Things to see and do El Valle

Information about excursions, contact with guides or bike rental.

A place of conservation and education to discover the fabulous world of snakes. Of the 154 species found in Panama, only about 15 can be dangerous. The snakes are presented in vivariums, but there are also turtles, iguanas or caimans rescued from animal traffickers. They are cared for before being released if possible. Information in Spanish or English by Mario, the founder of the center, a fascinating biologist.

The thermal waters, of volcanic origin (remember that El Valle is located in a crater), are one of the most popular attractions in the area. The site is a 20-minute walk from the market, set in a lush garden. But don't expect a modern spa with natural facilities. The pools are basic concrete, the toilets and changing rooms rustic. But we're under the trees and the entrance fee won't break the bank. After a few explanations on how the water comes from the volcano, you will be invited first to coat your face with clay, with two kinds of mud (normal or sensitive skin), with exfoliating, anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. You will then relax in one of the natural hot water pools at 38°C. These waters are rich in trace elements and are excellent for people suffering from arthritis, rheumatism or asthma, but it is recommended not to stay longer than 45 minutes. The water has a rusty colour, so avoid light coloured bathing suits! Bring a towel (not provided) and flip-flops (slippery floor). The site is ideal for relaxing after a hike, but it is advisable to arrive before 3pm to have time to enjoy it. Depending on the time of day or the day, it can get crowded (especially on weekends), the experience will be very different if you are 2 or 30 in the pools! On the other hand, the rain is not really a problem, considering the ambient heat and the temperature of the water.

Parrots, monkeys, tapirs, pumas... you can observe 94 species of animals, in beautiful surroundings, but... in cages, and that's a bit sad, I must admit. As for the endemic frog rana dorada(Atelopus zeteki), a national symbol, you can see it in a small conservation center dedicated to it. This critically endangered species is almost impossible to see in its natural habitat. In pre-Columbian times, the Indians believed that once dead, it turned to gold, hence the name "golden frog".

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.

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.

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..

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.

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.