High up in the Chiriquí mountain landscape, perched at an impressive height, a truly spectacular experience awaits. Here, when I first stood, the cool mist was dotting my face with glittering droplets, a stark contrast to the humid heat of the seaside town I had left behind. In my hand was a cup of my first coffee from Panama. The moment was as exquisite and unique as the coffee itself. The flavors of this Panamanian Geisha coffee were remarkably different from anything I had experienced before. They played a symphony of flavor on my palate, floral and fruity notes singing harmoniously.
Now, nestled in the urban pulse of New York City, with a cup of that same Panamanian geisha in hand, those memories return. Every sip is a reminder of the enchanting landscapes and the incredibly distinctive coffee produced there. And, each time, it is not only the rich and complex flavors of the Geisha that I taste but also the echo of my trip, the vivid memories of a time when I was immersed in the heart of the coffee land of Panama.
Come and be transported through time and space as you join me in exploring the exotic allure of Panamanian coffee; let’s go through this journey together, one memorable cup at a time.
The Rich History of Panama Coffee
It all began in the early 1800s when coffee plants were first introduced into Panama from neighboring Costa Rica. The pioneers recognized the potential in Panama’s fertile volcanic soil, high altitude, and tropical climate—elements that provided the perfect recipe for coffee cultivation.
Initially, coffee was grown as a secondary crop alongside cacao and tobacco. However, as the taste for coffee blossomed globally, it gradually became the focus of many small-scale farms, transforming Panama’s agricultural landscape. These farmers began to explore the richness of different varieties, including Typica, Caturra, and the now legendary Geisha.
Geisha Coffee
Fast forward to the 1960s, a significant milestone in the Panama coffee timeline. A disease-resistant coffee strain called Geisha was brought from Ethiopia and planted in the lush region of Boquete. Influenced by Panama’s unique terroir, the beans from these plants developed a distinctive flavor profile that created waves in the coffee industry.
It was in 2004 that Panamanian Geisha burst onto the world coffee scene, thanks to the Best of Panama auction. Geisha, a relatively unknown coffee then, amazed the judges with its floral and tropical fruit flavors, earning an unheard-of score. Since then, Panama’s Geisha coffee has become one of the world’s most expensive and sought-after coffees.
This explosion in popularity spurred innovation and meticulous attention to detail in Panama’s cultivation and processing methods. Techniques such as honey and natural processing began to emerge, further diversifying the flavor profiles of Panamanian coffees.
Today, Panama coffee, with its legacy of exquisite flavors, It’s a tribute to the Panamanian farmers who carefully nurture each coffee plant, it’s a nod to the skilled roasters who accentuate each bean’s potential, and it’s a salute to the discerning drinkers who appreciate the unique experience of Panama’s coffee culture.
From humble beginnings to global recognition, the journey of Panama coffee encapsulates the evolution of taste, the perseverance of farmers, and the endless quest for quality. So, as you enjoy your next cup of Panamanian coffee brew, take a moment to appreciate the rich history contained within every bean—it’s a story that’s as complex and captivating as the coffee itself.
The Unique Qualities of Panama Coffee
While many countries produce excellent coffee, Panama stands in a league of its own. The enchanting allure of Panama coffee is deeply rooted in its unique characteristics, showcasing the perfect blend of distinct flavors, remarkable growing conditions, and diverse coffee varieties, most notably, the celebrated Geisha.
The diverse microclimates and fertile volcanic soils of Panama provide the ideal backdrop for the cultivation of coffee. The high-altitude regions of Boquete, Volcan, and Renacimiento in Chiriquí are particularly famous for their coffee production. With their rich soils, cool temperatures, and misty conditions, these areas coax out the nuanced flavors coffee connoisseurs worldwide crave.
But what truly sets Panamanian coffee apart is its broad spectrum of flavors and aromas. Depending on the region, processing method, and coffee variety, you can encounter flavors ranging from sweet notes of chocolate and caramel to fruity hints of berries and tropical fruits to the delicate floral notes the famous Geisha variety is renowned for.
The Coffee Growing Regions of Panama
Every coffee bean tells a story – a story of the place where it was born and nurtured, a story of the land that gives it a unique character. In the case of Panama coffee, this narrative unfolds across multiple vibrant, lush landscapes, each contributing to the symphony of flavors that this Central American nation’s coffee has to offer.
High altitude regions
Chiriqui📍
Located in the country’s west, bordering Costa Rica, this province concentrates 80% of coffee cultivation in Panama. Its mountainous highlands provide the ideal elevation and conditions for growing high-quality Arabica coffee. The three main areas of this crop are:
Boquete
Arguably, the most famous coffee region in Panama is Boquete. They are located high in the mountains of the province of Chiriquí, with an ideal microclimate for growing coffee. The region’s rich volcanic soil, temperate climate, and high altitude contribute to the coffee cherries’ slow ripening, enhancing their flavors and aromas. Boquete coffee often boasts a balanced profile with bright acidity, a whole body, and pronounced fruit and floral notes.
Volcan
Next on the map is Volcán, located on the western slope of the Volcán Barú. This region mirrors Boquete’s high altitudes and fertile soils but with a slightly cooler climate. The resulting beans carry a pronounced sweetness, complex acidity, and a range of flavors, from chocolatey and nutty to fruity and floral. The region’s pride, the Volcán Geisha, is prized for its delicate, tea-like characteristics and an exquisite bouquet of jasmine, bergamot, and tropical fruit.
Renacimiento
Further south, near the Costa Rican border, lies the lesser-known region of Renacimiento. Here, the farmers harness the power of the region’s diverse microclimates and fertile soils to cultivate a range of coffee varieties. Renacimiento coffee typically exhibits a whole body, balanced acidity, and flavors ranging from sweet, caramel-like notes to vibrant, fruity tones.
Each region lends its unique touch to the coffee beans, shaped by their geography, climate, and soil. This variation gives Panama coffee its diverse range of flavors and distinctive place on the world coffee map.
Lower altitude regions
Cocle 📍
Coclé stands out as the leading province of Panama in several coffee farms, occupying second place in national production behind Chiriquí. This region has around 4,600 hectares of coffee cultivation, managed by 2,185 producers who together produce about 41,400 quintals of coffee.
The region’s tropical mountainous climate is ideal for growing high-quality coffee. In addition, Coclé integrates agrotourism into its coffee industry, offering a coffee route. Or circuit as part of the sustainable tourism master plan.
Panama Oeste📍
It is a critical player in the country’s coffee industry, with around 2,300 hectares managed by 1,500 producers. The region recently produced about 17,000 quintals of coffee, and 75% of this yield benefited from the Environmental Incentives Program of the Panama Canal, focused on robusta—coffee in the Panama Canal Hydrographic Basin. The local association ACACPA successfully markets this coffee under the ‘Cuencafé’ brand, highlighting in the Capira District various organizations and coffee-growing families, including Café Tería, Café Río Indio, and Café 1914. , are dedicated to growing, processing, and packaging their own Improved Robusta Coffee.
Colón📍
In Colón, coffee cultivation spans over 1,550 hectares, involving around 2,000 producers who collectively harvest about 18,600 quintals. The region primarily focuses on robusta coffee (Coffea canephora) agroecosystems, which also play a significant role in environmental conservation within the Panama Canal basin. A notable contributor to Colón’s coffee scene is the La Ceiba Production Cooperative, located in Coclesito. This cooperative has successfully established its brand, Café La Ceiba, making a mark in the local market.
Veraguas 📍
Veraguas is an essential coffee-producing region and an emerging tourist destination, producing around 5,109 quintals of coffee on 655 hectares by 988 producers. The Cooperativa Esperanza de los Campesinos in the Santa Fe district has a history of 50 years and 1,235 members, which plays a fundamental role in this sector. The cooperative processes its entire harvest – approximately 4,000 quintals of golden coffee annually – in its roasting plant, producing Café Tute and Café Santa Fe. These coffees, including its Certified Organic Coffee made through environmentally friendly practices, have gained international recognition, particularly in markets like Germany. The cooperative also demonstrates a solid commitment to community development, redistributing 60% of its surplus to its members and allocating 40% to social purposes.
Guna Yala📍
Guna Yala is an Indigenous region of Panama recognized for its beautiful crystalline beaches and paradisiacal settings but also for its production of robusta coffee, which left a significant mark in the 2021-2022 harvest season. The area produced more than 8,618 quintals of dried robusta beans, representing 31 percent of the robusta coffee purchased through processing and trading companies throughout Panama. This impressive figure highlights Guna Yala’s substantial contribution to the national coffee industry. It underlines the region’s growing importance as a key player in Panama’s robusta coffee market.
Experiences for Coffee Lovers in Panama
This tiny Central American nation, famous for its exceptional coffee, offers much more than your average cup. At the heart of it all is the famous Coffee Circuit in the highlands, a journey through the coffee paradise of Panama. This route is a must-see for enthusiasts, offering a variety of experiences from tours and tastings to workshops that delve into the art of coffee making. But the appeal of Panama coffee doesn’t end there, which is why we understand that each area contributes uniquely to the history of Panama coffee. We have compiled a list of must-visit coffee destinations for a complete experience.
1. Boquete, Chiriquí Province
Boquete, the heart of Panama’s coffee country, is a picturesque town in the mountains where some of the world’s best coffee, including the legendary Geisha, is grown. Here, you’ll find the famed Finca Lerida, an estate that’s as much a history lesson as a coffee tour. You’ll journey through a century-old coffee farm, learn about sustainable coffee farming practices, and taste the farm’s exquisite offerings.
While in Boquete, visit Cafe Ruiz, one of Panama’s oldest coffee roasters. Their ‘Seed-to-Cup’ tour is an immersive experience that takes you through coffee-making. Round off the tour with a guided coffee tasting, where you’ll learn to discern flavor profiles and brewing techniques.
2. Volcán, Chiriquí Province
Not far from Boquete, Volcán is another coffee lover’s paradise. Don’t miss the Janson Coffee Farm, where you can experience the meticulous process of producing Panama’s finest coffee. Their tours also offer breathtaking views of the surrounding Volcán Barú National Park, adding a touch of nature’s grandeur to your coffee expedition.
3. Renacimiento, Chiriquí Province
A hidden gem in Panama’s coffee landscape, Renacimiento is home to several family-run coffee farms. Visit Finca Hartmann, which offers tours encompassing various aspects of sustainable coffee farming and bird watching, along with a taste of their fantastic coffee brews. This region’s coffee boasts an entire body, balanced acidity, and flavors ranging from sweet caramel-like notes to vibrant fruity tones.
4. Veraguas
The region is promoting a project that allows tourists to explore organic coffee plantations, providing an in-depth journey into the coffee production process, from cultivation to packaging. This complements other natural attractions in the district, such as the Santa Fe National Park, known for its trails, rivers, waterfalls, and exuberant nature; in addition, the Managua and Salmonete River Protection project, led by Acudebah in the Soná district, It aims to regenerate riparian areas. Forests and coastal areas. This initiative includes agroforestry crops such as cocoa and coffee, adding another dimension to the attractiveness of Veraguas combining environmental conservation with sustainable agricultural practices.
5. Panama City
Panama’s capital is a treasure trove for coffee lovers. The city’s thriving coffee scene offers numerous opportunities to delve into Panama’s coffee culture. Mentiritas Blancas is a must-visit, known for serving some of the city’s best coffee. They also offer workshops where you can learn everything from brewing your perfect cup to understanding the complex flavor notes.
While in Panama City, make a trip to Bajareque, a small, family-run café that sources its beans directly from the family’s coffee farms in Boquete. Their award-winning coffee and passion for sharing Panama’s coffee culture make Bajareque a must-visit spot.
No matter where your Panama coffee journey takes you, every corner of this beautiful country offers a chance to immerse yourself in a coffee culture steeped in history, brimming with innovation, and deeply rooted in a respect for nature. From handpicking the ripest coffee cherries in Boquete to learning how to brew the perfect cup in Panama City, the enriching experiences are as diverse as they are.
As you savor your Panama coffee, remember that each sip tells a story of vibrant culture, meticulous craftsmanship, and a saga of a humble seed’s journey to a delightful brew. A visit to Panama is more than just a trip; it’s an homage to coffee in its purest, most exquisite form.
Conclusion
Panama’s coffee industry is a rich tapestry of tradition, innovation, and exceptional quality. From the renowned Coffee Circuit in the highlands to the diverse coffee-producing regions like Chiriquí, Coclé, and Veraguas, Panama offers a unique and comprehensive coffee experience. Its commitment to sustainable practices, combined with the unique microclimates and passionate producers, results in some of the world’s most sought-after coffees. Whether through its engaging coffee tours, the environmental stewardship of its coffee communities, or the distinct flavors of each region, Panama stands as a beacon for coffee lovers worldwide, inviting them to explore and savor the depth and diversity of its coffee culture.