The Azuero Peninsula Cultural Museum is a must-visit spot for a cultural immersion experience in Chitre. It showcases the diverse traditions, costumes, and architecture of Panama's Azuero Peninsula region. You can watch live cultural performances and even try on traditional costumes.
Be amazed by the unique landscape of Sarigua National Park, often referred to as Panama's "desert". This park provides an opportunity to glimpse pre-Hispanic hunting and gathering practices through archaeological remains. The contrast between the barren terrain and the refreshing blue sky is a sight to behold.
La Arena Church is a colonial gem, recognized as one of the oldest churches in Herrera Province. It features an attractive and rare carved wooden altar, ornamental domes, and a stunning brick façade. Visitors can witness a mixture of religious and cultural traditions represented in its architecture and design.
Iguana Island is an immaculate isle located in the Gulf of Panama. The island is accessible only by boat, and once there, visitors can watch giant lizards that gave the island its name. Iguana Island offers clear water and white sand beaches for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling to experience lesser-known marine life.
San Blas Islands are an archipelago of islands located off the East Coast of Panama. San Blas is home to the Guna people that make unique handcrafted textiles called Molas, which feature highly detailed designs and shapes. A visit to the San Blas Molas Atelier is a great opportunity to get some molas or other traditional Guna crafts.
The San Juan Bautista Church is a historical landmark located in the small town of Ocú. It was built in the late 16th century and displays ornate stonework, religious art, and high ceilings made of tropical hardwood. The church has been a symbol of the town's faith and traditions throughout history.
Located on the Pacific Coast of Panama, Playa Venao offers perfect waves for surfing, a shaded area for relaxing, and stunning views of the coastline. This beach is a perfect way to unwind and chill after days of touring around Chitre.
Travelers can take a combination of buses, taxis, and boats for inter-city and inter-island trips in Panama. Domestic flights to Panama from other Central American countries are also available, and the international airport in Panama City is best for international connections.
Travel time and costs vary depending on the chosen mode of transportation. A one-way bus ride between cities can cost between USD 4 and USD 15, depending on the distance. Taxis are relatively inexpensive and charge around USD 3 per km.
If you have an extra day or two, visit the Chitre Municipal Market to find local handicrafts, arts, and souvenirs, or visit one of the many rural towns within Herrera Province. If there is limited time, I would recommend skipping Iguana Island or Playa Venao, as they are farther out in waters than the other sites.
Panama's main airport for international flights is Tocumen International Airport (PTY), which is located about 6 km east of Panama City. Scarlett Martinez International Airport (RIH) is the nearest airport to Chitre and is located approximately 124 km from town. It mainly serves domestic flights from around the country but offers some international routes on select days.