bigtravelbuzzHerrera, a province in Panama, is known for its rich cultural heritage, charming towns, and agricultural significance. If you’re looking for a glimpse of Panama’s cultural and rural life, Herrera is an excellent destination. Here’s your guide to exploring the best of Herrera.
Places to Visit in Herrera
Chitré: The capital of Herrera and the largest city, Chitré offers a mix of modern amenities and traditional Panamanian culture. Visit the Herrera Museum, which showcases the region’s history.
Parita: Known for its well-preserved colonial architecture, Parita provides a picturesque setting for a stroll through history. The Church of San Antonio de Padua is a must-visit.
Los Santos: While officially part of Los Santos Province, the town of Los Santos is a cultural gem with artisan workshops producing traditional pollera dresses and carnival masks.
Guararé: This small town is famous for its Corpus Christi celebrations featuring colorful flower carpets. Visit the Church of San Juan Bautista and enjoy the local traditions.
El Caño Archaeological Park: Explore ancient burial sites and learn about Panama’s pre-Columbian history.
Best Time to Visit Herrera
The best time to visit Herrera is during the dry season, which generally runs from December to April. This period offers pleasant weather for outdoor activities and cultural festivals.
Things to Do in Herrera
Folklore and Festivals: Herrera is renowned for its folk traditions and festivals, particularly Carnival. Don’t miss the colorful parades and lively music.
Crafts and Artisans: Explore workshops in towns like La Arena to see artisans creating intricate pollera dresses, carnival masks, and other traditional crafts.
Gastronomy: Savor traditional Panamanian dishes like sancocho (a hearty chicken soup), tortillas, and tamales.
Natural Beauty: While Herrera is predominantly agricultural, you can still find spots for outdoor activities like hiking, bird watching, and horseback riding.
How to Get Around in Herrera
Getting around Herrera is relatively straightforward:
Public Buses: Public buses connect major towns and are an affordable way to travel. However, schedules may not always be consistent.
Taxis: Taxis are available in most towns. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.
Rental Cars: Renting a car offers flexibility and convenience, especially if you plan to explore remote areas.
Where to Eat in Herrera
Herrera offers an array of traditional Panamanian dishes and local eateries. Some popular dishes to try include sancocho (chicken soup), carimañolas (cassava fritters), and arroz con guandú (rice with pigeon peas).
Famous Street Stalls in Herrera
While there might not be specifically famous street stalls in Herrera, you can enjoy street food in the towns’ central plazas. Look for stalls serving local snacks like empanadas, yucca fries, and tamales.
Where to Stay in Herrera
Accommodations in Herrera range from small hotels to guesthouses and budget-friendly options. Chitré offers a more extensive selection of hotels, while smaller towns have cozy guesthouses for a homely experience.
Travel Tips for Herrera
Learn Basic Spanish: While you may find some English speakers in tourist areas, learning a few basic Spanish phrases will be immensely helpful.
Cash: Many places in Herrera may not accept credit cards, so it’s essential to carry cash.
Respect Local Traditions: If you visit during a local festival, respect the traditions and customs. Ask for permission before taking photos during religious or cultural events.
Weather-Appropriate Clothing: The weather can be hot and humid, so dress accordingly and don’t forget sunscreen and a hat.
Plan Around Festivals: If you’re interested in experiencing Panama’s culture, plan your visit to coincide with local festivals like Carnival or Corpus Christi.
Herrera offers a delightful blend of history, tradition, and rural charm. It’s an excellent place to immerse yourself in Panama’s culture and explore the picturesque countryside.