Happy TravellerWelcome to Changuinola, a charming city in the Bocas del Toro Province of Panama. Known as the gateway to Bocas Town and nearby cities Almirante and Chiriqui Grande, Changuinola attracts tourists with its beautiful surroundings of Changuinola River and extensive banana plantations. Let’s explore more about this hidden gem.
Demographics:
The corregimiento of Changuinola has a population of 31,223 as of 2010, giving it a population density of 323 inhabitants per square kilometre. Its population as of 1990 was 33,721; its population as of 2000 was 39,896.
Climate:
Changuinola has a tropical climate, more specifically a trade-wind tropical rainforest climate. The area does not have a predictable dry season. The driest times are late August to mid-October, February, and March. Changuinola is humid. Thundershowers and heavy rain are common. Normal temperatures are consistent all year (Hi: 80°-84 °F, low: 71°-75 °F). Due to its low latitude, sunrise is around 6 AM, and sunset is around 6 PM local time. These times vary slightly during the year. Weather data is collected at Capitán Manuel Niño International Airport.
Transportation:
Changuinola is accessible by air, land, or sea. Visitors can fly into Capitán Manuel Niño International Airport from Panama City by Air Panama. It has daily flights but can be delayed due to frequent thunderstorms and heavy rains. Direct flights from the United States, Canada, and Mexico are not available. Buses run between Changuinola, Almirante, David and Panama City. When traveling by land, tourists coming from or going to Costa Rica must clear both Costa Rican customs in Sixaola and Panamanian customs in Guabito. Buses are more reliable in bad weather.
Infrastructure:
Changuinola is divided into small farm communities called Fincas, since all of the city is surrounded by banana plantations. For example, Finca 4 which means Farm 4. Changuinola has one main road that crosses all town from south to north, at the end you could take left to reach Guabito border town. The Manuel Niño International Airport is a small international airport where you can take flights to Panama City. The Calvin Byron Stadium for is located in El Empalme neighborhood, home of Bocas del Toro baseball team. The Changuinola River bridge was built in 2009 and replaced 1920 railroad bridge next to it. Changuinola was struck in April 1991 by 7.7 powerful earthquake, the town was reconstructed in the following years.
Public Services:
Private and Public health care available. The CSS Changuinola Hospital is located right next to the Police station, and private clinics are also a great choice and available in the city. Changuinola has several public and private schools, to mention most important IPT Changuinola and Empalme School. University of Panama extension CRUB is located in Empalme, Changuinola.
In conclusion, Changuinola is a hidden gem that offers a unique experience to its visitors. From its beautiful surroundings to its rich history, Changuinola has something for everyone. Come and explore this charming city and create memories that will last a lifetime.