Planning Your Trip

Are you ready to catch the perfect wave and embark on an epic surf journey in beautiful Playa Venao, Panama? We are here to help you prepare for your VSS surf camp. Get ready for an incredible experience filled with sun, sand and endless waves. Let's dive into the essential steps to ensure a smooth and memorable adventure:

Getting Here: Flying to Panama City, Panama

Venao Surf School_ Surfcamp Playa Venao_ Travel Preparation

Panama is well connected with countries in North America, South America and Western Europe. 

International flights arrive at Tocumen International Airport (PTY) in Panama City. This airport is fairly modern, and not very big. Getting through customs and receiving your luggage will normally be quick. Once you exit customs, you can take an airport taxi to Panama City. The journey will typically last around 30 min to get to the city.

Panama Entry Requirements

Venao Surf School_Travel requirements

Entry requirements to Panama are relatively simple. Visitors to Panama must be ready to show the following:

  • Valid passport within at least 6 months of expiration
  • Return ticket to the country of origin or the next destination to visit
  • Proof of economic solvency of at least US$500 (in cash, credit card, bank statement, or traveler's checks)
  • Address of the place of lodging: Beach Break Hotel, Playa Venao, Los Santos
  • Visa: Americans, Canadians and citizens from the E.U. do not need a travel visa to Panama. Many other nationalities do not need a tourist visa if they have a valid US or Schengen visa on their passport. In any case, we recommend checking with your airline any visa requirement for Panama.

We recommend validating this information with the consulate of Panama in your country or with your airline.

Currency and Cash

Panama uses US dollars and its local currency Balboa (1 Balboa = 1 USD). Hence you can bring US dollars with you. There is only 1 ATM machine in Playa Venao and few places in town only accept cash.

Recommended Packing List

Your surf camp is booked, you bought your airplane ticket and it is finally time to pack your suitcase. Don't worry, we 've got your back. Check out our recommended packing list, tailored specifically for your Playa Venao surf adventure.

Venao Surf School_Holidays Packing List

  • Swimsuits: Since you will be in the water every day, make sure to bring
    multiple pairs of swimsuits and surf bikinis
  • Long sleeved rashguards
  • Board-shorts or surf leggings to protect against the sun and wax rashes
  • Beach towel 
  • Sunscreen (waterproof, SPF 50+, zinc-based). Protect your skin and avoid becoming a crispy lobster!
  • Beach dresses, shorts, tank tops. Keep it chill and comfy
  • Sandals/Flip Flops: Embrace the "no shoes, no problem" beach lifestyle
  • Sunglasses and hat. Look cool while protecting yourself from the blazing sun
  • Sneakers/Trainers and socks for adventures beyond the beach
  • Leggings and sport bras for the yoga and surf flow and fitness classes
  • Bathroom toiletries (shampoo, conditioner, soap, toothpaste/toothbrush, aloevera)
  • Insect repellent (can be purchased in Playa Venao)
  • Earplugs if you are a light sleeper
  • Personal First-Aid kit, basic medical supplies and any relevant allergy medication. There is no pharmacy in Playa Venao 
  • Reusable water bottle: Stay hydrated while minimizing your plastic footprint. Keep the ocean clean and your thirst quenched
  • Power adapter: Keep your devices charged up
  • Extra cash and ATM card