Things To Do
in David
David is the third largest city in Panama and serves as the capital of the Chiriquí Province. It is a thriving commercial and agricultural center known for its production of coffee and sugarcane. The city has a pleasant climate with temperatures ranging from 70-85°F year-round.
David is also a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for hiking, bird watching, and exploring nearby national parks.
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Hasta luego" - See you later
- "¿Qué tal?" - What's up?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Miraflores Locks to witness the massive ships passing through. Enjoy a guided tour that explains the history and significance of this engineering marvel.
After lunch, head to the Panama Canal Museum located in Casco Viejo. Here, you can learn deeper insights about the canal's construction and its role in world trade.
Wrap up the day with dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the canal. The sunset views are spectacular as the sky turns brilliant shades of orange and pink.
Early morning is perfect for a hike in Soberania National Park, where you can spot exotic wildlife and lush vegetation. Don't forget your binoculars for birdwatching, as the park is home to numerous species.
After your hike, enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by nature. Then, take a guided kayaking tour through the park's waterways for a different perspective of its beauty.
In the evening, unwind with dinner at a local eatery in Gamboa. The fresh seafood and local flavors will provide a satisfying end to your nature-filled day.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history.
- Affordable cost of living compared to other cities in Panama.
- Access to beautiful natural surroundings, including parks and rivers.
- Growing expat community which provides social opportunities.
- Less crowded than larger cities like Panama City.
- Limited access to high-end shopping and entertainment options.
- Less developed infrastructure compared to larger cities.
- Hot and humid climate that may not suit everyone.
- Fewer healthcare facilities and specialists compared to urban centers.
- Job opportunities may be limited in specialized fields.
Best Activities in David
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the diverse and stunning landscapes, waterfalls, and wildlife in the largest national park in Panama.
Enjoy activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and beach hopping in this beautiful marine park known for its rich biodiversity.
Discover a wide variety of bird species in the cloud forests and natural reserves surrounding the town of Boquete.
Experience thrilling whitewater rafting adventures in the scenic river surrounded by lush tropical landscapes.
Tours
Uncover the best of David with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in David
Visit one of these nice places.
A hiking trail known for its beautiful views of the surrounding nature and landscape.
Offers stunning views of the sea and is a great spot for capturing sunset photos.
A picturesque park with a gazebo and green spaces that provide great photo opportunities.
Food in David
David Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A flavorful dish made with shredded beef, onions, and bell peppers, seasoned with Latin American spices. Best enjoyed at La Tertulia restaurant.
Must-Try!
Deep-fried yuca stuffed with seasoned ground meat, often served with a tangy tamarind sauce. You can find authentic Carimañolas at the central market or local street food stalls.
A classic dish consisting of rice, chicken, and vegetables, simmered in a savory broth. Visit El Fogón de Pancha for a delicious rendition of this comforting meal.
Unique Experiences
Get to know David better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling public market is a treasure trove of fresh produce, local snacks, and homemade treats. Don't miss the opportunity to savor empanadas, ceviche, and fresh tropical fruits.
A lively street famous for its diverse street food offerings. Sample delicious tamales, bollos, and seafood ceviche prepared right before your eyes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In David, Panama, it is important to show respect for elders by using polite language and mannerisms when interacting with them.
Greetings are important in David, Panama, so it's customary to greet people with a handshake or a kiss on the cheek, depending on the level of familiarity.
Community is highly valued in David, Panama, so it's respectful to show appreciation for the local community and participate in communal activities and events.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of David with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in David
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in Panama, but it is appreciated for good service. In restaurants, a 10% service charge is often included in the bill, so additional tipping is at your discretion. For other services, such as taxi rides and tours, a small tip is customary.
Payment in David, Panama, is commonly made in cash. Credit cards are also widely accepted in many establishments. It's advisable to carry small denominations of US dollars and Panamanian balboas, as well as some coins, for convenience in transactions.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into David.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry season with little rainfall, good weather for exploring and outdoor activities
Rainy season with intermittent heavy showers, lush green landscapes but outdoor activities may be limited
David at Night
Hiking in David
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hiking area located in the highlands, offering trails with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and coffee farms.
The highest point in Panama, this challenging hike rewards trekkers with incredible views of both the Pacific and Atlantic oceans on a clear day.
A UNESCO World Heritage site with diverse ecosystems, featuring numerous trails for various skill levels amidst lush rainforests and wildlife.
A popular trail known for its rich biodiversity, offering the chance to spot the elusive Resplendent Quetzal and enjoy tranquil forest surroundings.
A remote mountainous area perfect for adventurous hikers, featuring rugged terrain, waterfalls, and opportunities to experience the local flora and fauna.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into David through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach David by plane.
The main international airport serving Panama City and the largest international airport in Panama, located approximately 400 km from David.
The primary airport serving David, Panama, providing both domestic and limited international flights.
An international airport located approximately 150 km from David, offering limited international services.
Located on Roatan Island, this airport is around 400 km from David and serves as a hub for international flights to and from Honduras.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant majority of the population identifies as Hispanic, which includes a mix of various ethnic groups, primarily of Spanish and Indigenous descent.
Indigenous groups, such as the Ngäbe-Buglé and others, inhabit the region, contributing to cultural diversity.
People of Afro-Panamanian descent are part of the demographic landscape, particularly in certain areas.
A smaller percentage of the population is of European descent, including those who may have come from Spain and other European countries.
There is a small community of people of Asian descent, including Chinese and other Asian ethnicities.
The Soul of David
Discover the essence of David through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is a widely popular sport in David, Panama, with a strong local following and numerous amateur leagues.
Soccer, or football, is another favored sport in the region, with many local teams and a vibrant community engaged in both playing and supporting.
Basketball enjoys popularity in David, with various courts available for recreational play and competitive events.
Volleyball is played both indoors and outdoors in David, particularly along the beaches, attracting many youth and enthusiasts.
Boxing holds a significant place in the sports culture of David, with local gyms training aspiring boxers and hosting tournaments.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting David.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Panamanian cuisine leans heavily on meat and seafood, many restaurants in David offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes. Look for eateries that serve plantain-based dishes, hearty salads, and vegetable soups.
Travelers with gluten intolerance can find suitable options at cafes and restaurants that emphasize fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Tapioca-based snacks, grilled fish, and rice-based dishes are often gluten-free and readily available.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of David with these cultural adventures.
