How to get to Soná?

Soná is a destination that balances the tranquility of rural life with proximity to Panama's most stunning natural gems. Known for its lush landscapes and peaceful atmosphere, this district is the gateway to the province's beautiful southern beaches. Located about 298 kilometers from Panama City, it's the perfect escape for those looking to disconnect from the hustle and bustle and immerse themselves in natural beauty.

Getting to this charming district is an adventure in itself, with several transportation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Below, we detail the different transport options to get to the main town of Soná, the district's center from which you can depart to other destinations like Santa Catalina.

Public Transportation

Traveling by Bus from Panama City

If your starting point is Panama City, the first step is to go to the Albrook Bus Terminal. To get there, you can use a taxi, a private transport platform, or the most recommended option, the Panama Metro, which will drop you off directly at the terminal.

Once at Albrook, look for the booth of the San Isidro S.A. company, which operates the Panama-Soná route. The ticket costs approximately $10, and the journey takes about six hours. During the trip, the bus makes a brief stop to refuel and a short pause in Santiago, the capital of Veraguas, allowing you to stretch your legs and grab a snack. This is the most direct, economical, and recommended way to get to Soná by public transport from the capital city.

(Photos of the booth)

Another alternative to get to Soná by bus is to take one of the routes that go to the city of Santiago, the capital of Veraguas. Companies like Expreso Veragüense S.A. and Sanpasa S.A. operate this route with a high frequency of departures from the Albrook Terminal, so you should locate their booths to buy tickets.

Once you arrive at the Santiago Bus Terminal, you'll need to look for the Santiago - Soná route, operated by the company San Cristóbal S.A. The trip on this leg takes about an hour and costs $2, and it will drop you off at the company's terminal in the center of Soná. From this point, you'll have easy access to explore the town, enjoy its restaurants, shop at local businesses, and stay at a hotel.

To connect with internal routes or get to destinations like Santa Catalina, it's important to tell the driver that you want to get off at the Soná Bus Terminal, as the San Cristóbal S.A. company's terminal is in a different location. This way, you can continue your journey without any hitches.

A third option, although with less frequency, is the Las Palmas - Panama route and the Puerto Vidal - Panama route, which both make a stop in Soná, ensuring a trip without transfers.

It is crucial that when you buy your ticket at the Albrook Terminal counter for these routes, you inform the staff that your destination is Soná so the driver is aware.

Traveling by Bus from Other Provinces

Getting to Soná from other provinces of Panama is quite simple. The first step is to take a bus that goes to the Santiago Bus Terminal. Once there, you just have to look for the Santiago-Soná route, which will take you directly to your destination.

Alternatively, you can also take the routes that go to Puerto Vidal or Las Palmas, as both make a stop in Soná. In this case, be sure to inform the driver of your destination so they know where to drop you off.

Private Transportation

Private Shuttle

An excellent alternative if you prefer comfort and privacy, without the worry of driving, is to hire a private shuttle service. Many of these services, which operate between Panama City and tourist destinations like Santa Catalina, make a stop in Soná.

If you are already in Soná, you can also contact these companies to take you directly to Santa Catalina. Although this option is more expensive than public transport, it offers a faster and more personalized trip.

We recommend you check the Transportation section to see the available private shuttle services and the routes they cover.

Selective Transportation Service (Taxis)

If you arrive at the Santiago terminal and there are no buses available for Soná, a safe and comfortable option is to take a taxi. Be sure to hire the service with the COOTRAJOHT, R.L. cooperative, as they are authorized to operate in the city of Santiago. The trip will be more expensive than the bus, but it will guarantee a direct transfer to your destination.

Private Flights to Santa Catalina

If your intention is to travel as quickly as possible to Santa Catalina, a lesser-known option is to rent a helicopter or a small plane to travel directly to the airstrip located in Hicaco.

By Private Car

If you prefer the freedom of a road trip, a great option is to rent a car. For easy navigation, we recommend using applications like Google Maps or Waze. Just enter "Soná, Veraguas" as your destination, and the app will guide you directly to the district's center.

We also provide a route starting from Panama City:

Conclusion

Despite its distance from Panama City, the district of Soná is an accessible destination with multiple transportation options. The ideal choice will depend on your budget and the type of trip you are looking for. Once you arrive in the town of Soná, you will have the gateway to its diverse tourist attractions, including the famous Santa Catalina beach.