Las Tablas
,Las Tablas is a charming town located on the Azuero Peninsula in Panama. It is known for its vibrant festivals and colorful traditions, particularly during Carnival celebrations. The town features colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and a picturesque central plaza.
Las Tablas is also famous for its handicrafts, traditional cuisine, and warm hospitality.
- "¿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): $25 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Explore Las Tablas
morning
:Begin your day with a stroll around the charming streets of Las Tablas. Visit local shops and enjoy a traditional Panamanian breakfast at a nearby café.
afternoon
:In the afternoon, discover the history of the town at the Museo de la Historia de Las Tablas. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant featuring seafood delicacies.
evening
:As evening falls, take in the sunset at the waterfront park. Savor dinner at a local eatery and experience the vibrant nightlife.
Beach Day Adventure
morning
:Head to Playa Las Tablas for a relaxing morning by the beach. Enjoy the sun and perhaps a swim in the warm waters.
afternoon
:After lunch, participate in some water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding. Explore the nearby beach shops for souvenirs.
evening
:Return to Las Tablas for dinner at a beachfront restaurant. Enjoy local dishes while listening to the sound of waves.
Highlights
Good
- Rich cultural heritage with traditional festivals and celebrations.
- Pleasant tropical climate, ideal for outdoor activities.
- Close proximity to beautiful beaches and natural attractions.
- Affordable cost of living compared to many Western countries.
- Friendly and welcoming local community.
Bad
- Limited healthcare facilities compared to urban areas.
- Fewer educational institutions and resources for higher education.
- Potential for humidity and insects, which may be uncomfortable.
- Transportation options may be limited, affecting mobility.
- Economic opportunities may be less abundant than in larger cities.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Beach Activities
Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and beach volleyball at the beautiful coastlines around Las Tablas.
Surfing
Take advantage of the waves at nearby beaches like Playa Venao, which is popular among surfers.
Hiking
Explore the lush trails and natural parks surrounding Las Tablas, offering various levels of hiking experiences.
Cultural Tours
Engage with local culture by visiting artisan workshops and attending traditional festivals in the area.
Fishing
Go deep-sea fishing or enjoy a peaceful day of sport fishing from the shore.
Kayaking
Paddle through the coastal waters and mangroves, taking in the scenic views and wildlife.
Wildlife Watching
Discover the diverse flora and fauna by visiting nearby nature reserves or wildlife sanctuaries.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Las Tablas with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Parque Belisario Porras
A scenic park located in the heart of Las Tablas, offering lush greenery and picturesque views of the surrounding area, perfect for capturing vibrant photos.
Cerro La Cruz
A hill that provides panoramic views of Las Tablas and the surrounding valleys, making it an ideal spot for sunset photography.
Plaza Mayor
The central square of Las Tablas, surrounded by colorful colonial buildings, offers a charming atmosphere and numerous photo opportunities of local life and architecture.
Las Tablas Cathedral
An iconic landmark in the town, the cathedral features stunning architecture and beautiful stained glass, making it a great subject for both exterior and interior shots.
Panama's Folk Festival
If visiting during the festival, this event showcases vibrant cultural displays and performances, providing ample opportunities for dynamic and lively photography.
Playa El Uverito
Just a short drive from Las Tablas, this beach offers stunning ocean views and a serene environment perfect for capturing gorgeous coastal photos.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Ceviche
A refreshing and popular dish made with fresh raw fish marinated in citrus juices, onions, and cilantro. Must-try at El Ranchón de Vivi, a local seafood restaurant known for its authentic ceviche.
Must-Try!
Arroz con Pollo
A classic Panamanian dish featuring tender chicken and rice cooked in a flavorful broth. Try this comforting meal at Comedor Yamita, a family-owned eatery cherished for its traditional recipes.
Raspados
Cool off with raspados, a local favorite dessert made from shaved ice and topped with fruity syrups. Look for street vendors or visit La Michoacana for an authentic raspados experience.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Las Tablas better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Mercado Municipal de Las Tablas
Explore the bustling Municipal Market to discover an array of fresh produce, local spices, and flavorful street food like empanadas and tamales. Don't miss the opportunity to sample authentic Panamanian flavors at the market stalls.
Calle Belisario Porras
Take a stroll along Calle Belisario Porras to savor delicious street food offerings such as carimañolas (deep-fried yuca stuffed with savory fillings) and tortillas con queso (cheese-filled corn tortillas) from cheerful vendors.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greeting Etiquette
In Las Tablas, it is customary to greet people with a warm 'Hola' and a handshake or a kiss on the cheek, depending on your relationship with the person. Always make eye contact while greeting to show respect.
Dress Modestly
While Las Tablas is generally casual, it is important to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or attending local events. Light, breathable clothing is suitable for the climate, but ensure that it is respectful and covers the shoulders and knees.
Respect for Tradition
Las Tablas has a rich cultural heritage, particularly during the Carnival season. Show appreciation for local traditions by participating in festivities and respecting local customs. Avoid disruptive behavior during events, and take time to learn about the significance of the celebrations.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Las Tablas with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Las Tablas, Panama, tipping is generally appreciated but not always expected. Common practices suggest leaving a tip of around 10% to 15% at restaurants, particularly if the service was good. In bars, rounding up the bill or adding a small amount is also customary. It is less common to tip taxi drivers, though travelers may choose to round up the fare as a gesture of appreciation.
Payment
Payment methods in Las Tablas commonly include cash, as many small businesses may not accept credit or debit cards. ATMs are available, but it is advisable to carry local currency (Panamanian balboa or US dollars) for smaller purchases. In restaurants and shops that accept cards, a minimum purchase amount may apply, and it's common for establishments to add a service charge to the bill.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry Season (December to April)
This is the best time to visit Las Tablas, as the weather is sunny and dry with lower humidity. Expect vibrant festivals, especially during February's Carnival, attracting visitors with lively parades, music, and dancing.
Rainy Season (May to November)
While the rainy season brings frequent showers, visiting during this time can mean fewer tourists and lush scenery. Expect warm temperatures and occasional heavy downpours, but also opportunities to experience local culture and cuisine without the crowds.
Carnival Season (February)
Around this time, Las Tablas is known for its famous Carnival celebrations, considered some of the best in Panama. Expect vibrant parties, costumes, and a unique cultural experience that showcases the town's traditions and spirit.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Pico de Loro
A challenging hike leading to a viewpoint at the top of a mountain with stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including forests and coastlines.
La Yeguada
A natural reserve with multiple hiking trails through lush forests, offering beautiful scenery, wildlife watching, and opportunities for picnicking.
Cerro Hoya National Park
A remote park featuring steep trails and diverse ecosystems, ideal for adventurous hikers looking for an off-the-beaten-path experience.
Sierra de Panamá
Offers several trails ranging in difficulty and length, with picturesque views and a rich variety of flora and fauna.
El Valle de Anton
Known for its cooler climate and abundance of trails, it includes hikes to waterfalls and scenic lookouts in a volcanic crater.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Las Tablas by plane.
Tocumen International Airport (PTY)
The largest and busiest airport in Panama, located about 320 km from Las Tablas in Panama City. It serves as a major hub for international flights in and out of the country.
David Enrique Malek Airport (DAV)
Located approximately 230 km from Las Tablas, this airport serves the city of David in Chiriquí Province and offers flights to domestic and some international destinations.
Panama Pacifico International Airport (BLB)
Situated about 310 km from Las Tablas, this airport caters to both commercial and cargo flights and is located near the former Howard Air Force Base.
Enrique Malek International Airport (DAV)
Located around 230 km from Las Tablas in the city of David, this airport primarily serves domestic flights but also operates some regional international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Spanish-speaking population
The majority of the population primarily speaks Spanish, as it is the official language of Panama.
Indigenous communities
Several Indigenous groups reside in the region, contributing to the cultural diversity of Las Tablas.
Afro-Panamanian community
A significant segment of the population identifies as Afro-Panamanian, with historical roots in the African diaspora.
Expats and Foreign Residents
There is a growing community of expatriates and foreign residents drawn to the area for its climate and lifestyle.
Youth Population
A considerable portion of the demographic consists of young people, with various educational institutions serving the town.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball
Baseball is extremely popular in Las Tablas, with many local teams participating in regional leagues and tournaments. The town has a strong baseball culture, and games often draw large crowds.
Soccer
Soccer is also a widely played sport in Las Tablas, with many children and adults participating in local leagues. The town hosts various soccer matches and tournaments throughout the year.
Basketball
Basketball enjoys popularity among the youth in Las Tablas, with numerous courts available for recreational play and organized competitions.
Boxing
Boxing has a notable following in Las Tablas, with local gyms providing training and hosting competitions. The town has produced several talented boxers.
Surfing
Given its proximity to the coast, surfing is popular in the nearby beaches. Many locals and tourists enjoy surfing, especially during the summer months when waves are ideal.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Several establishments in Las Tablas, such as Restaurante Veggie and Delicias Naturales, cater to vegetarian and vegan preferences with inventive plant-based dishes and flavorful options.
Gluten-Free Choices
Visitors seeking gluten-free dining experiences can find suitable options at Cafetería Sabor Natural and Restaurante Green Life, known for their dedication to providing delicious gluten-free selections.