From David it is a 40 min drive to the picturesque mountain village of Boquete. Boquete’s allure lies in its breathtaking natural surroundings. The town is situated in the Chiriquí Highlands, offering a welcome respite from the tropical heat of the lowlands. Situated close to the Baru volcano, there are many highlights to be found in this lovely village. Many of the coffee fincas are open to the public. Here you can go rafting, zipline through the trees, take in the stunning scenery on horseback and explore jungle trails in search of the fabled Quetzal bird.
What to do in Boquete?
Boquete and its surroundings are one of the greenest areas of Panama. As a result, there are many places that naturally contain a large number of freshwater springs and stunning waterfalls. You can quickly reach the many enchanted places in the highlands where you can take a cool dip in a spring and enjoy the magnificent nature with its variety of animals and unique plant species.
The region boasts an abundance of outdoor activities. Hiking trails wind through lush rainforests, leading to cascading waterfalls like the majestic Sendero Los Quetzales and the enchanting Cascada de las Gemelas. Avid birdwatchers will delight in the diverse avian life, with opportunities to spot the elusive quetzal, a vibrant bird revered by the indigenous people.
For the adventurous, opportunities abound. White-water rafting on the Chiriquí Viejo River offers an adrenaline rush, while rock climbing enthusiasts can test their skills on the impressive volcanic formations. Coffee plantations dot the landscape, offering visitors a glimpse into the production of Panama’s renowned Geisha coffee, considered one of the world’s finest.
Boquete is known for best dining
Restaurants serving international cuisine sit alongside traditional Panamanian eateries, offering a delightful culinary diversity. English is widely spoken, making it easy for visitors to navigate and connect with the local community. The expat community has significantly contributed to Boquete’s unique character.
If you’re looking for a taste of local flavors, you’ll want to head to Big Daddy’s Grill. This popular spot serves up authentic Panamanian dishes, from hearty stews to fresh seafood. Don’t miss their signature “corvina a lo macho,” a flavorful fish dish. If you’re craving Italian, RetroGusto Restaurant & Bar is the place for you. This charming eatery offers a delightful selection of pastas, pizzas, and other Italian classics, all made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
And if you’re looking for something truly unique, you can’t go wrong with The Rock. This restaurant is perched on a cliff overlooking the valley, and the views are absolutely breathtaking. The menu is all about fusion, with a focus on fresh, seasonal produce. And let’s not forget the sweet treats! Kotowa Chocolate Victoria is a must-visit for chocolate lovers. This charming shop offers a variety of delicious chocolates, from decadent bars to refreshing cocoa drinks, all made with locally sourced cacao.
No matter what you’re craving, Boquete has something special just for you. Whether you’re looking for a casual snack or a fancy dining experience, this charming town has you covered.
Coffee and camping in Boquete
Take your campervan up the hills to the Finca Lerida. You will arrive at a place that will delight all your senses, high in the mountains, above the rooftops of the vibrant town. A charming café and chic restaurant invite you to enjoy coffee and delicious food. There are excellent hiking trails above the finca, which is home to thousands species of animals and plants. There is an amazing variety of hummingbirds on the property and in the cloud forest. Toucans, quetzals, coatis and the famous howler monkeys are all common sightings and provide a wonderful experience.
The best part is that you are able to camp here to. Ask at the reception where to park your car and you probably pay a $20 fee per night but you can use there public restroom and all facilities such as their great restaurant and coffee house.
Beside Finca Lerida there are many spots where you can park your campervan. Many areas are quiet and you will have a great sleep especially with the fresh air up here. Around Boquete Alto are a few hostals which also offer campsites, if you want to hook up a tent or if you want to bring the van onto such playgrounds.
