Chitre, Panama Travel Guide

Discover Chitré, the cultural heart of Panama's Azuero Peninsula, where colonial charm meets vibrant festivals and rich traditions.

Nestled in the Azuero Peninsula, Chitré is a charming city known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant festivals. As the capital of Herrera Province, it serves as a bustling hub for both locals and visitors. The city is famous for its colonial architecture, which gives it a timeless appeal. Wandering through the streets, you will find beautifully preserved buildings, colorful murals, and lively public squares that offer a glimpse into the past. Chitré is also a gateway to Panama’s traditional celebrations. Visitors can experience the authentic Panamanian spirit during events like the Corpus Christi festival, where traditional dances, music, and costumes bring the city to life. These festivals are a feast for the senses and provide a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in local culture. The city's vibrant markets are another highlight. The Mercado Público de Chitré offers a variety of local products, from fresh produce to handcrafted goods. Here, you can taste local delicacies and interact with friendly vendors who are always eager to share stories about their crafts. Chitré is also known for its proximity to beautiful natural attractions such as the Sarigua National Park, making it an ideal destination for both cultural enthusiasts and nature lovers.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Chitre.

Visit during the Corpus Christi festival to experience traditional Panamanian dances and music.
Explore the Mercado Público de Chitré early in the morning for the freshest produce and unique handcrafted goods.
Take a day trip to Sarigua National Park for stunning landscapes and a glimpse of Panama's natural beauty.
Wear comfortable shoes as the best way to explore Chitré is on foot, especially the historic downtown area.
Learn a few basic Spanish phrases; while many locals are friendly, they may not speak English fluently.

Explore Chitre: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Chitre

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Belisario Porras Park

Explore the serene beauty of Belisario Porras Park in Las Tablas - a perfect blend of nature, culture, and community spirit.

4.5

Hotel Versalles

Discover the perfect blend of comfort and culture at Hotel Versalles, your gateway to exploring Chitré, Panamá's vibrant heritage and attractions.

4.2

Chorro Las Mozas

Experience the natural beauty of Chorro Las Mozas, a stunning waterfall in Anton Valley, Coclé Province, where adventure meets serenity.

4.5

Casino Azuero

Discover the thrills of gaming, dining, and entertainment at Casino Azuero in Chitre, a top tourist attraction in Herrera Province, Panama.

4.3

Best landmarks in Chitre

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Gran Hotel Azuero

Discover luxury and comfort at Gran Hotel Azuero in Chitré, where modern amenities meet the charm of Herrera Province.

4.5

Monumento a Goethals

Explore the Monumento a Goethals in Panama City: A stunning tribute to engineering excellence and a symbol of Panama's rich history.

4.8

Independence Square

Explore Independence Square in Panama City - a vibrant park that embodies the heart of Panama's history and culture, perfect for leisurely strolls and local events.

4.7

Arco Chato

Explore Arco Chato, a stunning historical landmark in Panama City, and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage and vibrant local atmosphere.

4.7

Best restaurants in Chitre

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Salsa y Carbón Restaurante

Discover authentic Panamanian cuisine at Salsa y Carbón Restaurante in Chitré – a culinary gem where tradition meets flavor.

4.4

Cevichería Tío Caimán

Discover fresh ceviche and vibrant flavors at Cevichería Tío Caimán in Chitré – an unmissable culinary experience in Panama.

4.2

Restaurante Buenísimo

Discover authentic Panamanian flavors at Restaurante Buenísimo in Chitré, where every meal is a celebration of local cuisine.

4.3

Restaurante La Frankeria

Experience affordable gourmet flavors at Restaurante La Frankeria in Chitre - where fast food meets delightful Panamanian cuisine.

4.6

Best bars in Chitre

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Club 1 de Enero

Discover the lively spirit of Chitre at Club 1 de Enero, where affordable drinks and a vibrant atmosphere await every traveler.

4.1

zonachill

Experience the vibrant flavors of Herrera Province at Zonachill, where every meal is a celebration of local culinary traditions and warm hospitality.

4.3

El Torcal

Discover the vibrant nightlife at El Torcal bar in Chitre, featuring a lively atmosphere and a diverse drink menu to suit every taste.

3.9

Club BACODEM

Discover the lively Club BACODEM in Chitré, a hotspot for locals and tourists to enjoy drinks, music, and vibrant nightlife amidst the beauty of Herrera Province.

3.8

Best nightclubs in Chitre

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Blue Moon Bar Karaoke

Experience the ultimate karaoke night at Blue Moon Bar, where music, drinks, and fun come together in La Arena, Herrera Province.

4.5

Casino Azuero

Discover the excitement of Casino Azuero, a top entertainment destination in Chitre with gaming, dining, and live shows for an unforgettable night.

4.3

Disco Araña Sin Rival

Discover the vibrant nightlife at Disco Araña Sin Rival in Chitré, where great music, drinks, and unforgettable experiences await.

4.5

ROBERT SALON

Discover serenity and sophistication at Robert Salon, the ultimate lounge experience in Herrera Province, perfect for tourists seeking relaxation.

4.8

Best shops in Chitre

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El Campeón | Chitré

Explore the vibrant world of fashion and local culture at El Campeón, the premier department store in Chitré, Panama.

4.4

Mall Paseo Central • Chitré

Discover the vibrant Mall Paseo Central in Chitré, where shopping, dining, and entertainment blend seamlessly in a delightful atmosphere.

4.4

Spiegel | Chitré

Discover Spiegel in Chitré, Panama – your one-stop destination for high-quality building materials and exceptional customer service.

4.4

Auto Centro | Chitré

Discover Auto Centro in Chitré - your ultimate destination for auto parts, repairs, and accessories in Herrera Province.

4.4

Explore Chitre on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Chitre, mapped for you.

Chitre Essentials

Chitre is located in the Herrera Province of Panama. The nearest international airport is Tocumen International Airport in Panama City, approximately 250 kilometers away. From Panama City, you can take a domestic flight to Chitre's Alonso Valderrama Airport, which is a short 45-minute journey. Alternatively, you can travel by bus or car; the drive from Panama City to Chitre takes around 3.5 to 4 hours via the Pan-American Highway.
Chitre is a relatively small city, and many attractions are accessible on foot. For longer distances, taxis are readily available and reasonably priced. Public buses operate within the city and connect to nearby towns. For greater flexibility, car rentals are also an option, allowing you to explore the surrounding areas at your own pace.
The official currency in Panama is the Balboa (PAB), which is pegged to the U.S. Dollar (USD), and both are used interchangeably. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are available throughout Chitre, but it is advisable to carry some cash for small purchases or in rural areas where card payment may not be accepted.
Chitre is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any place, it is essential to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and be cautious with your belongings in crowded places. While Chitre does not have specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, it is always best to remain vigilant and aware of your surroundings.
In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Chitre has local police stations and medical facilities, including the Gustavo Nelson Collado Hospital. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available in the city for minor health issues, where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress comfortably and modestly. Light, breathable clothing is recommended due to the tropical climate. Avoid overly revealing clothing, especially in religious or formal settings. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting churches, dress modestly and behave respectfully. Public Transport: Do be courteous and offer your seat to elderly passengers. Avoid loud conversations and eating on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'buenos días' or 'buenas tardes'. A handshake is common when meeting someone for the first time. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it may be considered impolite.
To experience Chitre like a local, visit the central market (Mercado Público de Chitre) where you can buy fresh produce and local goods. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and willing to share stories about their culture and traditions. Don't miss the annual Azuero International Fair, a significant cultural event showcasing local crafts, food, and entertainment. For a unique experience, take a trip to nearby La Arena, known for its traditional pottery and artisanal bread.

When is the best time to visit Chitre?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Chitre

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Chitre. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHola
  [oh-lah]
- GoodbyeAdiós
  [ah-dee-ohs]
- YesSí
  [see]
- NoNo
  [noh]
- Please/You're welcomePor favor/De nada
  [pohr fah-vohr/deh nah-dah]
- Thank youGracias
  [grah-see-ahs]
- Excuse me/SorryPerdón/Lo siento
  [pehr-dohn/loh see-ehn-toh]
- How are you?¿Cómo estás?
  [koh-moh ehs-tahs]
- Fine. And you?Bien. ¿Y tú?
  [byehn. ee too]
- Do you speak English?¿Hablas inglés?
  [ah-blahs een-glehs]
- I don't understandNo entiendo
  [noh ehn-tyehn-doh]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMe gustaría ver el menú, por favor
  [meh goo-stah-ree-ah vehr ehl meh-noo, pohr fah-vohr]
- I don't eat meatNo como carne
  [noh koh-moh kahr-neh]
- Cheers!¡Salud!
  [sah-lood]
- I would like to pay, pleaseMe gustaría pagar, por favor
  [meh goo-stah-ree-ah pah-gahr, pohr fah-vohr]
- Help!¡Ayuda!
  [ah-yoo-dah]
- Go away!¡Vete!
  [veh-teh]
- Call the Police!¡Llama a la Policía!
  [yah-mah ah lah poh-lee-see-ah]
- Call a doctor!¡Llama a un médico!
  [yah-mah ah oon meh-dee-koh]
- I'm lostEstoy perdido
  [ehs-toy pehr-dee-doh]
- I'm illEstoy enfermo
  [ehs-toy ehn-fehr-moh]
- I'd like to buy...Me gustaría comprar...
  [meh goo-stah-ree-ah kohm-prahr...]
- I'm just lookingSolo estoy mirando
  [soh-loh ehs-toy mee-rahn-doh]
- How much is it?¿Cuánto cuesta?
  [kwan-toh kwehs-tah]
- That's too expensiveEso es demasiado caro
  [eh-soh ehs deh-mah-see-ah-doh kah-roh]
- Can you lower the price?¿Puedes rebajar el precio?
  [pweh-dehs reh-bah-hahr ehl pree-syoh]
- What time is it?¿Qué hora es?
  [keh oh-rah ehs]
- It's one o'clockEs la una
  [ehs lah oo-nah]
- Half past (10)Las diez y media
  [lahs dyehs ee meh-dee-ah]
- MorningMañana
  [mah-nyah-nah]
- AfternoonTarde
  [tahr-deh]
- EveningNoche
  [noh-cheh]
- YesterdayAyer
  [ah-yehr]
- TodayHoy
  [oy]
- TomorrowMañana
  [mah-nyah-nah]
- 1Uno
  [oo-noh]
- 2Dos
  [dohs]
- 3Tres
  [trehs]
- 4Cuatro
  [kwah-troh]
- 5Cinco
  [seen-koh]
- 6Seis
  [seys]
- 7Siete
  [syeh-teh]
- 8Ocho
  [oh-choh]
- 9Nueve
  [nweh-veh]
- 10Diez
  [dyehs]
- Where's a/the...?¿Dónde está...?
  [dohn-deh ehs-tah]
- What's the address?¿Cuál es la dirección?
  [kwal ehs lah dee-rehk-syohn]
- Can you show me (on the map)?¿Puedes mostrarme (en el mapa)?
  [pweh-dehs mohs-trar-meh (ehn ehl mah-pah)]
- When's the next (bus)?¿Cuándo es el próximo (autobús)?
  [kwan-doh ehs ehl proh-ksee-moh (ow-toh-boos)]
- A ticket (to ....)Un boleto (a ...)
  [oon boh-leh-toh (ah ...)]

History of Chitre

Chitré, the capital of the Herrera Province in Panama, was founded on October 19, 1848. It was established by a group of settlers led by Juan Elias Mora. The city was strategically located near the La Villa River, which provided essential resources and facilitated trade and communication with other regions.
During the colonial period, Chitré became an important hub for Spanish settlers. The city’s architecture and urban layout reflect Spanish colonial influence, which can still be seen in many of its historic buildings and churches, such as the Parroquia San Juan Bautista. The colonial era also saw the establishment of Chitré as a center for agricultural and cattle farming activities.
Chitré played a significant role in Panama’s journey towards independence from Spain, which was achieved on November 28, 1821. The city’s residents were actively involved in nationalist movements that sought to establish a distinct Panamanian identity. The celebrations of national holidays in Chitré are particularly vibrant, showcasing traditional music, dance, and attire that reflect the city’s patriotic spirit.
Throughout the 20th century, Chitré experienced significant economic growth, becoming a commercial and industrial hub in the Azuero Peninsula. The city’s economy diversified with the introduction of manufacturing, retail, and service industries. Chitré’s central location and well-developed infrastructure, including the Chitré Airport, have made it a key economic center in Panama.
Chitré is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant festivals. One of the most significant is the Festival de la Mejorana, celebrated in nearby Guararé, which showcases traditional Panamanian folk music, dances, and attire. The city also celebrates Carnival with grand parades, elaborate costumes, and lively music, attracting visitors from all over the country and beyond.
Chitré is home to several historic landmarks that offer a glimpse into its past. The Museo de Herrera, located in a colonial-era building, houses artifacts and exhibits related to the region’s history and culture. The Parroquia San Juan Bautista, with its impressive baroque architecture, stands as a testament to the city’s colonial heritage and religious significance.