Anton Valley “El Valle” is a scenic mountain town nestled inside of the crater of an extinct volcano. Located 600 meters above sea level on the mountain side of the the Pacific Riviera, a visit to El Valle will guarantee a refreshing escape from the tropical heat of the beaches

Known for its beautiful landscapes, flower lined streets and lush, green mountains, and with temperatures ranging from 10º to 25ºC, El Valle is the perfect place for outdoor lovers.

Offering a large variety of trails, hikers of all skill levels will find their activity fix. Since not all trails are marked, our guide will gladly accompany you as far as you want. The most famous hike, which no one should miss out on is the India Dormida trail, offering the most spectacular sunrise viewpoint in the whole valley. The India Dormida trail will take you to the summit in 45 minutes, where you can enjoy amazing views of the valley below, before heading back down along the crater’s edge.

Back in town, don’t miss out on visiting the Nispero Zoo to see the Panamanian golden frog, which is actually extinct in the wild. Panama has made incredible efforts to preserve this species since it became threatened by a fungal pathogen over the last 40 years. Today, The Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute along with the Panamanian Golden Frog Species Survival Program is working on a plan to get them back into the wild, and you can see them first-hand at the Nispero Zoo.

If you visit El Valle de Antón on a Sunday, you should not miss the market, a favorite of locals and visitors alike. There, you’ll be able to pick up artisanal crafts made by members of the Ngöbe-Buglé community, as well as traditional molas crafted by members of the Guna community. At the market, you’ll also find traditional Panamanian hats known as “sombreros pintaos,” and a wide variety of fresh fruits and vegetables.

 

TOUR OVERVIEW - Anton Valley Day Tour

Escape the bustling city of Panama and embark on a rejuvenating day tour to Anton Valley, a picturesque town nestled within a dormant volcano crater. Anton Valley is known for its cool climate, lush landscapes, and natural wonders, making it the perfect destination for a day of relaxation and exploration.

We are excited to offer you two variations of this tour, offering different sights of beautiful Anton Valley. On the day of your tour, please advise your guide which option you would like to choose.

 

Morning: Departure from Panama City

• 7:00 AM: Your adventure begins as you depart from Panama City. An experienced guide will meet you at your hotel and you'll board a comfortable air-conditioned car for the journey to Anton Valley.

 

Scenic Drive to Anton Valley

• 7:30 AM - 9:30 AM: Enjoy a scenic drive through the Panamanian countryside as you head towards Anton Valley. Along the way, your guide will provide you with insights into the local culture, history, and geography.

 

Arrival in Anton Valley

• 9:30 AM: Arrive in Anton Valley and start your exploration of this charming town.

 

Morning Activities in Anton Valley

OPTION A

• 10:00 AM - 12:00 AM: Visit the India Dormida hike, a picturesque trail that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valley. The hike is moderate in difficulty and suitable for all fitness levels. You'll learn about the legend of the "sleeping Indian" and the cultural significance of the area.

OPTION B

• 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM: Begin your tour with a small hike to the petroglyphs and the waterfalls. Guests are welcome to take a refreshing dip.

• 11:00 PM - 12:00 PM: Explore the local Artisan Market in Anton Valley, where you can browse and shop for unique handicrafts, jewelry, artwork, and souvenirs created by local artisans. It's an excellent opportunity to find a special memento of your trip.

 

Lunch in Anton Valley

• 12:00 - 1:00 PM: Enjoy a delicious lunch (not included) at a local restaurant, where you can savor traditional Panamanian cuisine or international dishes, depending on your preference.

 

Afternoon Activities in Anton Valley

OPTION A

• 1:00 - 2:00 PM: Guests choose an activity from one of the following:
  • Golden Frog Exhibition (closed on Wednesdays), where you have the unique opportunity to see the critically endangered Panamanian Golden Frog. Learn about the efforts to conserve this iconic species and its cultural significance in Panama.
  • Nispero Zoo and Botanical Garden, where you can encounter a variety of native wildlife, including sloths, jaguars, and exotic birds. Explore the lush botanical garden with its colorful orchids and native plants.
  • Artisan market, where you can browse and shop for unique handicrafts, jewelry, artwork, and souvenirs created by local artisans. It's an excellent opportunity to find a special memento of your trip.

OPTION B

• 1:00 - 2:00 PM: Guests choose an activity from one of the following:
  • Golden Frog Exhibition (closed on Wednesdays), where you have the unique opportunity to see the critically endangered Panamanian Golden Frog. Learn about the efforts to conserve this iconic species and its cultural significance in Panama.
  • Nispero Zoo and Botanical Garden, where you can encounter a variety of native wildlife, including sloths, jaguars, and exotic birds. Explore the lush botanical garden with its colorful orchids and native plants.

 

Return to Panama City

• 2:00 PM: Embark on your return journey to Panama City, giving you time to reflect on the beautiful landscapes and experiences of the day.

 

Arrival in Panama City

• 4:00 PM: Return to Panama City and be dropped off at your hotel or a central location, concluding your memorable day tour to Anton Valley.

This day tour offers a perfect blend of nature, culture, and relaxation, allowing you to escape the city and immerse yourself in the beauty of Anton Valley. Don't forget to bring comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, a hat, and your camera to capture the stunning landscapes and wildlife you'll encounter.

 

TOUR SUMMARY - Anton Valley Day Tour

• Price - $120 per person
• Minimum 2 guests for tour
• Start time - 7:00am - daily
• Duration - 9 hours

Option A:

• India Dormida hike AND choose one activity from Golden Frog Sanctuary (closed on Wednesdays), Nispero Zoo & Botanical garden, or Artisan Market

Option B:

• Shorter hike to Petroglyphs and Waterfalls, Artisan Market AND choose one activity from Golden Frog Sanctuary (closed on Wednesdays), Nispero Zoo & Botanical garden

 

WHAT'S INCLUDED

• Pick-up and drop off at your Panama City lodging
• Well-maintained, air-conditioned car
• Bi-lingual guide (English/Spanish)
• All services in Option A or Option B
• Entrance Fees

 

WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED

• Lunch

 

WHAT TO BRING

• Wear comfortable hiking shoes with good rubber soles
• Raincoat or poncho 
• Swimwear
• Dry set of clothes to change
• Sunscreen
• Hat
• Sunglasses
• Swim attire
• Camera

 

PLEASE NOTE:

The hike up India Dormida mountain requires some level of fitness. Please advise us ahead of time if you have any physical conditions that prevent you from hiking at a moderate pace.

 

CANCELATION POLICY

Please read our Tour Cancelation Policy before booking our tours.