If you’re looking for a unique escape, Santa Fe is the perfect place for you! You’ll feel like you’re truly experiencing Panamanian culture the moment you arrive. The people are so friendly; they’ll greet you with a warm smile as you pass by. And the buildings are just so charming! They’re traditional, with sloping wooden roofs, pastel-colored walls, and compact rooms. From up the surrounding mountains, you can see the rising sun and gently sloping countryside — it’s a sight to behold!
Santa Fe and the Natural Wonders
Welcome to Santa Fe, where nature lovers can find their paradise! Parque Nacional Santa Fe is a beautiful place where you can experience all sorts of amazing natural wonders. You’ll find yourself immersed in different types of ecosystems, like cloud forests, waterfalls, and crystal-clear rivers. As you wander along the trails, you’ll be amazed by the beautiful plants and animals that call this place home, from colorful birds to playful monkeys. Here are some of the highlights that will make your trip unforgettable:
Río Santa Maria: This crystal-clear river offers opportunities for kayaking, tubing, and swimming. The riverbanks are lined with lush vegetation, providing a picturesque backdrop for a leisurely picnic or a refreshing dip.
Cascadas de Chorro Blanco: A must-visit for any nature lover, this majestic waterfall cascades down a rocky cliff face, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. Visitors can enjoy swimming in the refreshing pool at the base of the falls or simply relax and admire the surrounding scenery.
What to do in Santa Fe?
For the adventurous traveler, Santa Fe offers a range of exciting activities.
- Horseback Riding: Explore the scenic countryside on horseback, traversing through lush pastures and enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
- Birdwatching: The diverse ecosystems of the region provide excellent opportunities for birdwatching. Keep an eye out for colorful toucans, hummingbirds, and a variety of other avian species.
- Relaxation and Wellness: Escape the hustle and bustle of city life and unwind in the tranquil atmosphere of Santa Fe. Indulge in a relaxing massage, enjoy a rejuvenating spa treatment, or simply relax by the pool and soak up the sun.
- Festivals and Celebrations: Throughout the year, Santa Fe hosts a variety of festivals and celebrations that showcase the town’s cultural vibrancy. These events offer a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the local culture and experience the warmth and hospitality of the people.
What makes Santa Fe so special?
Panama is a place like no other, and Santa Fe is the perfect place to experience its beauty. The city is famous for its orchids, and there are gardens where you can see more than 300 different species of exotic flowers.The wildlife in Panama is diverse and abundant, and you can explore the beautiful rainforest in the 70,000-hectare Santa Fe National Park on horseback or with a guide.Take a walk along the many rivers, streams, and waterfalls, and take in the beauty of the scenery and the purity of the air.
And don’t miss the chance to savor the freshest local organic produce and the rich, steaming cup of coffee that’s a part of the local culture. Take a trip to a coffee farm and learn all about this delicious drink. In this beautiful, forested area, bird watching is a delight for anyone interested in birds. And when you’re ready for a breathtaking view of the whole valley, head to Cerro Tute.
The town has most of the amenities you need without feeling overdeveloped. There are shops, bars and restaurants. If you need to travel to the big city, Santiago is only an hour’s drive away. Santa Fe offers a variety of accommodations, from budget guesthouses to luxurious eco-lodges. Many accommodations offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and provide a comfortable base from which to explore the region.
Is Santa Fe good for camping?
Yes, there are plenty of parking spaces for the campervan on the roads that go into the mountains and through the valley. There are many places that are right next to a river where you can cool off. The water is drinkable and can be used for cooking.
If you like it a bit more adventurous, you can continue on to Calovebora. This place on the Caribbean coast is so remote from civilization that it may feel like being in another world. The road is paved and can be used year-round. However, you won’t be able to drive your campervan right down to the beach here. But you can easily find a parking space at the assembly point or on the slopes just before the village.
