|
Chiriquí is panama´s rich agricultural region, it
contains a range of climates from the hot lowlands near the Pacific
to the high mountain valleys and Volcan Baru, which has an elevation
above 4000 meters. Although there has been much deforestation, the
higher elevations still contain some of the original cloud forest
cover, and are one of the best places in Central America to view
exotic wildlife, such as the resplendant Quetzel.
Most land transportation through Chiriquí is along the Pan
American Highway, a two lane paved road in most places, which runs
from east to west. The principal city in Chiriquí is David.
It seems like a distant backwater next to Panama City. Only a single
road crosses the continental divide between Chiriquí and
Bocas del Toro province, providing access to the Caribbean port
of Chiriquí Grande and several ecological reserves.
 |
Volcan, chiriqui province |
The most popular tourist destinations in Chiriquí province
are towns of Boquete and Cerro Punta, both on the flanks of Barú
Volcano. They are situated in high mountain valleys with a temperate
climate. The lands around these towns grow dairy products and vegetables
for Panamanian markets and some coffee for world markets.
Boquete and Cerro Punta are not connected directly by road. To
get from one town to the other, one must return to the lowlands,
or hike for a day on a well-marked footpath that connects the two,
which is one of the best nature trails, well maintained and accessible
for hikers of average ability. Other trails are poorly marked and
rugged, often with difficult conditions. A local guide can be hired.
This towns are an excellent starting point for exploring the volcano
and the ecologically rich precincts nearby. Boquete is a good starting
point for white water rafting, which is available year round, but
is best during the rainy season, from June through November. Cerro
Punta is a good starting point for exploring the international ecological
Park De la Amistad (Friendship Park), shared by Costa Rica and Panama,
still largely pristine and undeveloped.
|
