Approximate Border Location
Border Cities
🇵🇦 David
🇨🇷 Paso Canoas
Coordinates
8.43°N, 82.87°W
Border Type
Land crossing via road
Operating Hours
Open 24 hours
Wait Times
30-120 min for pedestrians/vehicles
Peak Times
Mornings (6-9 AM), weekends
Crossing Types
Pedestrians, vehicles, commercial
Daily Crossings
~10000 travelers/vehicles
Languages Spoken
Spanish
Currency Exchange
Available near Paso Canoas (CRC, PAB/USD)
Accessibility Features
Ramps, elevators
Safety Information
Busy, minimal crime
About David & Paso Canoas
A Bustling Trade Hub
The Paso Canoas-David border, also known as Paso Canoas Border or David Crossing, links Costa Rica’s Puntarenas province with Panama’s Chiriquí province, connecting Ciudad Neily to David along the Pan-American Highway. Open Monday to Friday from 6 AM to 10 PM and Saturday to Sunday from 6 AM to 8 PM (Costa Rica time; Panama is one hour ahead), this is Central America’s busiest crossing due to heavy commercial traffic. Its chaotic atmosphere and touts demand vigilance, so check official sources for updates before traveling.
Historical and Commercial Importance
Located on the Inter-American Highway, Paso Canoas-David has been a trade lifeline since the highway’s expansion in the 1960s. Panama’s dollarized economy and lower prices draw Costa Ricans for shopping, while the border supports regional commerce, with trucks clogging the route daily. Political protests, like Panama’s 2023 mining concession unrest, have caused disruptions, with highways closed for weeks, impacting travelers. The Costa Rican side, with its aging infrastructure, contrasts with Panama’s modern facilities, but both handle high volumes, so expect a hectic scene. Always verify border status.
Before Crossing
Crossing borders gets messy sometimes, think political flare-ups or gates shutting fast. Good travel insurance is a must for handling doctor visits, trip disruptions, or security scares. Don’t get caught unprepared. To find a policy that’s got your back, check out reliable plans today for peace of mind.
Crossing Procedures and Wait Times
From Costa Rica to Panama, pay an $8 exit tax at a kiosk near the Costa Rican immigration office, 150 meters before the border, and get an exit stamp, taking 10-15 minutes. Walk to Panama’s immigration office for a free entry stamp (a $3 voluntary fee may be requested) and show proof of onward travel, like a bus ticket. From Panama to Costa Rica, get an exit stamp in Panama (15 minutes), then drive or walk 5 km to Costa Rica’s new migration office for entry, requiring proof of onward travel. Wait times range from 30-60 minutes for pedestrians, longer during morning truck rushes or holidays.
Avoiding Scams and Chaos
The Costa Rican side is notorious for touts offering “express” services or fake paperwork help, often charging $20 or more. Travelers report being misled to unofficial money changers with poor rates or pressured to buy overpriced bus tickets. In Panama, officials may ask for proof of funds ($300 minimum) or scrutinize onward travel documents. Stick to official buildings, avoid tramitadores unless desperate, and keep your passport secure. Arrive mid-afternoon, around 3 PM, to dodge morning truck traffic and reduce scam risks.
Transportation and Road Conditions
From San José, a Tracopa bus to Paso Canoas takes 6-8 hours for $10-15, or from Ciudad Neily, it’s 30 minutes for $1. From David, Panama, a $3 van to the border takes an hour. The Pan-American Highway is well-paved, with tropical lowlands and fincas, but heavy truck traffic and rain from May to November can cause delays. The border area is chaotic, with trucks and shops; a $1 bus from Panama to Costa Rica’s migration office simplifies the 5 km gap. Avoid taxis claiming you need their service.
Nearby Attractions and Amenities
In Costa Rica, Ciudad Neily, 20 minutes away, offers shops and eateries, while Golfito and Pavones, within 1.5 hours, draw surfers and nature lovers. In Panama, David, 45 minutes away, has malls, restaurants, and an expat community. The border has duty-free shops, a City Mall with a McDonald’s, and cheap gas stations on the Panama side, 2-3 km from the crossing. Budget hotels like Cabinas Romy in Paso Canoas cost $40 for two. The area’s commercial focus means practical amenities over tourist charm.
Seasonal and Weather Impacts
The dry season (December to April) brings 28°C weather and faster crossings, while the rainy season (May to November) can slow travel with muddy paths and flooding. Holidays like Easter or Panama’s Independence Day (November 3) increase wait times to 60-90 minutes due to truck and tourist traffic. Panama’s one-hour time difference requires adjusting your watch. Check for protests, like those in 2023, which closed highways, and confirm operating hours, as weekends close earlier.
Practical Tips for Travelers
Bring a valid passport, two photocopies, and US dollars ($8 for Costa Rica exit, $3 voluntary for Panama). Secure valuables due to pickpockets in the crowded border area. Rental cars can’t cross; park in Ciudad Neily or David and walk. Have proof of onward travel, like a bus ticket, and at least $300 in cash or bank proof for Panama. Pay the Costa Rican exit tax online or at the kiosk to save time. Confirm border status, as protests or policy changes can disrupt access.
Planning Your Crossing
Arrive by 3 PM to avoid morning truck rushes and touts. Carry exact US dollar amounts for fees and avoid money changers. Monitor news for Panama’s protest activity or Costa Rica’s holiday traffic. With preparation, you’ll cross this busy border with minimal hassle, ready to explore Panama’s vibrant David or Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, from Manuel Antonio’s beaches to Golfito’s natural beauty.