When a local or foreign tourist thinks on places to visit in Panama, it’s very likely that the town of Boquete is among the top three destinations. This tourist destination located in Chiriqui Province offers natural experiences, impressive hotels, a cool mountain climate, coffee farms, and first-class cuisine, among others. A place that serves as a benchmark for tourism development in Panamá, a good reason to have Demetrio Javier Díaz, President of the Boquete Chamber of Commerce and founder of ABOQUETE S.A. as our Special Guest. A highly capable business man with a deep understanding of the district’s potential as well as what is still needed to be developed.
In an exclusive interview with The Visitor – El Visitante, this entrepreneur and founder of the Rancho Nuovo Mundo estate shares his vision of this region and how it can move forward.
What is the current status of the Boquete District in terms of local and international tourism?
“The Boquete District is currently the most visited tourist destination nationwide during both peak and off-peak seasons. This is due to the efforts of the Chamber of Commerce promoting activities that attract visitors year-round. According to data from the Chamber of Commerce, Boquete welcomes approximately 500,000 visitors annually, making it one of the most popular tourist destinations in Panama”.
What projects and policies does Boquete need to enhance its tourism offering?
“Boquete boasts a rich culinary offering, allowing our visitors to enjoy a variety of global flavors in its six districts. However, to continue growing, several projects and policies are required, including:
– A 2,000 seat convention center, which would attract international events and conferences generating more revenue for the local economy.
– A transportation station with a shopping center that would allow residents, both national and foreign, to reach a location where they can learn about the routes available in our district. This would increase commerce and facilitate connectivity between the districts.
– Additional museums telling the different stories of Boquete’s industries, such as agriculture and coffee. For example, a coffee museum could showcase the history and production process of coffee in the region.
– A tramway connecting Boquete and Tierras Altas, which would allow visitors to enjoy panoramic views of the Baru Volcano and both oceans.
– Policies to preserve the Caldera River banks and increase green areas. This could include the creation of public parks and gardens, and the implementation of sustainable practices to protect the environment.
– A law to expand the coffee plantation in Boquete to at least 5,000 hectares of coffee. This could help promote the production of high-quality, sustainable coffee and protect the environment”.
Describe Boquete’s tourism potential and how it can help Chiriqui province attract more visitors.
“The district of Boquete could become the main economic engine of Chiriqui province by developing some of the projects mentioned above. The Baru Volcano is a unique vantage point in the region, from which both oceans can be seen. A tramway connecting Boquete and Tierras Altas could be one of the economic engines of our province, generating income and creating jobs”.
Given the need to not only further develop tourism but also welcome more visitors, how can Boquete keep its position as a sustainable destination with its natural environment, economic, social, and historical heritage?
“In Boquete, we require the Land Management Plan to become a reality; however, it must be dynamic and reviewed at least every five years. This would allow for the evaluation of different trends and the adjustment of policies and projects as needed. It is important to highlight the need to maintain the historic center of Boquete, and in the mountains, ensure that buildings are bioclimatic and in harmony with our surroundings, protecting a large amount of green areas”.
What projects are envisioned for Boquete in the medium- and long-term future?
“One of the most important projects we have as a chamber is Expo Boquete, which will take place from September 26 to 28 and will connect the southern region of Costa Rica, Chiriqui, Bocas del Toro, and the Ngäbe Bugle region. Another important project is to become the first Christmas district in Panama, which we are organizing in association with the Boquete City Hall and the Chamber of Commerce. In the long term, we have the construction of a transportation terminal, which is being evaluated by the three concessionaires operating in Boquete: the ATTT, the Boquete City Hall, and the Chamber of Commerce”.
Photos courtesy: Demetrio Javier Diaz