The Chiriquí highlands, where Santa Rosa is located, are described by most visitors as nothing less than magical. This land of spring-like temperatures offers the visitor unparalleled natural treasures including colorful wildflowers; surreal images such as herds of horses galloping wild in the mist on thoroughbred ranches; pastoral vistas of terraced farmland below majestic mountains; and river waterfalls cascading through their gorges.

Chiriqui lies on the Pacific shore of Panama’s western province bordering Costa Rica.  Paradoxically, Panama’s “summer” months coincide with the coolest time of year in the highlands of Chiriquí, with temperatures often dropping into the upper 4s C (40s F) in some areas.  The well-known picturesque town of Boquete, the “Land of Eternal Spring”, holds the largest flower festival of Central America in January.  In the southern plains, the cities of David and Bugaba celebrate their popular country fairs in mid-march and late January, respectively.  The beach of Las Lajas is the province’s most popular swimming spot.

The province has just about everything, from the casino at the comfortable Gran Hotel Nacional in the capital city of David to deep-sea fishing, and white sand beaches which stretch to infinity. Birdwatchers will find almost 1,000 species.  Distinguished residents include the Resplendant Quetzal who claims Chiriquí as his southernmost abode.

Several transport options are available for the 486 Km (302 mile) journey from Panama City.  Domestic airlines take only about an hour to reach the David international airport.  Traveling via the Pan American Highway affords the opportunity to see something of the central provinces on the way and takes about five or six hours. There are also frequent and comfortable buses from the national bus terminal in Panama City.  Cars can be rented in David.