Essential Visitor Information

Where Is Boquete & How to Get There

Boquete is in the Chiriquí Highlands of western Panama, near the city of David, about 250–270 miles (≈400+ km) west of Panama City.

Travel Distances & Times

• Panama City → David (flight): ~45 minutes
• Panama City → Boquete (drive): ~5.5–6.5 hours
• David → Boquete (drive): ~45–60 minutes (≈35 miles / 55 km)

Airports:

Tocumen International Airport (PTY) — Panama’s main international hub
Marcos A. Gelabert Airport (PAC / Albrook) — Domestic flights in Panama City

Airport closest to Boquete: Enrique Malek International Airport (DAV) — Airport in David, closest to Boquete

Flights

• Multiple daily flights from Panama City to David
• Flight time ~45 minutes
• Common carriers: Copa Airlines, Air Panama (schedules vary)

Best flight options:

Domestic flights from Panama City PTY to David usually depart around: • Morning: ~7:45 or 8:45 AM • Afternoon: ~4:00 PM

Flight time is just about 45 minutes.

Driving Routes

• Panama City → Boquete by car or bus: ~6 hours
• David → Boquete by car / shuttle: ~45–60 min

Notes

• Flying to David and transferring to Boquete is the fastest way to arrive.
• Overland options (bus/shuttle) are available.
• Check airline schedules for exact flight times.

Using Panama City as a Stopover

Catch an early international flight, spending a few hours or one even one night in Panama City before flying to David Airport (the closet to Boquete).

Good ideas

• Visit the Panama Canal
• Walk around Casco Viejo (Old City)
• Enjoy a proper meal before heading inland

Recommended Kosher restaurant in Panama City

• Adamá
• Aria
• Lula (Casco Viejo)

This breaks up travel and makes the trip feel much easier.

Popular Travel Combos

Many visitors combine destinations:

• Boquete + Bocas del Toro
• Boquete → Bocas: ~3 hours by shuttle or car
• Mountains first, beaches after

Dairy: Morton’s Bakehouse & Café (near the center of town)

Morton’s is a kosher dairy café run by Chabad Boquete, located in a 100-year-old building.
All proceeds directly support the local Chabad community.

Google Maps.

The food is homemade, fresh, and simple, with an emphasis on quality ingredients.

What you’ll find

• Freshly baked bread and pastries
• Homemade pastas and dairy dishes
• Salads, light meals, and bakery aroma
• Coffee and baked goods throughout the day

Important hours

• Kitchen closes at 4:00 PM
• Café closes at 6:00 PM

Great for day trips

Morton’s also prepares sandwiches and packed meals that are perfect for:

• Hikes
• Day tours
• Road trips around Boquete

Just ask in advance so they can prepare it properly.

Meat: Kosher Dinner & Take-Away (By Reservation) at Chabad Boquete

For dinner or take-away meals, Chabad Boquete offers kosher catering by advance reservation.

This is the best option if:

• You’re arriving late
• You want meals waiting for you
• You’re hosting Shabbat or a group dinner

Reservations are required and can be arranged through the official catering link.

Shabbat in Boquete (at Chabad)

Chabad Boquete hosts a full Shabbat experience every week, open to everyone.

What to expect

• Friday night and Shabbat morning prayers
• Warm communal Shabbat meals
• A welcoming mix of locals, expats, travelers, and visitors from Panama City and abroad

Shabbat in Boquete regularly brings together:

• American and international travelers
• Jewish expats living in Panama
• Visitors passing through Boquete for nature, hiking, or relaxation

There is no pressure and no background required — everyone is welcome.

Reservations Shabbat meals and participation require advance reservation so proper preparations can be made.

Please reserve ahead of time through our Shabbat Reservation page.

Hotel Stay from Chabad Boquete

Enjoy comfortable and convenient accommodations from Chabad Boquete, located just steps away from our activities and services.

Rates:

• Weeknights: $75 per night (fixed rate)
• Friday & Saturday night stay: $120 total

Rooms & Amenities:

• 5 rooms available
  • 4 rooms with 4 beds each
  • 1 room with 2 beds
• Baby crib available for $5 extra
• Private bathroom in every room
• Air conditioning included

Book your stay with Chabad Boquete here

• Daytime temperatures are usually mild
• Evenings can feel chilly
• Rain is common, especially in the afternoons, it's wise to start your day early

Women Mikvah from Chabad Boquete

The women's Mikvah is operational, please make your reservation minimum 24 hours in advance to allow us to serve you better.

Suggested Donation:

• Standard: $30
• Supporter: $100

Make a reservation.