David Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, what to buy and local customs in David, Panama's Pacific West in this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to David

Nestled in Panama’s Pacific West region, David is the third-largest city in Panama and the capital of the Chiriqui Province. Known for its agriculture and coffee plantations, David welcomes visitors with a vibrant cultural scene, stunning natural landscapes, and a rich history that dates back to pre-colonial times.

List of Places to Visit in David

Here’s a rundown of the must-visit attractions in David.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Museo de Historia de Chiriqui: A museum showcasing the history and culture of the Chiriqui Province, including exhibitions on pre-Columbian artifacts, colonial history, and regional customs.
  • Catedral de San Jose: A stunning cathedral with neoclassical architecture and a rich history dating back to the 1800s.
  • Ruinas de la Ciudad de David: The ruins of Panama’s former capital that highlight the city’s colonial past.
  • Palacio Municipal de David: A historic municipal palace in the heart of downtown David with beautiful architecture and a fascinating history.

Natural Attractions of David: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Parque Cervantes: A beautiful park in downtown David that’s perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic lunch.
  • Parque Recreativo Omar Torrijos: A sprawling park located just outside of David that offers hiking trails, waterfalls, and a chance to see local wildlife.
  • Volcan Baru National Park: The highest peak in Panama, the park has well-marked trails for hiking and excellent views of the region’s stunning mountains and valleys.
  • Playa Barqueta: A beautiful, secluded beach surrounded by lush vegetation and home to a variety of bird species.
  • Los Cangilones de Gualaca: A natural canyon formed by the Chiriqui River that’s perfect for swimming and cliff jumping.

Hiking/Biking Routes of David

For outdoor enthusiasts, David offers a number of excellent hiking and biking routes.

  • Hiking Baru Volcano: The extinct volcano has the highest summit in the country with breathtaking views and varied terrain.
  • Biking the Boquete Loop: A scenic and challenging bicycle route that winds through the mountains around Boquete and offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Hiking Los Quetzales Trail: A beautiful hiking trail through the cloud forest in the Volcan Baru National Park that offers the chance to see endangered bird species like the Quetzal.

Best Things to Do in David: Activities and Tours

  • Coffee plantation tours: Take a look behind the scenes of Panama’s world-renowned coffee industry, with tours offered by local farmers in the Chiriqui Province.
  • Waterfalls tours: Explore the stunning waterfalls in the region with a guided tour that will take you off the beaten path to see some of the lesser-known falls.
  • Whitewater rafting: For thrill-seekers, a whitewater rafting trip on the Chiriqui River is a must-do adventure.

Week-Long Itinerary for David

If you’re planning a week-long trip to David, here’s a sample itinerary:

Day Activities
Day 1 Explore David’s historic sites, like Ruinas de la Ciudad de David and Palacio Municipal de David.
Day 2 Take a guided coffee tour to learn about the country’s coffee industry.
Day 3 Hike Los Quetzales Trail or take a day trip to Los Cangilones de Gualaca.
Day 4 Take a full-day whitewater rafting trip or visit the Volcan Baru National Park.
Day 5 Visit the Parque Recreativo Omar Torrijos or take a horseback riding tour.
Day 6 Relax on Playa Barqueta or take a waterfall tour.
Day 7 Explore downtown David’s street food scene and do some last-minute souvenir shopping.

Food and Drink Scene of David

David’s culinary scene is a fusion of local and international flavors and offers many tasty options.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Arepas: A popular Colombian dish of corn-based flatbreads stuffed with cheese or meat.
  • Sancocho: A hearty stew made with chicken or beef, potatoes, yucca, and plantains.
  • Ceviche: A refreshing seafood dish made of marinated raw fish, lime juice, and spices.
  • Carimañolas: Deep-fried balls of yucca filled with meat or cheese.

Local Beverages

  • Cerveza Panama: A light beer that’s perfect for sipping on a hot day.
  • Chicheme: A sweet corn-based drink flavored with cinnamon and vanilla.
  • Ron Abuelo: A locally produced rum with hints of caramel and vanilla.

Where to Stay in David: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

David has a range of accommodation options to suit various budgets and tastes.

  • Hotel Ciudad de David: A centrally located hotel with comfortable rooms and a pool.
  • Bambu Hostel: A backpacker’s hostel located near the city center with budget-friendly dorms and private rooms.
  • Casa Kiwi: A charming guesthouse outside of David that features a pool and beautiful gardens.

What to Buy in David: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for unique souvenirs to take home, here are some local products worth considering:

  • Panama hats: Although the name suggests otherwise, Panama hats are actually made in Ecuador and are a staple of Panama’s fashion scene. Look for high-quality hand-woven hats made of Toquilla straw.
  • Coffee: Panama’s coffee industry has gained international recognition over the past few years, with beans grown in the Boquete and Volcan regions considered some of the best in the world.
  • Handmade crafts: Local artisans produce beautiful handmade textiles, pottery, and wood carvings that make great gifts.

Local Culture and Customs of David

Panamanians are warm and friendly people, and visitors should take the time to learn about the country’s rich culture and traditions. Remember to greet people with a smile and a friendly “Hola” and take the time to learn some basic phrases in Spanish.

Best Time to Visit David

The best time to visit David is during the dry season, which runs from December to April. The temperature is comfortable and the days are sunny, making it the perfect time to explore the region’s natural beauty.

Do’s and Don’ts of David

When visiting David, here are some things to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine, including traditional dishes like sancocho and carimañolas.
  • Learn some basic Spanish phrases to communicate with locals.
  • Be respectful of local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Leave valuables unattended or walk alone in unfamiliar areas after dark.
  • Be overly loud or disrespectful in public places.
  • Engage in illegal activities such as drug use.

Safety and Health

Before traveling to David, it’s essential to take necessary safety and health precautions.

Safety in David

David is a safe city for visitors, and crime rates are relatively low. However, visitors should exercise caution when walking alone at night or traveling to unfamiliar areas.

Health in David

When traveling to David, make sure you are up to date on routine vaccinations and take precautions against mosquito bites, as there are occasional outbreaks of dengue and Zika in the area. It’s also a good idea to bring along a basic first aid kit and any prescription medications you may need.

Getting to David: Transportation Options and Logistics

David is easily accessible by air, bus, or car.

Airports Near David

  • Enrique Malek International Airport (DAV): Located just 10 minutes from the city center, Enrique Malek International Airport is the main airport serving the David area and offers regular flights to other destinations in Panama and Central America.

Bus Stations Near David

  • Terminal de Transporte de David: Located on Avenida Cervantes, the Terminal de Transporte de David offers regular bus services to other destinations in Panama.

Other Options

  • Taxis: Taxis are available throughout the city and are a convenient way to get around, especially for short trips.
  • Rental Cars: If you prefer to explore on your own, rental cars are available at the airport and in the city center.

How to Get Around in David

David is a walkable city, and many of the city’s attractions are located within walking distance of one another. Taxis and rental cars are also available for those who prefer a more convenient way to get around.

Where to Go Next from David: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

David is an excellent home base for exploring the surrounding areas. Here are some nearby destinations worth considering:

  • Boquete: A charming mountain town known for its coffee plantations, hiking trails, and stunning vistas.
  • Bocas del Toro: A group of Caribbean islands known for its beaches, diving and snorkeling, and colorful architecture.
  • San Jose: The capital city of Costa Rica, San Jose is a vibrant cultural hub with museums, galleries, and a rich history to explore.

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking to explore Panama’s natural beauty, immerse yourself in local culture, or simply relax on a beautiful beach, David is the perfect destination. With its rich history, stunning natural landscapes, and warm and friendly people, this charming Pacific West city should be on everyone’s travel list.