Even though Panama is riddled with beautiful beaches and rain forests, sometimes it just feels good to get out of the tropical climate without having to leave the country.  There are some mountain communities that provide this escape, but a place called La Yeguada really transfers you from Panama’s tropical climate and landscape to a setting that would more likely be found in the Colorado Rockies.  Centered around a small lake lined with pine trees and boulders, La Yeguada is the perfect low-key escape to whisk you to another place and climate without leaving the confines of the isthmus.

La Yeguada is part of a forest reserve that was created to protect the lake, La Laguna de La Yeguada, which has been used for hydroelectric energy for the past 40 years.  The pine forest, creating the forest reserve, was planted over 30 years ago, and these trees are really what transports you to an alpine setting.  The area has picturesque rivers and streams along with beautiful waterfalls.  The lake has wonderful swimming, and a 50-foot tower in the middle of the water serves as a great diving board for those adrenaline junkies out there.  The climate is dry, with pleasant days and cool nights.

ANAM currently maintains the reserve along with a lakefront campground.  The clearing for cars and tents is clean, good-sized and relatively flat, creating a great place for camping.  A basic latrine is on sight and there are plenty of places to have bonfires.  The ANAM station located close to the campground maintains the up-keep of the sight and is also a great source of information for exploring the surrounding area.

If you are camping on the weekend I would recommend arriving on Friday evening or early on Saturday.  We arrived late on Friday night and got a great spot considering there was only one other group present.  By Saturday afternoon, the SUVS rolled in and people were throwing tents anywhere they could find open ground.  Although it got a little chaotic, as long as you grab space on the edge of the camping sight, you can create your own space and can maintain some privacy.  Our group was fairly large and we got a great fire going at night with barbecued chorizo and plenty of wine.  The wind blowing through the aged pine trees combined with the moon’s reflection on the lake made for one picturesque night that was both unexpected and very welcomed.  As a lover of camping and the outdoors, La Yeguada is a special and unexpected place in the heart of an unusual Panamanian wilderness.

Located about 5 hours out of the city, La Yeguada is the perfect weekend destination with friends or family.  The only accommodations are what you bring, including water and toilet paper (for us ladies).  Don’t forget the s’more fixings and bring a sweatshirt for the nights.  Check out below for details and directions:

DETAILS AND DIRECTION:

How to get there:

• Head West on the Inter-American highway toward Aguadulce
• About 10 minutes after passing Aguadulce, look for a sign on the right hand side for El Jaguito.   Turn right here off the Inter-American Highway.
• From El Jaguito head to Calobre
• From Calobre head to La Yeguada (Calobre is the last small town before La Yeguada.)

La Yeguada is about 40 miles off the highway and can be a little hard to find.  The small pueblos along the way will be able to guide you in the right direction if you find yourself lost.

Camping Fees:

2$ for each adult

2$ per car

5$ per night per group

ANAM will come to collect the fees from the group after your arrival.

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Filed under: Country Guide on November 21st, 2009