ArrivalGuides Chiriqui

Updated 16 July 2014

Photo:

Chiriqui, Central Americain collaboration with Visit Panama: Chiriqui

Chiriqui, described by many as the “breadbasket" of Panama, is comprised of fertile mountainsand rolling hills, rocky rivers and coffee plantations, pristine beaches and islands with world classsports fishing and a thriving city conveniently close to all destinations within the province.

Located in the western-most region of Panama, Chiriqui is bordered to the north by Bocas delToro, to the west by Costa Rica, to the east by the Veraguas and to the south by the PacificOcean.

Top 5

Visit a Coffee PlantationBoquete has become one of the mostimportant coffee growing regions inthe w...Canopy Tour (Zip Line)The Canopy Tour takes you on a zipline of 3 kilometers in total length, div...

The three waterfall hikeThis tour is a half day guided hike upthe mountains in the rainforest of Ch...

Go horseback ridingCross rivers and small streams,encounter beautiful landscapes andadmire th...Cloud Forest SafariThe Cloud Forest Safari is a fantastic 3to 4 hour Jeep tour that explores t...

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ESSENTIAL INFORMATION

Enrique Malek Airport

Also known as David Airport (IATA: DAV), Enrique Malek International Airport located in David with domestic ightsto and from Panama City and international ights to andfrom San Jose, Costa Rica, recently expanded and now hasa longer runway for more international ights and a newpassenger terminal.

Address: Pedregal, Province of ChiriquiPhone: + 721 1072

Distance from Panama City to David

275 miles / 444 km

Traveling to Chiriqui by bus

Take the bus through the mountains from Panama City’s Albrook Bus Terminal. Prices are one way regular: $15.25;one way express: $18.25 and depart every 30 minutes.Prices updated in June 2014.

Phone: +507 303 3030

Electricity

110 volts, 60 HzStandard two pin plugs

Weather

The highlands of Chiriqui oer a year round spring-like climate with temperatures ranging between 12°C and25°C, while its capital David and the beach areas canreach up to 33°C at its highest with an average of 31C°

through the year.

BOQUETE

Boquete is located in a beautiful valley with rocky mountain rivers and scenic views and has a growing expatcommunity of people who just fell in love with the townand decided to move here.Boquete is home to multiple coee plantations, a good selection of restaurants, a place to practice outdooractivities that range from scenic tours in ATV vehicles torock climbing, mountain biking, canopy zip-lining,horseback riding, golf, bird watching, visit hot springs andmuch more.

Destination: Chiriqui, Central AmericaPublishing date: 2014-07-16

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BOQUETE - DO & SEE

Visit a Coffee Plantation

Boquete has become one ofthe most important coeegrowing regions in the worldwith 1600 independent coeeproducers and more than 25companies that process

coee.Boquete, produces the best and most expensive coee in the world, the Arabic Geisha (Gesha). Besides Geisha,Boquete boasts a wide variety of beans that have woninternational awards.Here visitors can leisurely sample tasting menus, modeledafter Napa Valley wine tours, at coee plantations.

Canopy Tour (Zip Line)

The Canopy Tour takes you ona zip line of 3 kilometers intotal length, divided into 12dierent zip line cables. Youwill glide through the treesand encounter an unknown

world… a fascinating perspective of life that you would never have believed existed. This is a tour traversing acloud forest of century-old trees and waterfalls, where atany time you may encounter fog and the gentle rain wecall bajareque.



Bird watchingBird watching is one ofBoquete’s main attractionswith over 900 species of birdspresent in the area. This is themost accessible region ofChiriqui’s highlands where the

beautiful Quetzal bird can be seen thanks to the conservation of the forest and the “Aguacatillo” tree thatprovides the Quetzal with its favorite fruit.

Rockclimbing

“El Gunko” is what theindigenous people of the areacall this strange and appealingvolcanic stone formation. It is13.1 meters high and, apartfrom its unique beauty, oers

the perfect conditions for a fast and easy climb for every nature lover. Rock climbers with previous experience willhave 3 hours to climb any number of routes of their ownchoice. For those new to rock climbing, we will suggestdierent routes, taking into account physical abilities andage.

The three waterfall hike

This tour is a half day guidedhike up the mountains in therainforest of Chiriqui. Alongthe way you will see threebeautiful waterfalls, as well asbirds, orchids, plants, owers

and animals that are typical of the tropical rainforest.This hike has a moderate degree of diculty that requires the participant to be physically t, and includes some longascents.

Howler monkey tourOn this tour you will be able tosee our famous ChorchaMonkey Reserve, with amazinghowler monkeys in anindigenous communityenvironment. Enjoy the beauty

of these intelligent monkeys as you nd yourself surrounded by nature - an unforgettable experience.

Go horseback riding

Cross rivers and smallstreams, encounter beautifullandscapes and admire theBaru Volcano from a veryspecial perspective. At the endof the trip you will arrive at a

lookout point with panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains and serene valleys blanketed by lushrainforests. From here you will be able to see the PacicOcean, Chiriqui’s lowlands and the Baru Volcano, all at thesame time. Some say the rainforest scenery is the mainattraction of the horseback riding tour in Caldera.

Take a Panoramic Tour

During this 3 hour tour youwill enjoy lovely panoramicviews of Boquete. The naturalbeauty, the spring like climateand the abundance of birdswill make you fall in love with

this special region of Panama.

Photo: Avenue A Publications


Cloud Forest SafariThe Cloud Forest Safari is afantastic 3 to 4 hour Jeeptour that explores thehighlands surroundingBoquete. You’ll see whitewater rivers, cascading

waterfalls, and all the exotic and beautiful foliage of the cloud forest. You mayeven spot the elusive Resplendent Quetzal on a short hike among the trees. Highlights include a coee plantation, anherb garden, and roadside stands where indigenousPanamanians sell their hand-made crafts. Come along onBoquete Safari’s world-famous signature tour!

Play Golf

A world class golf courseawaits you in the Chiriquihighlands. Designed by J.Michael Poellot, this 18- holechampionship course is partof Lucero Golf & Country

Club, just outside of Boquete. Bring your friends and tee upfor an exceptional round of golf amid stunningsurroundings. Green fees vary depending on the seasonand include golf cart rental, and packages are available.Ask for details at your hotel reception desk.

Dining

The little town of Boqueteoers a good selection ofrestaurants catering to alltastes and budgets. SinceBoquete is an agriculturaltown, chefs have access to

the freshest organic vegetables and herbs.

BOQUETE - RESTAURANTS

The Rock

The Rock is located on thebanks of the Palo Alto River,just outside of centralBoquete. The large windowsallow for fantastic views upthe valley and the

replacesitting area is a cozy spot at night. “Food Without Pretenses” is their motto and the menu focuses on locallyavailable produce and meats. Steaks and ribs are cookedto perfection, and may be accompanied by artisan beersmade exclusively for the restaurant, or the perfect wine.Thursday is All-You-Can-Eat Rib Night. If you’re in Boquete,a meal at The Rock is a must.

Address: Avenida 11 de Abril, Boquete, ChiriquiOpening hours: Wed to Mon from 12:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.Phone: 507 + 720 2516Internet: www.therockboquete.comEmail: [email protected]


BOQUETE - HOTELS

The Riverside Inn

The Riverside Inn is a luxuryboutique hotel nestled in themountains alongside the PaloAlto River just a few minutesfrom town. Each room isdecorated dierently with soft,

natural colors, and has a very large bathroom complete with robes to lounge in. The inn is comfortable and thelarge shared living spaces are inviting with a replace,library and game room. The master suite at the back ofthe inn is the most private with a Jacuzzi and deck. Stamembers are very helpful and can arrange daily tours ofthe surrounding region.Breakfast is provided at the neighboring restaurant The Rock.

Address: Avenida 11 de Abril, Boquete, ChiriquiPhone: +507 720 1076Internet: www.riversideinnboquete.comEmail: [email protected]

BOQUETE- BARS & NIGHTLIFE

Mike’s Global Grill

Mike’s Global Grill preparesAsian, American andInternational food, pours localand imported beers, andfeatures American football onbig screen TVs. Gaining

popularity with locals, expats and tourists alike, Mike’s has the right international mix. Live music is scheduled everyweek and they occasionally have “open mic” night onFridays.

Address: Avenida Central, BoqueteOpening hours: Mon - Thu from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m. / Fri from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. / Sat from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 a.m. / Sun from 11:00a.m. to 12:00 a.m.Phone: +507 730 9360Internet: www.mikesglobagrill.comEmail: [email protected]


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BOQUETE - TRANSPORTATION

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Taxis

Walking around downtown Boquete is a great way to start

your visit, however many good restaurants, hotels andattractions can be a little outside of the downtown area.Taxi services in Boquete are reliable and readily availablewith rates that start from $1.50. There are no taxi metersin Panama and fares may vary depending on the taxidriver. Rates updated on June 2014.

Public Bus

The bus terminal is located beside the park and opposite to the restation.ScheduleBoquete - David : Mon to Sun from 4:20 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.David - Boquete : Mon to Sun from 5:20 a.m. to 9:45 p.m.One way fare is: $1.75 (Prices updated in June 2014)

Renting a Car in Chiriqui

It is ideal to rent a vehicle in the region to see and explore what it has to oer. A small economy car costs roughly$30 with basic insurance. There are many car rentaldepots in David outside the airport to choose from basedon price or vehicle. (Prices updated in June 2014)

BOQUETE - TOP 5 TOURS

Visit a Coffee Plantation

Boquete has become one ofthe most important coeegrowing regions in the worldwith 1600 independent coeeproducers and more than 25companies that process



coee.Boquete, produces the best and most expensive coee in the world, the Arabic Geisha (Gesha). Besides Geisha,Boquete boasts a wide variety of beans that have woninternational awards.Here visitors can leisurely sample tasting menus, modeledafter Napa Valley wine tours, at coee plantations.

Canopy Tour (Zip Line)

The Canopy Tour takes you ona zip line of 3 kilometers intotal length, divided into 12dierent zip line cables. Youwill glide through the treesand encounter an unknown

world… a fascinating perspective of life that you would never have believed existed. This is a tour traversing acloud forest of century-old trees and waterfalls, where atany time you may encounter fog and the gentle rain wecall bajareque.

The three waterfall hike

This tour is a half day guidedhike up the mountains in therainforest of Chiriqui. Alongthe way you will see threebeautiful waterfalls, as well asbirds, orchids, plants, owers

and animals that are typical of the tropical rainforest.This hike has a moderate degree of diculty that requires the participant to be physically t, and includes some longascents.

Go horseback riding

Cross rivers and smallstreams, encounter beautifullandscapes and admire theBaru Volcano from a veryspecial perspective. At the endof the trip you will arrive at a

lookout point with panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains and serene valleys blanketed by lushrainforests. From here you will be able to see the PacicOcean, Chiriqui’s lowlands and the Baru Volcano, all at thesame time. Some say the rainforest scenery is the mainattraction of the horseback riding tour in Caldera.

Cloud Forest Safari

The Cloud Forest Safari is afantastic 3 to 4 hour Jeeptour that explores thehighlands surroundingBoquete. You’ll see whitewater rivers, cascading

waterfalls, and all the exotic and beautiful foliage of the cloud forest. You may even spot the elusive ResplendentQuetzal on a short hike among the trees. Highlightsinclude a coee plantation, an herb garden, and roadsidestands where indigenous Panamanians sell theirhand-made crafts. Come along on Boquete Safari’sworld-famous signature tour!

BOQUETE - EVENTS


The Boquete Flower and Coffee FestivalThe event is a fantasticopportunity for visitors fromabroad and from Panama totruly appreciate theagricultural importance ofChiriqui. Last year, over

35,000 owers were displayed at the fair, including orchids from Australia, Japan, the United States, CostaRica and, of course, Panama.While owers are the main attraction at the fair, local agricultural produce is also showcased, including potatoes,strawberries, cabbage, and lettuce. The most important ofall the produce is the coee, which is “cupped” or tastedhere by local experts.Without a doubt, the Boquete Flower Festival is one of Panama’s most popular rural events, receiving around100,000 visitors during its ten days, and with the incomegenerated from the fair hovering around the $2 millionmark, it is extremely important to the area from aneconomical point of view.

Phone: +507 730-9466Internet: www.feriadeboquete.comEmail: [email protected]

The Orchid Expo

The Orchid Expo is an annualevent in Boquete that takesplace at the Flower and CoeeFairgrounds around Eastertime. Orchid lovers around theworld have formed

associations and clubs to collect and cultivate these exquisite owers, which exist in thousands of varieties.More than just a chance to show o their beauty, the exporaises awareness of the threat to orchid plants byexcessive logging. Plant exhibits, local handicrafts,conferences and cultural presentations are all part of theExpo. The Expo takes place in March or April.

VOLCAN, BAMBITO AND CERROPUNTA

Visit Panama

Besides being the fruit and vegetable basket of Panama, this area oers the most scenic destinations, a wonderfulclimate that ranges from 12°C to 25°C in temperature,rocky mountain rivers, indigenous tribes, great hiking trails,horse farms, orchid farms, ancient archeological sites,great bird watching and most impressive of all, the BaruVolcano, Panama´s tallest mountain at 11,398 feet, fromwhich on a sunny day you can see both the Pacic andAtlantic Ocean. The area oers multiple cabins, hotels andhostels to suit all tastes and budgets.

VOLCAN - DO & SEE


Baru Volcano Hiking TourAt 3,475meters (11,400 feet),the Baru Volcano is Panama’shighest point. The trek to thetop of this volcano is anadventure for the t andadventurous only. You will

encounter 4 dierent types of forest, and if the weather permits, you will be able to see both the Pacic Ocean andthe Caribbean Sea from the peak of this volcano.If you hike back and forth the same day, it will take 12 hours. It is advisable to camp overnight to lessen theintensity of the hike. At the summit, the temperature candrop below zero.Tips1. Take a minimum of 2 liters of water per person. 2. Take food that is light and easy to digest. Good foods to take are cookies, pre-prepared sandwiches, fresh fruit,energy bars, chocolates, etc. Canned food and anythingthat adds unnecessary weight is not recommended;remember you have to carry everything on your back.3. Wear light and comfortable clothes. If you have temperature regulating clothes even better as they arelighter to carry in your backpack and will protect you fromthe very cold weather and strong winds at the summit.Wear a pair of comfortable sneakers or preferably a pair ofhiking boots.4. Trekking poles are a good idea to take if you have any.They will help to support your weight during the descent.5. Between April and December, there is a chance of rain,so if you go during this time, take a waterproof jacket tokeep dry.

Sitio Barriles

The Sitio Barriles site islocated on a private farm,Finca Landau, just outside ofVolcan. It is one of Panama’smost famous archaeologicalsites, where Pre-Columbian

Indian artifacts and petroglyphs are preserved. The family that owns and lives on the farm provides tours of theproperty, which has some unique and odd features. This isan interesting and enlightening way to learn about thehistory of the area and the art and culture of the originalinhabitants of the region.Visits are free; guided tours are inexpensive and well worthit.

Opening hours: Open daily from 7:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.Phone: +507 580 8008

Janson Family Coffee

Close to the airstrip, is theJanson Family Farm, whereone can take a tour of thecoee farm and go horsebackriding around the lagoons. Thefarm has a charming coee

store where you can try as many dierent types of coee as your heart desires.

Migratory Bird Sanctuary

In the town of Volcan, past theairstrip, there are somelagoons which provide asanctuary for migratory birds.This is the third mostimportant sanctuary in Central

America.

Cerro Punta

The Cerro Punta area ofChiriqui is the breadbasket, ormore correctly, the vegetablebasket of Panama. This areaproduces ninety percent of allthe fresh produce in

Panama.Strawberries, lettuce, tomatoes, cabbage, potato, oranges and owers are abundant in these areas. Cerro Punta and


Bambito are quiet and colorful with breathtaking views ofthe mountains and rocky gurgling rivers. It is common tosee the local indigenous people walking in their traditionalcostumes.

Fishing

Bambito is perfect for sittingby a river with a shing pole.Sit back and relax whilecatching dinner or visitTruchas de Bambito troutfarm where you can catch or

buy rainbow trout.

Parque Internacional La Amistad

La Amistad International Parkis a 207,000 hectare cloudforest park which straddlesthe border shared by Panamaand Costa Rica, and theCordillera Central (the

Continental Divide mountain range). The park is a UNESCOWorld Heritage Site due to the diversity of plant andanimal life here, and the headwaters of several majorrivers can be found here. Numerous rare species inhabitthe park, such as the harpy eagle and crested eagle, thequetzal, tapirs, ve species of cats, several monkeys, andindigenous frogs and reptiles. The park is open to thepublic and accessible by road. The Visitor’s Center islocated at Las Nubes, Cerro Punta, along with a campingarea and trailheads.

Photo: Visit Panama

Haras Cerro Punta

Haras Cerro Punta is athoroughbred horse breedingfarm and stable locatedbetween Cerro Punta andGuadalupe. The paddocks areset in the alpine hills, thick

with lush greenery and spectacular vistas of the countryside. This stable is famous for breeding, nurturingand training racehorses for Panama and other countries.The 100 hectare farm is home to more than 200 animalsand the trainers have turned out many champion horses.The family-owned stable is well known for their annualthoroughbred auction and community sponsorships. Toursof the farm can be arranged and guides are on site.

Phone: +507 7712057Internet: www.harascerropunta.comEmail: [email protected]

VOLCAN - RESTAURANTS

Cerro Brujo Gourmet

Cerro Brujo Gourmet is by farone of the main reasons tovisit Volcan. Chef PatriciaMiranda believes insustainable gastronomy wherethe chef, producers and diners

are part of a harmonious experience that cultivates local, seasonal ingredients.Chef Patricia not only creates a rotating seasonal menu of fresh creative cuisine but has an award-winning cookbookand exudes a positive energy and a love for what she does.She is not only a passionate chef but a wonderfulstoryteller; an adventurous, funny, witty and adown-to-earth community leader who works to promoteself-improvement in the local Ngäbe Bugle indigenous


community.

Photo: Avenue A PublicationsAddress: Brisas del Norte, VolcanOpening hours: Tue - Sun from 12:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. and from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.Phone: +507 66699196Email: [email protected]

VOLCAN - HOTELS

Eco Treat

Eco Treat oers a truerainforest experience. Locatedwithin Amistad InternationalPark, the retreat has twocabins and an apartment setamidst the tropical forest.

Each one features a fully equipped kitchen, replaces to take the chill o, and very comfortable furnishings.Services, such as bird watching or hiking tours, are tailoredto meet guests’ particularneeds and interests, with an emphasis on personal attention. This is a special place, and a great choice forsomething completely dierent, away from it all. The oceis located in Guadelupe, Cerro Punta.

Phone: + 507 771 2678Internet: www.ecotreat.comEmail: [email protected]

VOLCAN BEST TOURS

Baru Volcano Hiking Tour

At 3,475meters (11,400 feet),the Baru Volcano is Panama’shighest point. The trek to thetop of this volcano is anadventure for the t andadventurous only. You will

encounter 4 dierent types of forest, and if the weather permits, you will be able to see both the Pacic Ocean andthe Caribbean Sea from the peak of this volcano.If you hike back and forth the same day, it will take 12 hours. It is advisable to camp overnight to lessen theintensity of the hike. At the summit, the temperature candrop below zero.Tips1. Take a minimum of 2 liters of water per person. 2. Take food that is light and easy to digest. Good foods to take are cookies, pre-prepared sandwiches, fresh fruit,energy bars, chocolates, etc. Canned food and anythingthat adds unnecessary weight is not recommended;remember you have to carry everything on your back.3. Wear light and comfortable clothes. If you have temperature regulating clothes even better as they arelighter to carry in your backpack and will protect you fromthe very cold weather and strong winds at the summit.Wear a pair of comfortable sneakers or preferably a pair ofhiking boots.4. Trekking poles are a good idea to take if you have any.


They will help to support your weight during the descent.5. Between April and December, there is a chance of rain,so if you go during this time, take a waterproof jacket tokeep dry.

DAVID CITY

Considered the hub of Chiriqui, David is an expanding rural city with a commercial and banking area, hospitalsand malls and is conveniently located 5 minutes awayfrom the Chiriqui province local and international airport.Best of all, it is a short drive from Chiriqui’s most covetedmountain and beach destinations.

DAVID - DO & SEE

Shopping

David is home to the bestshopping in Chiriqui, oering avariety of department stores,hardware and electronicstores, boutique liquor stores,pharmacies and large

supermarket chains. Travelers and residents from Boquete, Volcan, the beaches and even the neighboringprovince of Bocas del Toro travel to David to acquire theirpreferred brands.

Explore

David can be your base toexplore all the wonders of thehighlands and beaches ofChiriqui while oering all ofthe conveniences of a city.

DAVID - RESTAURANTS

Mosto Bistro

This is an intimate and invitingcafé with wrought iron tablesand chairs where you maydine inside or al fresco. Thechef features fusion cuisineand the dishes are artistically

presented. Specialties include stued pork chops, tender beef and avorful pork ribs that are sometimes on special.Portions tend to be small, but quality is held to highstandards.

Address: Calle Miguel Angel Brenes on Calle F South in San MateoPhone: +507 730 4852


DAVID - HOTELS

Hotel Ciudad de David

This is the most upscale hotelin David and boasts aEuropean feel with USeciency. The modern décorand quality service make it afabulous place to stay on a

business trip or on a weekend shopping getaway. There are standard rooms with double and queen size beds aswell as suites. All rooms feature at screen TVs, A/C andWiFi, and the rooftop pool is a bonus. The excellentrestaurant on the ground oor serves a buet breakfast aswell as lunch and dinner.

Address: Calle D Norte y Avenida 3eraPhone: +507 7743333

DAVID - TRANSPORTATION

Fly to David

You can y Air Panama from Albrook Airport directly to David. Airfares are around $230 round trip. (Pricesupdated on June 2014)

Drive to David

A 6 to 6.5 hour drive from Panama City along the PanAmerican highway.

Take the Bus to David

You can take a bus ($15 one way) from the Albrook Bus Terminal.

Phone: +507 314 6228

Car rental

It is ideal to rent a vehicle in the region to see and explore everything it has to oer.

Taxis

The taxi services in David are reliable, rates start at $1.75 and the price varies depending on the taxi.


DAVID - SHOPPING

Farmacias Arrocha

This franchise combines adepartment store with apharmacy in an elegant,upscale design. Each storehas individual counters forcosmetic giants such as Estée

Lauder, Clinique, Lancôme and L’Occitane. Housewares, school supplies, home décor, toys, baby care items andtoiletries ll up the shelves. They have dozens of stores allover the country and the one in David is in Plaza TerronalShopping Center.

DAVID - EVENTS

David international fairThe David International Fairdraws exhibitors, participantsand visitors from all over thecountry for ten days eachyear. Agricultural displays,vendors and livestock

auctions dominate this country fair during the daytime. All types of retailers set up booths for the fair selling cars,electronics, clothing and shoes, furniture and housewares,and many hand-made items. At night. the fairgroundstransform into an enormous outdoor discothequesponsored by the beer, seco and rum distributors withbooming music provided by DJs. The fair is always held inMarch.

BEACHES & ISLANDS

Chiriqui is a province that has it all. Although famous for its cool highlands, it also has some of the most beautifuland pristine beaches and islands in Panama. The Gulf ofChiriqui is abundant in marine life and barely explored.Explore and enjoy all that Chiriqui beaches have to oer.

Boca Chica

30 miles east of David is thesleepy shing village of BocaChica. A rather unassumingtown of few people, BocaChica has recently started toattract interest from investors

and holidaymakers.The Chiriqui Gulf National Marine Park is a protected area


of some 15,000 hectares that includesapproximately 20 islands, including the Islas Secas, Islas Paridas, Islas Ladrones and Isla Montuosa. Protected since1994, the Chiriqui Gulf Park is home to some spectacularwildlife, both underwater and on land, including howlermonkeys, anteaters, sloths, caiman, humpback whales,dolphins and several varieties of sea turtles.Boca Chica is located about a 5-hour drive from Panama City. Approximately 40 km before David, turn left toHorconcitos and follow the road to Boca Chica.Alternatively, y to David and then drive 40 km towardsPanama and turn right at the sign that reads Horconcitos.There are limited facilities in the area so if you are planning a day tour bring your snacks and beverages withyou. There are a few small convenience stores in town andif you are planning an extended visit, your hotel willprovide food and beverage services.

Boca Brava Island at The Gulf of Chiriqui

Most explorers of the areamake their base on BocaBrava Island, about a 20minute boat ride from BocaChica. Attractions in the areainclude some of the best

scuba diving in the world. Thanks to the waters being virtually unexplored, divers here are likely to see all kindsof creatures from white tipped reef sharks to spottedeagle rays and guitar sh. Large pelagic species areextremely common here, attracted by the cooler, deepwaters and the abundance of smaller sh. The best divesites are found around the Islas Secas and the Ladrones,which also have spectacular snorkeling and beaches.These islands are fairly far from Boca Chica and BocaBrava, so be sure to go on a decent boat.

BEACHES - HOTELS WITHRESTAURANTS

Seagullcove Lodge

This is an exclusive hideawayon a blu overlooking thewater at the end of the road toBoca Chica. The ve bungalowcottages are scattered along aslope and face the sea or lush

gardens. Each has its own terrace, A/C and satellite TV and is decorated with a sophisticated simplicity. Therestaurant is contemporary Panamanian with an emphasison fresh seafood, and has both indoor and outdoorseating. This is truly a retreat from everyday life and anideal spot for shing and other water activities.

Phone: +507 851 0036Internet: www.seagullcovelodge.comEmail: [email protected]


BEACHES BEST TOURS

Sports Fishing

Boca Chicha is home to someof the best sports shing inthe world. Dierent touroperators can tailor packagesthat best t your budget andyour needs. The Gulf of

Chiriqui is one of the richest marine life spots in the world with over 50 IGFA world records. Depending on theseason, you will be able to sh marlin, sailsh, dorados,yellow n tuna, wahoo, roostersh and so much more.

Whale Watching

One of the area’s greatattractions is the whalewatching. Whales are usuallyseen here from June toOctober. The sight of such anenormous creature leaping

from the ocean is nothing short of spectacular and they are seen here quite regularly. Local shermen, who alsoact as tour guides in the area, have an extremely keen eyewhen it comes to spotting whales and dolphins, so ifyou’re looking to spot whales, you will be in good hands.

Population416,873

CurrencyUnited States Dollar / Balboa

Opening hoursFrom: 8:00 to 5:00 p.m.

Internetwww.visitpanama.com

Emergency numbers911

Tourist informationAutoridad de Turismo de Panama


Documents

ArrivalGuides Chiriqui