A Complete Guide to Visiting Wli Waterfalls in Ghana
Hidden in the lush greenery of Ghana's Volta Region lies a breathtaking natural wonder, offering an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Here’s your ultimate guide to making the most of your visit to Wli Waterfalls…
Note: All information below is accurate as of March 2025.
If you haven’t caught on yet, I’m a big fan of the nature in Ghana and, after moving here, I was surprised to learn that the highest waterfall in West Africa is only a short day-trip away from my home.
Hidden in the lush greenery of Ghana's Volta Region lies a breathtaking natural wonder, offering an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Here’s your ultimate guide to making the most of your visit to Wli Waterfalls!
Ghana’s Volta Region is full of lush mountains along the border with Togo
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
Wli Falls, also called Agumatsa Falls, means "let me flow" in the Ewe language. The falls are fed by the Agumatsa River, which comes from neighboring Togo, and plummets 80 meters over the cliffs and into the pools below.
Although a popular tourist spot, the surrounding nature is still relatively untouched, making for a serene and peaceful day in the forest. You’ll run into colorful butterflies, plenty of birds, and even a colony fruit bats along the cliffs.
So, now that you’re hooked, when’s the best time to visit Wli Waterfalls? Well, there are two options that depend on what your priority is.
Dry season in Ghana, also known as Harmattan, runs from November to March. During this time the hiking weather is more pleasant, but the flow of the falls will be slower.
In contrast, rainy season occurs from April to October and makes the hike a bit more difficult with muddy trails, but you’ll get to experience the roar of the waterfalls at full force. Personally, I’d choose the rainy season, but it’s a great place to spend an afternoon either way.
Finally, it’s important to be aware that there are two trails: one to lower falls, and one to upper. The lower trail is classified as easy and good for all ages, while the upper falls trail is moderate to hard and requires a guide (these can be found at the main office).
Choose your adventure and plan accordingly!
Standing beneath Ghana’s Wli Waterfalls
HOW TO GET THERE
Wli Waterfalls is located near the town of Hohoe in Ghana's Volta Region and is most easily accessible by car from Accra. The good news is that, unlike other regions of Ghana, the roads in and out of the waterfall area are well maintained, making for a breathtakingly beautiful drive along the mountainous border with Togo.
To get here…
By Car: From Accra, it’s about a 4-5 hour drive (approximately 230 km). The route takes you through scenic landscapes and vibrant local villages. The biggest places to stop for petrol along the way are Atimpoku, Juapong, and Peki (if passing through Golokwati).
By Public Transport: Take a bus or shared taxi from Accra to Hohoe, then hire a taxi or moto to Wli, which is about 20min away.
Pro Tip: Share a taxi for the day or hire your own car. Local minibus transportation, also known as tro-tros, are notorious for accidents and breakdowns, especially when covering longer distances outside of Accra.
ENTRANCE FEES & COSTS
For a comprehensive list of admittance fees, including child and student discounts, visit the official Wli Waterfalls website.
Entry Fee (Lower Falls):
Ghanaians: 25 GHS (USD 1.60)
Non-Ghanaians: 60 GHS (USD 4.00)
Upper Falls Guided Hikes:
Ghanaians: 60-70 GHS (USD 4.00-4.50)
Non-Ghanaians: 80-90 GHS (USD 5.00-6.00)
Bring extra cash for souvenirs, snacks, or donations to support the local community. A small market is setup outside of the Tourism Office, making it easy to stock up on water and other supplies.
Pro Tip: Remember to tip your guide and get their contact information to recommend their services to others. Ghana’s economy functions off connections and who knows who, so this small gesture will go a long way.
Interested in exploring more of Ghana’s Volta Region? Check out these posts:
WHAT TO EXPECT
The Lower Falls:
A gentle, 30-minute walk through Ghana’s lush nature on a well-marked trail leads to the lower falls. You’ll cross scenic wooden bridges and enjoy the vibrant sights and sounds of the rainforest. The cascading waters create a refreshing natural pool perfect for a swim.
You’ll hear the falls before you can see them and pay close attention to the towering cliffs as they come into view between the tree-tops. This is where the fruit bat colony resides and, if you’re lucky, you’ll catch them flying off the rocks.
The Upper Falls:
For a more challenging adventure, embark on a steep 3-4 hour hike to the upper falls (guide required). The trek rewards you with stunning views and a quieter, less-crowded experience. There is both a short loop and a long loop, so be sure to discuss with the Tourism Office before setting out on your adventure.
Unlike Lower Wli Falls, the Upper requires hiking through grassy foothills and on narrow paths, so be sure to bring appropriate footwear and long pants. A moderate level of fitness is required for this trail.
Pro Tip: To avoid the crowds, plan your visit for a Sunday morning. This will ensure you beat the post-church rush and as they move in, you’ll be on your way back out!
Swimming in the pools beneath Wli Falls in Ghana
NEARBY PLACES TO VISIT
Make your trip even more memorable by exploring more nature near Wli Waterfalls:
Amedzofe Canopy Walk: A short 1 hour drive away, Amedzofe is the highest elevated settlement in Ghana and is where you’ll find a canopy walkway with the stunning Oti Falls as a backdrop.
Mount Afadja (Afadjato): Ghana's tallest mountain offers a thrilling hiking experience and panoramic views in neighboring Liati Wote.
Tagbo Falls: Another serene waterfall located near Mount Afadja, perfect for a peaceful escape and my favorite place to soak up Ghana’s nature.
WHAT TO BRING
Hiking Boots: Especially if hiking the Upper Falls or visiting in rainy season.
Swimsuit and Towel: Even if you don’t plan to swim, still bring it. The swimming pools act as a great way to cool off from Ghana’s heat and humidity! Pack lightly with a quick dry towel.
Waterproof Bag: Protect your valuables and be sure bring a waterproof bag, especially if there’s a risk of rain! I never hike in Ghana without my Marchway dry bag.
Water and Snacks: Wli Waterfalls is located within the Agumatsa Wildlife Sanctuary, so although these items are easily accessible at the trailhead, please remember to pack out what you bring in!
A Good Book: What better way to recharge then lounging at the base of West Africa’s tallest waterfall and enjoying a good book. Ever since moving abroad and traveling more extensively, I never leave home without my Kindle Oasis.
A visit to Wli Waterfalls is more than just a trip—it’s an immersion into Ghana's natural beauty and cultural richness. Whether you’re splashing in the lower falls or hiking to the upper falls, you’ll leave refreshed and ready for more of all Ghana has to offer.
Have you visited Wli Waterfalls or plan to go? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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The Ultimate 3-day Itinerary in Boquete, Panama: Experience cloud forests, coffee, and more!
From ominous cloud forests and lush jungle vegetation to the world’s best coffee bean, Boquete is a magical place nestled within the Chiriquí Highlands of Panama that an adventurer’s dream. Here’s a 3-day itinerary to help you plan your next trip!
First and foremost, let me take a moment to answer the most important question: is three days enough in Boquete?
No.
There’s such a high volume of places to explore and things to experience that it’d be easy to spend weeks, if not a month here. This guide will at least help you to scratch the surface and be well on your way to creating the perfect Boquete, Panama itinerary that works for you!
BACKGROUND
Boquete is a small town located in western Panama about 40 miles from the border with Costa Rica. It’s a place popular amongst travelers and ex-pats alike for the abundance of wildlife, cloud forests, and globally acclaimed coffee beans.
Situated along the Caldera River and surrounded by the Chiquiri highlands, the area offers incredible hiking and outdoor adventures for any age including prime viewing of the elusive Quetzal, Panama’s most popular bird. Visitors will find a unique concoction of both Panamanian culture and cuisine mixed with the ex-pat influence from around the world.
If hiking isn’t your thing, no problem! Visit a coffee farm to learn how Boquete cultivates the world’s most expensive bean, soak up the cloud forest views by driving the Bajo Mano Loop, and even take a chocolate-making class in town. Either way, a trip to Boquete is well worth it!
GETTING THERE
There are three main ways to get to Boquete: car, bus, and plane. Let’s break it down:
Renting a car and driving from Panama City to Boquete will take around 6.5 hours via Route 1. It’s a scenic drive along the highway and allows travelers to take their time, stopping in towns like Santiago and David as they go.
This was the mode of transportation I opted for and although renting a car in Panama is notoriously confusing, it was liberating to have the freedom on the road. Having a car while in Boquete also made the more remote hiking trails more accessible.
The most cost-effective option is via bus. There are direct routes from Panama City to David, in which you’ll then need to transfer to further reach Boquete. Generally speaking, this is what you can expect:
Panama City to David – around 8 hours and $15.75
David to Boquete – 1 hour and $1.75
The quickest and also the most expensive way is via flight from Panama City to David before renting a car or hopping on the local bus. The flight time is around 40min and can cost between $85-$150.
To read more about renting a car in Panama, check out this post!
WHERE TO STAY
Thanks to the ex-pat community, there is a wide range of accommodation available from hostels to bed and breakfasts or fully furnished Airbnb rentals!
Sub - $50
$50-$100
$100+
Hotel Finca Lerida Coffee Estate
During this three-day trip, I opted for an Airbnb at Villa Cascada Boquete and could not have had a better experience! The living space is detached from the main home for complete privacy, including entry, and comes complete with a secluded and relaxing koi pond off the back patio. The location is an easy walk to downtown Boquete and made for the perfect home base.
3-DAY ITINERARY
There are a few quick notes to make regarding the itinerary below.
To start with, I tend to travel as most cost-effectively as possible. Often I opt to save money on fancy meals and put those funds towards more experiences. Also, anyone will tell you that I plan very little and explore a lot. Sometimes it works out and sometimes it leaves me wanting more, but it's a risk I'm willing to take.
With these points in mind, let’s dive into a basic, three-day itinerary in Boquete, Panama!
DAY 1:
Breakfast: I opted for a quick and easy breakfast at the Airbnb before packing snacks and heading to the cloud forest for a morning hike.
Two of the best grocery stores to stock up on easy meals and snacks are Super Barú Boquete and Romero Boquete.
Pipeline Trail: The Boquete area has such an abundance of trails to explore that it can be quite overwhelming to choose one to do, especially if on a limited time. This was my first experience hiking in the jungle, so I chose the Pipeline Trail as it’s well known, clearly marked, and relatively flat. Due to the popularity, it’s best to wake up early and start the trek first thing in the morning.
This hike takes visitors through the lush jungle along a narrow path and is commonly known as one of the best places in town to view the Quetzal bird. Along the trail lies a massive 1,000-year-old tree, shooting straight up into the jungle canopy.
The gem of this 3.8-mile loop hike is the cascading waterfall that provides the necessary mist to cool off and feel energized for the trek back to the trailhead.
Note: The locals regulate the trail and there is a 5 USD entrance fee per person, as well as a required sign-in/out. As you walk up from the “Welcome” sign at the road, a small hut will be on the left before you enter the jungle.
Lunch: After being energized by the Pipeline Trail, I opted for a quick lunch/rest back at the Airbnb before setting out on another adventure.
Choclón Waterfall: This was an adventure for the ages. As I was researching places to visit in Boquete, I came across a picture of these stunning twin waterfalls and knew I needed to visit. The only problem was there was no location listed.
Armed with loose GPS coordinates and blurry Google Satellite images of the area, I set off to see if I could make it happen.
After hours of trying, re-trying, almost giving up, and then trying yet again (you can read more about the full adventure by clicking here), I finally found the correct path that led to the magical Choclón Waterfall.
The path itself was overgrown, narrow, and isolated, but the short hike down to the riverbed beyond worth the effort!
Dinner: After expending so much energy on the hiking trails throughout the day, it was a stay-in and rest type of night for dinner, only stepping foot outside to reward myself with a delicious dessert from Gelateria La Ghiotta, a frequent stop on my trip.
DAY 2:
Breakfast: Still feeling the effects of a day full of exploring in the sun and humidity, day 2 was more about exploring the downtown Boquete area. After several local recommendations, I settled on a place called Olga’s for breakfast.
Situated in her own home and greeting each customer with a hug and a kiss on the cheek, Olga’s food was by far the best I experienced on my Panamanian adventure!
Daytime Adventures:
La Viuda del Cafe
The Boquete area is well known around the world for cultivating the Geisha coffee bean. With a gentle wildflower aroma, a bag of these can go for $600 and just a cup can cost $64 in Dubai!
Luckily by being at the source it’s much more affordable. La Viuda del Café is a boutique coffee shop that translates literally as “the coffee window.” Here a cup of Geisha coffee costs only $4!
Is the delectable bean that good? Yes, it is, my friends.
Pastelería Alemana
Located south of downtown Boquete and along Route 41 lays Pastelería Alemana.
A small German pastry shop, the outdoor seating area makes for an odd yet perfect experience, eating a scrumptious apple strudel while gazing off at the remote jungle in the distance.
Faro Panama
I had passed this attraction on the drive into town from Panama City and was completely taken aback. How does a giant lighthouse make its way to such a remote part of the country?
Long story short, this family fun center opened just before my arrival in Boquete and I was the only car in the parking lot. It was an ominous feeling to see an empty complex and have the staff so surprised to see a visitor, but the top of the lighthouse provided unparalleled 360-degree views of the area, including Volcan Barú.
The cost was 4.25 USD per person.
Café Ruiz
To fuel up for an evening hike, a quick stop at the Café Ruiz coffee farm was necessary. Nestled out of town and amongst lush flora, the tasting flight of various local coffees was a needed afternoon jolt.
Café Ruiz also offers some of the shorter/cheaper coffee tours in town. I tried to sign up for one but unfortunately, it was full. Lesson learned; book in advance!
Ready to learn more about Panama’s coffee? Check out this tour from Get Your Guide!
La Piedra de Lino
Translated as “the rock of Lino,” this short yet steep hike offers some of the most spectacular views over Boquete and the surrounding cloud forests.
Climbing 1000+ feet in just over 1.5 miles, La Piedra de Lino is a leg burner and not for the faint of heart, but the payout at the top is worth it.
The path can get slippery, especially after a good rainfall. Be sure to wear shoes with good tread and move slowly.
Dinner: Sabrasón
A cafeteria-style buffet full of Panamanian cuisine and incredibly cheap, Sabrasón made for a quick and easy meal after an exhausting and fulfilling hike up La Piedra de Lino.
Dessert: Gelateria La Ghiotta
DAY 3:
Breakfast: Olga’s… again. Enjoying homemade food on the back patio and surrounded by local flora was the perfect way to start the day.
Tuesday Market: If you’re looking to avoid the ex-pat influence, then the Tuesday Market isn’t for you. With that being said, it’s a unique experience in the area as the community congregates to sell local foods and gifts.
Shopping: Finding the right knick-knacks is far cheaper in Boquete than back in Panama City, so before I drove out of town I spent some time wandering up and down the main road while browsing the local selection of blankets, backpacks, and more.
Boquete was a quick stop on a whirlwind trip around Panama and I wish I had been able to spend more time here, but it’s certainly a place that’s high on my list to return to and learn more about.
Questions? Have other ideas for a trip to Boquete? Leave them in the comments below and be sure to check out my other posts about Panama!
Stay safe & happy travels!
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The Ultimate Guide to Crater Lake National Park: Everything you need to know for a day full of adventure
Crater Lake National Park has grown in popularity over the years, but it still wildly underrated amongst the National Parks. Here is your guide to getting the most of your 24 hours exploring the area!
All information below is up to date as of April 2023.
A mere 42,000 years ago, Mt. Mazama rose through the present-day Oregon wilderness to 12,000 feet above sea level. Fast forward 5,000 years, the volcano experienced its largest eruption ever, spewing magma as far as 40 miles while spreading ash as far north as Canada and as far south as Nevada.
The sheer magnitude of this eruption caused Mt. Mazama to lose so much of its structure that it could no longer support the peak of the volcano, forcing it to cave in on itself and thus creating the caldera that now holds what is known as Crater Lake. Gradually over the years, snowmelt and rain began to fill the new hole in the ground, forming the deepest lake in the United States of America (1,943 ft/595 m).
Here’s how to make the most of your time at Crater Lake National Park and some tips and tricks to avoiding crowds!
WHEN TO VISIT
Crater Lake sits at an elevation of 6,178ft. and gets an average snowfall of 48ft., meaning that the park is buried from October through June. The southern entrance is the only way to access the park during this time and the rim road turns into skiing trails.
This makes July through September the prime months to visit, with high temps of around 67 degrees during the day and as low as 40 degrees at night.
It’s important to note that the number of visitors to Crater Lake National Park has skyrocketed in recent years. The National Park Service reported that annual totals jumped as much as 23% between 2015-2016, so if there’s a need for overnight accommodation in your itinerary, be sure to research and book in advance.
Wizard Island from above
GETTING THERE
Crater Lake National Park is located in southwestern Oregon. Medford is the closest major town (to the south).
From Eugene:
2.25 hours drive time
The fastest route is to take OR 58 through Oakridge, then route 97 to 138
Alternatively, you can also use I-5 to Wilbur before picking up 138 east
Enter at the northern gate
From Medford:
1.25 hours drive time
Follow OR 62-E the entire way
Enter at the southern gate
WHAT TO PACK
With the high elevation, exercise caution on sunny days. Bring a good amount of sunscreen along with a hat and sunglasses, especially if you plan on spending your afternoon exploring by foot.
Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy the views at one of the several overlooks along the rim road.
There are plenty of places to re-fill water bottles along the way, but be sure pack enough to get by. It’s easy to get dehydrated between the altitude and sunshine.
If you plan on hiking, bring bug spray. We didn’t have any problems, but always better to be safe than sorry!
Don’t forget your camera… just remember: adventure first, pictures second.
Here’s what we brought with us:
ENTRANCE FEES
The current rates are as follows (as of February 2023):
$20 per vehicle (November 1 to mid-May) or $30 per vehicle (mid-May to October)
$25 per motorcycle (May 22 - October 31) or $15 per motorcycle (November 1 to mid-May)
Annual Park Pass accepted ($55)
Consider purchasing your pass ahead of time online which can be a big asset if visiting during peak hours, saving you from having to wait in line at the entrance booths.
HOW TO EXPLORE THE PARK
Right off the bat, my number one piece of advice would be to get there early. This will provide a few moments of solitude to appreciate the surrounding beauty. We left our home in Corvallis at 5:30 am, determined to get at least one hike completed before the crowds descended upon the park and it ended up paying dividends.
The best, and easiest, way to explore is to plan to drive around the rim. This 32.93-mile road circumnavigates the entire lake, offering the chance to pull off as you please and enjoy the views. We entered at the northern gate and decided to drive counterclockwise. Our well-rounded plan included several shorter hikes, covering an overlook, a waterfall, and swimming in the lake. Here’s how it went:
The Watchman Peak Trail
A brief word to the wise: this trail is popular. It was the first thing we did after arriving and we enjoyed the views at the top with two or three other groups. When we passed the trailhead on our way out of the park, it looked like a small army of ants climbing to the top.
The trailhead is located at 3.7 mi. north and west from the Rim Village. The path starts from the southern end of a paved parking lot, sharing it with the Watchman Overlook Viewpoint.
The trail itself is a 1.6mi. roundtrip trail with 387ft. of elevation gain and is a steady incline the entire way. Small children and grandparents were able to get up and down without hiking poles, but the extra equipment certainly wouldn’t hurt.
From the top, you’ll be treated to vast 360-degree views from the western end of the lake. Directly below you’ll see Wizard Island, the vantage point providing the perfect view of the volcanic cone.
For more information on reaching and hiking the island, visit this comprehensive guide from Just Go Travel Studios.
Looking to the north, you’ll be able to spot other volcanos within the High Cascade range, including Mt. Bailey, Diamond Peak, and Mt. Thielsen.
Back at the bottom, we continued driving southeast along the rim road towards the Rim Village. Bathrooms are accessible around most of the park, but they are not available at every trailhead. If you need to go, make sure to use the ones in the parking lot before leaving.
Along this route, you will run into Vidae Falls on your left. From the pull-out, you’ll be able to see the 100ft. cascading waterfall, but there’s not much more to do here other than get out and take a quick peek before continuing.
Plaikni Falls Hike
To reach the start of the trail for Plaikni Falls, turn right onto Pinnacle Road just before reaching the Phantom Ship Overlook. After driving another 1.2mi., you will see the parking area on your left. Note: There are no bathrooms available at this trailhead.
The path is an easy walk for all ages, winding 2.2mi. (round trip) through the old-growth forest before reaching Sand Creek where rushing water, wildflowers, and butterflies are waiting to greet visitors. We didn’t have any problems with mosquitoes, but reports have stated otherwise, so make sure you have the bug spray ready and available for this one.
There isn’t much space to hang out by the waterfall, especially if there is a lot of traffic on the trail, but it’s worth it to have a look.
Due to its short length and popularity, the trail can become quite congested during peak hours. As is the case with most hikes, the earlier you can arrive, the better.
View of Plaikni Falls
Lunch at Victor View
An unmarked overlook, Victor View provided the perfect spot for a quick lunch away from the crowds. Despite the heavy traffic, we only saw three other cars pull over here. It is the second pull-off (on your left) after the Phantom Ship.
There’s a short trail that has been carved out that will take you through the trees and provide you with unobstructed views across Crater Lake and towards Wizard Island, as well as Cloudcap Bay to the right. Exercise caution as the ground quickly turns from packed dirt to sand and loose stone.
This viewpoint placed us in a perfect location to take a post-lunch drive up to the Cloudcap Overlook, which can be reached by taking the highest paved road in Oregon.
Looking towards Cloudcap Bay
Cloudcap Overlook
One of the most popular overlooks in all of Crater Lake National Park, you’ll be treated to expansive westward views across the caldera once at the top. Be aware that you may have to fight a busload or two of tourists to catch a glimpse of the scenery.
You won’t be disappointed with the views if you’re able to find a spot, but the entire park is stunning so we felt comfortable skipping it this time around.
Shortly after departing Cloudcap Overlook and reuniting with the rim road, we passed the trailhead for Mt. Scott. This is the highest point of Crater Lake. Although only a 4.2-mile round trip hike, it wasn’t on our itinerary for the day due to limited time. Instead, we continued to Cleetwood Cove — it was time to get wet!
Cleetwood Cove Trail
It’s important to note that Cleetwood Cove Trail DESCENDS to the lake, meaning the way back up will be the grueling part. We passed quite a few unhappy faces on their way to the parking lot.
At only 2.2mi. round trip, the way down is quite easy via the switchback trail, with Crater Lake peeking out from between the trees. Eventually, the boat docks will appear. Continue following the trail and you will soon see where everyone is swimming.
I was surprised by how crowded it was, but I guess it makes sense. After all, who would pass up the chance to swim in a lake with a collapsed volcano beneath the surface? Not us!
After taking a dip and enjoying the water-level views, tie your laces tight to start climbing the 700ft. back to the trailhead. Pro Tip: Bring closed-toed shoes. Many parts of the trail are soft, making it difficult to navigate in sandals. Several cut-outs along the path provide an oasis-like seating area to rest and catch your breath. If you go in the afternoon, make sure to bring water and stay hydrated!
Hiking Cleetwood Cove Trail
Cleetwood Cove was our final stop of the day before leaving the park and driving home. When it was all said and done, we had spent nearly 7 hours exploring the area and cumulatively hiking 6 miles; a full day of adventure that left our legs tired, our clothes dirty, and our faces beaming with delight!
Although visitor numbers are on the rise, the park didn’t even crack the top 10 most visited in 2018, presenting the unique opportunity to enjoy Crater Lake National Park without the large crowds that other places such as Yellowstone and Zion regularly experience. We highly recommend it!
More information can be found by visiting the National Park Service website.
Have you had experiences of your own? Be sure to leave them in the comments below!
As always, stay safe & happy travels!
A friendly reminder to comply with all rules and regulations regarding National Parks. It’s up to us to protect and preserve the Earth, so stick to established trails and leave only your footprints behind! Crater Lake also attracts cyclists from around the world, so be sure to share the road and use caution when driving around the rim.
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Top 5 things to do in Boquete, Panama: A must-do guide to the cloud forest valley!
From ominous cloud forests to the world’s best coffee bean, the Panamanian town of Boquete has something to offer for everyone. Here are 5 of the top things to do in Boquete, Panama!
*Please note: all information below, including prices, is reflective of the time of writing (2019). Feel free to reach out with questions and I’ll happily help however I can.
I won't typically play the favorites game… “What’s your favorite country?” “What was the best food you ate?” “Which part of your trip did you enjoy the most?” Nah, that’s not for me. Each place, each food, each person I talk with has a unique allure that adds to the experience.
With that being said, let me go ahead and step down from my soap box: I loved Boquete, Panama. The valley, the cloud forests, the coffee, the people, the weather… it truly had it all.
It could have been that I was over the humidity in Panama City, or maybe I was grateful to have made it alive after driving through flash thunderstorms on the PanAm Highway. Either way, I loved every second of the 3 days we spent here!
Disclaimer: Boquete is a well known location within the ex-pat community and is considered to be a top place to retire. Although not a problem, Boquete isn’t a place to visit under the notion of being “off the beaten path.”
WHERE TO STAY
From hostel to bed and breakfast or even farm-stays, Boquete offers a wide variety of accommodation options. Personally, I’d recommend the Villa Cascada Boquete. It’s simple, has everything you need, and most importantly is in the perfect location to base out of during your stay. Alyssa was a phenomenal host and we would stay there again in a heartbeat. Our favorite part was feeding the koi fish every morning on the patio!
Villa Cascada Boquete
TOP 5 THINGS TO DO:
1. GO FOR A HIKE
Hiking is a big reason why people visit the Chiriqui Provence in Panama. Although we were limited on time, we still managed to squeeze in three solid trails, each with their own unique experience.
The Pipeline Trail costs $5/pp and signing in and out at the trail head with whom we affectionately call the “keeper of the book” is mandatory. This helps to ensure everyone's safety.
The path cuts straight through the jungle, culminates at a cascading waterfall and is easy to navigate for any age. It’s also a well known trail for spotting Quetzales, the famous elusive bird in Panama.
La Piedra de Lino was a different story. Climbing 434 meters in just under a mile, this is far more strenuous, albeit rewarding, hike that offers expansive views of the valley below. Pro Tip: Go in the evening and enjoy the sunset from the peak.
Our third and final hike was one that we researched ourselves. After we found the GPS coordinates and satellite images, we decided to give it a go and ended up at Cascada Choclon.
Pipeline Trail
2. BECOME A COFFEE CONNOISSEUR
I’ve spent a good amount of time sipping on cappuccinos and downing espressos in Europe, so I felt as though I understood how a “good coffee” should taste. Boy was I wrong.
Boquete is home to Geisha coffee, widely known as the best coffee bean in the world. With a wild-flower aroma, the beans themselves can go for $600/lb. and a just a cup of it in Dubai can cost you a whopping $64! Mind. Blown.
Is it actually that amazing? Head over to La Viuda del Cafe and sip on a cup of this delectable brew for only $4. While there, pick up a jar of their coffee infused chocolate. You won’t be disappointed, I promise.
Take your bean knowledge one step further and sign up for a coffee plantation tour. There are plenty around the area, all varying in length, price, and time of day. If you’re on a time crunch then sign up for Cafe Ruiz’s Espresso Tour which costs $9 per person and runs 45 minutes. It’s the most bang-for-your-buck option we could find.
Geisha Coffee at La Viuda del Cafe
3. EAT AT OLGA’S
Don’t be surprised when you sit down to eat an old women wraps her arms around you and kisses you on the forehead. That’s Olga. She’s the best and you will feel right at home in her café. We actually adjusted our plans so that we could eat here on back-to-back mornings because we enjoyed the ambiance and food so much. I’d highly recommend the huevos rancheros! Pro Tip: The only menu available is hanging outside the entrance, so read carefully and choose wisely before grabbing a table.
If you’re not into Olga’s, Sabrasón is a budget friendly and authentic Panamanian cafeteria-style eatery. Two full plates for dinner cost about $8 and left our stomaches filled to the brim.
La Alemana is farther out of town, but the German-style café is worth the effort. Who wouldn’t want to enjoy a delicious apfelstreudel while gazing off into the distant jungle?
Regardless of your taste-buds or budget, there are plenty of places to chow down in Boquete. But seriously… go to Olga’s.
Huevos Rancheros at Olga’s
4. VISIT THE TUESDAY MARKET
If you’re looking to avoid the ex-pat scene, then this is where you might become a little annoyed. Yes, it’s filled with older American gentlemen selling foreign currency or watercolor paintings and you might hear the occasional “Hey Frank, how are the grandkids?” but it’s still worthwhile.
It’s a classic farmer’s market feel, just relocated to the middle of Panama. With a good selection of items to browse, we ended up doing all of our shopping here and it was much cheaper than back in Panama City. The market is open from 9am - 12pm every Tuesday. Pro Tip: Head to Olga’s for an early breakfast and then meander over to the market! It’s a perfect way to work off the meal.
5. GELATO FROM GELATERIA LA GHIOTTA
Ask around and any local will tell you that Gelateria La Ghiotta is the place in Boquete for gelato. Conveniently located on the main strip, it was too convenient to not stop and try a new flavor each time we passed by. A small cup with two scoops costs $1.50… talk about a steal!
Looking to upgrade your adventure gear? Here’s what came in handy while hiking in Panama!
BONUS: FARO PANAMA
You won’t miss Faro Panama if you’re driving into Boquete from David along Highway 41, mostly because it’s a giant red and white lighthouse situated in the middle of the Panamanian flatlands. Yes, you read that right; a lighthouse.
It’s the equivalent of a family fun center, offering visitors access to restaurants, dessert bars, playgrounds and, most importantly, spectacular 360-degree views of Volcan Baru and the surrounding area.
The facility had been fully operational for only 5 days during our visit, so I’d expect the popularity to continue to grow. It’s a prime spot to capture the perfect panoramic photograph!
Volcan Baru as seen from the top of Faro Panama
Although the drive from Panama City was a long 7 hours, it was a great as we passed through small towns, battled thunderstorms, and found roadside empanadas along the way. However you plan on getting to Boquete, just make sure you go!
As always, it’s my goal to provide you with everything you need to have an adventure of your own. If you’re looking for more information, don’t hesitate to reach out in the comments below!
Stay Safe & Happy Travels.
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