Getting There and Away

View from helicopter November 2014 of the town of Boquete, Panama
FranHogan, Wikimedia Commons

Boquete itself does not have major transport hubs like an international airport or train station. The nearest primary transport hub is Enrique Malek International Airport (DAV) in David, which handles domestic flights, along with the main bus terminal in David.

From Panama City to David (closest city to Boquete):

  • Flights:: Fly from Tocumen International Airport (PTY) or Albrook "Marcos A. Gelabert" International Airport (PAC) to Enrique Malek International Airport (DAV) in David. The flight takes less than an hour. Airlines like Copa Airlines and Air Panama operate these routes, with prices ranging from approximately $54-$115 one-way. Budget airlines like Wingo may offer flights from around $30.
  • Buses:: Take a bus from Panama City's Albrook Bus Terminal to David. The journey typically takes 6.5 to 8 hours and costs between $15-$24 per person. Buses usually depart hourly from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM, with some express overnight options.
  • Private Transfers:: Private transfer services are available from Panama City to Boquete, with costs potentially starting around $507. Minivan transfers can be found for approximately $87.

From David to Boquete:

  • Local Buses:: "Chicken buses" or larger air-conditioned coaches regularly depart from David's bus station to Boquete Central Park. The ride takes approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour 20 minutes and costs between $1.75-$2.25. Buses typically run hourly from 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM. If arriving at David Airport, a taxi to the bus station costs around $10.
  • Taxis/Uber:: A taxi from David Airport to Boquete costs around $30-$45. Uber services from David to Boquete are approximately $16-$20 and take 40-50 minutes.
  • Private Pickups/Shuttles:: Private pickups can be arranged from David Airport to Boquete for about $40 for 1-2 people, taking 45-50 minutes. Private shuttle companies also offer transfers starting from $15 per person, taking about an hour.

From Bocas del Toro to Boquete:

  • Shuttles:: Shuttle companies offer daily transport. The trip, including a water taxi, takes about 4 hours. Prices for shared shuttles like Hola Panama are around $30-$35 per person. Private transport from Almirante to Boquete can be arranged for approximately $90 per person (minimum 2 people).

Car Rental:

Car rentals are available in Panama City (including at Tocumen International Airport) and David (Enrique Malek International Airport). Daily rates for car rentals in Boquete can start from $2-$7, though average rates vary from $7 to $23.92.