Isla Iguana- On Isla Iguana, reachable by boat from Playa El Arenal, lies a 55-hectare wildlife refuge and protected island. Surrounded by coral reefs, the water around the island is shallow and calm enough to be snorkeled and you just may hear the songs of humpback whales that breed in the waters off of the island from June through November. For more info drop by the ANAM office in Pedasi.

Isla Canas- Near the town of Canas you will find a parking lot and sign for Isla de Cana. From there, a boatman will ferry you out to Cana Island where from the end of August to November, thousands of Olive Ridely and other Portuguese sea turtles come ashore to lay eggs in the sand on the beaches. This is one of five places in the world where this endangered species of turtle lays their eggs. The turtles arrive late at night and they are easily frightened so don’t bring a flashlight.

La Enea- Once the dress of the lower classes of Spain during the 17th and 18th century, the Pollera has become Panama’s national costume of beauty and grace. The small town of La Enea which is located north east of Guarare and has some of the best Pollera artisans. Find some to take home to friends.

Filed under: Los Santos on June 10th, 2008