The Best Sight in Boquete, Chiriqui Province

Background Illustration for Sights

Unlike most Panamanian towns, Boquete was settled by European and North American immigrants at the beginning of the 20th century. This lineage is apparent in everything from the architecture to the faces of many residents. Plenty of Ngöbe people migrate to Boquete from the northeast of Chiriquí to work in the orange and coffee harvests. The valley is popular with foreign retirees, drawn by the climate and beauty of the area.

Finca Lérida

Fodor's Choice

On the eastern slope of Volcán Barú, this coffee farm encompasses 370 acres of bird-filled cloud forest. The farm is recommended in A Guide to the Birds of Panama as the place to see quetzals, and that's practically a guarantee between January and April. You may also see silver-throated tanagers, collared trogons, clorophonias, and about 230 other species. The farm's resident guide can take you along its 10 km (6 miles) of hiking trails, one leading to a small waterfall, or you can explore them on your own. The guide is invaluable if you're looking for quetzals. The coffee tour here gives insight into the harvesting and processing of Boquete's most famous product. The farm has a great view and a moderately priced café serving homemade desserts and fresh-roasted coffee.

Alto Quiel, Panama
720–2285
Sight Details
$10, coffee tour $35, guided hike $50, bird-watching $75 (includes lunch)
Daily 7 am–8 pm

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