Are you part of that generation that grew up putting together puzzles with beautiful pine tree forests? The sensation of putting together this image for real can be experience when visiting La Yeguada forest reserve at Calobre de Veraguas.
You can feel an indescribable peace added by the greenery of the forest that surrounds the 1,125 square kilometers lake, approximately 3,000 hectares with Caribe pine trees. This unusual environment has helped protect the watershed in the area. La Yeguada lake was originally a primitive volcanic crater named “Cerro Verde” (Green Hill), the same as the hydroelectric plant.
La Yeguada is the first forest reserve in the country, and belongs to the Ministry of Environment (Mi ambiente). It also has an area with forests and waterfalls that you can access through nature trails during the day or even at night. The calm and peace that you can feel invites you to camp at night.
You can also do some fishing at San Juan and San Antonio rivers, a good way to interact with the surrounding nature.
The Route to Adventure
It takes about 4 hours to get to La Yeguada from Panama City. When you get to Aguadulce, in Cocle Province, continue driving for another 15 kilometers till you find the sign indicating El Jaguito, then take your right. After 30 minutes of driving you get to Calobre in Veraguas. After 20 kilometers after passing Calobre you will finally get to La Yeguada Forest Reserve.
Entertainment
The best moments in life are for free. Enjoying nature is priceless. Camping at La Yeguada is one of the best experiences you can live in Veraguas. The are some people that only want to put a set of hammocks one on top of the other, enjoy the great view and a pleasent conversation with friends, simply get away from modern life.
There are nature trails and water sports to enjoy on the lake, kayaks or botes that locals rent to Visitors within the natural reserve. You can visit the viewpoint to take photographs of beautiful views and fun selfies. If you keep walking there is a waterfall known as El Chorro “La Silampa”.
People can take barbecues or make a wood fire, but with precautions. Also you need to be well equipped with a good tent, inflatable mattress, flashlight, lamp with batteries. Be aware that you have to be responsible of picking up your trash and look for the regulation of the area.
Get there early to get a good spot near the lake, before the rest of the Visitors. There is a private section for more privacy. Opening hours from 8am to 5pm.
La Yeguada, in Calobre Veraguas, a unique natural reserve in Panama. Going up the mountain promises breathtaking views, specially if is your first time. If you have not been able to Visit La Yeguada, is time to go and stay as long as you want.
