An informative blog about travel and gastronomy
Veraguas: The Only Place in Panama with Coasts on Two Oceans
Overview
Veraguas is one of the ten provinces of Panama, located in the central-west of the country. It is the only Panamanian province that has coasts on both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. With an area of more than 10,000 square kilometers, Veraguas is known for its geographic diversity, which includes mountains, valleys, rivers, beaches and national parks.
Tourist Attractions
Veraguas offers a variety of tourist attractions that attract visitors from all over the world. Some of the most notable ones include:
Coiba National Park
This park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to a large number of species of flora and fauna, many of which are found nowhere else in the world. The park is also popular with divers due to its coral reefs and abundant marine life.
Santa Fe
This small town in the mountains is known for its cool climate and beautiful landscapes. Visitors can enjoy hiking, bird watching, and visits to local coffee plantations.
Santiago
As the capital of the province, Santiago offers a mix of old and new. Visitors can explore the old town, with its colonial buildings and cathedral, or enjoy the city's vibrant nightlife and food scene.
Beaches
Veraguas has some of the most beautiful beaches in Panama, many of which are practically deserted. The beaches of Torio and Malena are particularly popular withsurfers.
Culture and Traditions
Veraguas is known for its rich cultural traditions, including music, dance and crafts. Visitors can experience these traditions at local festivals such as the Marjoram Festival in Guararé and the Las Tablas Carnival.
Gastronomy
The gastronomy of Veraguas is a mix of indigenous, Spanish and Afro-Caribbean influences. Typical dishes include sancocho, a chicken and vegetable soup, and fried fish with patacones (fried plantains).
Gastronomic products of Veraguas
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El Sancocho
Sancocho is a traditional Panamanian soup that is served throughout the country, but is especially popular in Veraguas. This dish consists of chicken soup with yams, corn, cilantro and other local ingredients. It is known for its robust flavor and is often served as a hangover remedy.
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El Tamale de Olla
Tamale de Olla is a traditional Veraguas dish that is served on special occasions. This dish consists of a corn dough filled with pork, chicken or fish, wrapped in banana leaves and steamed. Tamale de Olla is known for its rich flavor and smooth texture.
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El Pescao Frito
Veraguas, being a province with access to the sea, offers a wide variety of fresh fish and seafood. Pescao Frito is a popular dish consisting of fresh fish, often sea bass, that is seasoned, breaded and fried until crispy. It is served with patacones (fried green plantains) and a variety of local sauces.
Featured gastronomic places in Veraguas
From haute cuisine restaurants to traditional taverns, Veraguas offers a wide variety of places to enjoy its rich cuisine. Below we present some of the most notable ones:
El Trapiche Restaurant in Veraguas
Located in the heart of Veraguas, El Trapiche Restaurant is famous for its authentic Panamanian cuisine. Here you can taste traditional dishes such as sancocho, tamale pot and ropavievieja. In addition, the warm atmosphere and friendly service make this place a perfect option to enjoy an unforgettable meal.
Tavern La Tapa del Coco
If you are looking for a place with charm and good prices, the Taberna La Tapa del Coco is an excellent option. This cozy establishment offers a wide variety of tapas and typical Panamanian dishes, such as patacones, ceviche and arroz con pollo. In addition, its extensive wine list will allow you to pair your favorite dishes with the best selection of Panamanian wines.
Restaurante La Huerta
Known for its rustic atmosphere and delicious food, La Huerta Restaurant is another of the must-see places in Veraguas. Here you can enjoy dishes such as steak with onions, Veracruz-style fish and octopus salad, all prepared with fresh and local ingredients. Plus, its friendly staff and excellent service will make you feel at home.
Tavern El Fogón de la Abuela
La Taberna El Fogón de la Abuela is a place full of history and tradition. Here you can enjoy a wide variety of typical dishes from the region, such as tripe, seafood soup and rice with pigeon pea. In addition, its cozy atmosphere and excellent service make this place an ideal option to enjoy the authentic gastronomy of Veraguas.
Sports Activities in Veraguas
Surf
Veraguas is known for its excellent waves for surfing. Santa Catalina is one of the most popular places to practice this sport, with waves that attract surfers from all over the world.
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Hiking
The province of Veraguas offers a variety of trails to explore. The Santa Fe National Park is one ofPopular destination for hiking lovers, with routes through tropical forests and mountains.
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Diving
Coiba National Park, located in Veraguas, is a world-class diving site. Visitors can explore coral reefs, underwater caves and observe a variety of marine life, including turtles, rays and sharks.
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Sport Fishing
Veraguas is a popular destination for sport fishing, especially on Coiba Island. Visitors can fish for a variety of species, including marlin, tuna and dorado.
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Places near Veraguas
If you are in Veraguas and want to explore a little more, here are some nearby cities and towns that offer unique tourist and gastronomic experiences:
JourneyGourmet
October 26, 2023
Panama
