Chiriqui just earned a major spotlight on the global stage. Condé Nast Traveler, one of the most influential travel publications in the world with millions of monthly readers, has officially named Chiriqui as one of the best places to visit in 2026. For Panama, this kind of recognition is more than flattering – it is economically powerful.
International lists like this shape travel trends. When a destination appears on a platform with such reach, it immediately gains visibility among travelers, digital nomads, tourism investors, and adventure seekers from every corner of the world. Even a single traveler injects substantial capital into the local economy through hotels, restaurants, tours, transportation, and cultural activities. Now imagine 100,000 more tourists discovering the province because of this list. The economic impact becomes almost impossible to quantify.
Tourism is one of Panama’s most sensitive economic engines, and global exposure of this scale can influence employment, small businesses, infrastructure growth, and even cultural exchange. It is the kind of attention that helps communities prosper and encourages sustainable development in regions rich with natural and cultural value.
Read Full Article: cntraveler.com/story/the-best-places-to-go-in-2026
What Makes Chiriqui Stand Out?
Condé Nast Traveler highlighted exactly what those familiar with Chiriqui already know: the province offers a rare mix of natural beauty, adventure, and comfort. Visitors can move from pristine Pacific beaches to lush highlands in less than an hour, making it one of the most diverse regions in Central America.
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Beaches: Boca Chica and Las Lajas continue to attract travelers seeking peaceful tropical escapes far from crowded hotspots.
Explore beaches Chiriqui: https://www.casasolution.com/pacific-beaches-chiriqui-province/ -
Highlands: The Boquete area remains Panama’s iconic mountain destination, known for cool temperatures, scenic hiking, and some of the best coffee on Earth.
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Adventure: From canopy tours to canyon rivers to Panama’s tallest peak, Volcán Barú, the province offers year-round adventure opportunities.
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Strategic Location: Its proximity to Costa Rica adds even more accessibility for regional travelers and expats planning cross-border trips.
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Strong Infrastructure: Roads, airports, hotels, and tourism services in Chiriqui have improved significantly over the years, giving the province the capacity to welcome far more international visitors without losing its natural charm.
How Tourism Growth Impacts Local Communities
Tourism is powerful because its benefits spread quickly. A family-owned restaurant gains new customers. Local guides receive more bookings. Hotels see higher occupancy. Transportation services expand. Artisans sell more of their work. Farmers benefit from restaurants sourcing locally. With more repeat visitors and expats showing interest in the region, the long-term impact multiplies.
The cultural exchange is just as important. Visitors bring new perspectives, new interests, and new connections with local communities. When managed responsibly, tourism uplifts both sides.
A Bright Outlook for Chiriqui
Recognition from Condé Nast Traveler signals that Chiriqui is no longer a hidden gem – it is becoming a top-tier international destination. For Panama, this is an opportunity to continue building a strong, diversified tourism sector that benefits local families and showcases the country’s natural richness.
If you’re interested in exploring life or investment opportunities in Chiriqui – whether beaches, mountains, or something in between – Casa Solution Real Estate is here to guide you with local expertise and a trusted team. Visit us at www.casasolution.com or contact us directly for personalized assistance.
Written on November 16, 2025
