Welcome to Boquete, a charming small town in Panama's cool highlands. Renowned for its world-class coffee, stunning landscapes and a vibrant expat community, it offers modern amenities and a laid-back lifestyle. This article explores Boquete's appeal to retirees and investors.
Boquete: Coffee lovers' paradise
Boquete is a coffee mecca. Its optimal growing conditions—volcanic soil, high altitudes and cool temperatures—produce some of the world's prime beans. Around 80% of Panama's coffee is arabica. Another 20% is robusta, which is grown in low-altitude regions. Boquete's arabica beans, with their complex flavors, have won many international awards.
Coffee culture is a vital part of the local economy. The town's coffee farms range from small, family-run operations to larger commercial estates. In addition to production, coffee tours are an important business activity. Visitors can learn every aspect of the process, from planting and harvesting to roasting and tasting. Some estates also offer accommodation. Coffee enthusiasts can dive into the world of high-quality coffee and learn about its cultivation in the heart of Boquete.
These mountains are home to several coffee types: Typica, Catuai, Yellow Catuai, Bourbon, Pacamara and Caturra. The most sensational one is, no doubt, Geisha. Known for its delicate, floral aroma, Geisha coffee has set records at the world auctions. In fact, in 2024, the Lamastus Family Estate, just outside Boquete, sold a batch of its Elida geisha at $13,518 per kilogram. An interesting tidbit: It is not the entire farm production that holds such high value. It is a piece of land on a particular slope that receives a specific amount of sunlight and produces these highly-prized crops. Once again, Panamanian coffee is the most expensive coffee in the world. You can visit the farm to delve into its coffee-making process. Choose a tour that appeals to you.
Finca Lerida is also famous for its exceptional beans. Visitors can tour the premises to witness the hands-on process of coffee creation. They can also enjoy a freshly brewed cup and delicious meals at the restaurant with picturesque views.
Every corner of Boquete is filled with an enticing aroma, thanks to its coffee shops. Buckletip Coffee Studio and Mounelli Coffee Shop are the best spots for a fragrant cup. K&R Specialty Coffee, a well-known producer, also has a small café where you can savor their "liquid gold."
The region offers many opportunities within the coffee industry. For business-minded individuals, it is about coffee plantations and crops. For visitors, it is farm tours and fine brews. Boquete is coffee.
Boquete's expat community
One of Boquete's biggest draws is its vibrant expat community. Most immigrants come from the United States and Canada, but people from South America, Europe and Australia also call Boquete home. It feels more like a cosmopolitan village than a small Panamanian town. Diverse nationalities alongside local dwellers create a fun cultural mix.
Although most residents are retirees who appreciate a slower pace of life and seek to reduce spending, younger people are also part of the community. Digital nomads and young professionals love this place for its low living costs, growing infrastructure and unspoiled nature.
Good to know:
Panama offers a Digital Nomad visa valid for nine months and extendable for another nine. To qualify, foreigners must work for a company outside Panama or run their business abroad. Additionally, they must earn at least $36,000 and provide proof of health insurance covering their stay in Panama.
There are plenty of chances to mingle in Boquete. Check out hiking groups, bird-watching expeditions, wine-tasting, cooking classes and art exhibitions.
The expat scene is not only about socializing. Many newcomers have started businesses, such as restaurants, coffee shops, wellness centers and tour companies. The efforts of the foreigners help boost the town's economic growth, creating jobs and encouraging collaboration.
Boquete's economy and cost of living
Agriculture is the driver of Boquete's development. Coffee is crucial to its success, but fruit and vegetable cultivation is also well-developed in the area.
While the town remains small, its popularity among retirees, expats and investors has led to considerable growth in recent years. The real estate sector plays an important part in Boquete's development. Many people purchase properties to either retire or run businesses in the region. The dwellings range from luxurious hillside homes with breathtaking views to more modest options.
Tourism has become a major economic driver in the province. Hotels, short-term rentals, spas and restaurants cater to all needs and incomes. During public holidays, the town buzzes with people. It's necessary to plan to secure lodging and a table in a restaurant.
In general, Panama is not as cheap as it used to be. Still, Boquete's cost of living is considered affordable. Housing costs are lower than in other parts of the world favored by expats. Daily expenses, such as food, transportation and utilities, are also manageable.
Dining out in Boquete is a must-have experience. Prices at some restaurants are comparable to those in some European countries. Yet, you can find restaurants for all budgets offering delicious meals made of fresh, locally-grown ingredients. La Brulerie at Finca Lerida is an exquisite experience of sustainable gastronomy with picture-postcard vistas. The Rock has a varied menu for all tastes, and Donde Giselle promises authentic Panamanian cuisine with an expert touch.
In sum, Boquete's allure lies in its relatively low living expenses without sacrificing comfort. For those looking to stretch their retirement savings or profit from a thriving market, Boquete is a compelling choice.
Healthcare services in Boquete
Healthcare is one of the key factors to consider when moving abroad. While young expats do not give it too much thought, retirees tend to settle around the areas with developed medical services. Despite its small size, Boquete features several private clinics. Dermatology, orthopedics, pediatrics and dentistry are the specialties available in the town, along with general medicine and emergency services. Bilingual doctors attend residents who do not speak much Spanish.
For more complex health needs not addressed in Boquete, expats travel to David, the capital of Chiriqui province. It is about 45 minutes away by car. Advanced services and treatments are available at the regional public hospital (Hospital Dr. Rafael Hernandez L.) and various clinics in the city. Multiple specialists, such as cardiologists, surgeons and radiologists, provide care there.
Panama City, six hours from Boquete by car, is a hub for medical tourism. The city offers state-of-the-art equipment and internationally trained doctors.
Another key issue to consider is health insurance. Many expats opt for Panamanian private health insurance, which costs a fraction of similar plans in some Western countries. The country's insurance companies offer both local and international coverage. Research is necessary to find the best option.
Top attractions and outdoor adventures in Boquete
Boquete's main attraction is its crisp mountain air and tranquil atmosphere. People come here to escape the intensity of city life and reconnect with nature.
Besides being a perfect getaway, the place hosts yearly events. The Boquete Flower and Coffee Festival takes place in January, dressing the town in vivid colors. Expect flower arrangements, food stands, music and coffee at every turn. The Boquete's Jazz and Blues Festival is another prominent event. It usually occurs between February and March, featuring world-class jazz and blues performances.
While Boquete is known for its coffee and expat lifestyle, it is also a hub for outdoor activities, thanks to its natural beauty. The region's mountains, rivers and forests present countless possibilities for adventure.
One of the highlights is Volcán Barú, Panama's highest peak of 3,474 meters (11,398 feet). A hike to the summit of this dormant volcano is a challenging but rewarding endeavor. Hiking up and down within the same day is not the only way to experience this landmark—you can also take a jeep tour or camp at the volcano's summit. The panoramas of the surrounding peaks and valleys are awe-inspiring. Moreover, it is the only place in the world where, on clear days, you can see both the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans.
Another popular Boquete hike is The Lost Waterfalls, which has three stunning falls. Located on a private property, the hike is of moderate difficulty. The views of the first and second waterfalls are spectacular. Reaching the third one requires more strenuous physical exertion, though the view is less impressive.
If hiking is not your thing, there are plenty of other things to do outside in Boquete. Birdwatching is a favorite pastime, as these highlands are home to diverse wildlife. Boquete's rainforest is a haven for birdwatchers, and guided excursions can help you spot rare species like the Resplendent Quetzal.
If you crave some adrenaline rush, zip-lining may be your thing. Flying through the cloud forest is an exciting way to take in splendid landscapes from a unique perspective. Tree Trek Boquete Adventure Park has a tour of twelve canopy-cable lines to glide through the treetops.
Mountain biking is a great way to explore the rugged terrain. Bikers love Boquete's scenic trails that wind through forests, coffee farms and remote villages.
The area is also known for rock climbing. The cliffs and volcanic formations provide excellent challenges for climbers of all levels. If you are new to climbing, Boquete Rock Climbing School is a great place to learn and practice.
For water sports enthusiasts, Boquete's rivers offer plenty of excitement. They are great for both rafting and kayaking. The Chiriquí Viejo River, near Boquete, is one of the country's most popular spots for white-water rafting. Rapids (from Class II to Class V) offer an adrenaline-filled adventure for experienced rafters and newcomers. Fans of kayaking can enjoy the serene rivers and lakes of the province.
Investing in Boquete
The constant influx of people into the area has driven the steady growth of Boquete's real estate market. Housing prices have increased in recent years but remain lower than those of many comparable locations in North America or Europe. You can find a wide selection of properties here, from small houses and condos to large luxury estates.
Besides residential housing, commercial real estate can be a lucrative asset due to the town's increasing popularity. Realtors and developers cater to everyone, from retirees looking for a quiet mountain retreat to investors seeking profits.
Boquete's prosperity is rooted in agriculture. Coffee, fruits and vegetables are cultivated in the fertile lands of the province. Cerro Punta, near Boquete, is a renowned producer that supplies everything from tomatoes and lettuce to strawberries and peppers across the country. Investing in agricultural ventures is gaining traction in Boquete as demand for fresh, organic produce grows worldwide. Sustainable farming is particularly trendy.
Takeaway
Boquete is an ideal destination for those seeking a tropical paradise with affordable living and a growing economy. Favored by coffee enthusiasts and outdoor lovers, this hidden gem offers a mild climate, modern amenities and a peaceful community. If you are considering a move to Panama, Boquete is worth exploring for investment and retirement opportunities.
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