Boquete: Expat Paradise And Adventure-Seeker’s Playground
Boquete means “gap” in Spanish—a fitting name for the highland valley nestled within the skirts of the Cordillera Central (Central Mountain Range). The cordillera’s highest peak, Volcán Barú (Barú Volcano), towers over Boquete at an altitude of 11,401 feet (3,475 meters) and lies only 12 miles (20 km) from the town center.
Boquete is a district in Chiriquí Province, home to six townships or corregimientos: Bajo Boquete (Lower Boquete), Alto Boquete (Upper Boquete), Caldera, Jaramillo, Los Naranjos, and Palmira. Bajo Boquete sits at the lowest point in the valley and is the district’s center. When people refer to the town of Boquete, they’re really talking about Bajo Boquete.
Boquete features accommodations ranging from budget hostels to luxury resorts like Valle Escondido, eateries of every nationality, trendy bars and nightlife locales, medical clinics, massage studios, beauty salons, grocery stores, and every other necessity and convenience you could want nearby.
Boquete offers spectacular views of the volcano on sunny days, the Caldera River flows through town, and the streets are draped with flowers of every species and color. Artisanal markets line the sidewalks, where locals sell their produce and crafts. This is heaven for a nature enthusiast. Hike the area’s numerous trails, observe the birds and other wildlife in Volcán Barú National Park, go ziplining or take a hanging bridge tour, try whitewater rafting or rock climbing, sign up for a Jeep tour to the summit of Volcán Barú, or, if you’re feeling up for it, make the trek on foot.
Say goodbye to culture shock—come to Boquete and you’ll be welcomed by an enormous and long-established expat community. The district has a population of just over 20,000 and about 5,000 are expats. From events and festivals to meet-ups and clubs, you’ll have no difficulty getting and staying connected with your fellow expats. Nearly everyone speaks English, making the transition to life abroad a breeze.
In addition to natural beauty, most expats cite the weather as their motivation for moving to Boquete. Far from the relentless heat and humidity of Panama City, temperatures in Bajo Boquete typically hover in the low- to mid-70s Fahrenheit (20s Celsius) during the day.
The climate and volcanic soil here are ideal for growing all kinds of produce, plants, and flowers. Chiriquí’s economy is built on agriculture, and in Boquete you’ll find a selection of local fruits and vegetables available year-round. The area is famous for its strawberries, which may be enjoyed on their own, or a local favorite, as fresas con crema (strawberries with cream).
Boquete is the heart of coffee country and its many fincas produce some of the best coffee on Earth. Its high slopes are home to the world’s most famous (and most expensive) variety, Geisha. In 2021, it sold at auction for over US$2,500 a pound. You won’t find a better place to savor a cup of coffee while marveling at the breathtaking scenery surrounding you.
Boquete is a land of rainbows, white clouds that cling to the green hillsides, dense jungle, intriguing flora and fauna, and a tranquil atmosphere that permeates every facet of life here. Come visit this charming destination, and I can almost guarantee you’ll fall in love.
