Day 1 – Arrival in El Valle de Anton
If you’re travelling from Panama City you’ll pass a lookout point; it’s well worth making a stop to take in the commanding views across El Valle’s extinct volcanic crater. The town itself is surprisingly small and picturesque considering its proximity to the capital, and you’ll find a smattering of shops and restaurants and a fantastic bakery. Your charming B&B is set amongst lovingly-kept gardens, just a gentle stroll or cycle ride from the centre.
Day 2 – Self-guided hiking trail
After breakfast it’s time to lace up your boots, pack you bag with a few snacks and a swimming costume and head into the rainforest. We’ll provide you with a route description so you can set your own pace. Along the way is a chance to see pre-Columbian petroglyphs and take a dip beneath a waterfall. Keep your eyes peeled for colourful birds of paradise and sweeping mountain views.
Day 3 – Departure from El Valle de Anton
Today, it’s time to say goodbye to this fertile valley and continue with your travels. Before you head off, we recommend stopping by the local market. You’ll find some of the tastiest fruit in Panama here, and you can even ask the seller to cut it up for you so you can snack on fresh papaya or watermelon on the go.
Accommodation
For this bite-sized trip we offer the following options
Night safari in El Valle de Anton
As night falls, you head out with your guide for a night walk in the Valle de Antón. This is when the jungle really comes to life, with frogs calling, insects buzzing and the chance of spotting snakes and other nocturnal creatures. You follow narrow paths along the Río Antón, walking through the gorge and listening to the sounds of the forest after dark. It’s a great way to immerse in the local nature and see a very different side of the valley.
Explore El Valle de Anton by e-bike
Hop on an e-bike and explore the green surroundings of El Valle de Antón with a guide. As you cycle through the crater valley, your guide shares stories about the history of this unique village, set in one of the largest inhabited volcanic craters in the world. You ride past the ancient rock carvings of La Piedra Pintada and pause at Cerro Cara Iguana for wide views over the valley. The ride takes around three hours and is suitable for anyone with a normal level of fitness. Children from around ten years old are welcome to join too.