Azuero Peninsula Panama

The Azuero Peninsula is the largest peninsula in Panama. A land of traditions and folklore, it has a rich history that dates back to pre-columbian times as well as a remarkably well-intact Spanish culture, which is best observed in the architecture that dominates the region. The eastern part of the peninsula is the most developed, with roads running through the main towns of Chitré, Las Tablas, and Pedasi.

The Azuero towns can provide interesting cultural experiences like the annual Carnaval de Las Tablas, a celebration happening in February. Ornate carnival queens, parades, fireworks, and traditional Panamanian cultural events are a non-stop experience of dancing, music, food, and drinks. But the natural areas along the peninsula are wonderful as well. The east coast beaches are similar to those in central Panama, but are far less developed and crowded.

Things to do in Azuero Peninsula

La Arena Pottery Town
La Arena is only one mile west of Chitre and is known for some of the finest pottery and ceramics in all of Panama. You can shop for colorful and traditional locally produced pots, plates, vases, mugs, and much more!  As you stroll the streets, you might spot artisans working on their art. Also known for its traditional bread, pop into a panaderia (bakery) and sample the pastries, bread, and cookies

Visit San Juan Bautista de Chitré Cathedral
Chitre is near the remnants of an 11,000-year-old civilization, but has a lively history of its own, which can be glimpsed in its churches, museum, and plazas. The San Juan Bautista church is one of the most important tourist and cultural icons on the Peninsula. Striking architecture, an exquisite altar, large paintings and frescoes, figures of saints, and original stained-glass windows have been preserved through several renovations.

Things to do near Azuero Peninsula

Isla Iguana
Located 5 kilometers off the Los Santos Province on Azuero Peninsula, this wildlife refuge is home to many types of coral and species of fish, black and green iguanas, quiet palm-dotted white-sand beaches and turquoise blue waters. This is an idyllic destination for swimming, snorkeling and scuba diving. Humpback whales visit these waters from June to November to mate.

Turtle Watching at Isla de Canas
The Canas Island Wildlife Refuge is Panama’s most important nesting site for sea turtles along the Pacific Coast. Every year, hundreds of sea turtles come to nest on the beach and lay their eggs. It is visited by five species of sea turtles: the Olive Ridley, Pacific green, Loggerhead, Leatherback, and Hawksbill.

Surfing in Playa Venao
The jungle meets the ocean in Playa Venao, a picturesque town located on the Pacific coastline of the Azuero Peninsula. This scenic destination boasts black sand beaches, world-class surfing and a distinct lack of crowds. Surfers from all over the world come here to catch the perfect wave and partake in the active surf culture. Board rentals and surf lessons are offered at most of the hotels and surf shops that dot the beach.

Location and Map

The best way to get to Azuero Peninsula is to fly from Panama City. It takes 1 hour and 41 minutes, a distance of 437 km. Air Panama offers regularly scheduled flights from Panama City to Pedasí on Wednesday, Friday and Sunday afternoons.