Santiago

On the way to Costa Rica from Panama City, people hitting the road tend to make a small stopover during the long drive on the Pan American highway. Santiago de Veraguas (also known as Santiago) is the perfect resting place. Santiago is the capital of Veraguas, within the Republic of Panama. Veraguas is the only place in the world with coasts on the Atlantic and the Pacific oceans.

The land is rich due to the variability of landscapes, flora and fauna. In this territory, tourists are going to be impressed by the pretty beaches known for surfing. Other bodies of water include lakes, rivers, and waterfalls. The lush green tropical forests that sit by the feet of the mountains are serene. Historically speaking, Veraguas is known as the land of the Guaymi people, referred to as the fierce warriors who won against the Spaniards. Due to their reluctance to engage with the outside world, the traditions, heritage, and culture of the Guaymi have remained unchanged.

Location

Santiago is located in the countryside next to the Pan American Highway. The geographical neighborhood is bounded on the north by the San Francisco District, on the south by the District of Montijo, the District of Atalaya in the east, and in the west, by the District of Los Angeles Mesa.

Nearby Cities

Santiago District comprises the subsequent townships: Santiago, La Colorada, La Peña, and La Raya de Santa María.

Places to Visit Near Santiago de Veraguas

Santiago’s location is idyllic and it provides access to many must-visit places in the Republic of Panama. Currently, development is pervading slowly in this region so the tourism infrastructure is building up.

Santa Catalina Beach

Known for its fishing, this beach has much more to offer. Surfing is one of the famous activities. It provides the relaxed, chill vibe one craves at any beach. The best time to visit for surfing is between the months of April and October. This beach is ideal for beginners who love to surf.
The town of El Potrero is avowed for its hot springs. A small town with a population of nearly two thousand offers an environment of solitude for those who love less crowded places.
Coiba Island is home to rare species like the Howler Monkey and the spine tail; Coiba National park encompasses coral reefs, islands, and beaches. UNESCO has recognized this place as a World Heritage Site. It has over five hundred species of fish.

Within Santiago de Veraguas, there is a lot of site seeing to be done as it has a rich history. Several amenities are provided like accommodation, food, parking, malls, etc. Take a look at these venues inside the city of Santiago de Veraguas:

Ceramica La Pena holds a great value for its craft market. Pots and sculptures are available. Many times, the pots are made on site and sold to customers.
Juan Demostenes, Arosemena Park
Reserva La Yeguda Park
Iglesia de San Francisco de la Montana is famous for the church and the artistic work.
Playa Santa Catalina is great for taking a lovely walk.
Parque Acuatico Italia Guadalupe Panama has an amusement park with fun-filled water activities.
Torio Beach is less crowded and beautiful.
For kids, Santiago Mall has a few stores for fast food, cheap clothing, etc. Cathedral de Santiago Apostol is a holy place belonging to the Catholic Church.
Montijo’s Bay
Supermercado (known as ‘Supermarket’ in English)

Accommodation

There are plenty of rooms in hotels and apartments. The best stay is at Mykonos Hotel and Convention Center, Hotel Gran David. For a more economic stay, there are places like Travelers Hostel, Hostal Brisas Calobrenas, and Mi Casa Hostal El Paraiso.

Food

Panamanian cuisine comes in wide variety. The food is in alignment with the diverse culture. Panamanians are a combination of Latinos, Afro-Antilleans, Asian, and indigenous. They have their own spice mixtures and cooking methods. Sitio Brujo is a decent dining restaurant which includes a pub. Breakfast at Stefano’s is tasty.

The variety of food includes a diet consisting of seafood, coconut, and veggies. Cooking over a fire is still in practice. Immigrants have added spicy flavor to the traditional cooking. Fried foods are mainstream in Panama. The must-try dish is Sancocho de Gallina Panameño (also known as the national dish)

Balboa Bee, coconut cookies, and sweet corn drink are a feast for your mouth.

Here are a Few Places for Shopping

Some of the attractive shopping areas of Santiago are The Santiago Mall, Supermercado, Atrio Mall, and Multiplaza Pacific.

How To Reach

By plane: Santiago has no commercial flights. Ruben Cantú Airport is merely employed by private flights with small planes or helicopters.

By bus: The cheapest way to get from Panama City to Santiago is to take a bus via Pocri, which costs $7-10 and takes around five hours. Every thirty minutes, a direct bus from the city arrives at the Santiago Terminal. Also, you’ll find buses to different townships in the province of Veraguas, such as Santa Fe, Soná, Atalaya, Cañazas, San Francisco, Mariato, Puerto Mutis, as well as the cities of Chitre, Aguadulce, and David.

By car: It takes about three to three and a half hours by car from Panama City to Santiago. Santiago to and from David takes two hours and also its one of the quickest means of transport.

Important Tips Before You Visit Santiago:

On July 25^th, there is an annual festival celebrated by the city’s patron saint with pilgrimages, traditions, and culture.
The vernacular being Spanish, there is little chance of people speaking English. Memorizing a few important Spanish lines may come handy.
The best time to visit Santiago de Veraguas is from December to March to enjoy winter activities.
Heavy rains are expected in the month of October.
Temperature varies from 71 °F to 94 °F.
Plan your stay and dine wisely, according to your budget.
Blend in by chatting with local residents to get the most out of the trip.

Conclusion

So, what are you waiting for? Create your roadster playlist and hit the road. Also don’t forget to make a stopover at Santiago de Veraguas, which is as beautiful as Amy Santiago herself (#B99 fans will get it!).