Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
ments. People are friendly and the visit makes an interesting contrast to some of the more
traditional islands.
For travelers arriving by plane from Panama City, the coastal airstrip in Corazón de
Jesús serves as a gateway to nearby Isla Tigre, one of the most traditional islands in Co-
marca, just 7km east of Narganá.
At the southwestern end of the bridge is the island of Narganá. It's home to the dis-
trict's only courthouse and jail, so there are a lot of policemen on the island. If any ask
for your passport, politely present it - jotting down tourists' names in little books gives
them something to do.
Banco Nacional de Panamá
(Narganá; 8am-3pm Mon-Fri, 9am-noon Sat)
changes
large bills and cashes Amex traveler's checks for a nominal fee. There is no ATM.
In 'downtown' Nargana,
Hospedaje Noris
( 6099-7706, 6039-6842; s/d with fan
US$10/20, with air-con US$15/30; )
will do if you find yourself stuck waiting for a flight.
Otherwise, the two-story concrete hotel is rather musty. Consider the air-con the best few
extra bucks you ever spent. Ask for the owner Paco at the public dock.
Isla Waidup
This tiny private isle is a stone's throw from Narganá.
Waidup Lodge
CABIN $$$
( 6103-0436, 6044-2691, 225-7619; per person all inclusive US$75)
Three simple cabins on
stilts work their charm with good mattresses, woven fiber walls and waterfront balconies.
Recently built, it features modern bathrooms in the rooms (but water is unheated). Still,
it's more private than other spots. A small bar-restaurant is at your service and the water
is swimmable. Tours go to nearby Isla Tigre.
Isla Tigre
Just a short boat ride from Corazón de Jesús and Narganá, Isla Tigre ranks among the
most traditional islands in the Comarca - though the whole island is lit with solar energy.
With wide walkways separating homes, the island is tidy and uncrowded, which makes it
easy to interact with local Kuna. However, an island guide must accompany visitors. Isla
Tigre is also home to some of the biggest festivals and events in the Comarca. Traditional
dances are performed free of charge but visitors should offer a tip.
A water taxi from Corazón de Jesús should run US$30 for two passengers.
