How to Plan Your Day Trip to El Valle Anton from Panama City

If you’re looking for an adventure outside of Panama City, then a day trip to El Valle Anton should be at the top of your list. This active tour will take you on a hike in a dormant volcano, to visit a scenic mountain village, and explore local wildlife and plants at a zoo and botanical garden. Here’s what you need to know to plan your trip.

Overview of the Tour

The day trip to El Valle Anton from Panama City is an active tour that starts with a pickup from centrally-located hotels. You’ll then make your way to the valley of El Valle Anton, where you’ll hike in a dormant volcano and visit a scenic mountain village. The tour also includes visits to a zoo and botanical garden, a jungle waterfall, and a natural thermal pool. You’ll end your day by visiting the colorful handicraft market before returning to Panama City.

What’s Included

The tour includes the following:

• Transport by air-conditioned minivan or minibus
• Professional driver
• Professional local guide
• Lunch
• Museum entrance fee US$3 per person (optional)
• Chorro el Macho trail US$5 per person (Optional)

Meeting and Pickup Details

The tour starts at 8:00 AM, and pickup is available from centrally-located hotels in Panama City. If your hotel is outside of the pickup range, there may be an extra cost to cover the round-trip transfer. For example, hotels like Westin Playa Bonita or Dream Playa Bonita have an additional charge of US$20 total for 1-12 passengers.

Activities During the Tour

The El Valle Anton day trip is an active tour that involves various activities such as hiking, swimming, and visiting a zoo and botanical garden. Here are some of the activities that you can expect during the tour:

Hiking in a Dormant Volcano

The tour includes a hike in Cerro Gaital Natural Monument, a dormant volcano located in the town of El Valle Anton. The hike is approximately three hours long with a moderate-level difficulty, and it offers panoramic views of the valley and mountains. Along the hike, you’ll observe various flora and fauna, including orchids, birds, and butterflies.

Visiting a Zoological Park and Botanical Garden

Your next stop will be the El Nispero Zoo and Botanical Garden, where you’ll get to see a wide range of animals and plants native to Panama. The zoo features over 50 species of animals, including jaguars, toucans, and anteaters. The botanical gardens have more than 200 species of plants, including ferns, bromeliads, and orchids.

Swimming in a Jungle Waterfall

After visiting the zoo and botanical garden, you’ll make your way to Chorro El Macho Waterfall, located in a lush tropical jungle. You’ll have the chance to take a dip in the waterfall’s natural pool, surrounded by pristine nature.

Soaking in a Natural Thermal Pool

The tour also includes a visit to the natural thermal pools located at the base of a mountain. The pools are fed by natural hot springs and offer a relaxing and therapeutic experience.

Visiting the Colorful Handicraft Market

Your last stop of the day will be the El Valle Market, where you can browse and purchase locally made handicrafts such as wood carvings, baskets, and textiles.

How to Book Your Tour

To book your day trip to El Valle Anton from Panama City, visit the tour operator’s website at https://www.viator.com/tours/Panama-City/Day-Trip-to-El-Valle-Anton-from-Panama-City/d950-41127P1?pid=P00070472&mcid=42383. Be sure to select your preferred date, and remember that pickup is available from centrally-located hotels in Panama City.

Book Your Tour Now

If you’re looking for an active adventure outside of Panama City, then a day trip to El Valle Anton should be on your list. With a hike in a dormant volcano, visits to a zoo and botanical garden, swimming in a jungle waterfall, soaking in natural thermal pools, and visiting a colorful handicraft market, this tour has something for everyone. Book your tour today and get ready to explore the natural wonders of Panama.

FAQ about Panama City

If you’re planning a trip to Panama City, you probably have some questions about what to expect when you arrive. Here are some frequently asked questions to help you plan your trip.

1. What is the climate like in Panama City?

Panama City has a tropical climate with two primary seasons: the dry season from December to April and the rainy season from May to November. Temperatures remain fairly constant throughout the year, with averages ranging from 75°F to 85°F.

2. What is the best time of year to visit Panama City?

The best time to visit Panama City is during the dry season from December to April when you can enjoy sunny days and fewer chances of rain. The rainy season is also a good time to visit if you don’t mind a little precipitation and lower prices.

3. What language is spoken in Panama City?

The primary language spoken in Panama City is Spanish. However, many locals speak English, especially in tourist areas.

4. Do I need a visa to visit Panama City?

Visitors from most countries, including the United States, can enter Panama City for up to 180 days without a visa. However, you will need a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date.

5. What is the currency in Panama City?

The currency in Panama City is the Balboa, which is pegged to the US dollar. The US dollar is also widely accepted, especially in tourist areas.

6. How do I get around Panama City?

The best way to get around Panama City is by taxi or Uber. Public transportation is also available, including buses and the Metro. Walking is also a great way to explore the city, especially in areas like the Casco Viejo.

7. What are the top tourist attractions in Panama City?

Panama City has many great tourist attractions, including:

• The Panama Canal
• Casco Viejo
• The Biomuseo
• The Metropolitan Natural Park
• The Amador Causeway

8. Is Panama City safe for tourists?

Panama City is generally safe for tourists, but like any major city, there is some crime. It’s important to take precautions like avoiding dark alleys at night and not flashing valuables. Stick to well-lit areas and use common sense.

9. What are some good day trips from Panama City?

There are many great day trips you can take from Panama City, including:

• The Panama Canal and Miraflores Locks
• The San Blas Islands
• The Embera Village
• The Anton Valley

10. What is the cuisine like in Panama City?

The cuisine in Panama City reflects influences from Spanish, African, and Indian cultures. Some popular dishes include:

• Ceviche
• Panamanian-style fried rice
• Bollos (tamales made with corn dough)
• Sancocho (a chicken soup)

Book Your Tour Now

Panama City is a vibrant and diverse city with plenty to see and do. Whether you’re interested in exploring the Panama Canal, soaking up the local culture, or just relaxing on a beautiful beach, you’re sure to have a memorable time in Panama City. Don’t forget to pack your sunscreen and your sense of adventure!

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Panama City

Panama City, the capital of Panama, is a bustling metropolis that offers a mix of modern skyscrapers, historic landmarks, natural beauty, and vibrant culture. As a tourist, you can spend your time exploring various attractions, trying local cuisine, visiting museums, and taking part in outdoor activities. In this guide, we will provide a step-by-step plan for how to make the most of your time in Panama City.

1. Explore the Historic District of Casco Viejo

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Casco Viejo is the oldest part of Panama City and is known for its beautiful architecture, vibrant plazas, and charming streets. You can spend hours wandering the narrow alleys, admiring the colorful colonial buildings, and stopping by the quaint cafes, restaurants, and shops. Some of the highlights of Casco Viejo include the impressive Cathedral of Panama, the National Theater, and the Plaza de la Independencia.

2. Visit the Panama Canal

No trip to Panama City is complete without visiting the famous Panama Canal, an engineering marvel that connects the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans. You can take a guided tour of the canal and watch the massive ships pass through the locks while learning about the history and importance of this 50-mile long waterway. The Miraflores Locks Visitor Center is a great place to start, featuring a museum, observation decks, and a cinema.

3. Enjoy the Beaches of Panama

Panama has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, and you can easily access them from Panama City. Some of the top beaches to visit include the white sands of Playa Bonita, the turquoise waters of Playa Blanca, and the secluded shores of Isla Taboga. You can swim, snorkel, sunbathe, or take part in water sports like surfing or kayaking.

4. Try the Local Food and Drinks

Panama has a rich culinary heritage, influenced by a mix of indigenous, Spanish, and Afro-Caribbean cultures. You can try classic dishes like arroz con pollo (chicken and rice), ceviche (marinated seafood), and sancocho (stew made with chicken or beef). Make sure to also sample the local brews like Balboa beer and Ron Abuelo rum, which are widely available in bars and restaurants.

5. Explore the Natural Wonders of Panama

Panama is home to several natural wonders, ranging from lush rainforests to scenic hiking trails to wildlife reserves. You can visit the Metropolitan Natural Park, located in the heart of Panama City, and enjoy the panoramic views of the city while spotting birds, monkeys, and iguanas. You can also take a day trip to the Gamboa Rainforest Resort, where you can ride an aerial tram through the canopy, explore a butterfly house, or go on a boat tour of the Panama Canal.

6. Visit the Museums and Galleries

If you’re interested in history, art, or culture, there are plenty of museums and galleries in Panama City to explore. The Panama Canal Museum is a must-visit, showcasing the evolution and impact of the canal on the country and the world. The Museum of Contemporary Art is another highlight, featuring works by local and international artists. You can also visit the Biomuseo, a fascinating natural history museum designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry.

7. Shop for Souvenirs and Mementos

Finally, no trip to Panama City is complete without shopping for souvenirs and mementos to take home. You can browse the local markets like the Mercado de Mariscos, where you can buy fresh seafood and local crafts. The Multicentro Mall is a great place to shop for designer brands, electronics, and beauty products. You can also visit the historic district of Avenida Central, where you can find traditional Panamanian clothing, hats, and accessories.

Book Your Tour Now

Panama City offers a wealth of attractions and activities for tourists, from historic landmarks to natural wonders to vibrant culture. By following this step-by-step plan, you can explore the city, enjoy the beaches and rainforests, try the local cuisine and drinks, visit museums and galleries, and shop for souvenirs. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in Panama City!