and cosmetics: International brands at lower prices than in many countries in the region.
Jewelry and watches: Exclusive, duty-free designs in several stores.
An experience that goes beyond shopping.
Organized by the Panamanian Association of Shopping Centers (APACECOM), with the support of the Panama Tourism Authority (ATP) and Visit Panama, this edition seeks to consolidate the country as a leading shopping tourism destination in the region.
“The Panama Black Weekend has become a key event, attracting visitors from different markets, interested not only in purchasing top-quality products but also in enjoying our country's connectivity, infrastructure, and comprehensive tourism offerings,” said Gloria de León, Panama's Minister of Tourism.
Panama offers much more than shopping: beaches on the Pacific Riviera, cultural experiences in the Old Town, coffee tours in Boquete, ecotourism in Bocas del Toro, and casinos and golf in Panama City, making the country a versatile destination for those seeking a complete getaway.
As a tip, shopping in Panama can be enjoyed year-round. Many visitors take advantage of special seasonal discounts, such as Black Friday (November), mid-year sales (July), and post-holiday clearance sales (January). Additionally, Panamanian businesses often offer lower prices than in other cities in the region, making your purchases more profitable.
Panama is more than a shopping center: it's a complete experience for Latin American travelers who seek comfort, proximity, international brands, and attractive prices—visa-free and hassle-free.
Source: PROMTUR Panama/Visit Panama.