EVACC El Valle de Anton
Discover El Valle de Antón, a verdant crater valley offering cooler climes, unique nature, and vital amphibian conservation.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clear skies, pleasant temps
EVACC El Valle de Anton
Best Time
Clear skies, pleasant temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover El Valle de Antón, a verdant crater valley offering cooler climes, unique nature, and vital amphibian conservation.
"A fascinating place with an inspiring scientific and educational mission."
Support Conservation Efforts
Visiting EVACC directly supports amphibian protection. Consider buying souvenirs to help their mission.
Budget-Friendly Stays
Hostels like Bodhi offer affordable stays around $17/night for backpackers.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Golden Frog Sanctuary (EVACC)
Adjacent to Hotel Campestre
See and learn about Panama's iconic golden frog and other endangered amphibians. A vital conservation effort.
Square Trees Trail
Hotel Campestre grounds
Hike a unique trail featuring naturally square-trunked trees, a fascinating botanical curiosity.
Mirador de la Cruz
High viewpoint
Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the valley, especially magical at sunrise or sunset.
Chorro Macho Waterfall
Near the town center
A beautiful waterfall accessible via a short hike, perfect for a refreshing dip or scenic photos.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit to El Valle de Antón
Getting Around El Valle de Antón
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Support Conservation Efforts
Visiting EVACC directly supports amphibian protection. Consider buying souvenirs to help their mission. +1
Budget-Friendly Stays
Hostels like Bodhi offer affordable stays around $17/night for backpackers.
Embrace the Views
Many accommodations offer incredible valley vistas. Book a room with a view for a memorable experience. +1
Pack for Adventure
Bring comfortable shoes for hiking and exploring trails like the Square Trees.
Tips
from all over the internet
Support Conservation Efforts
Visiting EVACC directly supports amphibian protection. Consider buying souvenirs to help their mission. +1
Budget-Friendly Stays
Hostels like Bodhi offer affordable stays around $17/night for backpackers.
Embrace the Views
Many accommodations offer incredible valley vistas. Book a room with a view for a memorable experience. +1
Pack for Adventure
Bring comfortable shoes for hiking and exploring trails like the Square Trees.
Public Transport Savvy
Buses from Albrook Terminal cost $4.50 but take about 3 hours. Go early for a full day.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise El Valle de Antón for its inspiring conservation mission at EVACC and the unique natural beauty, including the Square Trees and stunning viewpoints. The friendly staff and affordable options make it a worthwhile visit for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful escape. Some visitors note that while the town is walkable, reaching further attractions may require transport.
"A fascinating place with an inspiring scientific and educational mission. The staff is very friendly and happy to explain their work to protect endangered amphibian species. Visiting the center directly supports the conservation of these unique creatures and helps raise awareness about Panama’s rich biodiversity.
From the center, you can access the Square Trees Trail, a short and pleasant hike that’s perfect for nature lovers and those curious about rare plant formations.
Definitely worth the visit!"
Mabelin Santos
"A small but meaningful learning space, the Amphibian Conservation Center is dedicated to teaching visitors about various frog species and the protection of the iconic golden frog. The center plays a crucial role in preventing the extinction of this unique amphibian, which is also a national symbol of Panama. When you visit, remember that the center was created with the purpose of both education and conservation.
I loved the visit because I saw frogs I had never seen before, and they also provide valuable information. It was my first time seeing the golden frog, and it was an incredible experience."
Jerry fit
"Worth a visit! We saw the rare golden frog and some other frogs. We also did the little walk next to it and we saw our first sloth there! Very kind people there explained a lot of things to us about the frogs."
Leoni Stückenschneider
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way is by public bus from the Albrook Terminal in Panama City. Buses depart hourly and the journey takes approximately 3 hours, costing around $4.50. Alternatively, you can arrange private transport or join a tour.
The town center is walkable, but for attractions further out like waterfalls or viewpoints, taxis or a rental car are recommended. Some visitors opt for organized tours that include transportation.
Public buses are the most economical option for reaching El Valle. Once there, walking or staying in budget-friendly accommodations like hostels can help keep costs down.
Yes, several tour operators offer day trips and multi-day excursions to El Valle, often including transportation and guided activities. +1
Driving from Panama City to El Valle de Antón typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entrance fees vary by attraction. For example, the EVACC (Amphibian Conservation Center) has affordable entry prices, often with a small store for souvenirs. Some trails might have small access fees. It's best to check individual attraction websites or inquire locally.
For most natural attractions and smaller centers like EVACC, advance booking isn't usually necessary. However, for popular accommodations or specific tours, it's highly recommended, especially during peak season.
Operating hours for EVACC can vary. It's advisable to check their official social media or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information on opening times.
Many of the natural beauty spots, like viewpoints and some hiking trails, can be enjoyed for free or a minimal fee. Exploring the town and its surroundings is also a great free activity.
Yes, many attractions, including EVACC, offer souvenirs for purchase, which directly supports their conservation efforts.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Key natural attractions include the Mirador de la Cruz for stunning views, Chorro Macho waterfall for a refreshing dip, and the unique Square Trees Trail. The EVACC center is also a must-visit for its conservation work. 
Yes, El Valle offers several hiking opportunities, from the short and unique Square Trees Trail to more challenging routes leading to waterfalls and viewpoints.
You might spot various frog species at EVACC, including the rare golden frog. Keep an eye out for birds and potentially sloths on the trails.
Absolutely! Families can enjoy the zoo, butterfly garden, hot springs, and easy nature walks. The EVACC center also offers educational insights for children.
El Valle de Antón is known for its cooler, more temperate climate compared to Panama City due to its higher elevation. It's often described as having a spring-like atmosphere year-round.
🍽️ 🏨 Accommodation & Dining
El Valle offers a range of accommodations, from budget-friendly hostels like Bodhi Hostel and cabanas
+1 to boutique hotels like Nómada
+1 and Kooteja.
Airbnb options are also available.
Popular dining spots include Restaurante Las Nubes +2 for scenic views and local cuisine. Many hotels also have excellent restaurants.
Yes, you can find local eateries and sodas offering affordable meals. Some tours may also include a typical Panamanian lunch.
Expect traditional Panamanian cuisine, often featuring fresh, local ingredients. Many restaurants offer hearty meals perfect after a day of exploring.
Yes, some accommodations, like the cabanas mentioned by @cabanamycozyvillagepana, offer rooms with jacuzzis for a more luxurious stay.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
The Mirador de la Cruz offers stunning panoramic shots of the valley. Waterfalls like Chorro Macho provide great opportunities for capturing nature's beauty.
The unique Square Trees are also a photogenic subject.
Early mornings and late afternoons (golden hours) offer the best light for landscape photography, minimizing harsh shadows.
Photography is generally allowed at EVACC, but it's always good practice to be respectful of the animals and follow any specific guidelines provided by the staff.
A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the expansive valley views. A macro lens can be great for close-ups of flora and fauna, especially at EVACC.
While specific photography tours might be less common, many general tours will take you to the most scenic spots, allowing ample time for photos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Many of the natural attractions, like the Chorro Macho waterfall, are easily accessible and offer opportunities for gentle exploration and play. Consider staying in accommodations that offer family-friendly amenities or spacious rooms. Some tours are also designed with families in mind, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all ages. Packing light snacks and water is always a good idea for little adventurers.
💰 Budget Travelers
Focus on free or low-cost activities such as hiking to viewpoints like Mirador de la Cruz
💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways
Dining at restaurants with scenic overlooks, like Restaurante Las Nubes, can add a special touch to your evenings.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Amphibian Conservation Center (EVACC)
The center's work is vital for preventing extinction and raising public awareness. The staff and volunteers are passionate and knowledgeable, eager to share their insights and the importance of their conservation efforts. Seeing these unique frogs up close is a truly memorable experience, and your visit directly contributes to their survival.
Adjacent to the center, you can also access the Square Trees Trail, a short and fascinating hike through a forest where the trees naturally grow with square trunks. This unique botanical phenomenon adds another layer of natural wonder to your visit.
Exploring El Valle's Natural Wonders
For those seeking a refreshing experience, the Chorro Macho waterfall is a popular destination. A short hike leads you to this beautiful cascade, where you can cool off in the natural pools or simply enjoy the scenic beauty.
Beyond these highlights, El Valle is dotted with other natural points of interest, including hot springs and various hiking trails that cater to different fitness levels. Whether you're looking for a gentle stroll or a more adventurous trek, El Valle de Antón offers ample opportunities to connect with nature.
Accommodation Options for Every Traveler
Mid-range and boutique hotels are plentiful, with places like Nómada and Kooteja receiving praise for their unique settings and comfortable amenities.
When choosing your accommodation, consider its proximity to the attractions you wish to visit and the type of experience you're looking for. Whether it's a cozy cabin nestled in the trees or a hotel with panoramic valley views, El Valle has a place for everyone.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit