By Gilberto Ceballos Q.
Where in the World is that Trail?
We have unofficially called the “Orchid’s Trail” an old road that links a number of villages along the Llorón mountain range, between the districts of Capira and Chame, in the Panama Oeste province. The footpath is commonly used by farmers and other locals as they engage in their daily agricultural activities (produce and livestock).
To enjoy the trail to the fullest, we recommend visits during the dry season (January/April) since, despite it being improved and maintained by locals, the road could be quite a hassle during the rainy months (May-December).
The reason we chose the trail’s name is quite obvious nevertheless, a plethora of other tropical flower species, such as brightly-colored heliconias and bromelias, can be found along the path as well.
Señor Joaquín, an 84-year-old, long-time resident of the area, told us about the greater variety of quantity of orchids that could once be found along the trail –a diversity that has sadly diminished in recent decades due to deforestation.
The Central Cordillera mountains create endless opportunities to experience the green side of Panama.
Other Attractions
Although there is no doubt that orchids are the main attraction of the journey, there are many other natural magnets along Sendero de Las Orquídeas for the pleasure of all types of trekking enthusiasts, such as waterfalls (including the 60-meter-high “La Gloria”, which falls in a series of phases or steps to form a natural swimming pool), enormous trees, birds (the area is part of Panama’s migratory-bird corridor), and the locals, who will always greet visitors with a pleasant smile. Likewise, hikers will find there a number of citrus trees –one of the most common crops of the region. At the village of Bajo Bonito, visitors will find a beautiful orchid nursery managed by señor Anastasio Sánchez.
The Tour
The trail starts in the town of Sorá, in the district of Chame, and winds along a number of creeks, stretching out to a river known as Chutral or Ciri.
The experience is a 15-kilometer journey which often seems longer to negotiate due its mountainous terrain. The trail cuts through the villages of Filipinas, Manglarito, La Gloria, Bajo Bonito, and Peña Blanca, the latter of which houses rest facilities managed by our organization, Club Excursionistas del Istmo.
How to Get There
Sorá is located 67 km southwest of Panama City (an hour and 30-minutes’ drive from the capital). Visitors may get there by bus, departing from Gran Terminal de Transporte, located in Albrook. Please keep in mind that reaching the actual trail is somewhat more complicated, and that it’s not managed by the government’s Ministerio de Ambiente (Ministry of the Environment). We therefore recommend that you contact us (+507-6637-0467) for that purpose. Those choosing the services of another hiking club or tour company are recommended to engage in proper research, as emergency, health, and lodging facilities are few and far between.
Although they are not as abundant as they were just a few years ago, orchids continue to greet hikers with all their color and beauty. Photo: Shooterstock.
What to Take
We advise wearing all-terrain shoes and taking a trekking pole, a and backpack with food and abundant water, in addition to wearing sunscreen, a hat/cap, insect repellent, and swimming clothes, for those wishing to enjoy the La Gloria waterfall and its adjacent, natural swimming pool.
Are your planning to hike the Orchid’s Trail? Don’t forget your swim suit!