There is no airport lounge in Las Margaritas. Here is what to do when you land in Panama and the map leads you into the Chiriquí highlands.
The Reality of the Route
Let’s be blunt: if you are looking for a leather chair, a complimentary glass of sparkling wine, and a quiet corner to work on your laptop in Las Margaritas, you are looking in the wrong place. Las Margaritas is a small city in the Chiriquí Province of western Panama. It is not a major international hub. It does not have a commercial airport with international lounges. The nearest major air gateway is typically Panama City (Tocumen International Airport) or, for some regional flights, David (David Airport, located in the neighboring province of Chiriquí).
The journey from the coast to the highlands is the real story here. This is a road trip. The drive from David to Las Margaritas winds through the Panamanian highlands, a landscape defined by coffee plantations, steep green hills, and a cooler, thinner air that feels worlds away from the humid lowlands. If you are traveling to Las Margaritas, you are likely doing so for the scenery, the coffee culture, or as a stopover on the route to the border with Costa Rica. You are there to move, to eat, and to breathe.
What to Do When You Arrive
Since there is no airport lounge to hide in, your first few hours in Las Margaritas are about settling into the rhythm of the town. The city sits at a higher elevation than the coastal cities, which means the temperature is noticeably cooler. In the autumn months, the air is crisp in the mornings and warm in the afternoons.
The best "lounge" in Las Margaritas is a terrace at a local café. While I cannot name specific establishments without verified data, the town center is lined with small cafés and restaurants that serve as the social hub of the city. These are places where the coffee is strong, the conversation is local, and the pace is slower. If you have a long layover or a late arrival, finding a spot with a view of the surrounding hills is the most honest way to rest. The coffee here is a regional staple. Chiriquí is one of Panama’s premier coffee-growing regions. The beans are typically washed, producing a cup that is clean, bright, and less bitter than the robusta blends found in the lowlands. Order a café con leche and sit for an hour. It costs a fraction of what a lounge access pass would cost in Panama City, and the view is free.
The Road, Not the Runway
Travelers often underestimate the logistics of getting to Las Margaritas. If you are flying into David, the drive to Las Margaritas is a scenic but winding route. The roads are paved, but they are mountain roads. Curves are tight, and the elevation changes are significant. If you are renting a car, take it slow. The scenery is the reward: terraced coffee fields, lush vegetation, and the occasional view of the Pacific coast in the distance on a clear day.
If you are not driving, public transport is the norm. Buses connect David to Las Margaritas regularly. The journey is affordable and offers a more immersive look at the rural landscape. The bus stations in these smaller Panamanian cities are functional, not luxurious. Expect a simple waiting area, local vendors selling snacks, and a steady stream of passengers. It is a reliable way to move, even if you should not expect comfort. The key is to check schedules in advance, as frequencies can vary by day of the week. Do not assume there is a 24-hour service. Plan your arrival to coincide with a bus departure, or arrange a local taxi if you are traveling in a group.
Eating in the Highlands
Food in Las Margaritas centers on sustenance and local tradition. The cuisine here reflects the highland lifestyle: hearty, simple, and rooted in local ingredients.
- Coffee: This is the star. The coffee is an identity for the region. Taste the difference between the highland beans and the lowland varieties. The acidity is distinct, with notes of fruit and nuttiness that you will not find in a generic chain café.
- Local Dishes: Expect dishes like arroz con pollo (rice with chicken), patacones (fried green plantains), and ensalada (salad). The ingredients are fresh, often sourced from local farms. The flavor profile is savory and comforting.
- Snacks: Street food and small eateries offer quick bites. Look for empanadas or tostones. These are affordable, filling, and made with care.
The food scene focuses on feeding you well. The people who cook here have been doing it for generations. They do not need your Instagram. They need you to appreciate the simplicity of a well-cooked meal in a place where the air is clean and the pace is slow.
When to Go and Practical Tips
Las Margaritas is a year-round destination, but the autumn season (September to November) offers a particular charm. The rains are tapering off, the landscape is lush and green, and the crowds are thinner than in the peak dry season.
Holidays to Note:
- Independence Day (November 28): This is a major national holiday in Panama. Expect higher demand for lodging and transport in the days leading up to and during the holiday. If you are traveling around this date, book your accommodation and transport well in advance. Prices may surge, and popular spots will be crowded.
- Mother’s Day (December 8): A significant family holiday. Local restaurants and shops may be busier, and family-oriented activities will be in high demand.
- Christmas and New Year (December 25 – January 1): The highlands are a popular destination for Panamanians escaping the heat of the coast. This is the peak season for tourism in the region. Book early, expect higher prices, and be prepared for a livelier, more festive atmosphere.
Practical Advice:
- Money: Carry cash. While some larger businesses may accept cards, small eateries and local vendors often prefer cash. The Panamanian currency is the Balboa, which is pegged 1:1 to the US Dollar. US dollars are widely accepted.
- Connectivity: Internet speeds in smaller cities can be variable. If you need to work, check the connectivity at your accommodation in advance.
- Safety: Las Margaritas is generally safe for travelers. Standard precautions apply: keep your valuables secure, be aware of your surroundings, and avoid walking alone in isolated areas at night.
FAQ
Is there an airport in Las Margaritas? No. Las Margaritas does not have a commercial airport. The nearest airports are in David (regional) and Panama City (international). You will need to travel by road to reach Las Margaritas.
How do I get from David to Las Margaritas? The most common methods are by rental car or public bus. The drive takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. Buses run regularly, but schedules can vary, so it is best to check locally or with a travel agent in David.
What is the best time to visit? The dry season (December to April) is the most popular time for travel due to the pleasant weather. However, the autumn months (September to November) offer lush green landscapes and fewer crowds, making it a great time for travelers who prefer a quieter experience.