Panama’s tourism authority and private sector partners have launched a new digital discount program for international visitors. The initiative provides more than 500 dollars in benefits to tourists who stay four or more nights in Panama City.
Dubbed “Panama Gives You +500 in Benefits,” the program features a digital coupon book with offers from over 50 participating businesses. These include hotels, restaurants, museums, and tourism experience providers located primarily in the capital. The Panama Tourism Authority clarified the program is entirely privately funded by participating establishments, with no state financial contributions.
Officials described the campaign as a direct response to industry proposals aimed at extending visitor stays. “From APATEL we promote this initiative as a concrete tool to stimulate demand, strengthen hotel occupancy and benefit the entire tourism value chain,” said Victor Concepcion, president of the Panamanian Hotel Association (APATEL). He called it a proposal created by the industry, for the industry, with the visitor as the main beneficiary.
Public Private Partnership Drives Visitor Experience
Tourism Minister Gloria de León framed the program as a collaborative success. She emphasized its role in adding tangible value for travelers exploring the city’s diverse offerings.
“This initiative clearly shows how collaboration between the public and private sectors allows for the creation of innovative proposals that add real value to the visitor experience,” de León stated. [Translated from Spanish] “Panama not only offers connectivity and diversity, but also benefits that invite the tourist to stay longer and explore a vibrant city, full of contrasts and unique experiences.”
The strategy specifically targets increased spending and longer visits in urban areas like the historic Casco Antiguo, Panama City. Authorities hope tourists will use the discounts to discover more local shops and cultural sites. This push to revitalize key districts mirrors other urban renewal efforts, Casco Antiguo areas often being a central focus for tourism investment.
Program results will be closely monitored for potential expansion. Tourism officials indicated successful metrics could lead to similar initiatives in other Panamanian regions.
Sector Shows Strong Growth Heading Into 2026
This incentive launch builds upon recent positive momentum for Panamanian tourism. Preliminary data from January through October 2025 shows a 7.1 percent increase in international visitor arrivals compared to the same period in 2024.
Tourism revenue reached approximately 5.46 billion dollars during those ten months. That figure represents a significant 9.3 percent year over year growth. Industry estimates place the average hotel occupancy rate near 56 percent for that timeframe.
The new discount program acts as a targeted effort to sustain this upward trajectory. By encouraging longer stays, the sector aims to boost revenue per visitor and distribute economic benefits deeper into the local economy. It also complements broader municipal campaigns for cleanliness and order, as part of creating a more attractive destination.
Interested travelers can find full program details and access the digital coupon book through the campaign’s official website. The offers are valid only at listed participating establishments for the duration of a visitor’s qualifying stay.