THE GUIDE - The Rough Guide to Panama - page 282

ACTIVITIES AROUND VOLCÁN
Hiking and birdwatching are very much the order of the day, in particular exploring the
forested slopes of the volcano within the protected boundaries of the Parque Nacional
Volcán Barú , which lies between Volcán and Boquete. The Sendero de los Quetzales is
by far the most popular destination both for hikers and birding enthusiasts, offering a won-
derful twisting trail through verdant forest round the northern flanks of the volcano. Ac-
cessing the summit of Volcán Barú itself from this western side is a much more daunting
though potentially satisfying prospect, clambering across overgrown lava flows and navig-
ating round precipitous tors, where you should look out for the spectacular black and white
hawk eagle soaring above. Less energetic targets include the Pozos Termales de Tisingal ,
a collection of thermal pools, or the breathtaking 80m cascade of the Salto de Tigre , both
in a lovely setting off the Río Sereno road.
TOUR OPERATOR
Highland Adventures Cerro Punto road 771 4413 or 6685 1682, eco-
[e-mail] . Well-established company run by Gonzalo Aizpurúa (who speaks
some English) from an unmissable garden shed-office. Rates include guiding service and
transport and excursions include overnight treks to the summit of Volcán Barú ($170 for
two), for which you'll need to bring and carry your own food and equipment, or a day-long
slog ($140), which only the super-fit should attempt. Guides can also be provided for the
Sendero de los Quetzales or to explore other trails in the national park or in Amistad, as
well as to the Pozos Termales de Tisignal and the Salto de Tigre.
ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE: VOLCÁN
By bus Buses between David and Cerro Punto and Guadalupe pass through Volcán every
15min (5am-8pm; 1hr 20min; last return bus from Guadalupe 8pm). Buses from David
also pass through Volcán en route to and from the Costa Rica border at Río Sereno (every
45min-1hr, 6.20am-6.20pm; 1hr 10min).
By taxi Taxis hover near the main junction, charging $1 for a short hop round town.
ACCOMMODATION
Cabañas Reis On the left just before Volcán 771 5153, cabanasreis.com . Twelve
brightly painted new cement cabins (some with car porches), aimed squarely at the domestic
market and accommodating two to twelve guests. There's also one slightly larger cabaña
with a kitchen ($80). Excell ent value, as rooms are clean and comfortable with decent bath-
rooms, and a helpful owner. $50
Hostal Llano Lindo Av 2A, 1km up the Cerro Punto road off to the left 6514 0094,
hostalllanolindo.com . Basic seven-room hostel in a friendly family atmosphere with shared