Darién Province - Panama - page 551

Destinations include the Darién, the Chiriquí highlands, Veraguas and the Canal water-
shed. Trips can be custom-made but require six participants and a three-day minimum.
Sendero Panama ( 393-0747; www.senderopanama.com ) A reputable outfitter offer-
ing a variety of private tours around Panama, as well as day trips from Panama City. Op-
tions include walking, birding, family options and multisport activities. English-speaking
and also a member of APTSO.
Scubapanama ( 261-3841; www.scubapanama.com ) The country's oldest dive oper-
ator, offering a variety of trips throughout the country.
Independent Guides
Skilled independent naturalists and guides are available to visit locations throughout the
country.
Ivan Hoyos ( 6678-2657; [e-mail]) A naturalist guide with years of
experience, specializing in the Darién, Chiriquí highlands and Pipeline Rd. Speaks fluent
English and German.
Mario Bernal Greco ( info 6693-8213) An English- and Spanish-speaking guide from
El Valle available for highland tours, bird-watching and visits around Panamá Province.
Roberto Medina ( 6710-4049; [e-mail]) An English-speaking nat-
uralist and bird-watching guide.
Train
The country's only rail line is the historic Panama Railroad, which runs from Panama City
to Colón. In 2001 Panama Canal Railway Company (PCRC; 317-6070;
www.panarail.com ; Carretera Gaillard; one-way adult/child US$25/$15) introduced a daily
passenger service that included a fully operational vintage train. Aimed at tourists looking
to relive the heyday of luxury rail travel, the hour-long ride runs parallel to the canal, and
at times traverses thick jungle and rainforest.
Note that the Panama City terminus is located in Corozal, which is a 15-minute cab ride
from the capital.