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Living in Boquete and Altos del Maria are great options for relocating to Panama, especially if you are looking for a cooler climate year-round. Both Boquete and Altos Del Maria are nestled in the mountains of Panama, and offer a unique climate and set of experiences, though each area has its own distinct appeal.
Boquete, often favored for its vibrant expat community and developed infrastructure, offers a charming, small-town feel with easy access to amenities like cafes, shops, supermarkets, and medical facilities. Known for its cooler climate, due to its 1,200 meters altitude (3,900 ft) above sea level, with more rainfall than most other expat communities, Boquete has earned its reputation as a haven for retirees and nature lovers thanks to it’s breathtaking views of Volcan Baru, and lush coffee farms as well as waterfalls, hiking trails and many more activities that are nature based.
On the other hand, Altos del Maria is more tranquil, appealing to those seeking privacy with a closer connection to nature, all the while being under 2 hours from Panama City and the Tocumen International Airport. The beaches and Coronado are only 30 minutes away with access to medical, shops, restaurants, banks, vets and many more amenities. Altos Del Maria is a 1,730 acre exclusive gated community with a focus on larger properties and more seclusion, making it ideal for individuals who prefer a quieter, less tourist-heavy environment, while basking in a cool climate surrounded by vibrant nature. Altos Del Maria sits at 700 meters (2,500 ft) of altitude with other parts that can get even higher. There are 50 Points of Interest scattered around the entire complex such as hiking trails, waterfalls, natural pools, picnic areas, children’s playgrounds and many more.
While both areas share the same stunning mountain backdrop and cool weather, Boquete has a more vibrant community, with a variety of activities and social opportunities, whereas Altos del Maria is more laid-back and offers a more serene lifestyle, perfect for those who prioritize peace and privacy, while keeping proximity to the beaches, Panama City and its International Airport.
The main difference between the two is that Boquete is a developed mountain town with many expats, and Altos Del Maria is a gated, secure complex in the local town of Sora which is 30 minutes to Coronado Beach.
Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on whether you prefer a more social atmosphere, further away from Panama City, or a secluded retreat that is much closer to the beaches of Panama Oeste and closer to Panama City.