Mount Totumas Cloud Forest
What your day looks like
Off the beaten track, connecting with nature and away from civilzation – escape to one of the highest and most remote points of the Chiriqui province with yet comfortable accommodations and guaranteed solitude along with stunning views, hikes, trekking, birdwatching, flora and fauna waiting for you.
The experience, in brief
- Enjoy a Guided hike in the jungle of Panama
- Visit Baru Volcano National Park
- Discover the wildlife of mount Totumas
Your day, step by step
Panama City
Arrival at Mount Totumas. Early this morning you will be picked up at your hotel in Panama City for a short transfer to the domestic airport. After a 1-hour flight, you arrive at David Airport you meet your local bilingual Naturalist guide who takes you for a 90-minute ride Northeast to the small mountain town of Volcan.
Panama City
Hiking. From here you continue for another 20 kilometers West, and for most part of the journey you will be on a very irregular and rough mountain road which can only be maneuvered by a good 4x4 car until you reach the mountain lodge. Enjoy a full day guided hike or bird watching (depending on your preference) at Mount Totumas, then your guide returns back to town.
Panama City
Birdwatching.
Panama City
Night at mount Totumas bellbird lodge.
Bocas Town
Hiking at La Amistad National Park. Mount Totumas There are 9 well-marked trails over 30 km to hike and explore, some easier, some more strenuous. The trails can be self-guided, or if you prefer having a private Naturalist or Birding guide accompany you during your stay, let us know in advance! Hiking trails include waterfalls, hot springs, scenic views, and primary cloud forest. For the adventurous hikers destinations in the adjoining La Amistad National Park are full day trips to visit homesteads or climb the challenging peak of Mount Totumas at 2630m. The mission is to protect and preserve the 400 acres of Mount Totumas Cloud Forest which represents an important buffer zone for the wilderness of La Amistad National Park. The protection of this wilderness is the dominant principle that guides the owner´s decisions when planning infrastructure and projects. The restoration and reforestation of the former upper pastures is a key component of this mission. Physical and ethical sustainable methods are practiced.
Panama City
Night at mount Totumas bellbird lodge.
Panama City
Eco Tour. Buffer zones play a critical role in providing habitat for altitudinal migrants as well as vital corridors for the few remaining apex predators that are still managing to thrive here. At Mount Totumas you will find a great variety of flora and fauna. Birders will have the opportunity to observe many of the more than 200 species of highland specialties and migrants that have been spotted on the reserve. In breeding season The Resplendent Quetzal is very common and easily observed as is the Three Wattled Bellbird, Black Guan, Crested Guan and the elusive Highland Tinamou, 15 species of hummingbird have been spotted at the feeders including the less common Magenta-Throated Woodstar, Brown-Violet Ear, Fiery-Throated Hummingbird and Long-Billed Starthroat. Entomologists will be amazed by the great variety of Lepidoptera and herpetology; botanists may enjoy a wide array of orchids, bromeliads, flowers and trees! Landscaping the common area around the cabins is designed to attract wildlife, specifically hummingbirds and butterflies. A green house and vegetable gardens provide organic produce guests are being offered when available. You will find about 6 acres of coffee plantations dedicated to bird friendly shade grown coffee at 1850m. The reserve currently counts more than 1500 trees. Do not expect any "adrenalized" nature experiences at Mount Totumas such as zip lines through the canopy. You are being offered the opportunity to unplug from the digital malaise and to reconnect spiritually to the natural world.
Panama City
Night at mount Totumas bellbird lodge.
Panama City
Eco Tour. Descend from Mount Totumas | Finca Dracula & Sitios Barriles After breakfast, you will be picked up at Mount Totumas by your private Naturalist Guide and descend to Volcan. Today you will visit Finca Dracula, a private botanical garden located in Tierras Altas which specialises in cultivating and conservating orchids. It has a collection of more than 2,000 species of orchids and large areas of tropical gardens. Explore with your guide Sitio Barriles archeological site of the extinct Barril culture that once lived on the slopes of the dormant Baru Volcano. Here the site guide will interpret the writings on the stones (petroglyphs) and enlighten you on the history of this culture. You will have lunch at a local restaurant included.
Panama City
This afternoon, transfer to David Airport for your flight back to Panama City. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel in Panama City.
What to know before booking
Included
Bilingual Naturalist Guide (Day 1+4) Airport transfers in Panama City & David, domestic flights from/to David, bilingual Naturalist Guide (Day 1+4), lodge accommodation with private bathroom, Wifi Internet and hot shower, full Board
Not Included
Hotel in Panama City, guided tours on Day 2+3, meals not specified in the itinerary, alcoholic beverages, personal equipment, gratuities
What to Bring
Binoculars Camera with extra charger & storage card Windbreaker & rain gear Insect repellent (just in case) Flashlight with extra bulb & batteries Day pack / dry sack Hiking shoes or rubber boots for the trails (especially in rainy season from May-Dec) Extra snacks and personal equipment Money in small denominations Lightweight/quick dry cotton clothes Long pants and fleece sweater for the cool mornings and nights Toiletries & personal medications Sun Protection for the day hikes
Restrictions
For domestic flights within Panama each passenger is allowed 1 bag of up to 30.8 lbs (14 kg). Carry-on luggage is limited to 8.8 lbs passenger (4 kg).
Meeting & Pickup
Transportation from/to your hotel in Panama City is included If you're staying outside the city, please select the transportation add-on
Planning Notes
Hotel pickup offered: Yes Confirmation: Manual By Business