Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Garita US$5, Playa Estiladero US$7, Playa Venado US$24 and Cambutal US$60 to
US$80. Cambutal runs expensive due to the often dismal condition of the road.
TOP OF CHAPTER
Around Pedasí
Refugio de Vida Silvestre Isla Iguana
The 55-hectare
Refugio de Vida Silvestre Isla Iguana
(admission US$10)
is centered on a
deserted island ringed by coral fields, though unfortunately many of the reeds died in the
1982-83 El Niño (a change in weather patterns that shifts ocean currents and starves
marine life along the eastern Pacific coast). However, the surviving coral is pretty spec-
tacular and the water is shallow enough for snorkeling. As with most reefs in the Pacific,
the fish here are enormous.
Humpback whales also inhabit the waters around Isla Iguana from June to November.
These large sea mammals, 15m to 20m long, mate and bear their young here and then
teach them to dive. The humpbacks are the famous 'singing whales' - occasionally you
can hear their underwater sounds when diving here.
Although the island is supposed to be maintained by ANAM, Panama's environmental
agency, the main beach is often strewn with litter, which can be hard to control as it
comes in with the tide. Also, the US Navy used the island for target practice during
WWII and unexploded ordnance is occasionally discovered here. Needless to say, it's un-
wise to stray off the beaten paths.
Isla Iguana is reachable by boat from Playa El Arenal, a beach 3km northwest of the
Accel station in Pedasí. At the beach, boaters can take parties to the island for around
US$60. ATP in Pedasí can also help you arrange for a boat. Hold payment until the re-
turn trip and be clear on when you want to be picked up.
THE TUNA COAST
The Azuero coastline is often referred to as the 'tuna coast.' Home to a large popu-
lation of yellow-fin (ahi) tuna, the area serves as a benchmark indicator for the
health of global stocks.
Among the most sought-after fish in the world, yellow-fin tuna has spawned a
billion-dollar industry. Found in subtropical and tropical waters, tuna reach lengths
of over 2m and can weigh upwards of 200kg. Although typically processed and
