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If you’re looking for a quick getaway from Panama City, we highly recommend checking out El Valle de Anton! Housed inside the crater of an extinct volcano, this picturesque town is known for its natural beauty and is a favorite spot among those looking to hike while in Panama. Here’s everything you need to know about going on a day trip to El Valle de Anton!
Getting to El Valle de Anton
The valley is located about two and a half hours from Panama City and can be reached either by renting a car or going with a tour group. We recommend going with a tour group so that you don’t have to worry about transportation and can have a local guide to show you the best spots. This tour is a good option. If you choose to drive there, be aware that the last stretch of the drive into the valley is on a narrow, windy road with sharp turns.
Things to Do in El Valle de Anton
Sleeping Indian Girl
Towering over El Valle de Anton is the Sleeping Indian Girl Mountain, the most popular attraction in the valley. As the name implies, the top of the mountain is shaped like a girl lying down. Here is a good site to read about the legend of the mountain. Visitors can hike to the top of the mountain, but be aware that the trail is mainly unmarked, and it can be difficult to find the starting point. Due to the remoteness of the hike, most hikers hire a local guide to make sure they stay on the correct path. The hiking guide is usually included for those going with a tour group. Fair warning: the hike is extremely steep and physically demanding.
Butterfly Haven
Did you know that there are over 1,800 species of butterflies in Panama? At Butterfly Haven, you can walk among 250 species and see them up close as they fly past you. Guides at the Haven provide information about the lifecycle of butterflies and the unique characteristics of each species. More information can be found here.
Pozos Termales
Pozos Termales is a great spot to relax while in El Valle de Anton. This spa area allows visitors to coat themselves in therapeutic mud before relaxing in the hot springs. Changing rooms are provided to visitors but towels are not, so make sure to pack your own. Plan to spend about an hour here.
El Valle Market
If you’re in the area on a Sunday, another great place to stop is El Valle Market. The market has three sections: souvenirs stalls, fresh produce for sale, and a restaurant serving up a special of the day. We recommend bringing cash to the market as many merchants don’t accept credit cards.
Check out our TikTok to see what our trip to Panama was like!
Looking for more to do in Panama? Check out our 3 Days in Panama Itinerary!
Disclaimer: All information presented in this post was accurate at the time of our trip. Attractions, availability, circumstances, operating hours, prices, etc. are subject to change and this post may not reflect the most up-to-date information. Readers are advised to do their due diligence in researching the location prior to travel. Hyperlink content may be out-of-date and is not sponsored by or affiliated with Scenic Sites unless otherwise noted.
Visited October 2022 | Posted June 2023
