4 Days in El Valle de Anton

El Valle is a beautiful town just 2.5 hours from Panama City. It is located in the crater of an inactive volcano, which makes its surroundings very special: challenging trails, easier ones, waterfalls, and a cultural offer that you will not want to miss. This destination represents the green, fresh and full of adventure side of the Pacific Riviera.

Day 1: Trails and Hot Springs

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Hiking on the Caldera Route

What better way to start your tour of El Valle than to get to know the nature that makes it famous. The Caldera Route is a circuit of trails located on the edge of the crater that surrounds the town. Each one offers panoramic views and challenging climbs; however, their flora can be very different. Choose between four impressive routes: Cara Iguana, La India Dormida, La Silla or El Gaital. The latter offers the experience of the Panamanian rainforest and with 4 km long in total, it is relatively short. The path is a steep climb that will challenge your legs, but the reward is incomparable: at the end of the trail there is a viewpoint between mountains from where you can see the whole town.

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Immerse Yourself in the Hot Springs of El Valle de Anton

Discover one of the most enjoyable natural phenomena in El Valle. Here, hot springs are a classic and unmissable activity for locals and visitors. Located on the slopes of Cerro Cara Iguana, the site is cozy and surrounded by greenery, making it an authentic experience. In addition to enjoying the mineral water pools at a pleasant temperature, dare to experiment with the natural mud from the pools. They recommend putting it all over your body to exfoliate it and leave it ready for the next adventure.

Day 2: Culture, Nature and Conservation

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Discover the Handicrafts Market

The town center is picturesque, organized and charming. A walk along the main street will give you the overview you need to get to know the local lifestyle. Start this walk through the vibrant Handicrafts Market in El Valle de Anton. Here you will find a variety of handmade products, from textiles to jewelry, including traditional handicrafts. It is an excellent place to buy unique souvenirs and support local artisans, while learning about Panamanian culture and traditions.

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Amphibian Conservation Center

A pleasant experience for the whole family is to visit the El Valle Amphibian Conservation Center Foundation, a foundation that focuses on protecting endangered amphibians. Once here you will observe the golden frogs, you will receive all the information on how communities can contribute to the conservation of these amphibians, while you learn about the challenges they face worldwide. Continue the day by taking a walk along the Square Trees Trail, one of the main attractions of this path. It is a wonderful place to go as a family and also see birds, butterflies, insects and sloths.

Day 3: Outdoor Adventure and Local Gastronomy

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A Dip in Chorro Las Mozas

On the way to Cerro La Cruz you will find Chorro Las Mozas, a series of impressive waterfalls surrounded by impressive virgin vegetation, through which the Antón River passes. To get to each waterfall you will have to do an easy walk. Many people explore the first one or reach the second one, but if you have time, go ahead and do the complete circuit and thus have a clear overview of the local flora and fauna. Don't forget your swimsuit, these waterfalls form pools that become natural pools.

Friends riding bikes in a sunny day at El Valle de Anton

Bike Ride and Gastronomic Stops

Cycling around the town and its surroundings is an experience that can be enjoyed safely in El Valle. In the center of town you will find where to rent electric options, which can be operated in manual or automatic mode if you want extra help on any uphill climb. This is the perfect opportunity to visit the Piedra Pintada, a huge pre-Columbian petroglyph with unknown meaning located on the way up to La India Dormida. On your way, don't forget to stop by Panadería Cano, where their "pan de gusano" and "orejitas" are a classic delicacy of the town. The culinary offer in the area is international and has many options for dinner and lunch.

Day 4: Agrotourism and Family Activities

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Learn about Cane Milling

The Panamanian trapiche tradition is a rural activity that is still seen in several towns in the country. In El Valle, Trapiche Don Evelio is an unmissable community tourism activity if you want to get to know the life of the Panamanian countryside. The trapiche is a type of mill used to extract sugarcane juice. This juice is the basis for the production of various products such as cane honey, sugar, and other derivatives. The process involves crushing the cane with rotating rollers that squeeze the juice from the plant. Mr. Evelio is passionate about maintaining traditions and teaching visitors how the activity was carried out to obtain honey and guarapo.

General Recommendations

Wear appropriate footwear and clothing for the trails of La Ruta de la Caldera. The temperature above can change a lot and there is a lot of wind, so walking carefully is imperative.
Do not forget to bring water and light food for the longer trails.
Bring cash. Remember that you are in rural areas and it is always positive to support small entrepreneurs.
If you are not an expert hiker, rely on authorized local guides who know the area like the back of their hand.