The beautiful Los Cajones de Chame is a canyon in Panama formed by decades of erosion caused by the Chame River. As the water rushed through the land, it chewed away bits of it little by little until it formed the famous Los Cajones we have today. Many locals and tourists visit this wonder of nature every year. And, with the lifting of Covid restrictions in Panama, now is the perfect time for you to visit this superb location.
The canyon ranges hundreds of meters in length. It has many unique locations, some including caves and waterfalls. This length of the canyon can be swum through, giving you an incredible adventure and sightseeing experience.
Where is Los Cajones de Chame?
The canyon is only a 90-minute drive away from Panama City. The canyon is in the town of El Jobo. In addition, it is only a thirty-minute drive from Coronado, Panama. That makes Los Cajones a perfect destination to visit for the tourists who are staying at this famous resort.
To reach Los Cajones via car, take the Bejuco-Sorá highway. This highway is known to many because it leads to the gated mountain community of Altos de Maria. Remember that once you turn off the highway, there will be no gas stations around, so ensure your fuel tank is full beforehand.
When you reach the entrance, you can drive to the canyon or ride with one of the locals. A group of people usually offers a ride to the canyon for a small price, and the parking lot is also paid for. The canyon is accessible from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm, so plan your visit accordingly. After all, with everything there is to experience in Panama, it can be a bit overwhelming for tourists to organize themselves.
“But why not just go to the canyon with my car?” you may ask. That is because most city vehicles’ path toward the canyon is rough. If you have a 4×4 vehicle, you may pass without a problem. However, most two-wheel drive vehicles won’t have the strength or height to pass over the rough terrain around the canyon. If your car is unsuitable for such terrain, you should park it at the entrance. You can then take a ride provided by the locals or walk to the canyon.
What to pack for the trip to Los Cajones?
Among the things you should bring with you is something to protect you from the sun, such as sunscreen, shades, and a sunhat. Bring food and lots of water if you plan to stay at the canyon for a long time. If you need to buy snacks or drinks, there are a few markets on the road to the canyon. In addition, consider bringing running shoes with you, as they will help you reach the canyon much easier. The terrain is not suitable for shoes that require flat terrain. And finally, don’t forget to bring your bathing suit!
It is generally recommended to travel light on your visit to the canyon. A piece of advice given by Triple 7 Movers Las Vegas is to pay attention to what you are leaving your car when going on a trip. Many items react poorly to heat. The weather in Panama can get quite hot, and if you travel by car, the heat can melt or damage your items. Therefore, only bring what you plan to use, and don’t leave things like food or cans in your car while at the canyon.
One last thing to remember is that there are no public toilets or other facilities around the canyon beside a few benches. Remember to pick up your trash and carry it back to maintain the environment’s cleanliness.
What is there to see and do at Los Cajones?
The canyon serves as a natural swimming hole. Many people come here to take a refreshing swim in the cold water of the Chame river. It is also home to some small fish, so expect to see some on your visit. However, the area is also wilderness, and you might encounter other wild animals, such as snakes and spiders. Luckily, the chances of this are low due to the many people in the area all the time, but keep your eyes open and carry a stick just in case.
The river itself offers many areas where one can jump off a cliff. That is a popular activity at the canyon; the locals can show you where it’s safe. The heights range starting from three meters up to 8 meters. Before you make any jump, always make sure to check the water where you’ll be landing. Look for any rocks or debris in your landing area to avoid serious injury.
However, the best thing to do at Los Cajones de Chame in Panama is to pass through the whole canyon. As you swim through the canyon, the towering rocks loom above from both sides. You can find many unique shapes and rock formations along the way. Some of the things you can encounter along the way are waterfalls, caves, and even small rock pools where you can rest.
Final thoughts
With so many gorgeous locations, it is no wonder that Panama has been rated the top retirement destination in 2022. Many travelers flock to this country to experience its natural wonders and warm climate. Whether you are a tourist or an expat, Los Cajones de Chame is just one of the places in Panama you must visit. Bring enough food and water with you, and don’t leave any valuables or heat-sensitive items in your car. Good luck with your visit to Los Cajones, and may you have a wonderful time!