Travel to Boquete, Panama
(romancetracker.com) Boquete has become a major retirement area for Americans. Its wonderful climate and infrastructure make retirement to Panama affordable. Real estate prices remain affordable and the clean air and pleasant atmosphere make this one of the top retirement communities in the country. Our guide presents a common sense outline on how to get there and what to see while you are visiting.
Boquete, Panama - How to Find It and What to See
There is a good chance that you have heard some of the “buzz” that has made Boquete (bow-keh-tay), Panama a top destination for nature lovers and eco-tourists as well as a highly-rated retirement location. As it appears that a period of economic uncertainty may be looming in some parts of the world (and rising land prices in Panama may be taking a brief pause), this may be the perfect time to plan your first visit to explore this beautiful little town. Now the question arises”How do we get there”??
Boquete, Panama - Location
The country of Panama is located between Costa Rica to the west and Colombia to the east. The capital, Panama City (and the Panama Canal) is located closer to the eastern end, while Boquete (and its airport hub David - pronounced dah-veed) is at the opposite end, not far from the border with Costa Rica. This location gives Boquete much of its quiet charm, but requires a little extra planning to make the trip. More information about your travel options follow.
When is the Best Time to Visit Boquete?
There are two seasons in Panama (and especially Boquete). The “green” season is September through December, with the heaviest rains in October. Often mornings are clear with rain coming in the late afternoon. The “dry” season begins in January, making the best months to visit from January through August. Don’t forget that even in the green season daily temperatures are in a very comfortable range, from the high 60’s to high 70’s. No heater, no air conditioner, no hurricanes…no problem!
How to Get to Panama City, Panama
The airport in David, which services the Boquete area, is about to undergo a major expansion. This will allow more direct flights from around the world to David. Even when this happens we recommend you spend at least a couple of days in Panama City and see all the city has to offer. Check SideStep.com for airfare comparisons, and Copa Airlines is often a good option from the U.S.
It is unlikely that your connections into Panama City will allow a fast transfer to the flight to David, as the two airports are about 20 miles apart. The international airport is Tocumen (airport code PTY) and the regional airport is Albrook (airport code PAC). Rather than fight the connection you may find it better to relax in Panama City for a day or two before moving on to the mountain region.
Note: There is another airfare alternative that skips Panama City. You can fly first into San Jose, Costa Rica (airport code SJO) then take Air Panama from there to David. This is not recommended unless your schedule from home fits nicely with the limited connecting flights on Air Panama.
After arrival at Tocumen Airport you can take a taxi or shuttle into the city center (about $25 each way). Rental cars are not recommended as the traffic in Panama City can be maddening. A great alternative is hire a local tour guide (we like EasyTravelPanama) to pick you up at the airport, show you the city, and get you to your hotel. Once at your hotel taxis around town are about $3 to anywhere. Although problems are few, always confirm the fare before entering the taxi. There is a great Spanish resource guide at BoqueteLots.com that will help you with simple phrases and words.
Places to see in Panama City include the city center (great restaurants, casinos, shopping, etc), the Amador Causeway (walking, biking, canal-ship views, restuarants), Casco Viejo (the old town), the Panama Canal and it’s fine museum. Panama has a low crime rate, but check with your hotel before heading out on your own, especially at night. Avoid the area around Chinatown (between downtown and Casco Viejo).
On the Way to … David and Boquete, Panama
One way to get from Panama City to Boquete is to take a bus to David, then rent a car there. Boquete is about a 45-minute drive from David. Modern buses depart several times daily from the Albrook airport for the seven-hour ride. Cost is about $25, with details available at your hotel.
The next option is to rent a car at the Tocumen airport, or in Panama City, and drive to Boquete. Once outside of Panama City the route is actually quite pleasant and the roads are good. The Pan-American highway is four lanes to Santiago (about halfway) and two lanes the rest of the way. The trip is best taken during daylight, and takes about 6-7 hours.
The easiest way to get to Boquete is the one-hour flight to David from the Albrook airport via Aeroperlas or Air Panama. Once in David you can rent a car and take the 45-minute drive up the mountain to Boquete. You should know that luggage weights are strictly controlled on the regional airlines (about 30 pounds per person), so think about leaving extra (fancy) clothes in a suitcase at your Panama City hotel for pickup on the return trip.
About David, Panama - Boquete’s Industrial Center
The industrial center of David is where most of your major purchases will be made while living in Boquete. You will find grocery stores, restaurants and banks in Boquete, but will probably go to David for government offices, lawyers, Price Club (Costco), hardware, auto dealerships, building supplies and, yes, the Golden Arches. Spend an hour or two in David if your time allows and see what services are available.
Boquete, Panama - The World’s Greatest Coffee
Now it’s finally time to head up the mountain to Boquete. The turnoff from the highway in David is clearly marked, and the drive will take about 45 minutes. As you reach the rim of the city at an elevation of about 3000′, it is a sight you will remember always. Take a deep breath of the pristine air and start to unwind.
As you head up the highway from David the majestic Volcn Baru will become visible. This is the highest point anywhere in Panama. You will never forget the view as your drop from the canyon rim into the little village of Boquete. However, here’s a little reality check before you go into town… If you have been reading all the prose and poetry about Boquete in the press you may be expecting something like Napa or Sonoma in California’s wine county. Boquete is a charming, yet funky, town typical of Latin America. Fear not! Have a look around, take a breath, and slow down. The friendly people will charm you immediately.
Boquete - What to See and Do
Once you are settled into your hotel (Panamonte Inn, Boquete Garden Inn, and Los Establos Inn are all good options), start with a walking tour of downtown Boquete. Practice your Spanish while wandering in and out of the various shops. Visit the Romero Supermercado (behind the central park) to get an idea of local grocery prices and selection. Coffee, vegetables, fish, rum and chicken are very cheap, while imported American products (Kraft cheese, Breyers ice cream) are not. Also bordering the park is the local “indoor farmer’s market” offering produce at great prices. Next, explore your dining options (Boquete Bistro, Panamonte Inn and Delicias Peru are highly recommended).
Now you may want to take a driving tour of the area. There are three main routes to explore, all of which eventually bring you back into town. The first (Volcancito) begins at the large visitor center (at the top of the hill before heading into the valley), goes around the base of the Volcan Baru, and brings you back into town via El Salto Road. For the second loop, bear right at the fork at the “top” of town, pass the Panamonte Inn (if the bridge has been repaired after the flood), drive up to the Palo Alto coffee-growing area, and then back into central Boquete. Don’t miss the Mi Jardin gardens just before you re-enter town. The third loop takes you across the bridge at the fairgrounds (near the central park again), up into the Jaramillo area, then back into civilization (passing the Los Establos Inn toward the end of the journey).
Your hotel can give you many helpful ideas for activities including a hike up the volcano, coffee plantation tours, white-water rafting, nature and canopy tours, a.t.v. or horseback rides, and many other excursions.
Enjoy your visit to Panama!
