On the western coast of the Azuero Peninsula, known as the Sunset Coast, people are building a new, captivating and authentic tourism destination. This Sunset Coast has it all: 26 beaches, luxurious rain forest, mysterious cloud forest and the huge expanse of the Pacific Ocean. Home to raucous macaws, elusive jaguars and impressive sea turtles and whales.
An eden where luxury consists of beautiful and almost untouched beaches, idyllic landscapes, wonderful sunsets, unexplored forests and mountains, quiet mangrove inlets, dolphins playing in the waves and whales singing their haunting songs.
Beaches for Relaxation, Surfing and Contemplation
Sea turtles nest on several beaches and in Malena and Mata Oscuro, local communities work together with visitors to protect the turtle nests. You are welcome to give a helping hand when you visit. The beaches give way to warm seas full of life. The gulf of Montijo is a RAMSAR wetland and the Ocean south of Mariato is an Important Marine Mammal Area. The fishermen in Mariato treat these waters with respect and practice sustainable fishing techniques. As a result, fish and dolphins flourish in the area and every year humpback whales visit the area from July to September to give birth.
Discover the Oldest Mountains of Panama
In the south of Mariato, isolated and nearly inaccessible, looms the Cerro Hoya massif. These are the oldest mountains of Panama, where jaguars still roam and the sky is filled with the brilliant colors of Great Green Macaws and Azuero Parakeets. This area has been little explored, but already scientists have discoverd three endemic birds and an endemic Bromeliad. The Panamanian-British NGO Panama Wildlife Conservation, local people and the tourism board work together to protect the last macaws and the park itself.
Sustainable and Regenerative Tourism
Heliconia B&B was one of the first to promote and practice sustainable and regenerative tourism in collaboration with local communities in Mariato. They provide comfortable accommodation and organize highly recommended tours to Coiba and Cerro Hoya. Tiny Houses in Torio offer beautiful sustainable accommodation that blends into surroundings and offer spectacular views of the ocean. On Torio beach you find Triboo Hostal, a relaxed place where you can see the sun set from the terrace. For those who prefer some luxury, Casa Blanca Inn is the place. Nice and comfortable rooms, a swimming pool and a beautiful view over the ocean. The kitchen is excellent too. Another option in Torio is Atardeceres de Torio, a small famiily-run place with wonderful views and personal attention.
Gastronomy with Local and International Flavors
In Torio, Cabañas y Restaurante Los Pinos provides local cuisine with fresh products, sustainably sourced from the area. Another good place to while away the sunset is Ole Tex Mex Restaurant. Here you find the best Margaritas in town (happy hour 5-6), sizzling fajitas all served with warm local hospitality in a lively setting. Just south of Torio, tucked away near a clear running creek is Amazilia farms. Here you can enjoy sweets and snacks made with goat milk and local products. Don´t forget to take home some of their famous soaps, made with goat milk and local fragrances! In Mariato, Fonda Que sopa stands out. They serve vegetarian and international cuisine and wonderful home made desserts.
Activities that Connects with Nature in Perfect Balance
For the more adventurous, Parapente Torio invites you to see Mariato from the air with exhilarating parapente flights. And Finca Vendaval offers horse riding on the beach and through the jungle.
The Mariato Tourism Chamber, is developing a new tourism here, that is ecologically sustainable, that respects and includes everybody, regenerates ecosystems and returns pride to the communities.
To keep informed of the latest developments, visit the digital platform @visitorio, which provides information and aims to atract visitors from around the world to come and discover this beautiful part of Panama.
Photos courtesy: Torio Chamber of Tourism