Things To Do
in Penonomé
Penonomé is a charming town located in the Coclé province of Panama. It is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty. The town is surrounded by lush green mountains and is just a short drive away from beautiful beaches along the Pacific Coast.
Penonomé is a popular destination for those seeking a mix of relaxation, adventure, and cultural experiences in Panama.
- "¿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): $30 - $80
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hike in the nearby Parque Nacional Omar Torrijos. Enjoy the lush greenery and diverse wildlife that call this area home.
Visit the local market for lunch and try traditional Panamanian dishes. Spend some time browsing the artisan stalls for unique souvenirs.
Relax in a local café and enjoy a cup of coffee made from locally sourced beans. Take a stroll around town to soak in the evening ambiance.
Head to Playa Santa Clara for a sun-soaked morning at one of Panama's beautiful beaches. Swim in the warm waters or relax on the soft sand.
Enjoy a beachside lunch at a local restaurant with fresh seafood. Continue to relax at the beach or try out some water sports.
Watch the sunset with a cold drink in hand. Consider dining at a beachside bar or enjoying fresh caught fish at a nearby eatery.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and local traditions.
- Proximity to natural attractions such as beaches and mountains.
- Growing economy with emerging business opportunities.
- Friendly and welcoming community.
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities.
- Limited access to advanced healthcare facilities.
- Fewer educational institutions and resources than urban centers.
- Public transportation options may be limited.
- Economic opportunities may be less diverse.
- Infrastructure improvements are still needed in some areas.
Best Activities in Penonomé
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Embark on a scenic adventure to explore the natural beauty and diverse wildlife of the Penonomé mountains.
Enjoy a relaxing day at San Juan beach, known for its tranquil waters and picturesque surroundings.
Engage in a thrilling hiking experience through the rugged terrain and lush landscapes of Parque Nacional Omar Torrijos Herrera.
Tours
Uncover the best of Penonomé with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Penonomé
Visit one of these nice places.
A hill that offers panoramic views of Penonomé and the surrounding area, popular for photography and sightseeing.
The bay area, particularly the beachfront, provides picturesque views for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset.
This national park offers stunning natural landscapes, including waterfalls and hiking trails, ideal for photography and outdoor enthusiasts.
Food in Penonomé
Penonomé Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional hearty stew made with chicken or beef, yams, corn, and cilantro, simmered to perfection. Can be found at local eateries and traditional restaurants like Restaurante Típico La Hacienda.
Must-Try!
Fried corvina fish, a popular local catch, served with coconut rice and patacones (fried plantains). You can enjoy this dish at waterfront seafood restaurants such as Marisco’s Don Jimmy.
Refreshing shaved ice desserts flavored with tropical fruit syrups like tamarind, passion fruit, and mango. Look for vendors along the streets and in local markets like Mercado Público.
Deep-fried yuca stuffed with seasoned ground meat, a delightful snack often served at food stalls in the town center and at La Chomba food truck.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Penonomé better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling public market offers a wide array of fresh produce, local seafood, and street food stalls serving empanadas, ceviche, and fresh fruit juices, providing an authentic glimpse into Penonomé's culinary scene.
The main street is lined with food vendors selling traditional snacks like tamales, bollos, and arroz con leche, perfect for exploring the local street food culture.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Penonomé, it is important to show respect for elders by using formal titles and polite language when addressing them.
Greeting others with a friendly 'Hola' or 'Buenos días' is a common cultural practice in Penonomé, signaling respect and friendliness.
Being punctual is valued in Penonomé, so it is considered respectful to arrive on time for social gatherings and appointments.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Penonomé with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Penonomé
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in Penonomé, Panama, but it is appreciated in restaurants and for good service. A customary tip would be around 10% of the bill.
In Penonomé, Panama, cash is widely used for day-to-day transactions. However, major credit and debit cards are also accepted in most establishments. It's advisable to carry cash for smaller purchases and in more remote areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Penonomé, Panama is during the dry season from December to April. Expect sunny weather, lower humidity, and various outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring the natural attractions in the area.
During the green season from May to November, expect more rainfall and higher humidity. While the landscape becomes lush and green, outdoor activities may be limited due to the wetter conditions.
Penonomé at Night
Hiking in Penonomé
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking spot offering scenic views of the surrounding mountains and lush forests. The trails are well-marked and vary in difficulty, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced hikers.
Known for its diverse flora and fauna, this national park features several trails that lead through beautiful landscapes, waterfalls, and viewpoints. It's a great spot for both hiking and bird-watching.
This area provides hiking opportunities along the coast, where you can enjoy a mix of beach and forest trails. It's a peaceful location for those looking to connect with nature while overlooking the ocean.
A relatively less-known hiking spot with a challenging trail that rewards hikers with stunning views from the summit. The trail takes you through dense vegetation and offers chances to spot local wildlife.
Located a short drive from Penonomé, this is a favorite destination for hikers due to its numerous trails, waterfalls, and volcanic craters. The cooler climate and breathtaking scenery make it an ideal hiking destination.
Aiports
How to reach Penonomé by plane.
The main international airport serving Panama City, located approximately 130 kilometers from Penonomé.
An international airport located in David, Chiriquí, about 280 kilometers from Penonomé.
An international airport located on the former Howard Air Force Base, approximately 100 kilometers from Penonomé.
An international airport located in Río Hato, approximately 35 kilometers from Penonomé.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population in Penonomé speaks Spanish, reflecting the national language of Panama.
Penonomé is home to various indigenous groups, including Ngäbe-Buglé, who maintain their cultural identities and languages.
A significant demographic in Penonomé, descendants of African slaves, contributing to the cultural diversity of the region.
The mestizo population, a mix of European and indigenous ancestry, forms a considerable part of the community.
There are small immigrant populations from various countries, contributing to the multicultural fabric of Penonomé.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is one of the most popular sports in Penonomé, with local leagues and a strong following among youth and adults.
Soccer is widely played and followed in Penonomé, with numerous informal games and local tournaments taking place.
Basketball has a growing popularity in Penonomé, especially among younger demographics, with local courts available for play.
Volleyball is a popular recreational sport in Penonomé, often played on beaches or in community centers.
Track and field events are promoted in schools, with students participating in various competitions throughout the year.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Penonomé.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Penonomé's traditional cuisine heavily features seafood and meat, many restaurants and cafes, such as El Fogón de Calí and Café El Buen Sabor, offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes like plantain ceviche, vegetable empanadas, and fresh fruit smoothies.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can enjoy dishes like grilled fish with steamed vegetables, tropical fruit salads, and rice-based dishes available at most seafood restaurants and eateries within Penonomé.