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Panama City to Boquete: flights, buses and driving

How to get from Panama City to Boquete: flights to David, the Albrook bus, driving times, and the last stretch from David up to Boquete.

Started by Boquete Bonanza · Last checked 31 October 2026
Aerial view of Boquete and the Caldera river valley
Photo: FranHogan / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
The short answer

Fly to David in about an hour, or take a bus from Albrook terminal in about 6½–7 hours. From David it is 49 km up to Boquete by bus or taxi. Driving all the way takes about 6½ hours to David, plus 40–60 minutes to Boquete.

Fly to David

Two airlines fly to David’s Enrique Malek airport (DAV): Air Panama from Albrook airport in Panama City, taking about an hour, and Copa from Tocumen international airport (PTY), taking about 1 hour 17 minutes. Fares vary widely, so compare on the airlines’ own sites. The airport is about 5 km south of David.

Bus from Albrook

Long-distance buses to David leave from the Albrook terminal in Panama City, with several companies and night buses. The trip takes about 6½–7 hours. Fares in recent sources range from about $15 to $22, so confirm at the terminal.

David to Boquete

The road from David to Boquete is 49 km. Buses run frequently, take 40–60 minutes and cost about $2. A taxi is quicker door to door.

See also Getting around Boquete without a car

Driving

Panama City to David is about 440 km, roughly 6½ hours by car, then 40–60 minutes on to Boquete.

Questions people ask

What is the fastest way from Panama City to Boquete?

Fly to David (about an hour), then take a taxi or bus the last 49 km.

How long is the bus from Panama City to Boquete?

About 6½–7 hours to David from Albrook terminal, then 40–60 minutes to Boquete.

Is there an airport in Boquete?

Not for scheduled flights. Fly to David’s Enrique Malek airport (DAV).

Contributors

Boquete Bonanza (started by)Last checked 31 October 2026
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