Introduction
David is different
In Chiriquí you can find almost everything in David, in the third largest city of the country. Malls and international restaurants as well as private hospitals can be reached quickly. The Interamericana runs so conveniently throughout Panama that you can’t get lost. The border to Costa Rica is close. Only a 60-min ride away you can get your passport stamped.
David is a city of contrasts. Skyscrapers are absent, replaced by a more relaxed urban landscape. Modern shopping centers coexist with traditional markets, while bustling city streets give way to tranquil residential neighborhoods. The city’s vibrant atmosphere is palpable, with a constant buzz of activity, yet a sense of peacefulness permeates the air.
Chiriquí is Panama’s “breadbasket,” and David is a big part of that. The city is a major center for growing and moving coffee, vegetables, and livestock around. This agricultural abundance is great for the local economy. You’ll find a diverse range of businesses here, from small family-owned shops to large international corporations. The city’s strong economic foundation provides ample employment opportunities for its residents and attracts entrepreneurs and investors from across the country.
Activities
What to do in David?
The city’s rich cultural heritage is evident in its vibrant festivals, traditional music and dance, and delicious cuisine. The annual Feria Internacional de David, a major cultural event, showcases the region’s artistic and culinary talents, attracting visitors from far and wide.
David serves as an excellent base for exploring the natural wonders of the Chiriquí province. Lush rainforests, majestic volcanoes, and pristine beaches are all within easy reach.
- The Western Highlands: The highest point in Panama, Volcán Barú, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. And the charming mountain town Boquete is known for its coffee plantations, waterfalls, and outdoor activities.
- Beaches: The beaches of the Pacific Coast are stunning stretches of sand, perfect for swimming, surfing, and relaxing. There are many beautiful beaches around David within an hour of driving you have plenty of choices.
- Playa la Barqueta: In Playa la Barqueta you can enjoy the breathtaking sunrises and sunsets, something you can only witness on only a few beaches in the world. Pelicans, parrots, iguanas and even turtles are often seen here and so a chilly day at the beach sometimes turns into a real nature experience. Take a long walk on this beach, ride the waves on a bodyboard or just relax in the sun.
- Boca Chica: A real paradise surrounded by hidden coves, islands with white sand beaches, mangroves and sea inlets, which can be reached by campervan. One of the sunniest areas of Panama, Boca Chica has a strong tourist industry.
- Guided fishing tours: David and all surrounding destinations are offering tours for expert fishermen to beginners. Panama is a world-known destination for some of the best fishing trips.
- Whale watching: Humpback whales giving birth in the shallow harbours around David (season runs from late August to November). Small group snorkelling and scuba diving excursions are also scheduled to take in the amazing, pristine underwater world.
Restaurants
Traditional food in David
David got some amazing Panamanian food, from fancy restaurants to food stalls. The city center’s got a bunch of street food options, plus local snacks like empanadas and meat on sticks. You can find bars and nightclubs all over the city.
- El Fogon: One of the best restaurants in town with great Panamanian food such as seafood, patacones, ceviches, ropa vieja and more. They’ve got another restaurant now, just at the Panamericana, about an hour east of David.
- Terra Ristorante & Pizzeria: Little Italian restaurant in David with vegan and vegetarien and even glutenfree pizza and pasta. They also perpare good cocktails.
- Cafe Rincon Libanes: At Café Rincón Libanes creates a traditional Middle Eastern atmosphere, andtheir special dishes allow anyone who enters the restaurant to leave the hustle and bustle of the street for a moment.
Camping and Accomodation
What you need to keep in mind when you go camping
Camping in Chiriquí is unbelieveable easy. You might want to stay close to the beach to jump into the waves in the morning hours. You can do that here nearly everywhere. Sometimes you might have to pay for a good parking spot at the beach like at Playa Las Lajas.
In general, camping spots close to the beach and around David are abundant. In the city itself it is good to park close to one of there shopping malls where you can find restaurants, restrooms and some activities but during the night it is mostly quiet.
If you need to cool down from the hot nights in town, simply head up to Boquete where you have moderate to sometimes even chilly night temperatures.
