Activities in The Interior
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Scuba Coiba
Run by an experienced Austrian dive master, Scuba Coiba offers divers a chance to experience some of the spectacular marine life around Isla Coiba. Two-tank dives start around US$70 per person, though diving in the park costs more since the distance is much greater.
Scuba Coiba also offers day trips (around US$130) as well as two-day trips (around US$320) to Isla de Coiba, which include entry into the national park, lodging at the ANAM station on Coiba and meals; there's a two-person minimum for these trips. You can also get PADI-certified here for around US$230, and snorkeling gear is available for hire (around US$6 per day). The dive shop is located on the main road int…
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Canopy Adventure
The Canopy Adventure is a suspended ride that uses cables, pulleys and a harness to allow you to view a rainforest from dozens of meters above the jungle floor. You'll be in a harness dangling among jungle trees as you ride from one platform to another (there are six in all), at times gliding over Chorro El Macho. Although its ecological merit is somewhat questionable, there's no denying the rush you'll get as you soar through the air with your legs flailing to and fro.
Of course, unless you like to expose your private parts to strangers, don't do this in a dress or short shorts.
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Fishing
Fishing is a popular local activity. The area around Santa Catalina is famous for its big fish, including yellow fin tuna, wahoo, dolphin, Spanish mackerel, jacks and rooster fish. Although there isn't a major sportfishing operator in town, there is no shortage of local fishermen willing to rent their boat and services to you for the day. Prices vary depending on the amount of the people in your party and the distance you want to go - remember that petrol is very expensive these days.
If you'd prefer to go after reef fish including snapper and grouper, there are some hidden spots along the coast that are perfect for spearfishing. There are also plenty of rocky ledges in t…
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Surfing
The best waves for surfing are generally from December to April, though there is surf here year round. Unlike the Caribbean, the Pacific offers fairly consistent sets, though a good swell will really give a boost to the surfing here. Most of the accommodations in town rent boards in addition to offering surf lessons. Be advised that many of the breaks in the area are over rocks, and can easily snap your board if you don't know what you're doing.
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Mario Bernal Greco's Guided Birdwatching Trip
Those planning a bird-watching trip should contact Mario Bernal Greco, who is a member of a prominent local conservation group, and is one of the country's top nature guides. If he can't be reached on his cell phone, you can stop by Cabañas Potosí - his mother runs the joint.
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Alquiler de Caballos
Near the Hotel Campestre you'll see a sign for Alquiler de Caballos, with a horse mural painted on the side of a building. The stable here has over 30 horses, which make for some fine transportation to explore the nearby mountains. Guides speak Spanish only.
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Panama Explorer Club
Based at the Crater Valley Hotel, the Panama Explorer Club is an adventure tourism outfit that offers a wide range of activities. Available tours include hiking La India Dormida, climbing and rappelling, river kayaking and mountain-biking tours.
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