El Valle Explorer

El Valle Explorer is a day trip option from Panama City. The tour starts around 7:00 a.m., involving a two-hour drive to the Panamanian valley situated within the crater of an extinct volcano. Anton Valley is recognized as the second-largest inhabited volcanic crater globally, encircled by mountains and characterized by a distinct microclimate with a cloud forest.

The first activity of El Valle Explorer is a hike along the Chorro El Macho trail, which takes approximately 20 minutes to reach a 35-meter-high waterfall. Visitors may swim in the natural pool at the base, though the water temperature can be quite cold. The second activity includes viewing pre-Columbian indigenous petroglyphs carved into the rock surface.

The tour features an exhibit dedicated to the golden frog, a species that is nearly extinct in its natural habitat. This small frog is known for its toxicity; studies suggest that its skin contains toxins capable of killing over 1,000 mice. Visiting this site contributes to conservation efforts. Adjacent to the exhibit is the square trees trail, providing a third hiking option.

Another highlight of the El Valle Explorer tour is the Butterfly Haven, which hosts around 250 butterflies in an enclosed area. The gardens also attract hummingbirds and various bird species. The El Valle de Anton market is a well-known craft market in Panama, offering hand-painted artisanal goods suitable for souvenirs, along with a section for fruits and vegetables. The tour includes a lunch stop at a local restaurant, though meal costs are not included.

On Sundays, the El Valle Explorer tour focuses more on exploration, while Wednesday tours feature a hike along the La India Dormida trail. The hike to the summit can take between forty-five minutes and an hour and a half, depending on individual fitness levels and pace. From the peak, visitors can enjoy remarkable views of the valley, which is approximately 900 meters (3,000 feet) below. Although the hike is about 3.5 kilometers long, it consists of steep segments that require a reasonable level of physical fitness.

While group activities are scheduled for Wednesdays and Sundays, other dates are available upon request. Private day trips from Panama City to Anton Valley are also offered, with the option to include a visit to a beach on the Pacific Ocean or the Laguna de San Carlos.