2024

CERRO GAITAL

Natural site to discover

This 1,185 m high mountain, facing the India dormida, is the highest in El Valle. The hike, of moderate difficulty, allows you to discover the fauna and flora of the tropical rainforest, including a great variety of birds and orchids. From the viewpoint at the top, you can see when the sky is completely clear (which is rare) the Pacific on one side and the Caribbean on the other. The descent is steep and can be slippery. Count 4 hours 30 the round trip (8,2 km, 530 m of unevenness). Best done with a guide.

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 El Valle
2024

LA INDIA DORMIDA

Natural site to discover

La India Dormida is the iconic mountain of El Valle. It can be admired from almost anywhere, and for many, there is no lack of desire to climb it! The hike is of an easy to moderate level, with some quite physical passages. It offers a superb panorama on the valley. A local guide (from the Cooperativa Sendero La Piedra Pintada) can be useful to avoid getting lost and to learn more about the local fauna and flora, as well as to listen (in Spanish) to one of the versions of the legend of the Sleeping Indian. There are several trails, from the "head" to the "feet" of the Indian woman (also possible in the other direction). Count 3-4 hours for the longest one, called "of the Feet" or "Cerro la Cruz", and 2-3 hours for the most popular, called "of the Arm" or "Por la Comunidad". If you start from the village, ask for directions at the beginning. On the path that goes through the Piedra Pintada (the most travelled), be careful not to miss the fork in the road to the left, just after the Piedra del Sapo. You can just go to the viewpoint and back, or follow the body and go down to the arm or feet of the Indian woman. The path is varied, with river crossing, dense vegetation in some places, rocks... Be careful up there because of the sometimes violent wind and bring all the gear of the hiker (walking shoes, rain cape, sun cream...), water and food. You can refresh yourself in water holes, so think of a bathing suit in the nice season.

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 El Valle
2024

CHORRO LAS MOZAS

Natural site to discover

Would you like a refreshing swim in the middle of nature? The Chorro las Mozas is located 3 km from the centre of El Valle. After a few minutes walk along the river, you will find pools of varying depths and clear water (except after rain). But choose your moment carefully: on weekends, the local families come in large numbers and the site loses its tranquillity, especially for the first two bathing places(balnearios). The third waterfall, 5 minutes further on, is generally more peaceful. The place has given birth to several legends. One of them tells that the three daughters of Tobalo, a respected indigenous warrior, were secretly in love with the same man, a certain Caobo. But Caobo's heart already belonged to Ruti, a girl from another tribe. Despite their insolent beauty, neither of the sisters managed to attract Caobo's attention. One night during the full moon, they went their separate ways to the river to get rid of their grief. The crying was so loud that three waterfalls appeared from the rocks where the girls were. They then heard mysterious voices that led them to jump into the water. They never reappeared. Some peasants claim to hear their laughter on Midsummer nights, and some fishermen have even seen them... They would live at the bottom of the waters, ready to do anything to avenge their despised love! The imprudent ones who would have tried to join them would have disappeared in the whirlpools of the waters..

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 El Valle
2024

EL SALTO DE LAS PALMAS

Natural site to discover

77 km west of Santiago, the small village of Las Palmas offers the visitor a beautiful waterfall about metres high. A little known site but very pleasant for a afternoon of bathing.

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 Santiago De Veraguas
2024

CERRO JUAN DIAZ ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITE

Natural site to discover

You will certainly hear about this site, which unfortunately does not really deserve a detour. Nature has resumed its rights since the excavations were abandoned because of the lack of resources. The excavation project led by the Smithsonian and National Geographic is no longer on the agenda, although it would appear that laboratory studies continue…

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 La Villa De Los Santos
2024

REFUGIO DE VIDA SILVESTRE CENEGÓN DEL MANGLE

Natural site to discover

You may be interested, at the height of Irún, by the sign indicating this other protected area. Its 776 hectares host many migratory birds, as well as several mangrove varieties and natural pools with alkaline water.

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 Parita
2024

GOLFO DE MONTIJO

Natural site to discover

This Ramsar site, a wetland of international importance, has been protected since 1994. It covers more than 89,000 hectares, between marine and coastal areas, including 13% of the country's total mangroves. It is a crucial place for the reproduction of birds, both migratory and resident, such as pelicans, herons or ibises, and mammals, such as otters, three-toed sloths, lizards, caimans or turtles. Some ecotourism agencies offer excursions and activities in the mangrove: paddle, kayak, canoe, horseback riding, fishing, etc.

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 Puerto Mutis
2024

RESERVA NATURAL PUNTA PATIÑO

Natural site to discover

This private nature reserve of more than 30,000 ha is located about an hour by lancha from La Palma. Created in 1992, it is managed by Ancon Expeditions, an offshoot of the NGO Ancon, which handles all the logistics from Panama City, with transportation by airplane, or by land and river. The lodge offers a spectacular view of the gulf. 10 comfortable cabañas, with air conditioning and private showers (warm water), at the doors of the primary forest. Naturalist guides introduce you to the flora and fauna of the marine coast and the primary forest, before taking you to an Emberá community that lives on the banks of the Mogué River, whose mouth is nearby. Punta Patiño is a must for birders. A great variety of birds inhabit the mangrove and the trees of the reserve: Tangara, Black Crab Hawk, American Oystercatcher, Blue Heron, Black-tailed Trogon... without forgetting the Fierce Harpy, the largest eagle on the planet, the national bird of Panama. You can also observe the carpincho, the largest rodent in the world, as well as the Geoffroy's tamarin, the smallest monkey in Central America, or the three-toed sloth. The jaguar also frequents the area, but you would be very lucky to get close to it. Guided day and night hikes are available, as well as boat trips through the mangroves. And to rest, long deserted black sand beaches are waiting for you!

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 La Palma
2024

PLAYA LARGA

Natural site to discover

More than a 3-hour walk from the village of Bastimentos and 1.5 hours from Red Frog Beach, this beach, which is part of the Bastimentos Marine National Park, is only accessible by foot to the most courageous. A challenging 6-hour day hike consists of a loop from Red Frog to Salt Creek via Playa Larga. Lanchas can go there but only when the sea is calm. It is possible to camp there and of course to surf. The turtles come to lay their eggs at night between May and August.

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 Parque Nacional Marino Isla Bastimentos
2024

CALDERA HOT SPRINGS

Natural site to discover

Natural bubbling baths with a temperature close to 40°C from which you can hear a river running below. This is the Caldera River, which has its source at an altitude of 2,900 meters. The most adventurous will plunge into it. A striking contrast which will come to end your aches due to the hikes of the day before. Nature is well done... Don't expect a spa, don't forget that the site is almost free. Lonely girls should avoid going there, especially in the evening.

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 Caldera
2024

ACHOTIN LAB

Visit science and technology

A laboratory that can be of interest to scientists. The Inter-American Tropical Tuna Commission aims to study, control and safeguard tropical tuna, as well as other tuna catches in this part of the Pacific Ocean.

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 Playa Venao
2024

MACARACAS

Street square and neighborhood to visit

At 2 h from Tonosí, you may be on your way to Chitré. There are two cheap pensions, some restaurants and a pizzeria. Every beginning of the year, around 6 January, the Fiesta of Los Reyes takes place on the scene of the birth of Christ and the arrival of the three kings.

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2024

SITIO BARRILES

Natural site to discover

The Barriles civilization is a pre-Columbian civilization of the highlands of Chiriquí that would have disappeared following an eruption of the Barú volcano. There are few details about its time, which researchers place between 500 and 700 years AD. The most important vestige discovered on site would be a fragment of religious building, fragment whose particularity is to be the product of the fusion of three classes of rocks. The other face of the stone, its secret part, is the most impressive. Abstract figures are drawn there, only visible when it is sprinkled with water. The site also contains metates, heavy stones with a smooth surface on which corn flour was prepared. The river that runs through the garden, located at 1,353 meters above sea level, is also a mystery. If you look at the water, you will notice that the current is rising, when it should be falling since the source is at 1,363 meters!

The site is on the property of José and Edna Landau. Edna, whose ancestors are Belgian, will guide you through the archaeological and botanical explanations of great interest, from the first discoveries in the 1940s to the excavations. The small museum was created on own funds and testifies of the passion of its owners. At the end of the visit, don't miss the opportunity to taste a slice of cheese(queso blanco), accompanied by homemade guava paste. It is a delight that delights the taste buds of visitors!

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 Volcan
2024

PLAYA HERMOSA

Natural site to discover

Just kilometres from the Pan American Coast, this beach is still very wild and offers safe swimming. You have to go away from the sea at low tide. Very little attended, except summer weekends.

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 Boca Chica
2024

PARQUE INTERNACIONAL DE LA AMISTAD

Natural site to discover

The Parque Internacional de la Amistad is a cross-border park created by the governments of Costa Rica and Panama. Classified as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1983, it includes rainforests, cloud forests and exceptional biodiversity. Most of the park is located in the province of Bocas del Toro (around 200,000 ha). In Chiriquí, access is via Guadalupe, but also via Las Nubes, where you'll find the MiAmbiente post, which has been extended to include a house for the park rangers. A number of trail maintenance and development projects have also been carried out in 2021. Don't forget to bring your fleece, as temperatures drop below 10°C at night and the climate is humid. Don't hesitate to ask the rangers about excursion possibilities. Three trails are signposted from Las Nubes, leaving you free to choose the length of your journey, which you can do without a guide. One trail, which takes 2 hours 30 minutes, leads to a 55 m-high waterfall, under which the brave can bathe. From several viewpoints (La Nevera, Pino and El Barranco), you can observe the border between the two provinces and the park's rugged landscape, covered by dense virgin forest. The Asociación Agroecoturística La Amistad - ASAELA is a group of women who run the Las Nubes restaurant and can provide you with good contacts for local guides.

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 Cerro Punta
2024

LAS LAGUNAS

Natural site to discover

It seems that it is the crater of an ancient volcano. It is said that there are still lagoons undiscovered, or only known by the communities living in the heights. Of the two lagoons accessible from the airport, only the "laguna grande" is open to the public; the "laguna chica" belongs to the private domain of Finca Janson. It takes about 2 hours to walk from the entrance. It is possible to reach it by 4x4 when the rains are not too heavy. There is a picnic area, a camping area and a fishing area

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 Volcan
2024

MONKEY ISLAND

Natural site to discover

You will certainly hear about this destination when you mention Lake Gatún, especially if you travel with your family! The tour begins with a boat ride, not far from the huge ships that ply the channel. The tropical and coastal vegetation reminds you that you are sailing in a true biodiversity sanctuary. Try to organize yourself to leave in the morning, you will have more chances to cross the howler signs and the capuchins in the fresh air! In any case, you should know that you will also meet many tourists...

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 Gamboa
2024

LA PUNTA

Natural site to discover

There is only one beach in the village, at the tip of the island, la punta. Pleasant, with white sand and a view of the green hills of the mainland, but increasingly tiny (it is shrinking). Deserted during the week, crowded on summer weekends. A small hut offers fish dishes and cold beers. Sometimes in the evening there are indeterminate soccer matches between locals. Good level of play, barefoot and friendly jostling! There is a famous surf spot in front of the Sister Moon hotel, and you can go snorkeling in front of the Villa Ensueño hotel.

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 Isla Grande
2024

BEACHES

Natural site to discover

To reach the beaches on the other side of the bay, motor boats leave from a pontoon next to the customs office, or from another one near Fort Santiago, at the entrance of the village. It is possible to pitch a tent on the beaches. It is a pity that they are not always very clean. Playa Huerta or "playa primera" is the closest. Its calm waters make it a good spot for swimming and snorkeling. A little further away, the same delights at Playa Francés. Playa Blanca, a beautiful white sand beach, is much further away than the previous ones.

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 Portobelo
2024

SERRANÍA FILO DEL TALLO

Natural site to discover

The Serranía Filo del Tallo is a hydrological reserve of almost 25,000 hectares, made up of a tropical rainforest and home to springs and streams that supply several villages in the area. There is a wide variety of animals, huge trees and enchanting jungle landscapes. It is recommended that you take a guide and wear boots when venturing here, especially because of the snakes. Ask the staff at MiAmbiente de Metetí for more information. The offices are located before the crossroads when coming from Panama.

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 Metetí
2024

ISLAS TUPIR, DIADUP & ARRIDUP

Natural site to discover

More exotic sounding names, coral islands with turquoise waters, colorful fish playing hide and seek... These deserted islands are ideal for dreaming, snorkeling and relaxing. In short, if you followed us well, you know what to expect. And to make sure your trip goes as smoothly as possible, don't forget to bring sunglasses and high factor sunscreen, as well as an old t-shirt for the long swims.

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 Yandup
2024

SENDERO DE LOS QUETZALES

Natural site to discover

This trail, within the National Park Volcan Barú, is one of the most beautiful hikes of the region. It is 5.7 km long and has a difference in altitude of 686 m. It follows the northern flank of the volcano and connects Bajo Mono to the north of Boquete and Bajo Grande to the east of Cerro Punta. It can be done in both directions, downhill from Cerro Punta (4-5 hours walk), or uphill from Boquete (6-7 hours). The round trip takes 10 to 12 hours, it is advised to leave at daybreak, around 5-6 am. For practical reasons, many hikers only cover half of the trail (4-6 hours round trip). It is also possible to camp, with your own equipment, in the middle of the trail on a prepared area.

Cloud forests, bamboo, pastures, crystal clear rivers: the crossing is magnificent, but be aware that there is no guarantee to see quetzals! The services of a guide will help you find them and you will learn much more about the fauna and flora of the park. Good hikers on a tight budget can do without a guide, as the trail is marked.

Attention: always check the condition of the trail before any excursion. During the rainy season and especially from October to December, the trail is usually very muddy. It is frequent that rehabilitation works take place at different times of the year, depending on the weather conditions, forcing to close the trail temporarily.

Access from Boquete (uphill, from east to west). Take the road to Bajo Mono, by cab or bus (from the central park of Boquete). The national park station is in Alto Chiquero, but the trail starts 2.2 km from there, and is accessed by a gravel road. The trail climbs all the way to the El Respingo station. To reach Bajo Grande, take the trail that goes down for 3 km to the road-trail leading to Cerro Punta (walk or arrange to be picked up here with a cab).

Access from Cerro Punta (downhill, from west to east). Take the road-trail toBajo Grande (past the B&B Las Orquídeas) until you see a sign describing the trail. You can get there by cab (6 US$ from Cerro Punta or Guadalupe). The rest of the way is on foot, in 45 min-1 hour (3 km), or by 4x4 cab (about 25 US$ from Cerro Punta). The beginning of the trail is in El Respingo. The first part to the mirador is the most interesting. It takes about 5 hours to reach the Alto Chiquero station. There are still 6 km to reach the center of Boquete (possibility of catching a bus or a cab on the road).

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 Boquete
2024

SENDERO EL PIANISTA

Natural site to discover

This trail of the park of the Amistad does not present difficulties. It goes up towards Bocas on the cordillera. You will cross first the pastures, then the primary and secondary forest to reach the summit with view on the Pacific and the Caribbean. Most hikers turn back at this point (about 5 hours round trip) but you can continue to the sea. In this case, go with a guide (4-5 days one way). You will find lodging in indigenous villages along the way, which adds a cultural dimension to this hike.

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 Boquete
2024

EL COWBOY

Natural site to discover

The El Cowboy site is a nice walk for bird watching and lagartos (little crocodiles).

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 Isla Cañas
2024

PARQUE NACIONAL MARINO GOLFO DE CHIRIQUÍ

Natural site to discover

The Gulf of Chiriqui National Marine Park was created in 1994 to protect 14,740 hectares of marine meadows, coral reefs and mangroves, and all the ecosystems that result from them. It is part of a vast marine biological corridor, where humpback whales, orcas, sea turtles and large pelagic fish such as tuna and white tip sharks pass through. About 10% of the park is composed by a group of islands known as the Archipelago of Las Paridas. Virgin islands covered by tropical jungle for the most part. The largest island is Isla Parida (or Isla Grande) with an area of 1,200 hectares. It is the only one, along with Paridita, that is permanently inhabited, because they have abundant water sources. A few families live there, mainly from fishing. In the surroundings, there are more than 20 wild islands: Santa Catalina, Pulgoso, Gámez, Tintorera, Obispo, Obispone, Los Pargos, Ahogado, Icacos, Corral de Piedra, Bolaños, Berraco, Bolañitos, San José, Linarte, Saíno, Sainitos, Iglesia Mayor, Carey Macho and Carey Hembra. From Boca Chica, to the left of Isla Boca Brava, you can see Isla Linarte, which marks the border of the park. While the Pacific coast offers mostly large black sand beaches, the islands of the archipelago are surrounded by white sand beaches, lined with palm trees and unspoiled tropical vegetation. With its calm waters of emerald or turquoise color, the islands of the gulf have nothing to envy to those of San Blas or Bocas. Some of them reach several tens of meters in height and offer splendid views of the archipelago. You can even see the mountains to the north and its imposing volcano Barú.

In these protected islands, between tropical forests and mangroves, you can find a very rich wildlife. You can easily see caimans, green iguanas, armadillos, brightly colored frogs, or colonies of howler monkeys... The islands are also good places to observe falcons, pelicans, toucans, ibises, hummingbirds, etc. The coral reefs and the underwater meadows are the refuge of many species of fish which make the joy of the divers. Coral watching is famous in the areas of Santa Cruz (southwest of Parida) and Isla Gámez.

Between the islands, dolphins, sea turtles (Baula and Carey), manta rays and finally the majestic humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) are easily seen between July and October. These ballenas jorobadas (in Spanish, Humpback Whales in English) make long migrations from Antarctica, nearly 10,000 km to reproduce and give birth in the warm waters of the Gulf of Chiriquí. The adult cetaceans measure about 15 meters and can weigh up to 50 tons! They are nicknamed the "acrobats of the sea" because they spend a lot of time on the surface of the water, showing off their pectoral fins and tails, and making impressive jumps! A spectacle not to be missed if you are on the coast at this time. Isla Parida has a bar-restaurant where you can enjoy freshly caught fish, with patacones and a cold beer, or coconut water, but in general the islands offer few amenities to welcome tourists. So, for a successful day, don't forget: sun protection (hat, glasses, high factor creams), water, mask and snorkel, and camera.

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 Boca Chica
2024

CAMINO DEL OLEODUCTO (PIPELINE ROAD)

Natural site to discover

This trail is named after the old fuel pipeline that was part of the canal's self-sufficiency plan. Known worldwide as one of the best birdwatching sites, it is an easily accessible and very popular trail. Some agencies offer mountain bike rides, but it is obviously not the best idea to be quiet and watch the birds... The observation tower on the way (for a fee) is managed by the Panama Rainforest Discovery Center.

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 Gamboa
2024

SENDERO ESPÍRITU DEL BOSQUE

Natural site to discover

An interpretive circular trail behind the government shack.

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 Gamboa
2024

SENDERO NATURAL EL CHARCO

Natural site to discover

Properly marked, this 800-meter trail goes through the thick rainforest. You won't encounter many wild animals, they hide deeper in the forest. But the route follows the Sardinilla River and leads to a small waterfall and a clear water basin where you can swim and have a good picnic. The walk can be completed by the interpretive trail located behind the government hut, the Sendero Espiritu del bosque, 1.7 km long.

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 Gamboa
2024

PLANTING PATH

Natural site to discover

This road, once paved, was built during the construction of the canal to reach the North American farm Las Cascadas, which produced rubber, cocoa and bananas in the 1910s. It was the most important farm in the Canal Zone with some 1,200 hectares. It was bought by the state in 1915, and there was talk of building a cocoa processing unit, but the project was abandoned. Today, the "Camino de plantación" trail is almost 13 km long and leads to the Camino de Cruces (described in the park of the same name).

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 Gamboa
2024

PARQUE NACIONAL SOBERANÍA

Natural site to discover

Declared a protected area in 1980, this park extends over 22,000 hectares in the extension of the Camino de Cruces park. It is one of the most accessible in the country but also one of the richest: 105 species of mammals, 79 reptiles and especially 525 species of birds that attract enthusiasts from around the world! The entrance to the Sendero Natural El Charco and Camino de Plantación trails is located on the edge of the Carretera Gaillard. The entrance to the Camino de Oleoducto is located a little further on, after Gamboa.

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 Gamboa
2024

HACIENDA EL EDÉN

Natural site to discover

This family farm of about 40 hectares is mainly dedicated to the production of cow milk. It opens its doors to visitors to let them discover the rural way of life. The whole process of milk production is presented (the cows can even be milked or the calves given a bottle, an activity that children love) in a bucolic setting, where it is possible to ride horses. Cheese making and tasting and preparation of tortillas or carimañolas, typical of the traditional Panamanian breakfast.

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 Pesé
2024

BAYANO CUEVAS

Natural site to discover

In the south of the lake, half an hour by lancha from Puente Bayano, the caves of Bayano are one of the few places where you can practice speleology in Panama. Excursions are offered by agencies from Panamá City, but you can also contract the transport-guide service directly on site. The program includes exploration of the Río Tigre canyon, before entering the caves with beautiful shiny or translucent rock formations, home to bats. Underground path of about 40 minutes before arriving at a beautiful natural pool.

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 Bayano
2024

PARQUE NATURAL SAN FRANCISCO

Natural site to discover

Capuchin Father Pablo Kasuboski is an American religious who has lived in Panama since the late 1980s. He has created trails in this tropical forest, which is very rich in birds. In addition to the conservation of the primary forest, he has built three aqueducts with the communities that cross the mountains to provide running water to the inhabitants of the region. The main trailhead is about 1 km from the house, and goes to a small lagoon.

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 Tortí
2024

BOTANICAL GARDEN FINCA LOS MONOS

Natural site to discover

This beautiful garden is home to a large collection of heliconias, palms, ornamental plants, spices and fruits in the heart of a lush jungle. A nursery allows the planting of new species each year and floral arrangements are created for special events. Lin and Dave's 25 hectares of land are home to many insects, reptiles, birds, monkeys and even sloths.

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 Boca Del Drago
2024

PLAYA ESTRELLA (STARFISH BEACH)

Natural site to discover

This is by far the most beautiful beach in Isla Colón for swimming. The starfish are just a few meters from the shore! Signs remind you not to touch them or take them out of the water because they might die. Several straw huts serve freshly caught fish and lobsters before your very eyes. On weekends and vacations, many Panamanian families also come to relax here. The atmosphere is then more noisy and animated!

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 Boca Del Drago
2024

CERRO CARIGUANA

Natural site to discover

The Cerro Cariguana (914 m) takes its name from the shape of the "iguana head" (cara de iguana) that you can guess up there, with a little imagination. A moderate hike, with a nice path where you can admire bromeliads and orchids, and sometimes see toucans and sloths. At the top, a beautiful view of the crater and the surrounding mountains. To the north: Las Tres Marías, Pajita, Gaital and Caracoral, and to the west, the India Dormida. From El Valle, you have to leave from Calle Millonarios, not far from Pozos Termales. The road becomes a track. You can get closer to the beginning of the trail by car (taxis are available for about 3 US$ one way). The beginning of the trail is well indicated. On foot from the village, count 3 hours for the complete loop (8-9 km), a little less for the return trip (6 km). The loop can be shorter or longer: either you go down the La Pita path (first descent) or the El Macano path, the second and longer descent. A guidebook is not necessary, and you can find the route on the Wikiloc application. Be careful on the ridges, it can be very windy in summer. It is recommended, especially in winter, to leave early in the morning to get down before the afternoon storms. Take good shoes, a windbreaker or rain cape, enough water (there is none at all on the route), a cap and sun cream (no shade), and a headlamp, in case you leave a bit late.

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 El Valle
2024

SENDERO LA CULEBRA

Natural site to discover

There are two options on this trail. A rather difficult one-day round trip, or the 4-5 day one-way trek that will take you to Bocas. Unlike the sendero del Pianista, the trail does not pass through indigenous villages and therefore you will not have the possibility to ask for accommodation. You will have to bring all the necessary equipment, tent, water and food. The accompaniment of a guide is indispensable because you will cross wild zones without signs

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 Boquete
2024

THE LOST CASCADES

Natural site to discover

Three magnificent waterfalls, to see according to the time you have and the weather, but preferably in rainy season to enjoy the show even more. It takes about 3 hours on a steep and often muddy path, but well marked. A guide is not necessary, unless you want to learn more about the local fauna and flora. You can get there by bus from Boquete (direction Bajo Mono or Alto Quiel), or by cab (12 US$). The trail is about 15 minutes walk from where the bus or cab leaves you.

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 Boquete
2024

SENDERO PIPELINE

Natural site to discover

This family trail of about 2 hours round trip is the easiest of the region because the difference in altitude is not important and the hike starts at the edge of the road before entering the forest. It is announced a pretty waterfall at the end but that will depend on the season, because it seems to disappear during the Panamanian heat. Nevertheless, the stroll is pleasant and magnificent centenary trees mark the end of the circuit. You will of course observe many birds. It is not necessary to be accompanied by a guide.

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 Boquete
2024

EL RINCON DE LA BIODIVERSIDAD

Natural site to discover

Organic farm where you can buy fruits and vegetables. Small natural swimming pool. Possibility to plant his tent for two hours of volunteer work per day.

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 El Valle
2024

CAYO CORAL

Natural site to discover

Known as one of the most beautiful diving spots of Bocas del Toro, Cayo Coral is part of the organized tours from Bocas, sometimes combined on the day with Cayos Zapatillas. It is also possible to stop for lunch in one of the local restaurants. Here, the coral is dead but fishes are abundant. The spot called "garden" with soft coral is also popular for snorkeling, with many colors but less fish. This makes it an ideal exploration site, especially for families with children.

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 Secteurs Sud Et Est
2024

CAYOS ZAPATILLAS

Natural site to discover

The two small islands of Cayo Zapatilla 1 and Cayo Zapatilla 2 are best visited for the marine life around them (trees, hard coral and a great diversity of fish). After snorkeling, the tours take you to one of the two islands where you can walk along the path and swim on the paradisiacal and completely virgin beaches with crystal clear waters. The western island (Zapatilla Menor) is the refuge and nesting place of the green sea turtles, Baula and Carey, which scientists come to observe.

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 Parque Nacional Marino Isla Bastimentos
2024

BAT CAVE AND BAHÍA HONDA

Natural site to discover

Nívida, the bat cave, is accessible from Bahía Honda. There are stalactites and, as the name suggests, bats hanging from the ceiling, as well as crickets and spiders. In some places, the water can reach up to the chest. A dark and eerie place, but not dangerous. During the trip, the boat passes through the mangrove and allows to see caimans and sloths. A Ngäbe family lives nearby and welcomes visitors for a typical and very good lunch.

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 Parque Nacional Marino Isla Bastimentos
2024

THE CANGILONES OF GUALACA

Natural site to discover

This mini canyon offers a refreshing swim in the crystal clear waters of the Estí river. A very beautiful site, but to be avoided on rainy days for safety reasons (rising water), and on weekends if you fear the crowd. It is also an excellent spot for climbing, for solo crossings over the water. You may come across the young Cesar Augusto Melendez. Originally from Boquete, he is a pioneer of climbing in Panama and probably the best climber in the country.

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 Gualacá
2024

OJO DE AGUA

Natural site to discover

This artificial mountain lake offers beautiful views of the river's meanders. For a quick stop by going to Boquete.

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 Almirante
2024

CAYO ROLDÁN

Natural site to discover

At the southeast end of Isla Pastores, Cayo Roldán is also known as Pelican Point. This private islet is reached by lancha, by a nice path in the middle of the mangrove. A short path leads to the viewpoint of the summit. About fifty sloths and iguanas have already been introduced on the 0.25 km of this piece of land. The environment could be changed soon because, like many corners of the Bocas del Toro archipelago, a plot of land with a small cabaña is for sale.

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 Isla Pastores
2024

ISLA PAJAROS

Natural site to discover

This island, which measures about 360 square meters, is also called Cayo Cisne. Underwater, beautiful corals, but do not miss to observe also and especially the sky. This rock that emerges from the water is an ideal ecosystem for the fifty or so species of birds that it hosts and especially for the endemic red-billed rabijunco, recognizable by its long and thin white tail. The caves of the island are also a stage of choice in the migration of many species ... A decor that reminds the surrealist mountains of the movie Avatar

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 Boca Del Drago
2024

PLAYA LA RESTINGA

Natural site to discover

Not far from the village quay, La Restinga is considered the island's main swimming spot. Here you can rent sun loungers and parasols for total relaxation. At the tip, the small green island of El Morro will seem more or less remote! Because at high tide, needless to say, the beach becomes much smaller, and the peninsula no longer seems connected to the mainland. At low tide, the spit of sand makes it easily accessible. The only drawback is that not everyone is used to taking their garbage with them.

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 Isla Taboga
2024

CERRO LA CRUZ

Natural site to discover

It is not necessarily easy to find the access to the path because of the vegetation and the little maintenance, but you will be easily informed! It is an accessible walk because it is fast, about 30 minutes walk from the village, but the slope can be considered a bit steep, especially if you start under a bright sun. At 169 m, Cerro la Cruz (169 m) offers a beautiful view of the bay of Panamá. We repeat our recommendation to wear good shoes and to bring your sunscreen.

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 Isla Taboga
2024

WATCHTOWER TOWER

Natural site to discover

This walk is accessible, as it is not very steep (around 260 m). The path leads to a World War II bunker that has been converted into a viewpoint. The walk takes around 1 hour 30 minutes. Wear good shoes and don't forget to bring your own water supply. Make sure you watch your step so as not to step on the barely visible blue frogs. On the other hand, close your eyes when you come to a hillside that has been converted into a landfill site. At the summit, at 307 m, the view is unobstructed and the fresh air is invigorating!

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 Isla Taboga