Tourism Guide

Slow tourism in the Mariato district!

Travel at your own pace, soaking up the natural surroundings and rich heritage,
meet new people, savour the products of the sea and the land…
The rural area of the Mariato district, between the mountains and the ocean, offers a wide range of activities open to both nature and people.

Here, it is said that “Panama has to be earned”. You’ll find that every ride, whether by car, on horseback or on foot, is a real adventure…
that takes you to wild, exotic and soothing places. Nothing will rush you, especially not the Panamanians!
On the Sunset Coast, life unfolds to the rhythm of the sun, the rain, the horses and the fishing.

For help with your bookings, please contact Elodie on +507 6266-6808.
Fees: +15% of the total booking price.

Click on the menu to discover its contents.

SEA TRIP

The Pacific Ocean is all yours!
Embark on an adventure you won’t forget.

Departure from the port of Palo Seco.

Sport fishing

Caleta island

Coiba National Park

Wales & Dolphin Watching

Cebaco island – Pahal beach

SKIBUS

Cebaco island – Playita beach

Sunset from the ocean

  • Sport fishing
  • Coiba National Park
  • Wales & Dolphin watching
Whatsapp +33 6 79 71 01 70

 

 

 

AGUA MARINA 
TOUR

 

 

  • Sport fishing
  • Coiba National Park
  • Wales & Dolphin watching
  • Caleta island
  • Cebaco island
Whatsapp +507 6473-9933
  • Sport fishing
  • Wales & Dolphin watching
  • Caleta island
  • Cebaco island
  • SKIBUS
  • Sunset from the ocean
Whatsapp +507 6520-6970

CULTURAL SPORTS RELAXING ACTIVITIES

Click on the yellow icon (map) to display the location.

Leather workshop | CUTARRAS

The history of the cutarra goes back many centuries, since Jesus Christ first used woven leather sandals. The name comes from the indigenous Antataura tribe, who lived in the Parita region before the arrival of the Spanish colonizers. The latter introduced cattle into the region and used the leather to make these sandals, which the natives called cutarra.

In the heart of the Limones community, Lazaro keeps this know-how alive and shares it with you.
He welcomes you to his modest home, shows you his skills (belts, knife sheaths…), demonstrates leatherwork and sewing, and braids your Cutarras to fit your feet.
Leave Panama with a tailor-made local souvenir!

Whatsapp: +507 6266-6808

Private visit: only you are present at the time of the visit and the making of your cutarras.

 

Duration: 1h30 to 2h


Tour price: $5 per person
+ 1 pair of Cutarras: $20

Please let us know
your shoe size when booking.

THE TRADITIONS OF MATA OSCURA

During a half-day tour, you get to know of Mata Oscura from its roots, visiting the houses of local people, you will be able to see how a typical Panamanian hat is made, how a coconut is peeled and opened with a stone-sharpened machete, how to make a roasted corn tortilla (Tamales), participate in the traditional cane milling, learn to weave chacaras, prepare patacones, pick fruits in a patio, with local people.

Whatsapp: +507 6813-0970

Duration: 4 hours

Price: 30$ per person

DOÑA HILDA’S SUGAR CANE MILL 

Doña Hilda and her husband show you how the sugar cane is cut, then the process of grinding it in the trapiche, to extract the juice, where, if you wish, you can spin it to make the experience more fun. Finally, she explains how they make cane honey, which is highly appreciated as a sweetener, as well as being natural and organic. 

Whatsapp: +507 6813-0970

Duration: 45 Minutes

Price: 8$ adult & child from 13 | 6$ students & cild from 7

Dragon fruit farm

Robby opens the doors of his farm to let you discover his dragon fruit plantations.

Take a tour of the estate with him and enjoy the superb views of the Azuero massif.

Whatsapp: +507 6564-4169

Duration: 2 hours
Price: FREE

WithInGaïa

Carlota, Roberto and Zen, their daughter, invite you to discover their family project, a way of life that honours and respects living things.

A house and garden created in harmony with their surroundings, based on bioconstruction, permaculture and art, inspired by the beauty of nature.

Enjoy a tour of the garden and house, and make an organic tea.

Whatsapp: +507 6756-3379

Duration: 1h to 1h30
Price: adults 10$ | children on donation

AMAZILIA ® farm and laboratory

Mélissa and Juan, our jungle apothecaries, open the doors of their goat farm and soap laboratory:

  • Private tour :

Complete tour of the facilities,
Explanation of the manufacturing process and our philosophy,
Walk around the farm, explanation of how the farm is run and how the goats are fed, socialisation with the animals,
Tasting of dishes prepared with products from the farm,
Free soap.

  • Group tour:

Visit to the farm and the shop,
Explanation of the soap-making process,
A small snack.

Whatsapp: +507 6506-4249

Language: French | English | Spanish

Private tour: 3 hours | $55/person
Group tour: 1h30 | $25/person

Shop visit: Free

Horse riding

Horse riding is a real tradition in Panama. You’ll meet lots of locals on horseback.

Katia & Stella share their passion with you. Follow them in farms, rivers and beaches of the district, in the company of Pépito, Altesse, Prince… 

And why not enjoy the sunset on the beach, on the back of your steed?

Whatsapp: +507 6575-8954

Duration: 2 hours
Price: $40

Horse riding for children

Did you know that horses are particularly sensitive to children’s voices?

Melissa organises age-appropriate excursions for your children, complete with the appropriate safety equipment. Because your children also have the right to experience adventurous adventures!

You can also go on a family adventure. Go for it…

Whatsapp: +507 6356-5063

Duration: 2 hours
Price: $35 children 12 and under | $45 adults and children 13 and up
[Offer for groups of 6 or more]

Birdwatching

Join Kees in the heart of Cerro Hoya National Park to discover the 150 species of birds that nest in this protected area.

Photo credit: Jessica GALLIPEAU

Whatsapp: +507 6679-5504

Duration: one day
Price: $100

Nesting and liberation of turtles – MALENA

The Malena turtle conservation association is helping to protect the coast’s marine turtle species.

Join the volunteers on their nocturnal prowls during the egg-laying season or early in the morning to free the newborn babies.

Whatsapp: +507 6865-8908

Period: July to January
Duration: 2 hours
Price: donation of $10 per family to help the association continue its sea turtle conservation project.

Nesting and liberation of turtles – MATA OSCURA

The Mata Oscura turtle conservation association is helping to protect the coast’s marine turtle species.

Join the volunteers on their nocturnal prowls during the egg-laying season or early in the morning to free the newborn babies.

Whatsapp: +507 6813-0970

Period: July to January
Duration: 2 hours

Price: 

Turtle nesting watching
adult 20$ | student and child 12$

Hatchling release
adult 12$ | student and child 6$

Kayaking in the mangroves

A moment out of time!

Paddle through this meandering river and realise just how fragile it is.
Your guide will give you time to contemplate this wild immensity and make you aware of the need to protect the mangrove.

Whatsapp: +507 6211-1466

Duration: 1h30 to 2h

From 2 to 3 person > 25$ por person
From 4 to 5 person > 20$ por person

Stand-up paddle

The best way to combine sport and adventure!

Depart from the River Negro, through the mangroves, to the estuary at Plage Reina. 

Whatsapp: +507 6495-8268

Duration: 1h – 1h30
Departure: depends on the tide
Price: Adult $35 | children 12 & under $25

Surfing lessons

Barry, your instructor, will teach you the basics of taming your 2.4 metre foam board.

Meet up at Torio or Mariato beach… depending on the wind, tides and waves.

Whatsapp: +507 6495-8268

Duration: 1h to 1h30
Price: Adult $35 | children 12 & under $25
Number of people: 2 maximum

 

If Barry is not available, contact Stella & her friend. These young people will teach you the basics with a smile and good humour:

Price: $15 per person

Whatsapp: +507 6459-3887

Paragliding

Why not take to the skies to explore the jungle, beaches and rivers?

A great souvenir of your time on the Sunset Coast! Don’t forget to ask for the video.

Whatsapp: +507 6305-5529

Duration of flight: 15 minutes in the air
Price: $95

Electric bike rides

Choose between a standard off-road bike and a high-powered trail bike.
 
Have you made your choice? Now set off to conquer the jungles of the Azuero massif or the many beaches of the coast.
 

After the effort, the comfort! Stay for an artisanal ice cream and tell Jessica & Jo all about your exploits.

Whatsapp: +1 250 706-4515

Price for 1 hour: $15
Rate for 2 hours: $25
Day rate: $35

Open from 1 December to 31 March

Skateboarding

Surf day too short? Come and ride outdoors at Torio. This is your chance to try out this concrete-based skatepark.

Kowabunga has a large range of boards for hire.

Whatsapp: +507 6305-9462

Duration: 2h
Number of participants: 4 max
Price: $40 for the session

(On-site skateboard hire)

Yoga and exercices

Yoga classes and private exercise classes with Thea.

Whatsapp: +45 93925949

Duration: 1h à 2h
Price: $30 to $50

Location : at your airbnb, at your hotel or at the beach

Traditional Hatha Yoga

Practice yoga in the comfort of your airbnb or hotel and allow yourself to treat yourself to the physical, mental and spiritual well-being that a guided class offers and that you deserve during these vacations.
The class I offer is designed for beginners as well as for people who already practice any type of yoga.

Whatsapp: +507 6689-0138

Duration: 1h
Price: $20/per person | $15/per person if 2 persons | $12/per person if 4 or more persons

Additional cost: $5 for a classe to Palo Seco or Malena | $10 for a classe to Mata Oscura

Location : at your airbnb, at your hotel or at the beach

Holistic massage

Follow the path and let yourself be carried away by the energies emanating from this dreamlike garden.

Enter this cocoon of greenery, sit back under the trees and relax to the sound of birdsong, the breeze and Carlota’s massages.

Whatsapp: +507 6756-3379

Duration: 1h30
Price: $50

Technical massage

Katie is a licensed therapists specializing in massage techniques designed to alleviate chronic pain, releasing knotted muscles and provide trigger point therapy. With a blend of deep tissue and lighter techniques, her massages are fully customisable to address your individual needs. Whether you seek full-body relaxation or targeted treatment for specific area.

Whatsapp: +1 (954) 529-1462

Deep Tissue Massage
1hr – 60$

Surfers Massage
1hr – 60$

Hot Stone Massage
1hr – 65$

Relaxation Massage
1hr – 60$

Deep Tissue Thaï Massage
1,5hr – 85$

Bespoke Massage
Duration to define – 60$

The ultimate Delux Massage
2hrs – 115$

Walk | Hike | Trek | Excursion

Tell someone where you’re going and make sure you’re well equipped:
plenty of water, food (cereal bar, for example),
orienteering equipment, good shoes, cap, sun cream and sunglasses.

Click on the yellow icon (map) to display the location.

Hiking in the Azuero valley

The Azuero mountain range is a vast wilderness for adventure.

Most of the paths are not signposted, but you should be aware that many of them follow easements that you can use without any problem.

In fact, one starts at the Torio bridge and goes all the way up to Malena. It’s an undulating path with views of the ocean and the massif on the other side. Definitely worth the effort!

Distance: 8 kilometres
Duration: depending on your walking ability

Departure|Arrival Torio

Departure|Arrival Malena

Walking trails in Torio

For short walks and a first glimpse of the local forest, we recommend the Torio Village walking trails.

There are 4 easy trails. You’ll find a map of these trails at the Torio waterfall car park. This is your first glimpse of the jungle, and takes just 1 hour.

Duration: 1 hour to cover the 4 trails

Sacred steps – A mystical experience excursion

Travel up the Rio Torio in the company of Carlota. Through 4 moments – Talisman | Communion | Meditation | Offering – she accompanies you on a journey of transformation, to awaken awareness in what you do, to cultivate a continuous presence.

Whatsapp: +507 6266-6808

Duration: between 3 and 4 hours
Departure: 8.30am from Torio’s Plaza
Price (booking service included): $35/person (up to 3 people) | $30/person (more than 3 people)

Available from mid-December to mid-April.
(availability revised according to weather).

River Torio hikes

During the Verano period, the riverbed is low. Despite the stones and rocks, it’s easy to walk on. It’s a great opportunity to combine a sporting activity with nature watching.

Duration: between 1/2 day and 1 day

Medicinal plants and gold-digging excursion

Set off on an excursion into the jungle of the Azuero massif to discover medicinal plants and their benefits, learn how to use the bateo to make the gold flakes appear, enjoy a moment of relaxation in the clear pools of water of the Rio Torio and round off this wonderful morning with a lunch prepared over a wood fire.

Whatsapp: +507 6266-6808

Duration: between 3 and 4 hours

Departure: 8.30 am from Torio’s Plaza

Price (booking service included): $40 adult | $20 child under 13 years old

Available from mid-December to mid-April.
(availability revised according to weather).

The 6 Quebro waterfalls

Quebro receives its name from the broken topography, showing beautiful waterfalls in its streams and rivers.

During the walk, through a private farm, through gallery forests, you accrossed 6 beautiful waterfalls. You will have the option to bathe in each of them and enjoy their different scenic beauty. This is a tour that connects you with nature, accompanied by an expert local guide, with whom you will pass hills and small streams. You can not miss this beauty of nature.

Whatsapp: +507 6813-0970

Duration: between 1,5 and 2 hours

Price: $8/person (from 13 years old) | $6/person (students and children under 13)

Cerro Hoya National Park

The Cerro Hoya national park is a great place for trekking.

Cerro Hoya is not signposted, so it’s important to set off with a guide who knows the area well.

Your guide will tell you about the legends, introduce you to the trees and plants, and help you spot the tracks of jaguars, ocelots, ñeques… Keep your eyes peeled – you’ll be watched from the treetops!

JUAN – Whatsapp: +507 6679-5504

Duration: 1 day
Price: 75$ / person

KEES – Whatsapp: +507 6679-5504

If you want to spend several days there and sleep in a bivouac:
> Summit at 1534 metres, 2 nights, $450
> Cloud Forest, 2 nights, $350

Beaches | Rivers

Click on the yellow icon (map) to display the location.

Reina Beach | MARIATO

SURF > Playa Reina is a quiet beach, with a capricious coral reef, but fun when it works. There can be some nice long lefts and rights.
The spot is suitable for beginners, but the water can sometimes get too deep to stand up.

Walk to the left of the beach to discover the magnificent Rio Negro flowing into the ocean. Great photo opportunities!

Negro river Pool

The rio Negro is a very pure river in the heart of the Azuero massif. The green cirques are magnificent and monkeys are plentiful here.

Park your car on the left just before the river. Walk up the river to the right. Sit under the trees and take a dip! For the more adventurous, try your hand at diving from the large rock opposite, using the rope.

You can also cross the river by car and follow the path to the right. You’ll find some great rides and more refreshing pools.

Please note: only 4×4 vehicles are allowed on this road.

With 4×4

Escondida Beach | PALO SECO

Just 2km from the main road, you’ll find Palo Seco’s wildest beach.

With its fine sand, very few waves and shallow waters, it’s ideal for swimming. Slip behind the coconut and almond trees to cool off and chill out.

Cocal Beach | PALO SECO

SURF > If you want something a little calmer, Playa Cocal is the place for you. This sandy-bottomed spot has gentler waves, perfect for practicing turns and carving.
Often, when the waves at Playa Morrillo are very strong, Palo Seco becomes the ideal alternative. As it’s a bay, the swell is more protected, so you can experiment with a different style, enjoy calmer surf and, for those just starting out, learn in a safer way. Here, you’ll find far fewer crowds and a more family-friendly atmosphere.

Here, local and Santiago families gather on the beach at weekends to improvise barbecues, with a little music!

La Palmilla waterfall

This waterfall doesn’t appear on the maps, but it’s well worth the diversions.

It’s a 1.5km walk, which takes between 20 and 30 minutes depending on your pace.
The path follows the La Palmilla quebrada, crossing it 9 times. All along the way, you’ll be sheltered from the heat under the trees. Dare to push open the cow gate in front of you.
Continue along the path, then fork left – you can hear it, it’s there!

You’ll need to be a little daring to reach the first level and dive into this beautiful crystal-clear pool.

Departure on foot

Malena waterfall

The objective of this walk is the 15-metre waterfall in a jungle setting.

Start from the GPS point on foot. Cross the village to reach the stream (quebrada) and turn right into the stream.
You’ll now head upstream to the waterfalls.

The first half is straightforward, even if there are occasional stones in the stream. As the creek crosses private property, you’ll have to go through fences twice.

The creek splits into 2 large sections. Follow the left-hand section.

The second half is much more challenging. You’ll be going over mostly rocks, with the occasional rocky bottom.
You’ll need to be daring and flexible to climb the 2 cliffs (always on the right) bordering the medium-sized waterfalls.

No regrets! Oh no! The graal awaits you at the end.

On the way back, take a dip in one of the cool water pools. What a natural pleasure!

Departure on foot

Torio waterfall

Enter the jungle, follow the path along the quebrada on the left… admire these majestic trees… cross the quebrada and continue along the quebrada on the right… listen… you’ve arrived!

A path takes you above the waterfall. Looking for adventure? Walk along the bed of the quebrada to discover the Azuero jungle.

(Car park at the entrance to the trail)

Waterfall on Torio beach

A pretty quebrada cascades down onto Torio beach, much to your delight.

To get there, you’ll have to head off to the left, scramble up the rocks and do a bit of walking on the beach.

Curl up under the trees and enjoy the fresh water of the waterfall and the sea.

Departure on foot

Torio river Lagoon

From December to April, the level of the River Torio drops, giving way to pretty pebble beaches.

Put your towel down on one of the many beaches and let yourself be lulled by the sounds of the water and the jungle.

The further you travel up the River Torio, the more lush the jungle becomes.
Please note: only a 4×4 vehicle can travel the road that follows the river.

Without 4×4

With 4×4

Beach of the bay | LAS DUARTE

To reach this wild and magnificent cove, you’ll have to go through a gate and cross the jungle. The path is well worth the diversions!

You’ll love the fine sand and gentle waves. A delight to swim in.

In April, the mangoes are ripe! To pick and taste the juicy mangoes, sit on the left-hand side of the beach.

La Barra Beach | PUNTA DUARTE

You’ll fall under the spell of this intimate beach, with its fine sand and almond trees.

Stroll down to the islet on your left and admire the waves crashing against the volcanic rocks.

Ideal for picnics and swimming.

Morrillo Beach | MORRILLO

SURF > World spot with spectacular tubular waves. Panama’s most consistent beach break and strong left and right waves.

Long walks await you on this beach: to the right, you’ll discover the Bufadero jeyser, and to the left, Morrillo islet for a spot of fishing (when the tide is low)..

DANGEROUS SWIMMING IN MORRILLO!

Playita | QUEBRO

Intimate tree-lined cove where monkeys come to roam. Pack a picnic and something to keep you busy, as you’ll never want to leave this magical spot.
 
The sand is fine and the water clear for a pleasant swim.
 
High car recommended.
In Quebro, turn right at the EL BRAMADOR shopping center. Keep to the right and take the dirt track. Drive for 2.5km and turn left (you’ll see a sign for AERONAVAL). Drive for 3.2km, then take the left-hand lane, still heading for the AERONAVAL. Drive for 900m. Take the left-hand lane (300m) and park under the trees.

Playa blanca | RESTINGUE

A touch of the Caribbean, with its white sand and crystal-clear water. As usual, you’ll be alone in the world to enjoy this piece of paradise.
At low tide, you can reach the opposite islet and play robinson crusoe!
 
4×4 car only | Mid-January to mid-April
At ARENA, turn right after the bridge. Continue straight ahead. You will pass the villages of EL CACAO and VARADERO. After VARADERO, you will cross the VARADERO river. Continue straight on to the village of RESTINGUE. After the village, you’ll come across 2 gates. Both take you to the beaches. Close each gate behind you to prevent the cows from escaping. Drive on until you reach the beach.

Large beach

Small beach

Restaurants | Bars

If you want to eat typical Panamanian dishes, go to a “FONDA”. Don’t be fooled, go there and you’ll be surprised by the value for money.
For an average of $5, you’ll be served a hearty plate.
You can try tamal, arepa, hojaldre, sancocho, puerco ahumado, pollo a la plancha, ropa vieja, chicheme, patacones, ceviche, concha, pescado frito…
Most fondas open early for breakfast. Some continue until 3pm, while others reopen for lunch. Very few open for dinner.
If you don’t want to eat there, ask for “para llevar” (Let’s protect nature! Please dispose of the plastic tray in a bin).

Click on the image to display the location:
Fondita del Mercado | MARIATO
La Mariateña | MARIATO
2Hnos Peralta | MARIATO
Delicias AliMar | MARIATO
Parrillada | PONTONES
Tres Perlas | PALO SECO
AAPEPS | PALO SECO
La Torcaza | MALENA
Las Estrellas | TORIO

There are also bars and restaurants on the coast. Some of these restaurants serve breakfast.
Before you go, check the google page for opening days and times.

Click on the image to display the location:
Lindy'Kitchen | MARIATO
Wahoo | MARIATO
La Fondita | MARIATO
Ocekepala | PALO SECO
Poste 10 | PALO SECO
Costa Azul | MALENA
El Huerto | TORIO
Olé | TORIO
Los Pinos | TORIO
Brisas del Mar | TORIO
La Clandestina | TORIO
Goloso's | TORIO

Open from 1 December to 31 March

PIzza N Love | TORIO
SKY Green Bar - Restaurante | TORIO
Taco Sunday | TORIO

All sunday from 12pm to 3pm

Amazilia Brunch | TORIO

All saturday from 10am to 3pm

Casa Blanca | TORIO
El Sol | PUNTA DUARTE
El Bramador | QUEBRO

Bakery | Catering

The district’s residents prepare succulent dishes to diversify your meals during your stay:

Click on the image to display the location:
BROD. nordic micro bakery | TORIO

Contact Thea on whatsapp +45 93925959

Brunetti Spaghetti | TORIO

Contact Leah on whatsapp +44 7787 561 296

MasAmor Pan Artesanal | TORIO

Order on Tuesday, delivery on Wednesday.
Contact Nora on whatsapp +507 6689-0138

Shop | Souvenirs | Natural products

Here are a few ideas for gifts for your loved ones, or just to treat yourself!

Click on the picture to access the website or the location:
Amazilia | TORIO
Village Center | TORIO
Craft market | TORIO

Last Saturday of each month.

Amborella | TORIO

Call Morgane on +507 6457-3690

Espacio Catival | TORIO

From Tuesday to Saturday
From 9am to 12pm

Services

Click on the yellow icon (map) to display the location.

Board rental

KOWABUNGA Surf & Skate
+507 6305-9462

Los Pinos
+507 6357-2000

Supermarkets

MARIATO

MARIATO

QUEBRO

Minimarkets

MALENA

TORIO

MATA OSCURA

Fruit and vegetable markets

MARIATO – Luis & Simeli

MARIATO

TORIO – Rey’s garden

Fishmonger’s

PALO SECO

MALENA

TORIO

Gas station

Petrol & Diesel

MARIATO

TORIO

QUEBRO

Automatic Ticket Machines

MARIATO – Banco Nacional

Health

MARIATO – Health centre

MARIATO – Pharmacy

Car repair

MARIATO – Mechanical workshop

MALENA – Mechanical workshop

Hardware stores

MARIATO

MARIATO

Useful information

Click on the icon to access the website:

Tide schedule

Sunset schecule

Wave forecasting

Emergency number

In an emergency, call :

104

POLICE

911

EMERGENCY

103

FIREFIGHTER