Plizio Visual Lab
El Valle de Anton
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Landmark
El Valle de Antón is set within the crater of an extinct volcano, recognized as one of the largest inhabited volcanic calderas in the world, located in the Coclé Province. The town sits at an elevation of approximately 600 meters, providing a refreshing, spring-like climate that contrasts sharply with the tropical heat of the coast. The crater itself is roughly 6 kilometers wide and was formed millions of years ago following the collapse of a massive volcanic cone. This unique geological setting fosters a specialized environment, home to rare 'square-trunked' trees and the critically endangered Panamanian Golden Frog, a national symbol of the country. Popular attractions include the El Macho waterfall and the 'La India Dormida' mountain ridge, which resembles the silhouette of a sleeping woman. The town's Sunday Market is a cultural focal point where locals trade volcanic-soil produce, intricate hand-woven baskets, and ceramics. The area is also noted for its geothermal hot springs and pre-Columbian petroglyphs found at La Pintada.
- Location: Panama
- Nearby: Farallón / Río Hato (4 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 26 | 26 | 27 | 28 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 26 |
| Rain mm | 21 | 9 | 15 | 108 | 278 | 273 | 246 | 255 | 279 | 275 | 269 | 111 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
El Valle de Anton is a freely accessible village that can be visited at any time. The surrounding natural attractions like Chorro El Macho waterfall or Cerro Indio are sometimes only accessible with an entrance fee.
Typical hours
The village itself is accessible around the clock. The opening hours of individual attractions vary, with most typically open from 8 AM to 5 PM.
Photography
Photography is allowed everywhere in the valley - the lush nature and crater rim offer spectacular shots. In some private gardens or protected areas, a fee for photography may apply.
Time needed
For a walk around the village and a quick visit to the main attractions, allow half a day. Those who want to hike or visit several waterfalls should reserve a full day.
Combine with
El Valle is inland but combines well with a trip to nearby beaches like Santa Clara or Playa El Faro. The town of Antón is also a short drive away.
Getting there
El Valle is reachable by car or bus from Panama City in about two hours on a well-maintained road. Within the village, most places are walkable or reachable by taxi.
Insider tip
Visit the local artisan market on weekends - you'll find unique souvenirs and fresh produce. Wear sturdy footwear if you plan to hike to the waterfalls, as trails can be slippery.
Geography
Facts
- One of the world's largest inhabited calderas
- Situated at 600 meters above sea level
- Native habitat of the Panamanian Golden Frog
- Famous for unique square-trunked trees
- Volcanic crater spans 6 kilometers in width
- Site of ancient pre-Columbian petroglyphs
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town El Valle de Anton (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What makes El Valle de Antón special?
It is located in a massive, extinct volcanic crater.
Is it cooler there than on the coast?
Yes, due to the altitude it is pleasantly mild.
Is it good for hiking?
Yes, there are many hiking trails with great viewpoints.
Is there a market there?
Yes, the craft market is very popular with visitors.
What is the best season?
Dry season from December to April.
El Valle de Anton: where is it located?
El Valle de Anton is located in Panama.
El Valle de Anton: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.
El Valle de Anton: why is it worth visiting?
El Valle de Antón is set within the crater of an extinct volcano, recognized as one of the largest inhabited volcanic calderas in the world, located in the Coclé Province.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in North America
More places in Panama →
Nearby cities
Panama City
Modern capital on the Pacific coast featuring an impressive skyline.
David
Major city in the west, near the border with Costa Rica.
Colón
Port city at the Caribbean entrance to the Panama Canal.
Santiago de Veraguas
A major agricultural and commercial center.
Chitré
Capital of Herrera province, known for its local festivals.
Soná
A historic agricultural hub and the gateway to the world-renowned surfing and diving spots of Veraguas.
Playa Blanca
A premium resort destination on the Pacific coast featuring giant pools and white sand beaches.
Pedasí
A charming fishing village on the Azuero Peninsula, famous for its beaches, whale watching, and surfing.
Bocas Isla Bastimentos
A wild island in Bocas del Toro known for its marine national park, red frogs, and Afro-Caribbean heritage.
Santa Fé
A charming mountain village in Veraguas, famous for its orchids, coffee culture, and countless waterfalls.
Farallón / Río Hato
A premier Pacific beach destination featuring luxury resorts and expansive golden sand beaches.
Santa Catalina
A once-remote fishing village, now famous as one of Central America's premier surf spots and the gateway to Coiba National Park.
Playa Venao
A world-class surfing destination featuring black sand beaches and a vibrant, laid-back atmosphere.
Aguadulce
An industrial city known for salt production, sugar cane plantations, and shrimp farming.
History & landmarks
Las Tablas
The cultural heart of the Azuero Peninsula, known for its magnificent carnival celebrations and traditional Panamanian folklore.
Panama Canal
A world-famous artificial waterway that connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.
Taboga Island
Taboga Island, also known as the "Island of Flowers," is a picturesque volcanic island situated in the Gulf of Panama.
Biomuseo
A colorful biodiversity museum designed by architect Frank Gehry.
Amador Causeway
A causeway linking islands, offering great views of the city skyline.
Pearl Islands
An archipelago in the Gulf of Panama, famous for its beaches and clear waters.
Bocas del Toro
A picturesque archipelago in the Caribbean Sea, popular with tourists.
Boquete
Mountain town known for its cooler climate and coffee plantations.
Nature
More places
Fort San Lorenzo
A historic fortress situated at the mouth of the Chagres River.
Soberania National Park
A world-renowned destination for birdwatching in the tropical rainforest.
Fortifications of Portobelo
Major Spanish colonial defenses located on the Caribbean coast.
Casco Viejo
The historic district of Panama City featuring colonial architecture.
Panamá Viejo
The archaeological ruins of the first Spanish city in Panama.
San Blas Islands
Archipelago owned and governed by the indigenous Guna people.
Coiba National Park
A large Pacific island with rich marine life, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Volcan Baru National Park
The protected area surrounding the country's highest peak.