Description
El Valle Explorer is a great day trip from Panama City. Leave around 7 a.m. on a two hour drive to Panama’s famous valley which is located in the crater of an extinct volcano. El Valle de Anton is the second largest inhabited volcano crater in the world. This place is surrounded by mountains and has its own microclimate in its cloud forest.
There are plenty of waterfalls in the area which you will see after taking a short walk. The second walk in El Valle Explorer is to pre-colombian indigenous petroglyphs which are images created by carving part of a rock surface. This tour includes a visit to the Golden Frog exhibit which is almost extinct in the wild. This tiny frog is very toxic, studies have shown that they have enough toxins in their skin to kill more than 1,000 mice.
Another stop in El Valle Explorer is the Butterfly Haven which has around 250 butterflies living in a flight house. Gardens have hummingbirds and other birds. The market in El Valle de Anton is Panama’s most famous artisan market. Expect to find hand painted crafts which make excellent souvenirs. It also has a fruit and vegetable section.
It is possible to add a beach trip in the Pacific Ocean or a trip to the Laguna de San Carlos when taking a private tour. Tours on Wednesday include a hike in the famous India Dormida trail. The total hike distance is around four kilometers. Getting to the top takes about 45 minutes to an hour. The summit offers breathtaking views of the valley 3,000 feet below. This hike is not that difficult and requires moderate physical conditions.
Includes:
- Transportation
- Bilingual Guide
- Entrance Fees
Does not include:
- Lunch
- Gratuities
Available: Wednesdays and Sundays.
Time: 9 hours.
What to bring? comfortable clothes, walking shoes, rain jacket or waterproof bag (green season), sunscreen, hat, ID, cash, water bottle and camera.
Important information: El Valle Explorer runs on Wednesdays (Hiking version) and Sundays (Explorer version). Please inquire for other dates before booking. A minimum of two people are necessary for conducting this tour. Children pay the same rate as adults. Infants under two years are free of cost.