Hiking & Waterfalls, The Green Side of the Riviera Pacifica

Meet the Riviera Pacifica's verdant side and discover the depths of its tropical jungle. Cross crystal clear streams and wonder at the waterfalls that spring up from the greenery of its vegetation. This tour along the Pan-American Highway begins in Chame, just 1 hour from Panamá City, and continues to the top of the Anton Valley Mountains, 80 miles (130 km) from the city.

With almost 10 trails, more than 7 waterfalls and several circuits, the Riviera Pacifica invites you to know its opposite side to the beaches: a green side full of life. In the Riviera Pacifica, regardless of whether you are an expert or if it is the first time you get into nature, you will always find an exciting trekking challenge.

On the coast side, to the left of the Panamerican Highway, you will find Chame, a perfect district to combine your beach days with a climb to the challenging Cerro Chame.

From the summit, you will have an unparalleled panoramic view of the peninsula. Other options are to visit San Carlos and enjoy the circuit of La Laguna or pedal your bike to cover the 13 miles (21 km) of the Matapalo circuit.

On the mountainside, to the right of the Panamerican Highway, if you are coming from the city, pass through Altos de Campana and visit the first National Park in the country. Visit Anton Valley, where most of the trails and waterfalls of the area meet. There awaits the mythical India Dormida, a group of mountains very popular among national hikers and visitors. If not, you can also hike one of the 4 trails that go around the volcano crater where, nowadays, the town of Anton Valley is located.

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Cerro Gaital, Riviera Pacifica

Dare to experience this adventure where you can also meet the local fauna, go on bird watching tours, and discover the countless species of flowers that grow deep in our forests. On your way, you will find steep climbs with natural beauties, such as a waterfall over 65 feet (20 meters) high.

One of the main advantages of touring the Riviera Pacifica is having all kinds of trips at very short distances. A short walk from the start of any of the hikes, you will find charming villages offering a variety of amenities, restaurants, lodging and camping areas. In addition, you can combine several nearby activities in the same trip.

Remember that Panamá has two distinct seasons that will change the landscape and conditions of most trails.

In the dry season, from December to March, the summer winds will be your ideal companion for hikes and golden sunsets. In the rainy season, from March to November, you will see the forests bursting with life, deep green in color, and the waterfalls will be at their maximum magnificence. During this time, we recommend that you make your excursions in the morning when there is less chance of rain.

What does not change much is the average temperature. At the highest peaks, enjoy the refreshing summer winds, between 28 °C (82 °F) during the day and 20 °C (68 °F) at night. In the coastal area, take cover from the sun under the trees since the average temperature is 25 °C to 30 °C (77 °F to 86 °F,) but the nice thing is that it is ideal for swimming in the rivers.

Cascada 3 Pailas, Riviera Pacifica

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You should be accompanied by a local guide to show you the right way and support you in case of any eventuality. Especially in the rainy season, the local guides monitor the rainfall on the peaks to keep you safe from possible flooding while swimming in the regional rivers.

The trails and waterfalls of the Riviera Pacifica are definitely a different alternative when exploring this area of the country. These panoramas invite you to enjoy a combination of the sea waves with natural pools and mighty rivers. Prepare your backpack with a good snack, water, sunscreen and swimsuit, and let nothing stop you from exploring the Riviera Pacifica.