A village inside a volcano
The drive winds through countryside before dropping into a mountain town 600 meters above sea level. The air is cooler, the vegetation is lush, and the pace slows down quickly.
A Mountain Village Inside a Volcanic Crater
Mountain village in a volcanic crater
Moderate walking on uneven trails.
Add a second stop, adjust the pace, or fold this tour into a larger Panama itinerary.
El Valle de Anton is a full change of pace from Panama City: cooler air, green crater walls, waterfalls, hot springs, and a small-town market, all inside the caldera of an extinct volcano.
The drive winds through countryside before dropping into a mountain town 600 meters above sea level. The air is cooler, the vegetation is lush, and the pace slows down quickly.
A short trail leads to a 35-meter waterfall surrounded by tropical growth. If conditions allow, you can feel the spray, dip into the natural pool, or add a canopy zipline nearby.
El Valle pairs nature with easy stops: mineral hot springs, the butterfly sanctuary, artisan crafts, orchids, produce, and golden frog souvenirs from local vendors.
The market is biggest on Sundays, but Sunday traffic to El Valle can add significant time. Weekdays usually feel calmer and easier.
Nearby El Nispero Zoo and Botanical Garden is one of the only places to see Panama's critically endangered golden frog.
Discover more of Panama with Go Beyond