THE GUIDE - The Rough Guide to Panama - page 307

Two of the most pleasurable activities in the area, given the magnificent scenery, are
horseriding and tubing , floating down the nearby river for over an hour, gliding past king-
fishers, herons and egrets.
ARRIVAL AND GETTING AROUND: SANTA FÉ
By bus Santa Fé is served by buses from the main terminal in Santiago (every 30min,
5am-7pm; 90min). For the return trip they leave from outside the “bus terminal” by the res-
taurant.
ACTIVITIES AND GUIDES
Fundación Héctor Gallego Up the hill from the hostel (Mon-Fri 8am-8pm, Sat & Sun
8am-6pm; 954 0737). This community development organization can fix up a tour of the
coffee cooperative (in Spanish) or organize a birding or hiking guide. It also offers internet
access ($1/hr).
Hiking The experienced Edgar Toribio ( 6713 2074, [e-mail] ) comes
highly recommended for hiking and wildlife, and generally charges around $36/person for a
full-day tour, such as to Cerro Tute - prices higher for trips if you prefer to go by car, rather
than on horseback. For the fit and adventurous, enquire about the four-day trek to the Carib-
bean ($340) - though you'll need a tent or hammock to sleep in. Other guides charge around
$15-25/person/day depending on numbers; ask your accommodation.
Horseriding Contact César Miranda 6792 0571, aventurascesamo.blogspot.co.uk ($40

for two).
Tubing Ask your accommodation to organize or ask for directions to the house of William
Abrega ( 6583 5944; $7/person, life jacket provided), whom it's well worth employing to
show you the best line into the occasional rapids.
ACCOMMODATION
All three accommodation listings can provide home-made maps of the area for local self-
guided walks to waterfalls, and can organize guides for more strenuous hikes further afield
and for horseriding.
Coffee Mountain Inn 500m downhill on the right-hand turn before the bus terminal
6988 0921, coffeemountaininn.com . Set in lovely grounds this beautifully appointed
lodge offers six accommodation options, ranging from a simple compact double with fan,
through to more luxurious doubles with a/c and cable TV, and an apartment with kitchenette
and wraparound balcony. Breakfast is included an d ca n be served on your private terrace.
Discounts for online bookings and long-term stays. $60
Hostal La Qhia Just up from the bus terminal 954 0903, panamamountain-
house.com . A relaxed yet efficient chalet-style hostel with a bohemian feel and set in a lush
garden. Comprising only a small dorm with adjoining semi-open kitchen and four private