How to visit David, Panama for the first time

City Layout and Districts

David serves as the commercial hub of the Chiriquí Province. Rather than distinct historic districts, think of the city as a grid centered around the central business area. The core is characterized by a mix of commercial plazas, banks, and local markets. To the outskirts, the city transitions quickly into agricultural land and residential suburbs. Most visitors use the city center as a logistical base for excursions to the highlands or the coast.

Arrival and Local Transport

Getting In: Most visitors arrive via Enrique Malek International Airport (DAV). The airport is located close to the city center, making the transfer to central accommodations short.

Getting Around: Once inside the city, the most common form of transport is the taxi. These are readily available and operate on a negotiated or metered basis. For those traveling to surrounding towns or rural areas, shared shuttles and public buses are the primary options, departing from designated terminals in the city.

Common First-Timer Mistakes

• Treating David as a Destination: Many visitors spend too much time in the city center. David is a transit hub; the primary attractions are in the surrounding province.
• Underestimating the Heat: The lowland climate is humid and hot. Plan outdoor activities for early morning and use the midday heat for indoor errands or rest.
• Ignoring Local Logistics: Relying solely on walking for long distances is impractical due to the heat and road layout; use taxis for efficiency.

Suggested First-Trip Structure

For a first visit, prioritize the surrounding geography over the city's urban center:

• Priority 1: The Highlands. Use David as a base to visit Boquete and Volcán for coffee plantations and hiking.
• Priority 2: The Coast. Head west toward the beaches of Chiriquí.
• Secondary: City Exploration. Visit the local markets and central plazas to experience the regional commerce, but allocate less time here than to the natural landscapes.