The Metro Bus Card is a rechargeable magnetic card that allows payment for different public transportation means in Panama City: buses and metro. The regular user card is orange, and the student version is white. There are also versions with a photograph of the Panama Metro and a multicolored version, as shown in the featured image of this post.
Cash payment on public transportation was eliminated and replaced by this card. To use both buses and the metro, you need a Metro Bus card, which is currently essential. This card is also required to board buses at the large transportation terminal, which transports passengers outside of Panama City to other provinces.
Where to buy:
The cost of each Metro Bus card is USD 2 with a minimum recharge of USD 0.50. The Metro Bus card has several points of sale and recharge in Panama City, and each metro station has machines to recharge the cards. These machines only accept USD bills.
Additional information:
- The MetroBus card has a maximum balance of USD 20.
- The MetroBus card has a validity of 5 years.
- You can request a refund of the card balance in case of loss or theft. only if when you bought it you registered it in your name at the purchase points with a shopkeeper
Some additional points that may be relevant:
- Types of cards: In addition to regular and student cards, there are also cards for retirees, people with disabilities, and tourists.
- Fares: Metro and bus fares vary depending on the distance traveled.
- Discounts: Discounts are available for students, retirees, and people with disabilities.
Map of Metro Bus Stops
Panama’s bus system can be a good choice for budget-conscious travelers, but keep in mind that:
- Service frequency can vary, especially outside peak hours. You may wait longer for buses, particularly in less central areas.
- Bus coverage may not be comprehensive. Certain destinations or neighborhoods might have limited accessibility by bus.
- Language barriers can be a challenge for non-Spanish speakers. Knowing basic Spanish phrases can help navigate the system.
For efficient travel within Panama City, consider ride-sharing apps like Uber or taxis. While Panama’s bus system offers a budget-friendly option, service frequency and coverage can vary. Using ride-sharing apps may provide more flexibility and potentially faster travel times depending on your route and needs.