Badajoz's Route: Indigenous Heritage and Spanish Influence

During this tour, you’ll trace the steps of Gonzalo de Badajoz, a conquistador who was sent by the Spanish Crown in 1515 to conquer Central Panama. Along the way, you’ll stop at important cultural sites, including the archeological dig at El Caño and the old churches of Parita and Natá.

Gonzalo de Badajoz was a Spanish conquistador who came to Panama at the beginning of the 16th century. In 1515, he visited the Azuero Peninsula with the hope of finding gold. He faced heavy resistance from local chief Paris and a series of epic battles followed.

This tour recounts the story of Gonzalo de Badajoz and the history of the region. You’ll visit the archaeological site of El Caño, which dates back to A.D. 800–1100. The site has ancient stone pedestals and an excavated cemetery.

You’ll also visit the oldest churches on the American continent at Parita and Natá. These will give you a good idea of how Spanish Catholicism became intertwined with the Panamanian belief system. The churches are well preserved and impressive.

This tour lasts seven hours. There is a four-person minimum.

Sneakers or hiking shoes, comfortable clothes, long pants (for visiting the churches), insect repellent, sunglasses, sunscreen, and camera.

Transportation, bilingual guide, entrance fees, water, and lunch.