Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
sufficient. The terrain is extremely rugged, without hiking trails, and the river rages dur-
ing the rainy season. If you're prepared for a serious trek, you're almost certain to have
an adventure.
Sleeping & Eating
Permits to camp in the park are payable at the ranger station.
Guest Lodge
CABIN $
( 6574-9874;
http://odesen.bocas.com
;
lodging per person US$20, 3 meals US$14)
The heart of
Wekso is the Naso-run guest lodge which benefits the tribe. Rooms are basic and there is
a secure water supply, flush toilets and an outdoor shower. It's staffed by community
members who prepare meals, lead guided jungle tours and can explain about Naso cul-
ture and history.
Readers reported an armed robbery here in 2011. According to a local resident, the
presence of many part-time workers and no real security measures leaves Wekso more
open to security issues. On the other hand, in 15 years of operating, there has been only
one reported incident.
Information
Wekso is administered by
Odesen
(Organization for the Sustainable Development of Naso Eco-
tourism; 6569-3869;
http://odesen.bocas.com
)
, a community-based development organiz-
ation that promotes ecotourism in the park as well as the cultural preservation of the
Naso. Its direct contact is Raul Quintero.
Keep in mind that the guides at Wekso, all of whom are local residents, speak only
Spanish and Naso. Although you don't have to be fluent in Spanish to arrive here, a basic
understanding of the language is recommended.
Note that the Las Nubes entrance to the park is only accessible from Chiriquí
Province. Admission to the park is paid at the Wekso entrance near Changuinola.
Getting There & Away
To reach Wekso, you first have to catch a bus from Changuinola to the hamlet of El Si-
lencio (US$0.80, 40 minutes, every 20 minutes), and then take a 45-minute boat ride up
the Río Teribe. In El Silencio, you can hire a five-person boat for around US$60 to
US$75. If you tell the ANAM office in Changuinola that you want to go to Wekso, they
can radio ahead and make sure there is someone at the river's edge.
