Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
El Níspero
ZOO
OFFLINE MAP
( 983-6142; adult/child US$3/2; 7am-5pm)
About 1km north of Av Central is a zoo
named El Níspero. If you're sensitive to caged animals, you should probably skip this
one. With that said, El Níspero is one of the best places for seeing Panama's
ranas dora-
das
(golden frogs). These endangered amphibians are unbelievably striking in color, and
extremely photogenic.
They are also one of Panama's most important cultural symbols, and have long been
revered by the indigenous peoples of the country. Unfortunately, they are extremely sens-
itive to human intrusion and climate change so, as their numbers continue to deplete, it's
increasingly unlikely that you'll see them in the wild.
El Valle Amphibian Conservation Center
WILDLIFE RESERVE
OFFLINE MAP
(EVACC;
www.fightforthefrogs.com/valle.html
)
More a conservation center than a zoo, the ex-
cellent El Valle Amphibian Conservation Center was created in conjunction with the
Houston Zoo to save amphibians from a deadly virus currently threatening them around
the world. Run by a dedicated team of conservationists, the center exhibits native
Panamanian species and, in particular, the golden frog.
The research area is private and devoted to quarantine, treatment and captive breeding
efforts. It is located in the grounds of El Níspero.
Pozos Termales
HOT SPRINGS
OFFLINE MAP
(Thermal Baths; Calle los Pozos; admission US$2.25; 8am-5pm)
Pozos Termales is the per-
fect place to soak the afternoon away. This renovated complex features a series of pools
with varying temperatures and supposed curative properties. Post-bath, there is a bucket
for applying healing mud to your skin. The next step is to take the requisite photo or two,
and then head to the showers.
It's a 10-minute walk from town, located on the west side in a remote, forested area
(follow the signs).
Museo de El Valle
MUSEUM
OFFLINE MAP
(Av Central; admission US$0.75; 10am-2pm Sat & Sun)
This museum contains exhibits of
petroglyphs and ceramics left by the indigenous peoples who lived in the area hundreds
of years ago. There is also some religious art (the museum is owned by the church next
