Boquete has long been recognized as one of the best places to retire. Certainly this picturesque town continues to become increasingly popular for the nationals and internationals alike.
The beautiful town of Boquete is surrounded by steep, lush mountains to the north, east and west, where the Barú Volcano, Chiriquí`s highest peak, at 3,475 meters (11,400 feet); lies. From the rim of the extinct volcano, one can see both the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. Rivers are also abundant in the Boquete area as is the Rio Caldera which winds through the center of town.
Boquete is located in the highlands of Chiriquí (about 300 miles west of Panama City) and 55 miles northeast of the Costa Rican border. To the north, Boquete lies only 7km (3.3 miles) from the Bocas del Toro province. Less than 23.5 miles away, to the south, is the City of David with a population of approximately 145,000.
Complete with a wide variety of hotels and restaurants, Boquete can satisfy the needs of panamanians and internationals living in the area. While small compared to David, Boquete is the most populated and developed highland community in Chiriquí with a very stable population. Many residents operate businesses geared for the tourist sector.
Boquete, named after its abundance of flowers, is famous for its breathtaking beauty. The coffee grown in Boquete is considered to be one of the finest in the world and its proximity to sightseeing and recreational activities including bird watching, hiking and “four-wheel” drives to the Baru Volcano, fishing, golf, river rafting, horseback riding, among others, is second to none.
While the climate is spring like all year round, it can get warm during the day with cooler temperature nights; when at times a sweater might be needed. The temperature in Boquete is usually around 65° F to low 80° F. Neither air-conditioning nor heating systems are needed in Boquete, excellent for energy cost savings. The highland areas are known for getting considerable rain yet the rain in Boquete often comes as a "bajareque" (light rain); in the afternoon usually followed by the appearance of rainbows.
Boquete is quickly becoming a world famous retirement destination for all of the reasons listed above and more. Boquete has been rated as one of the best retirement destinations in the world. Reviews on Boquete are always on the top of everyone's list.
