Best Phone Service Options for a Short-Term Stay in Panama

For 2-month Panama stays, AT&T Central America plan ($5/month add-on to existing account, switch on/off online anytime) works great with no issues reported by expats, T-Mobile Magenta works well for 6+ weeks, Verizon Ultimate International also succeeds, alternatively use eSIM cards (Maya eSIM connects to local TIGO network, turn on WiFi calling to receive US calls/texts while using cheap local data), or get local Panama SIM from TIGO/Mas Movil stores in David/Boquete for data while keeping US phone at home plugged in with call forwarding to Google Voice for verification codes. Most expats report AT&T $5/month plan provides best simplicity for short stays, while WhatsApp handles most Panama communication anyway (what locals use for calls/texts/business) so basic US plan + WhatsApp via WiFi often suffices without additional international plans.

Planning a two-month stay in Panama and wondering about phone service? If you currently have AT&T or another US carrier, you have several good options. Here is what expats have learned works best.

Option 1: US Carrier International Plans

AT&T Central America Plan

AT&T offers a Central America plan that you can add to your existing account for just $5 extra per month. Many expats report it works great with no issues. You can switch it on before you leave and remove the plan when you return. Changes can be made online through your AT&T account.

T-Mobile Magenta

T-Mobile Magenta service works well in Panama. Several expats have used it for 6+ weeks with good results. T-Mobile has traditionally been strong for international coverage.

Verizon Ultimate International

Verizon's Ultimate International plan has worked well for many expats. If you already have Verizon, this can be a straightforward option.

Option 2: eSIM Cards for Data

Modern iPhones (and many Android phones) have built-in eSIM capability, allowing you to add a second carrier without a physical SIM card. This is an excellent option for short stays.

How It Works

• Purchase an eSIM card (Maya eSIM and similar services are popular)
• The eSIM connects to local networks (like TIGO in Panama)
• Turn on WiFi calling on your phone
• You receive all calls and texts to your regular US number while using local data

This approach gives you affordable local data while keeping your US number fully functional.

Option 3: Local Panama SIM + US Number Forwarding

For longer stays or budget-conscious travelers, this creative setup works well:

1. Downgrade your US plan to basic call and text only
2. Leave an old phone at home, plugged in and connected to WiFi
3. Set up call and text forwarding to your Google Voice number
4. Get a local Panama SIM (TIGO or Mas Movil) for cheap data
5. Access your Google Voice number from anywhere via WiFi

This method is especially useful if you need to receive one-time verification codes that can only go to your US cell phone.

Option 4: Just Use WhatsApp

Many expats report that sticking with their current US plan and relying on WhatsApp works fine. WhatsApp is what everyone in Panama uses anyway for calls, texts, and business communication. It even has translation features. As long as you have WiFi access (which is common in Boquete), WhatsApp handles most communication needs.

Getting a Local Panama Number

If you want a local Panama number (useful for dealing with businesses and services), you can get one easily:

• TIGO: Popular carrier with good coverage. Visit a TIGO store in David or Boquete.
• Mas Movil: Another reliable option with competitive rates.

If your phone is unlocked, you can use the eSIM feature to add a Panama number as a second line on the same phone.

Tips for Success

• Make sure your phone is unlocked before leaving the US
• Download WhatsApp before you arrive
• Have your carrier's international plan activated before departure
• Consider having a backup option (eSIM cards are cheap insurance)

For a two-month stay, the AT&T Central America plan at $5/month is hard to beat for simplicity. Combine that with WhatsApp and you will have no communication problems in Panama.

Related Boquete Resources

• Boquete Complete Living Guide
• Panama City Services & Info
• Add Your Panama Business to ExpatsList