Veraguas Province - Panama - page 266

have your own wheels, you'll want to know about the nearby cataract and its enticing
swimming hole. The scene is set amid light forest, and you'll likely have the place to
yourself.
To get to the falls from the Interamericana, take the Las Palmas turnoff and drive
10km. Bypass the first road into town, but turn left at the second road just before the
town's cemetery. Follow this dirt road for 200m and then take the fork to the right. This
last 1km to the falls, along a much rougher road, requires a 4WD vehicle. If you're not
driving one, it's best to play it safe and walk the last 1km to the falls. Be sure to lock up
and take your valuables with you.
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Santa Catalina
The secret about one of Central America's top surf spots is out. With a number of beach
breaks, the right and left breaks of Santa Carolina are comparable to Oahu's Sunset
Beach on a good day. The fishing village has a laid-back feel, with one good outdoor
pizzeria that forms the nexus of the dining and nightlife scene.
Since the recent paving of the access road, foreign investment has been shoring up.
Rumors run the gamut from the construction of a mega-resort and airstrip to the estab-
lishment of a protected area and a marine park. In the meantime, enjoy it while it's still
remote, undeveloped and home to some seriously wicked surf.
Though cell-phone service was recently added, there are still no banks and very few
places take credit cards. Make sure you arrive with cash. For general information and
surf forecasts, check out www.santacatalinabeach.com .
Activities
Many of the local fishers know a variety of superb snorkeling and spear-fishing spots as
well as some remote surf breaks. Their lifelong knowledge and love of the area is appar-
ent , and although you will need some basic Spanish to contract them, it's a good way to
support the community. Look for guides on the beach or simply ask around. You can also
find locals who will lead horseback-riding tours through the nearby forests.
Javier Elizondo TOUR
( 6544-1806; www.birdcoiba.com ; full day per person US$110-250) Responsible local guide
Javier offers visits to Parque Nacional Coiba, both all-inclusive day trips and overnights.
Prices decrease with the number of participants so it's worth getting a group together