Nestled in the highlands of Panama is Boquete, a place known as the “Valley of the Flowers and Eternal Spring”. How enchanting is that?

The mountain range here extends to neighboring Costa Rica, so you can enjoy similar activities without the crowds. Escape the sweltering temps of Panama City or the Caribbean coast to enjoy eco treks, such as birdwatching for the famed quetzal of the area, and outdoor activities at a fraction.

Or simply kick back and enjoy some of the best coffee in the world at one of the many cafes in town.

Where to stay in Boquete

Mountainside accommodations dot the Boquete valley, offering views of the the charming town of Bajo Boquete.

Bambuda Castle, just five minutes from town, has a large indoor pool, hot tub, and even a climbing wall in a castle surrounded by flowers and beautiful scenery. Stay in bright, airy dorms or private options with modern amenities. The family-style dinners are fantastic, and when not closed for dinner prep you can cook using their professionally equipped kitchen.

Villa Alejandro is conveniently located in the town of Bajo Baquete, offering sunny mountain views from its selection of rooms and cabins, all equipped with kitchenettes. Check out the honeymoon cabins if you want to take a bath with a view!

Finca Lerida, a rustic boutique, has its own coffee plantation and onsite restaurant serving refined food. It’s a bit farther out of Boquete town, but offers activities such as plantation tours and walking trails directly from its property.

For hostels I recommend La Casa de Doña Cata located right on the main square, so you won’t have to walk far from the town bus stop. They run the midnight shuttle that goes to Volcán Barú.

Things to do in Boquete

Boquete is the place to get lost in nature, rest, and recharge.

Watch the sun rise from the top of Volcan Baru

A “say you did it” experience, Volcán Barú is the only place in the world where you can see both the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans (besides Antarctica, and weather permitting). And you can make it a sunrise hike if you start before midnight. Here’s how to prepare for a hike up Volcán Barú by yourself.

Note: As of 2023, hikers are not allowed to do the overnight hike due to too many rescue incidents. The park opens at 4 am.

The eight-mile trip up to the summit of Volcán Barú is a mix of rock, terrain, and mud, making for a challenging ascent and descent. A certainly easier way to see the impressive views is by taking a 4×4 tour (don’t try to drive it yourself!).

Try geisha coffee, the world’s most expensive bean

Originating in Ethiopia, Geisha coffee beans cultivate in Panama have become world-renowned and drive record-crushing prices for certain varieties.

Try it yourself at one of the many inviting coffee shops around town (this certainly makes Boquete a great digital nomad destination, claro).

Tour an agricultural farm

Visiting a coffee farm is a must if you’re in the area. It’s a joy to talk to the people who produce things here.

Coffee farm tours range from $35-40/person. They’ll show you the farm, describe the bean cultivation process, and allow you to try a cup at the end (note most farms grow beans other than Geisha).

But what about the fauna? Visit the bees and butterflies and pick up some local honey at Miel and Mariposaria.

Hike through the cloud forest

Boquete is nestled within green mountains, so drink a coffee and grab snacks before heading out to the trails. The Lost Waterfalls are a set of three waterfalls just a short drive from the town. Its costs $10 to access the paths and the hike can be wet and slippery, so wear waterproof shoes.

If it’s the right season, Pipeline Trail is where you’re likely to spot the famed quetzal. It’s a moderately easy hike with creek crossings, but this is a good one to hire a guide so you can learn about the flora and fauna.

Shop for local food and goods

Vendors sell impressive produce at the Mercado Público bordering the main square. If you have access to a kitchen, you may be inspired to cook with these fresh ingredients. Gourmet markets for wine and imports include Felipe Motta Wine Store & Deli and La Casa Del Jamon.

The best place for unique souvenirs of Boqueteando, but you can also visit the artisan market tucked away in Boquete town. The nearby Tuesday Market opens weekly to browse handicrafts, treats, and products.

Encounter the famed quetzal

Birdwatching is a popular activity in Boquete given the presence of the quetzal and close to a thousand other bird species. You may be lucky enough to spot a quetzal on your own, but a guide like Jason Lara who will take you to the best locations.

Go whitewater rafting and canyoning

If you’re feeling adventurous, Boquete Outdoor Adventures offers whitewater rafting in Chiriqui Province with up to Class III rapids. They also offer a half-day canyoning activity.

Where to eat and drink in Boquete

You will not go hungry in this town! From abundant produce to 24-hour supermarkets, Boquete Bajo has a variety of restaurants, cafes, and other food options for such a small town.

• Meye Bounore serves casual Panamanian dishes in a cute setting.
• Restaurante El Sabrosón #3 is a locals-favorite cafeteria right off the main square with plenty of meat and seafood options, guisados, fried food, and a salad/greens bar.
• Restaurante de Mariscos La Cueva del Pitufo for delicious Peruvian classics
• Boquete Brewing Company pours tasty house craft beers in an outdoor space with food truck.
• RetroGusto is a great Italian option in town.

How to get to Boquete

Boquete is about one hour away from David, Panama’s second largest city.

The fastest way to get to David is to fly from Panama City. The flights are $50-100 USD and depart from Tocumen International (PTY) or Albrook Gelabert (PAC) airports. Find the cheapest prices on Skyscanner.

You can also take an 8-hour bus from Albrook Bus Terminal, which is long but can be done more efficiently as an overnight trip. Unfortunately this can’t be booked online in advance, so you need to buy your tickets in person.

Once you get to David, you have a few options to get to Boquete:

• Public transportation: The Boquete local bus departs from the David bus station frequently taking roughly an hour depending on the number of stops made along the way. The trip costs $2 and runs rather frequently from 5:00 am to 9:00 pm.
• Rental cars: National, Thrifty, Avis, and other major rental car companies have locations in David. You may not get your money’s worth but if you want to navigate freely around the Boquete region, consider renting a car.
• Taxi and private shuttles: A taxi or Uber from David to Boquete is around $25-30.

Travel tips for Boquete

• The weather is much cooler and potentially wetter than other parts of Panama, so bring layers – a light sweater or windbreaker is good.
• Where to next? Popular next destinations are Bocas del Toro islands via boat from Almirante. You can also catch the international bus to San Jose, Costa Rica and onward.