Santiago

Santiago is the capital of the Veraguas province and one of the most important cities in Panama. It originated as a rural community, and in the last 10 years it has quickly grown to a major center of the country. On the other hand, the agricultural sector is now falling into decline. The tourism infrastructure is developing, and Santiago has all the potential to turn into an important destination due to its strategic position, which gives access to many must-see places of Panama. From Santiago, we recommend you to visit the beach of Santa Catalina, famous among surfers, the town of El Potrero and its hot springs with curative virtues, Coiba Island and its incredible biodiversity. The main attractions in the city of Santiago are the Juan Demostenes Arosemena Park, La Pena Craft Market and the Regional Museum of Veraguas where the historical, cultural and archaeological heritage of the area is exhibited.

Veraguas is the only province in the world with coasts on both the Atlantic and the Pacific oceans. The natural richness of its territory is due to the variety of landscapes, flora and fauna. Tourists will be impressed by the beautiful beaches famous for surf practice, clear lakes and rivers, high waterfalls and tropical forests that hug the feet of tall mountains. Veraguas is also the land of the Guaymi people, known as the fierce warriors who defeated the Spaniards several times. Although they are no longer ferocious, they still prefer to keep distance from the rest of the country. Due to their voluntary isolation, their traditional practices and culture have remained unchanged for centuries.