Panama's western city of Boquete, just 30 minutes from David, the capital of Panama's Chiriqui Province, is nestled among the country's most mountainous region, at 1,200 meters (3,600 ft.). Situated between the Caldera River, which lies to the east, and Baru Volcano to it's west, Boquete enjoys a comfortable climate ideal for outdoor adventure seekers - rafting, hiking, mountain biking, birding, etc. In addition, the combination of cool, brisk temperatures and rich, fertile land has created an ideal setting for floral exportation and coffee growing; three of Panama's most famous coffee companies are situated in this province, Cafe Duran, Cafe Suttón, and Cafe Ruíz.The town of Boquete is surrounded by steep, lush mountains to the north, east and west, where lies Baru Volcano, Panama's highest peak at 3,475 meters. So far north in the Chiriqui Province, Boquete lies only 7 km (3.3 miles) from the Bocas del Toro Province to the north. While small compared to David, Boquete is the most populated and developed highlands community, with a very stable population; an ever increasing percentage of those are now foreigners, many of whom operate businesses geared for the tourism sector. Complete with a wide variety of hotels and restaurants, Boquete can satisfy both backpackers and more demanding travelers alike; hotels range from $10.00 -$60.00, and restaurants include Mexican, Italian, in addition to numerous local establishments. As you enter Boquete there is an internet cafe situated on the right side of the road, just after passing Hotel Fundadores.
Boquete is certain to become one of the country's most popular tourist destinations, as the proximity to the airport in David and countless local excursions are special to the region.
Getting To Boquete from David
Buses depart David every 25 minutes for Boquete and cost $1.20. The trip normally lasts approximately one hour, however, that could fluctuate depending on the number of stops the bus makes. The buses themselves fluctuate between old school buses and smaller microbuses. The hours from David-Boquete are 6:00 a.m.-9:00 p.m., and from Boquete-David 5:00 a.m.-6:30 p.m. The buses drop you off in Boquete at the central park, which is walking distance from everything. From David, the bus station is situated just outside of town, no more than a $1.00 fee in a taxi. For those of you who need to store luggage, there is a luggage holding facility at the bus station in David, near to where the bus to Boquete departs. They only charge around $0.35 per day, and it appears to be very safe.
Baru Volcano
At 14,500 feet, Baru Volcano is Panama's highest point. The trip to the top of this volcano is an adventure for the fit and reckless only, as the road to the top is anything but a road; it is steep, muddy and relentless. The portion of the road that departs Boquete is paved, or mostly so, and then changes to a dirt, rocky road at the entrance to the park. There is no fee to enter the park, and camping is permitted in designated areas, with no limit on the amount of time you spend in the park. Temperatures at the top are very cool, particularly during the dry season months when the cool temperatures are accompanied by high winds. Sweaters, jackets, and long pants are highly suggested, in not mandatory. If you plan to spend the night you would be foolish not to bring cold weather gear. (**People have died as recently as 1995, due to the fact that they were unprepared once they reached the top.**) Once at the top, good photographic opportunities exist, particularly during the dry season. It is said that you can see both oceans from the top on clear days. During the wet season, expect heavy cloud cover, drizzle, or rain. Extinct for nearly 500 years, the crater is completely covered with growth, as are the crater's walls. Some trails exist on the top, leading to either side of the crater. Other trails to smaller craters also exist, however, it is recommended that you make any attempt with the assistance of a guide.
How to get there
There are three options for those interested in getting to the top: (1) Walking- you will have to allocate approximately 6-8 hours of walking uphill in order to accomplish this quest, and that's providing you are in very good condition. The trip will take longer during the wet season, as heavy, deep mud is common. Personally, I can't imagine why anybody would want to attempt this climb, unless they were training for the Olympics. There is no potable water available along the way, nor at the top when you get there, thus bring everything you need. (2) Car Rental - you can rent a truck in Boquete to take you there, but there is no guarantee that you will arrive, as they often have to turn back; yes the road is that bad. It is said that these trips cost approximately $125.00 for the day, so you will have to ask around. (3) Quadra-Tracks - This is the most economical and effective manner in which to reach the top, as the smaller vehicles can maneuver around the deep pits and holes that litter the road. Unfortunately, only one person can be transported at any given time, so groups are not an option unless you can find multiple vehicles. The trip costs approximately $40.00 for the day, which begins at 5:00 a.m. and ends near 3:00 p.m. The ride is not comfortable, requiring nearly 4 1/2 hours to get to the top, and about 2 3/4 hours to return to the bottom. Imagine yourself sitting on the back of a Quadra-track for 7 hours, not for the weak at heart. Regardless of which manner you select, consult with locals to obtain the most accurate information while you are there.
San Ramon Waterfall
Approximately 45-65 meters (150-200 ft.) high, this waterfall is located just outside of the town of Boquete and sits just off to the right side of the Caldera River. Cascada San Ramon is well worth the visit during your visit to Boquete, as there are some good photographic opportunities here, as well as a bit further up the road - only minutes further up the road is a bridge that provides a terrific view of the Caldera River, as it heads south towards Boquete; alongside the river to the right side is a building in construction, can't miss it.
How to get there
Continue straight on the road north as it leaves Boquete, with the church on the right side. Make your first left at the intersection, where there is a sign for Bajo Lino / Bajo Alto. At the next intersection make another left, following the signs for Los Naranjos. Later, make a right and follow the signs for Bajo Mano. There is no sign here for the waterfall, however, there is a bus station and public phone situated on the far corner. Shortly after, you will cross a bridge placing the river on your left side. Continue to the next intersection, where you will make a left. Here, there is a sign pointing to the waterfall, which it is situated on the right side.The waterfall is only a 1 hour walk from town, through beautiful scenery, or a 10 minute taxi ride, which costs about $1.50-$2.00.
Botanical Gardens
Just north of Boquete, en route to Cascada San Ramon, lies a privately funded botanical garden, which is set around a private home. There is no fee to enter, however, donations are welcomed. The trails are very well maintained, and crisscross throughout the front and backyard, offering terrific photographic opportunities. Virtually all of the local plant species are represented there, neatly arranged for pleasant viewing. While no hours are posted, our guess is that your visit would be accommodated between 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.. Well worth a visit.
Petroglyphs / Hot Springs
We've clumped these two excursions together since most people will, in all likelihood, visit both on the same tour. The petroglyphs are located just outside Boquete and can be accessed by any vehicle, however, finding the petroglyphs will require the assistance of a local guide. The hot springs are further away and require both a 4x4 vehicle and guide.
The petroglyphs reside on a private farm, just 15-25 minutes drive from Boquete. From the roadside you'll have to make an easy 5-8 minute hike/walk through open pasture to see them. All the markings/drawings reside on one single rock and depict a variety of animals, spheres and indistinguishable objects. It is unknown when or by whom the petroglyphs where made, but it's believed that they date back hundreds of years and are the work of local indians. The petroglyphs themselves are not all that impressive, especially if you've seen others, but worthwhile if you plan to visit the hot springs. Including the walk one can expect to spend approximately 30 minutes or so on this portion of the tour.
You'll then head off to the hot springs, which are an additional 20-30 minutes away, and located on another private farm (finca). From where the vehicle parks you'll be required to walk about 5-10 minutes along a well maintained dirt path/trail before reaching the pools, which cost $1.00 per person; this cost is usually included in the price of the tour. There are 3-4 different pools of varying size and temperature. The first spring is the smallest and warmest (approximately 45 degrees Celsius), whereas the other three pools are larger and a bit cooler. All pools are surrounded by a man made stone wall. The farm itself resides alongside the Chiriqui River, so a dip in the river is an option for those interested.
After departing from the hot springs you'll head back to Boquete. This tour normally takes approximately 3.5 - 5 hours. There is really no set limit as to how long you can spend here, much depends on your guide and other guests.
For those interested a trip to the Chiriqui River can also be included. Before reaching the hot springs, you'll be given the opportunity to swim in the cold, clean Chiriqui River. There are several wide openings along the river with ample space for a quick dip or extended swim. The river's current and height depends on the time of year and current weather conditions. It's recommended that you find a secluded cove rather than venture out into the river's center.
IPAT(Tourism) Office
Just before you descend into the town of Boquete, on top of the ridge, lies the Boquete tourism office (tel.: 720-4060). Not really sure why the put it there, but it’s the place to visit if you want local maps and other information about Boquete. Hours are as follows:
Tues./Wed. 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Mon./Thurs./Fri. 8:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Sat./Sun. 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Los Quetzales Trail
This trail unites the two communities of Boquete and Cerro Punta, and is one of Panama's most visited and popular hikes.