Chiriqui

Panama

Chiriqui is Panama's highland province, a world apart from the tropical lowlands. The cool mountain climate around Boquete supports world-famous Geisha coffee, stunning cloud forests, and Panama's highest peak Volcan Baru. Popular with retirees and digital nomads, Chiriqui offers adventure activities, birdwatching, and the famous Feria de las Flores.

Quick Facts

Recommended Stay7 days
Budget$50/day
Mid-range$100/day
Luxury$250/day

Known For

chiriquipanamaboquetehighlandscoffeegeishacloud-forestvolcan-barucool-climateexpatretirement

🇵🇦 Country Information: Panama

CapitalPanama City
CurrencyPanamanian balboa (B/.)
LanguageSpanish , English (especially in Colón and Bocas del Toro), Indigenous languages
Phone Code+507
Electricity110V (Type A, B)
Tap WaterNot recommended

Tipping

  • Tipping is common for good service
  • Restaurants: 10
  • 15% of the bill
  • Taxis: Round up the fare or 10% for good service
  • Tour Guides: 10
  • 20% of the tour cost
  • Hotel Staff: A few dollars for porters and housekeepers

Money & Payments

  • ATMs are widely available, especially in urban areas; however, it's advisable to have some cash for smaller businesses and rural areas
  • Credit cards are generally accepted in cities and tourist areas, but less so in smaller towns and markets
  • It's better to bring a mix of cash (USD, as it's the official currency) and use credit cards
  • There is no significant black market for cash

Cultural Norms

  • Greetings: A handshake is common
  • Close friends and family may greet with a kiss on the cheek
  • Dress Code: Panamanians generally dress well; casual but neat attire is appropriate
  • Public Behavior: Avoid overly loud conversations or public displays of affection
  • Eating: It's polite to keep hands visible while eating (not in your lap)
  • Punctuality: While business meetings tend to be punctual, social gatherings may be more relaxed

LGBTQ+ Information

Generally LGBTQ+ friendly. Panama has made progress in LGBTQ+ rights, including decriminalizing same-sex relations. However, same-sex marriage is not yet recognized.

Alcohol & Drug Laws

  • The legal drinking age is 18
  • Drug laws are strict, and possession of even small amounts can lead to severe penalties

Special Laws

  • Be aware of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas and public transportation
  • It is illegal to wear camouflage clothing unless you are part of the military

Common Phrases

NoNo (NOH)
YesSí (SEE)
HelloHola (OH-lah)
PleasePor favor (por fah-VOR)
Excuse meCon permiso (kon per-MEE-so)
Thank youGracias (GRAH-see-ahs)

Climate

Highland climate significantly cooler than lowland Panama. Boquete averages 15-24C year-round, cool enough for sweaters at night. David is hot and humid. Rainy season brings afternoon showers but mornings usually clear.

Best Time to Visit

Getting There

Getting Around

Health & Vaccinations

Staying Connected

Local Cuisine

Geisha Coffee beverage

The world's most prized coffee variety, originally from Ethiopia but perfected in Boquete's highlands. Floral, tea-like, and extraordinarily expensive

Sancocho must_try

Panama's national soup - chicken stewed with yuca, corn, cilantro, and culantro. A hearty, comforting bowl that locals eat for any occasion.

Fresh Strawberries regional_speciality

Boquete's cool highlands produce exceptional strawberries. Found fresh at markets and in desserts throughout the region.

Ceviche must_try

Fresh fish marinated in lime juice with onions, cilantro, and peppers. Chiriqui's proximity to both Pacific and Caribbean means excellent seafood.

Patacones street_food

Twice-fried green plantain slices, crispy and often topped with ceviche, beans, or cheese. An essential Panamanian side dish.

Book in Advance

Plan ahead for the best experience. Here's what to book before your trip:

🟡 Recommended to Book Ahead

Boquete Hotels and Lodges Accommodation
Book 1-3 months in advance

Boquete is a popular highland destination with limited quality lodging. Coffee harvest season (December-March) and holidays are busiest.

Coffee Farm Tours tour_or_activity
Book 3 days to 2 weeks in advance

Chiriqui produces Panamas best coffee. Tours of farms like Finca Lerida, Kotowa, and Geisha estates have limited group sizes.

Volcan Baru Sunrise Hike tour_or_activity
Book 3 days to 2 weeks in advance

Pre-dawn hike to Panamas highest peak for sunrise over both oceans requires guides and 4x4 transport with limited availability.

Fun Facts

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