Last Updated on April 1, 2020
Located in the Panamanian highlands, Boquete is a small town with much to offer tourists. It is in the west of the country and is next to the Caldera River. The scenery is incredible and makes the perfect location for anyone who appreciates the great outdoors.
A small town, Boquete has a population of around 18,000 people. You are sure to feel a sense of close community spirit when you come here. This is great news for those who like to get in with the locals and integrate themselves into town life.
One of the most interesting things about the town is that it is set at an astonishing 4,000 feet above sea level, which gives it a much cooler feel than many of the lower areas in the country which can become very warm. For this reason, Boquete attracts many tourists and expats who want to spend their golden years here.
If you are planning a trip to Boquete, you are surely weighing up the options about how to fill your time whilst you are here. In this article, we are going to show you some of the very best things to see and do whilst in this quaint Panamanian town, which are sure to make your holiday unforgettable.
1. Volcán Barú
This active volcano is actually the highest peak in Panama, making it a great attraction for visitors.
There are plenty of walking trails for those who wish to don their hiking boots, as well as some incredible views across the mountains and out over the sea. If you are looking for a good photo op, then this is the place to go.
The volcano is located within Volcán Barú National Park, and the protected area is a great way to see some local wildlife.
2. Jungla de Panama Wildlife Refuge
If you are an animal lover, then no trip to Boquete would be complete without paying a visit to this lovely animal refuge. The refuge is home to a wealth of species, including beautiful owls, parrots, and horses.
Visitors can get up close and personal with the animals, which makes this an educational choice for the kids.
The on-site restaurant serves some very tasty food and offers rooms in an adjoining lodge.
3. Biblioteca de Boquete
Literature is a favorite pastime for many of us. If that includes you, then why not consider paying a visit to the local library and seeing what treasures you might find there? Perfect for a quiet, cozy afternoon to yourself, this is also a great place to find information on the local area.
4. El Explorador
There is plenty to do in this outdoor museum, which has a lovely little park and some excellent walking paths. There is the opportunity for cycling if that is your thing, or you can simply take in the stunning scenery.
The location is filled with signs containing useful and education information, but it is advised to have Google Translate up and running since they are mostly in Spanish.
5. Restaurante Colibri
When you’re on vacation, you need to know where you can get a decent meal. This eatery offers gourmet food, but with a little twist making it like nothing you have had before.
All the food is sourced from local farms, which is a very ethical option for those who want to help smaller businesses. The service here is known to be very good and the atmosphere excellent.
6. Volcan Barú National Park
There is much more to this national park than the volcano.
If you are looking for somewhere to spend a day hiking and exploring beautiful scenery, then the national park is the perfect place to visit.
7. Los Ladrillos
This rocky and rugged terrain is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the area.
Visitors have the opportunity to take part in plenty of climbing activities, and you don’t have to have any previous experience because there are trained staff on hand to demonstrate.
This is a great place for everyone including those with children.
8. Habla Ya Spanish School – Boquete Campus
If you want to immerse yourself, this language school is perfect. For anyone who wants to create a new adventure for themselves in an eco-tourism location it comes highly recommended.
The school is located in the heart of the Boquete, so students can easily access the ample selection of bars, restaurants, and other venues when they have some free time.
9. Cerro La Piedra de Lino
This breath-taking mountain is a superb natural attraction. There are plenty of walking paths to explore, where you’ll find beautiful local flora and fauna. The hike is quite steep, so for those with reduced mobility it is recommended to go slower.
10. Domingo Medica Park
Domingo Medica Park is the ideal place to take a picnic and spend the afternoon relaxing. The park has some beautiful things to see, such as an impressive little fountain and a statue of a giant cup of coffee (on theme with the variety of coffee plantations surrounding the town).
11. CEFATI
This colorful visitor center has a wealth of information about the local area, in particular the coffee that is grown on the surrounding farms.
One of the most notable and impressive things is the unique and colorful Boquete sign, which makes this an ideal spot for an Instagram shot.
You can find out the history of the coffee industry, delivered by the friendly staff. On top of all this, the center is perfectly placed to get an excellent view across the town and the neighboring river.
12. The Panamonte
This incredible hotel is known for its excellent dining experience. Whether you decide to stay in the hotel or simply pop in for a meal one evening, you are sure to be super impressed with the delicious menu.
There is also a beautiful fireplace where you can sit and enjoy a few glasses of wine.
If you want something more upmarket, you can try the Boulder 54 restaurant. The food here is of gourmet standard, and guests are treated to some fantastic live entertainment.
13. River Rafting
For those with a sense of adventure, why not try your hand at river rafting? This activity can be enjoyed by travelers of all ages, and can be booked at a very reasonable price through Viator.
14. Finca Dos Jefes
If you have a particular interest in the coffee industry of Boquete, then you can take a tour of this plantation and learn the farming process.
This is great for getting a feel of how the local economy operates and gives you the chance to meet local people.
There are a whole host of coffee tours which can be taken at various plantations, but this one is well-renowned.
Conclusion
If you are looking for a peaceful yet exciting place to visit, that place is Boquete. There are many things to do, especially for those with a love for the great outdoors. Famed for its coffee production, there is many opportunities to learn more about the local culture and immerse yourself in the local life.
