Bird watching is one of Boquete’s main attractions with over 900 species of birds present in the area. This is the most accessible region of Chiriqui’s highlands where the beautiful Quetzal bird can be seen thanks to the conservation of the forest and the aguacatillo tree that provides the Quetzal with its favorite fruit.

Just outside the city gate of Valletta lies the Hastings public garden. From here majestic views over Sliema, Floriana, and Manoel Island unfold. The name of the garden comes from the Marquis of Hastings, who was a governor of Malta. He died in 1827 and is buried in the garden.

The event is a fantastic opportunity for visitors from abroad and from Panama to truly appreciate the agricultural importance of Chiriqui. Last year, over 35,000 flowers were displayed at the fair, including orchids from Australia, Japan, the United States, Costa Rica and, of course, Panama. While flowers are the main attraction at the fair, local agricultural produce is also showcased, including potatoes, strawberries, cabbage, and lettuce. The most important of all the produce is the coffee, which is “cupped” or tasted here by local experts. Without a doubt, the Boquete Flower Festival is one of Panama’s most popular rural events, receiving around 100,000 visitors during its ten days, and with the income generated from the fair hovering around the $2 million mark, it is extremely important to the area from an economical point of view.