Boqueron

Early this morning we board our private van headed for the village of Boqueron Arriba, north of Lake Alajuela, located in one of the most important areas of the Panama Canal Watershed. Travel time is about two hours and the road conditions go from asphalt to dirt road until the path becomes impassable for vehicles. We hike up to a ridge fringing the Boqueron River, where we immediately encounter archeological evidence of the ancient Camino Real. After approximately 8 Km (5 miles) we arrive at the small village of Santa Librada. We get acquainted with our jungle camping equipment and spend the night there, ready for an exciting day tomorrow.

Chagres National Park

We begin our journey hiking through farmland and scattered thatch huts, gradually entering less developed areas until we reach the pristine rainforest of Chagres National Park. Along the way, we cross the Boqueron River multiple times, pausing to interpret the natural surroundings and visible remnants of the historic Camino Real. These stops also help us acclimate to the jungle’s heat and humidity, with occasional swims in crystal-clear river pools. Mornings are usually sunny, with brief afternoon showers—being wet is part of the experience. After 10 km (6 miles), we arrive at “Ambush Falls,” where the river splits into three small waterfalls and forms a tranquil pool beside a wide beach. It’s the perfect place to camp and relax after a rewarding day’s hike.

Chagres National Park

Today we get ready to traverse the most dense and technical section of the trek. We hike through very pristine and lush primary forest; climb a ridge following the pass that the Spaniards cross centuries ago carrying their precious cargo of silver and gold. We camp in the jungle again, and spend the last hours of daylight telling stories of Spaniards and pirates before retiring to a well-deserved slumber.

Portobelo

The fourth and last day, after a delicious cup of jungle coffee and a hearty breakfast, we break camp and proceed to trek 13 Km (8 miles) to the outskirts of Portobelo. Here we enjoy a great lunch, accompanied by a cold beer. We can change into our spare set of street clothes and ride our van back to Panama City.