Nata de los Caballeros
Natá is the oldest surviving town in Panama. It was founded by the Spanish in 1522, but has indigenous roots that go back even further. Today the town is slow and sleepy, but has one of the oldest churches in the Americas.
Officially known as Natá de los Caballeros, the town was originally the center an indigenous chiefdom. Natá was the name of its last leader—when the Spanish arrived in the 16th century, they named the town after him. The Spanish then went on to conquer other indigenous people in western Panama. Historians believe that the town’s full name is a reference to the king of Spain sending 100 caballeros (knights) to help fight the native people.
The town lays claim to having one of the oldest churches in the Americas. It is thought that the church, known as the Basílica Menor Santiago Apostól de Natá, was built over several decades after the Spanish arrived. The church is still in good shape. It has a white stucco exterior, a red-tile roof, and exquisitely carved wooden altars.
Set within the heart of town, the church is still used by the Natá’s residents. Every year on July 25, a statue of the town’s patron saint, Santiago Apostól, is paraded around Natá.
Where to stay in Nata de los Caballeros
From boutique lodges to luxury resorts, every Nata de los Caballeros accommodation is hand-picked by our local insiders for location, comfort, and character.
The Buenaventura Golf & Beach Resort
The Buenaventura Golf & Beach Resort is located in Farallón. This resort is large and stunning—it has lush, tropical grounds and a huge assortment of amenities.
Insider-led Panama Design & Concierge
Your insider team designs the trip around what you care about, then supports you in-country with private logistics, vetted partners, and concierge help when plans change.
Get StartedPrivate drivers; English-speaking available.
Avoid the crowds in private day tours.
Better stays, better pacing, better reservations.
Insider-only experiences and exclusive local partners.
24/7 in-country support by phone, text, and WhatsApp.
Insider-led Panama Design & Concierge
Your insider team designs the trip around what you care about, then supports you in-country with private logistics, vetted partners, and concierge help when plans change.
Real Voices, Real Benefits
We believe travel is more than ticking destinations off a list, it's about discovering new places deeply, feeling connected wherever you go, and knowing you have a trusted team of local experts behind you every step of the way.
