What it lacks in size, it makes up for in charm, say many who have visited the Panamanian town of Boquete in Chiriquí province. With a climate that is pleasantly cooler than the rest of the country, Boquete boasts a rich ecosystem that affords it some gorgeous scenery as well as providing the perfect conditions for growing rich and silky coffee beans and honey-sweet oranges.
Getting out and about is the key to enjoying a trip to Boquete, and the surrounding region is teeming with visit-worthy destinations. National parks and rainforest areas beg to be explored and those visitors with a study pair of boots and a health supply of both energy and enthusiasm will find themselves drawn into the surrounding lush wildernesses.
Outdoor activities are high up on attraction lists with local conditions lending themselves well to pursuits such as kayaking and river rafting. Bird and animal watching is also popular with visitors, with a variety of unusual species indigenous to the area. An annual flower and coffee festival as well as a jazz festival and an orchid fair also play their part in attracting tourists to the region.
Highlights
Trekking: the dense forest areas around Boquete offer some excellent trekking terrain. Take an organized trip or employ the services of a local guide so you see the best of what the forests offer.
Outdoor activities: enjoy canoeing, kayaking and rafting along the river or at the area’s water reserves.
La Amistad International Park: revel in the beauty of the magnificent flora and fauna on offer in this protected nature reserve.
Baru Volcano: take one of the local trips which include an ascent to the top of Baru Volcano, where some magnificent views are available.