Top 3 hikes in Boquete, Panama
Drive 480km west of Panama City, Panama and the urban metropolis quickly yields way to a seemingly endless supply of rolling mountains and verdant jungle, eventually leading to an oasis named Boquete. Here are the top 3 hikes when visiting Boquete, Panama!
Drive 480km west of Panama City, Panama and the urban metropolis quickly yields way to a seemingly endless supply of rolling mountains and verdant jungle, eventually leading to an oasis named Boquete.
This mountainous town is nestled within a small valley of the Chiriqui Province and is widely known for being the home of the world’s best coffee. Despite this claim to fame, nature lovers from around the world flock here explore the seemingly endless supply of trails and untouched nature.
Although slightly overrun with ex-pats in recent years, Boquete still offers visitors a calming escape, whether sipping a cup of coffee in the foothills or roaming the numerous dirt paths that wind through the jungle.
My time in Boquete was spent hiking by day and enjoying the rolling thunderstorms as the made way for starry skies at night. To be honest, it was my favorite part of my 8-day trip to Panama and I can’t wait to get back!
Here are the top 3 hikes, plus a few others, for your trip to Boquete, Panama!
PIPELINE TRAIL
The Pipeline Trail in Boquete is aptly named because, well, it follows a pipeline along the river before culminating at a cascading waterfall. It’s one of the more popular trails in the area so the earlier you can go, the better.
Pipeline Trail | Boquete, Panama
What to Expect
The hike itself is relatively flat the entire way, making it easy to be on the lookout for wildlife. AllTrails has it listed as moderate, although I’d say it was certainly a family-friendly jaunt through the jungle.
There were a few spots that may be more difficult for those with limited mobility.
Local villagers regulate the Pipeline Trail. Don’t be surprised when someone appears and asks you to sign in and for 5 USD per person. It’s completely legitimate. Just don’t forget to mark yourself as “returned” on your way back to town!
After paying, we followed the trail as it quickly entered the dense Panamanian jungle. We were on high alert for snakes, howler monkeys, and more, although we had no such luck.
The Pipeline Trail is also widely known as a prime viewing spot for the elusive Quetzal, Panama’s most popular bird.
The Pipeline Trail as it enters the dense jungle in Boquete, Panama
Along the trail, we stumbled upon a 1,000-year-old tree. It stood majestically along the left side of the trail, subtly marked and easy to miss if we hadn't been in search of a convenient spot for a water break.
As we continued on and the dense jungle gave way to a towering canyon, the end was near. In the distance, we could begin to see the waterfall as it cascaded down from high above.
The slow-moving water provided a mist and a refreshing hangout spot to cool off from the humidity we had endured throughout the hike.
An hour and several pictures later, it was time to head back the exact same we had arrived, sign-out, and drive back to town.
When I first arrived in Boquete, I was a bit nervous. I have plenty of experience hiking in the desert and mountains, but very little within the jungle. I found the Pipeline Trail to be a great introductory hike to the region and it gave me the spark of confidence I needed to explore elsewhere!
The 1,000+ year old tree located along the Pipeline Trail in Boquete, Panama
The Facts
Elevation Gain: 1,528 feet
Distance: 3.8 miles out and back
Time: Estimated 2-3 hours depending on pace
Cost: 5 USD per person
Wildlife Viewing: Quetzal birds, snakes, howler monkeys
Getting There
From Boquete, head towards Los Naranjos and follow signs to Bajo Mono. Eventually the road will lead to a sign post that says PIPELINE. Park there and walk up the gravel road. You’ll know that you are in the correct place when you spot a hut to the left. That’s where the trail fee will need to be paid.
CHOCLON WATERFALL
Choclon Waterfall is a lesser-known trail located 40 minutes south of Boquete where twin waterfalls fill a secluded swimming hole at the end of a small gorge.
The path through the jungle is not regularly maintained nor is it distinctly marked, but if you know where you’re going it’s a simple hike.
Swimming at Choclon Waterfall in Boquete, Panama
What to Expect
I originally stumbled upon a picture of Choclon Waterfall while planning my trip down to Panama and immediately decided that it should be added to the itinerary. There was only one problem: Nothing I read told me where to find the trailhead.
Long story short, I was eventually able to track down GPS coordinates to the starting point, marked only by a closed gate and a small path through the barbed wire fencing.
We started the hike by sauntering across an open field before quickly descending to the jungle trail that led to a junction. After much deliberation, Heather and I realized that we had to go up and over a small gate rather than continue following the open trail.
View from the start of the hike before descending into the jungle
After the gate, the path is relatively short and easy to navigate. There were a couple of sections that rain had washed out, so be sure to watch your footing as you hug the wall of the gorge and use the ropes for provided support when available. They’re there for a reason!
A short through the overgrown brush and we had reached the river. Although we waded across the water, take a left instead and head upstream.
We were soon greeted by a magical amphitheater of hanging vines, beautiful waterfalls, and our very own private swimming hole.
We shed our clothes and jumped in as the soft sunlight shone through the canopy above and illuminated the refreshing blue water. It was the perfect ending to a full day of adventure!
To read more about the adventure, visit this post: Chasing Choclon Waterfall
Swimming at Choclon Waterfall in Boquete, Panama
The Facts
Due to the lack of information surrounding Choclon Waterfall, here’s what I can offer:
Elevation Gain: Unknown, but remember that it is a gorge trail, so the ascent will occur on the way back to the trailhead
Distance: Unknown
Time: 30min from trailhead
Cost: Free
Wildlife Viewing: Poison dart frogs, various birds and snakes
Getting There
The easiest way to find the trailhead is by tracking mileage.
From Boquete, travel south via Highway 41. As you pass by Faro Panama (the giant lighthouse), start paying attention to the odometer. Approximately 7.2km later, there will be a sharp right turn. If you reach the town of Nuevo Dolega, then you’ve gone too far by 4km.
Follow the road straight. Eventually you’ll reach a junction where the road swings left. On the lefthand side will be a closed gate with a small opening in the barbed wire fencing. This is the trailhead!
LA PEIDEA DE LINO
A short but steep hike, La Piedra de Lino is the equivalent of an endless stair-stepper machine. If you can grin through the pain, the reward at the top is worth it as the trail offers the best views over the Boquete valley below.
Climbing the steep terrain of the La Piedra de Lino hike in Boquete, Panama
What to Expect
La Piedra de Lino directly translates as “the rock of Lino,” a small community 4km from Boquete. The trailhead is clearly marked, making it one of the easier hikes in the area to find.
The steep path started right away as we made our way up the driveways and we were instantly grateful that we had chosen to give ourselves an afternoon full of rest and relaxation around town before tackling this hike.
Once we entered the jungle we passed by an abandoned house before continuing up, regularly turning around to “enjoy the view” because neither of us wanted to admit how out of shape the terrain made us feel.
Our trip to Panama coincided with the start of the rainy season, which meant that the trail was slippery and washed out in some areas. We hiked in running shoes, but in hindsight would have been much better off bringing a shoe with better tread and a pair of walking poles.
The hike continued to be one recurring theme: up, up, up.
Once at the top we traversed the ridge through a small shaded area, stopping only to graciously allow a snake to cross the path in front of us.
Clouds moving through the jungle at sunset as seen from the top of La Peidra de Lino
All of the pain and suffering immediately subsided when at the clearing we were greeted to the most spectacular view I witnessed during my time in Panama. To the right were soft clouds moving quickly through the mountains while to the left was a picture-perfect view of Boquete.
Needless to say, it was worth the effort and timing it with the sunset was a bonus (just remember to pack a headlamp for the way down)!
Looking over Boquete, Panama from the top of the La Piedra de Lino trail
The Facts
Elevation Gain: 322m
Distance: 2.7km
Time: 40min, but varies greatly based upon fitness level
Cost: Free
Wildlife Viewing: Birds and snakes
How to Get There
Have a GPS available? Simply search for Hostal Casa Pedro and this will lead you straight to the trailhead. If you don’t see a sign that reads “Sendero La Piedra de Lino” then you’re in the wrong place!
If this luxury isn’t available to you, simply head north on Via Boquete and turn right at Avenue Buenos Aires. This road takes you straight to the trail and all you’ll need to do is be on the lookout for the white sign.
If you reach IL Pianista, then you’ve gone too far.
BONUS HIKES
El Pianista
A 3-4 hour out and back trail with 2,000 meters of elevation gain, El Pianista leads you through a moody cloud forest that’s dripping with life before arriving that the summit.
The trail made headlines around the world when two dutch girls in their early 20’s went missing back in 2014. Although officially ruled a hiking accident, many locals believe that Lisanne and Kris were met by foul play in the jungle.
The Lost Waterfalls
One of the more popular hikes in Boquete, The Lost Waterfalls trail winds through the dense jungle, over a suspension bridge, and culminates at 3 stunningly beautiful waterfalls.
Sendero Los Quetzales
Sendero Los Quetzales is a 15.6 mile trail that connects Boquete to Cerro Punta through the jungle. It’s common to hike sections of the path in search of the elusive Quetzal bird.
Volcan Baru
It’s often suggested to begin this 15 mile trail at midnight in order to reach the summit of the tallest mountain in Panama by sunrise. On a clear day, it’s possible to see both the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean from the top.
Whether you prefer sauntering along in search of diverse wildlife or grinding out elevation gains to the top of a peak, Boquete is truly a mecca for nature lovers and was hands down my favorite stop during our Panamanian adventure. Next time, I plan on spending far longer than 2 days hiking around the town!
Have you ever been to Boquete before? Have a favorite hike abroad? Let me know in the comments below!
Thanks for reading and as always, stay safe & happy travels.
It’s time for an upgrade! Here’s my favorite hiking gear:
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Chasing Choclon Waterfall: Discovering paradise in the Panamanian jungle
As I combed through the research prior to our trip to Panama, I came across a picture of a swimming hole that blew me away. The moment I saw it, I knew we needed to experience it. There was only one problem: nothing I read would tell us where it was located…
Let me clarify one thing right from the beginning: we weren’t actually in the middle of nowhere. That’s simply how it felt, and to be honest, that’s just the way we like it!
As I combed through the research before our trip to Panama, I came across a picture of a swimming hole that blew me away. The moment I saw it, I knew we needed to experience it (click here to see the original post I found).
There was only one problem: nothing I read would tell us the location, let alone how to navigate the hike.
I stumbled deep into the black hole of the internet, searching for any clues that might point us in the right direction. The only objective I accomplished that day was leaving a solid imprint of my butt on the couch cushion. Disappointing, to say the least.
That might be enough to call it quits for some, but it only fueled the fire within. The longer I went without finding what I was looking for, the more determined I became. We were going to find a way to Cascada Choclón. There was no doubt in my mind.
All of the sudden a beam of sunlight shot into the living room. No, it wasn’t actually that dramatic, but shortly after opening the window blinds I came across our first solid lead.
It’s possible that “solid” is a gross overstatement. The website merely provided the GPS coordinates for the trailhead. It wasn’t much to go on, but that was enough to get the ball rolling!
I continued scouring every piece of information that I could find. When I took a closer look at satellite imaging, there was a portion where the jungle appeared to part along the river, providing a much-needed hint to where the falls may be.
Now that I had a starting point and a general direction, it seemed like this may pan out. Fast forward to arriving in Panama: it was time for the adventure!
As soon as we turned off the main road in Boquete, we quickly became grateful that we opted for the SUV rental. The pavement disappeared, our cell service wasn’t far behind.
The farther we drove, the slower we went, carefully maneuvering over every bump, boulder, and hole in the road. As the minutes ticked by, so did our confidence even though neither of us would ever vocalize it.
After what felt like hours, we had reached the starting point.
The car came to a halt and a cloud of dust from our tires quickly engulfed our field of vision. Once it cleared, we realized how “off the beaten track” we were. The sounds of the jungle beckoned beyond the open field that lay ahead. One last look at our maps and we were off.
The hike started by traversing through an open meadow as the sun beat down our backs, the humidity making it impossible for any relief. Upon reaching the first junction, we referred to our makeshift maps and descended to the forest floor, following the sounds of the river below.
As we trekked deeper into the brush, the canopy quickly began to rise straight towards the sky, providing a much-needed relief from the heat. Our compass instructed us to go left around a closed gate, but our ears directed us to the right, towards the sound of the rushing water. We stood there confused, unsure of what to do.
At this point the sun forced us to perspire off our umpteen layers of sunscreen and bug spray, leaving us susceptible to the mosquitoes that began swarming around. We were in no position to have a lengthy debate. Lacking confidence in either direction, we climbed back out to the trailhead.
Maybe we had incorrectly interpreted our map. Maybe if we walked another direction we would discover a different, easier way to reach the river.
It seemed like a good idea at the time but, as it turned out, we were wrong. Very wrong.
As we continued down the gravel road the intensity of the sun drained all of our energy. I could feel my body temperature rising, but I was too exhausted to do anything about it. Each step we took was met with an unsuccessful prayer for cloud cover.
Ten minutes and a new sunburn later, we had reached another dead end.
This was the point that every ounce of my being was telling me to pack up and call it a day. Our motivation was waning, the heat was relentless, and we were out of ideas as we slowly retreated back to the car. I remember Heather cracking jokes along the way, trying to make light of the situation and keep my morale in tact.
A second look at the scattered research revealed a small access path farther down the dirt road. Maybe that was what we were looking for, so we decided to keep driving north.
No luck.
I could tell that Heather wasn’t too sure about continuing and, to be honest, even after regrouping in the air-conditioned car, I wasn’t either. As a rainstorm moved through, we took the time to reevaluate what we were doing.
We felt assured and frustrated at the same time. Confident that we were in the general vicinity. Annoyed that no matter how we approached it, we couldn’t find what we were searching for.
The road back to the original trailhead provided some much-needed perspective as we passed run-down homes with missing walls and children playing in the rain. I couldn’t help but think of the number of tourists that travel through Panama each year and yet had no idea that this part of the country existed. Although we concluded that we would give our adventure one more try, I decided that after the experience we had up to that point, I would be content no matter what. After all, it was Dan Eldon that once said, “The journey is the destination.”
Once we descended back into the jungle, reached the gate, and shuffled our way around it, we were back on track and heading in the right direction.
We quickly descended farther into the forest floor, hugging a makeshift PVC pipe railing along a ridge and using the vines as support as we worked our way down into the canyon. The path was completely overgrown with thick brush rising far above our heads. Thrusting the branches aside, we did our best to stick to the trail quickly narrowed with each step.
The ecosystem of any jungle is the most diverse in the world, often-times leading to regular discoveries of new plants and animals. Panama alone is home to over 1,500 kinds of trees and five species of cats, including jaguars, ocelots, and pumas. It feels eerie yet humbling to be amongst it; a place where the silence is deafening and only broken by an occasional howler monkey crying out in the distance or a bird rummaging amongst the fallen leaves for food.
We silently trekked along the forest floor, remaining vigilant of our surroundings.
The moment we began to feel comfortable, a loud crash echoed through the forest and left us frozen in our tracks. We exchanged nervous glances, trying to control our breathing and telepathically communicate what to do next.
Tip-toeing forward as quietly as possible, we did our best to avoid the branches that covered our path. Needless to say it was a humbling reminder that regardless of how isolated we felt, we weren’t alone.
Finally, the thick brush parted and the bank of the river appeared, reinvigorating the idea that we could find these waterfalls.
We searched up and down the river for a way to cross, but it quickly became clear that it wouldn’t be as simple as jumping between rocks. We would have to carefully select the path of least resistance.
Although our faces may have expressed doubt, we were so close that we could feel it. There was no turning back.
The path continued to disappear before our eyes, winding its way through the overgrown brush before depositing us back onto the rocks and leaving us with newly acquired scrapes up and down our legs.
We continued moving northwest, systematically evaluating every step we took as our feet slipped off the rocks. The energy in the forest changed from nervousness to excitement as we inched closer. We were nearly there.
Just beyond the final bend of the river, the waterfalls were waiting to greet us. It was even more majestic than I had seen in the pictures.
We were left speechless as we peered towards an amphitheater of hanging vines and cascading waterfalls.
The beautiful blue waters of the pool were irresistible. We couldn’t help but jump in and soak up the moment. A rush of emotions engulfed us, leaving nothing but a sense of relief, gratefulness, peace. We had uncovered paradise in the Panamanian jungle. More importantly, we never gave up.
The forest floor quickly grew dark as the sun began to drop below the horizon, signaling that it was time to pack up and move out.
Back on the trail we went, accompanied by the beautiful silence, this time with no unexpected noises.
We made it to the car unscathed, feeling sunburnt and dehydrated yet eternally grateful for all that had happened that day. After all, we had found our own slice of Panama that, at that moment, felt truly untouched.
As I reflect on the adventure we had, I can’t help but think of one of my favorite quotes from the late Anthony Bourdain: “The journey is part of the experience - an expression of the seriousness of one’s intent. One doesn’t take the A train to Mecca.”
What have been some of your greatest journeys? Feel free to share in the comments below.
Thanks for reading and as always, stay safe & happy travels.
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