Hi David- thanks for posting here at the Panama Insider.
Boquete is in the highlands of Chiriquí Province at an elevation of about 3500 feet. The exact elevation depends on which part of the district and the town you’re in, of course. This elevation provides what some consider the ideal climate, namely daytime temperatures ranging from 75 to 85 F. At night the temperature ranges from 60 to 75 F and it can be quite cool.
Because it is surrounded by rainforest Boquete is also quite rainy. During the wet season of May through November rain is frequent, though it may not last all day, but just for a time in the afternoon or evening. In the drier season of December through April the highlands see less rain but may still have sprinkles, cloudy days and occasional rain. So you need to consider the dampness as well as temperature and elevation.
It’s hard to make a recommendation because people react differently to environmental factors. Some people with asthma do better at some elevation while other don’t. The only way to know for sure is to make a visit to the places that interest you most, and if possible at both the dry and rainy times of year, to see how you and your wife feel. One advantage to renting if you do come to Panama is that you can move around to find the place that suits you best.
Be sure to read the pages here about “Where to Live” and you’ll find great insights about the different features of the best locations throughout Panama.
Good luck with your research and please post again if you have more questions.
Linda Card, Chiriquí Correspondent
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