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Las Tablas

Las Tablas, Los Santos, Panama

Las Tablas, located in the province of Los Santos, Panama, is a charming and vibrant town that offers a delightful mix of culture, history, and natural beauty. This picturesque destination is known for its colorful festi…

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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Las Tablas.

Top Hotels in Las Tablas

Top Flights to Las Tablas

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Las Tablas.

Tours

Explore Iglesia de Santa Librada

Visit the historic Iglesia de Santa Librada, known for its beautiful colonial architecture.

Las Tablas Central Park

Relax and enjoy a leisurely stroll in the vibrant central park of Las Tablas.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Las Tablas.

Currency

$ | PAB | Panamanian Balboa

Population

9255.0

Languages

Spanish, English, Spanish

Average weather

Las Tablas

Jan

32°23°

Feb

33°23°

Mar

34°24°

Apr

34°24°

May

33°24°

Jun

31°23°

Jul

31°23°

Aug

31°23°

Sep

30°23°

Oct

30°23°

Nov

30°23°

Dec

31°23°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Las Tablas.

What people love

Las Tablas, located in the province of Los Santos in Panama, is known for its vibrant cultural festivals, beautiful beaches, and traditional architecture. Here are some of the pros of traveling to Las Tablas:

Cultural Festivals: Las Tablas is famous for its lively carnival celebrations, especially during the month of February. The town comes alive with colorful parades, music, dancing, and traditional costumes. It offers a unique opportunity to experience Panamanian culture and traditions up close.
Beautiful Beaches: The region around Las Tablas is home to stunning beaches such as Playa El Uverito and Playa El Arenal. These beaches are great for relaxing, swimming, and enjoying water sports. Visitors can also explore nearby islands like Isla Iguana, known for its pristine waters and marine life.
Traditional Architecture: Las Tablas features charming colonial architecture, including colorful buildings, historic churches, and cobblestone streets. Strolling through the town allows visitors to admire the traditional design and immerse themselves in the local atmosphere.
Local Cuisine: Travelers to Las Tablas can enjoy delicious traditional Panamanian cuisine, including dishes like ceviche, arroz con coco (coconut rice), and tamales. Local markets offer fresh seafood, fruits, and vegetables for those looking to taste authentic flavors.
Friendly Locals: The people of Las Tablas are known for their warmth and hospitality towards visitors. Travelers can expect to be welcomed with open arms and may have the opportunity to interact with locals to learn more about their way of life.

Overall, Las Tablas offers a unique blend of cultural experiences, natural beauty, and traditional charm that make it a worthwhile destination for travelers seeking an authentic Panamanian experience.

What to know

Las Tablas, located in the region of Los Santos, Panama, is a popular destination known for its vibrant culture and traditional festivals, such as the famous Carnival celebrations. However, there are some cons to consider when traveling to Las Tablas:

Limited transportation options: Las Tablas is a smaller town and may have limited transportation options compared to larger cities in Panama. This could make it more challenging to get around the area or to travel to other destinations.
Language barrier: While some locals may speak English, the primary language spoken in Las Tablas is Spanish. If you are not fluent in Spanish, you may encounter challenges communicating with locals and navigating daily activities.
Limited amenities: As a smaller town, Las Tablas may have fewer amenities and services available compared to larger cities. This could include limited dining options, shopping facilities, and entertainment venues.
Weather conditions: Like many regions in Panama, Las Tablas can experience hot and humid weather, especially during the summer months. Travelers should be prepared for high temperatures and potential rainfall during their visit.
Potential for crowded conditions during festivals: If you are visiting Las Tablas during popular festivals like Carnival, be prepared for large crowds and potential congestion in the town. This could impact your overall travel experience and may require additional planning to navigate the festivities.

Overall, while Las Tablas offers a unique cultural experience, travelers should be aware of these potential cons when planning their trip to the region.

Las Tablas is a town in the Los Santos Province of Panama, known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant traditions. Here’s a detailed history and overview of significant events, historical figures, and landmarks associated with Las Tablas:

Historical Background:

Foundation and Early History: Las Tablas is believed to have been founded in the late 17th century by settlers fleeing pirate attacks along the Pacific coast. The exact date of its establishment is not well-documented, but it is thought to have been around 1671.
Colonial Period: During the Spanish colonial period, Las Tablas served as an important agricultural and commercial hub. Its location made it a strategic point for the movement of goods and people.

Significant Events:

Independence Movement: Las Tablas played a role in the movement towards Panamanian independence from Spain and later from Colombia. The region contributed to the growing sentiment for independence in the 19th century.
Republic of Panama's Formation: After Panama's independence from Colombia in 1903, Las Tablas continued to develop as part of the newly formed nation.

Cultural Significance:

Carnival of Las Tablas: One of the town’s most famous cultural events is its annual carnival, which is considered one of the most vibrant and elaborate in Panama. The celebration features parades, music, and traditional dances, attracting thousands of visitors each year.
Folklore and Traditions: Las Tablas is known for its rich folklore, including traditional music and dance. The town is a center for Panamanian folk culture, preserving customs such as the Pollera, Panama's national dress.

Historical Figures:

Rogelio Sinán (1902–1994): Although not born in Las Tablas, this prominent Panamanian writer and poet spent significant time in the region. His works are influential in Panamanian literature.
Belisario Porras (1856–1942): A notable Panamanian politician and three-time President of Panama, Porras had connections to Los Santos Province and influenced the region’s political landscape.

Important Landmarks:

Iglesia Santa Librada: This is one of the most significant religious buildings in Las Tablas, known for its beautiful architecture and historical importance. The church is dedicated to Santa Librada, the patron saint of the town, and hosts annual celebrations in her honor.
Plaza Praga: This central plaza is a focal point for community gatherings and events. It serves as a venue for various cultural and civic activities.

Modern Developments:

Economic Growth: Las Tablas continues to be an important center for agriculture, commerce, and culture in the Los Santos Province. It has seen development in infrastructure and tourism, largely driven by its cultural attractions.

Las Tablas remains a vibrant town that reflects the historical and cultural tapestry of Panama. Its festivals, traditions, and historical landmarks continue to attract interest both locally and internationally.