Boquete

Boquete, nestled in a lush green valley in the western highlands beneath the towering Volcan Baru, Panama's highest peak, is a charming town of eternal spring, blessed with a cool, flower-filled climate that is a refreshing escape from the tropical lowlands. Famous for producing some of the world's finest coffee, including the prized Geisha variety, it is a hub for outdoor adventure, with coffee-farm tours, cloud-forest hikes in search of the resplendent quetzal, white-water rafting, hot springs and zip-lines.

History

Petroglyphs in the Caldera area point to settlement between 600 BC and 300 AD, and in the colonial era the highlands were a refuge for the Ngöbe. Settlers came in earnest in the second half of the 19th century, and the District of Boquete was founded on 11 April 1911, with its capital first at Lino and soon after at Bajo Boquete (Wikipedia, Boquete, Chiriquí).

What you'll find

• The coffee farms - the tours and tastings of world-class coffee.
• The cloud forest and quetzals - the hikes to spot the resplendent quetzal.
• Volcan Baru - the climb of Panama's highest peak.
• The adventure and hot springs - the rafting, zip-lines and thermal springs.

When to go

December to April, the drier season, for the best weather, though the highlands can see a fine drizzle, the bajareque, and rainbows year-round; the quetzals are most often seen in the breeding season around March to June. The cool climate is pleasant any time.

Practical notes

The highland climate, while a pleasant escape from the heat, is often misty and drizzly, so bring layers and a rain jacket. The famous quetzal is elusive and sightings need a guide, patience and luck. It has become popular with expats and retirees, giving it a comfortable but sometimes less-authentic feel. Its coffee, cool air and outdoor activities are the draw.

Nearby

Volcan Baru, the town of David and the Pacific coast are within reach.