Panama’s public bus operator, MiBus, will run a continuous 24-hour service on key routes during the New Year’s holiday period. The announcement, made on December 12, 2025, addresses the surge in traffic and public demand for safe transit options as Panama City hosts numerous Christmas and New Year’s events. This special schedule aims to help residents return home safely after late-night festivities.
Since early December, the capital has experienced significantly heavier traffic due to a packed calendar of seasonal activities. The increased congestion has amplified calls for reliable late-night public transportation. MiBus officials confirmed they are responding by maintaining round-the-clock operations on strategic corridors connecting the bustling city center with outlying metropolitan communities.
Strategic Routes to Operate Continuously
Eliana Lasso, the Director of Service Planning for MiBus, outlined the plan. She explained that several routes already operate without interruption, including services from Pedregal and Los Andes terminals. The popular Amador causeway route has offered 24-hour service since October. Its weekend schedule for the historic Casco Antiguo, Panama district will also expand to continuous operation from Saturday through Sunday.
“Any service they take in the city center after the holidays allows users to get home 24 hours a day, and that is very important to us,” Lasso said. [Translated from Spanish]
The decision directly supports public safety during a period of high celebration. It ensures that even after the last official event ends, a core network of the MiBus fleet remains available. The company currently manages approximately 1,400 buses, with around 1,100 actively deployed based on daily route demand.
Panama Metro Maintains Regular Holiday Schedule
While MiBus extends its hours, the Panama Metro will not alter its regular timetable for the holiday season. The metro’s communications office confirmed the rail system will keep its standard operating hours despite some public expectation for extended service. This means last trains will depart before midnight.
The panama metro runs from 5:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. on weekdays. Saturday service ends at 10:00 p.m., with Sunday and holiday hours from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. The contrasting schedules between the two major transit systems highlight a coordinated approach. MiBus fills the late-night gap when metro trains are not running, providing a complementary public transportation options for revelers.
This special holiday service during the peak celebration period is now a key part of the city’s logistical planning. It supports both the local economy and resident safety as people attend the many numerous christmas activities and New Year’s Eve events. The 24-hour bus availability is set to continue through the early hours of January 1st.