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El Valle de Anton

Nestled into the valley of an extinct volcano, El Valle is a pleasant highland town in central Panama. Its 600 meters above sea level make it much cooler than the lowlands, and its wide range of activities – including canopy tours, hot springs, and a bustling Sunday market – attract both Panamanians and foreigners alike.

El Valle de Anton
El Valle de Anton
El Valle de Anton
El Valle de Anton
El Valle de Anton
El Valle de Anton
El Valle de Anton
El Valle de Anton
El Valle de Anton
El Valle de Anton
El Valle de Anton
El Valle de Anton
El Valle de Anton

More about El Valle de Anton

When the heat or stress of the city becomes too much for urban Panamanians, they flock to El Valle. At 120 km from Panama City – a drive that takes about two hours – it’s the closest and most attractive mountain town within range of the city. Most of El Valle and its sights lie along the valley floor or in the gentle hills above, making it easy to get around on foot or with a bicycle. Its streets are clean and lined with flowers, and the surrounding hillsides are lush and inviting. Considering the fresh air and cool temperature, it’s extremely pleasant to pass the day strolling through town or hiking in the hills. Those with a good eye may be able to spot La India Dormida (the sleeping Indian girl), a locally-loved silhouette that can be seen in the hilltops just outside of town.

El Valle’s public market in the center of town is the most common landmark, and all activities or destinations can be reached from here. On Sundays, the market comes alive with a colorful variety of people, products, and produce. Ngöbe-Buglé handicrafts, Kuna molas, and Panama hats can all be found at the market, as well as a wide variety of fresh fruits, vegatables, and plants.

As with other mountain towns in Panama, El Valle offers visitors an assortment of activities. Those looking for an adrenalin-rush should try the Canopy Adventure zipline, which is set amongst a thick forest and passes by a cascading waterfall. The waterfall, Chorro El Macho, is large and fairly impressive, and can be visited on its own. There are a number of trails and mountains surrounding El Valle that offer hiking through some beautiful humid cloud forests, however, the trails are often poorly-marked, so it’s recommended to hire a local guide. Los Pozos Termales, the local hot springs, are set on the west side of town and are made up of a series of pools which vary in size and temperature. They can be a bit dirty at times, but nonetheless will provide a nice place to soak away the afternoon.

The El Níspero zoo and plant nursery is 1 km north of Av Central. This place has some seriously cool creatures – white-faced capuchins, Baird’s tapirs, and even the nearly-extinct golden frog – but some seriously small cages. Though interesting, it can be a sad place to visit. Those that would rather take a horseback ride instead can find a long-established outfit near the chapel, which rents horses by the hour and provides a Spanish-speaking guide.

La Piedra Pintada, a huge boulder carved with pre-Columbian heiroglyphics, is just west of town. No one is really sure what its designs mean, but local children will often consent to giving visitors their interpretation for a small fee.

El Valle has an assortment of accommodations which include budget options, bed-and-breakfasts, resort spas, and an ecolodge. There is a decent amount of services in the town, including farmacies and grocery stores, an ATM, post office, and internet café.

El Valle is 120 km from Panama City. After 95 km west along the Inter-American Highway, the turnoff is on the right, and it’s another 28 km to the town. There are frequent buses that make the trip off the highway, but be forwarned that these are often small and crammed with people.

El Valle de Anton HIGHLIGHTS

Moments to look forward to

9 days | $

A Beautiful Vacation Beyond Our Expectations

It was a beautiful vacation.
A Beautiful Vacation Beyond Our Expectations
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9 days | $$

City, Beach, and Mountain Road Trip

From Panama City, Playa Blanca, and Boquete, to El Valle de Anton, we experience all the different terrains of Panama. We had a great time and look forward to exploring more of Central America.
City, Beach, and Mountain Road Trip
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8 days | $$$

Exploring Panama Together

This vacation, learn about the vibrant country of Panama as you explore its cities, forests, and even island beaches first hand. Go somewhere new –– together.
Exploring Panama Together
Itinerary
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23 days | $$$

No Joke. We Did it All!

We spent almost 23 days exploring all over — from Panama City to Isla Carenero, Boquete, Boca Chica, Santa Catalina...we did it all.
No Joke. We Did it All!
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20 days | $$

We Went from Coast to Highlands

I have used Anywhere 3 times now. There is room for improvement but I would recommend.
We Went from Coast to Highlands
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Accommodations

Incredible Stays

Los Mandarinos
Los Mandarinos
Los Mandarinos
Los Mandarinos

Los Mandarinos is a boutique spa and resort set in the hills above El Valle. With Tuscany-styled architecture and an intimate atmosphere, Los Mandarinos is an ideal place to unwind in the highlands of central Panama.

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Park Eden B&B
Park Eden B&B
Park Eden B&B
Park Eden B&B

Park Eden B&B lies just outside El Valle. The hotel’s grounds are immaculate and the rooms are cozy and welcoming

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Hotel Valle Verde
Hotel Valle Verde
Hotel Valle Verde
Hotel Valle Verde

Hotel Valle Verde is located in El Valle. This hotel has a lush garden and nice views of the surrounding area.

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