The Gualaca Canyons or "Cangilones de Gualaca" (in Spanish) is one of the natural swimming pools of the province of Chiriqui in Panama and one of the most important natural attraction of the Gualaca district.
This beautiful spot is a section of the Estí River formed by rocks created after thousands of years after the river made erosion little by little to form these mini canyons.
photo credit and permission to use by Alex Alba Photo
A lot of people visit the area, locals and tourist all year long to go for a nice swim, the tropic weather and refreshing water make everything perfect for a nice fun adventure.
photo credit and permission to use by Alex Alba Photo
A great place for all ages...
photo credit and permission to use by Alex Alba Photo
In Spanish, a "cangilón" means bucket, that is why Panamanians named like that "Cangilones de Gualaca", huge buckets filled of water. With a 3 meters high, it takes some minutes before deciding to jump, once you do it, there is no way back, but after that first splash you want to repeat, and repeat again.
photo credit and permission to use by Alex Alba Photo
How to get there?
The town of Gualca is very close to the city of David, only 30 mins by local bus ($1.50). The bus will leave you close to the gas station (close to the Brancy Randolph stadium) and small groceries stores, you just have to ask the driver to drop you off in the entrance of the Cangilones. From there, a short 20 minutes walk will take you there.
Important to know, since it-s all nature, you wont find facilities, so make sure to bring some food, drinks, your toilet paper and of course, your swimming suite.
The Cangilones of Gualaca is one of the nicest places to visit in this province with easy access.
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