17 Jun Hiking Los Cajones
By Natalie Warner
Perhaps it’s just me, but there is something uplifting about hiking around water. Hiking in general is awesome, but add a body of water? You’ve got me sold! While I cannot describe exactly why this combination is as tranquil as it is, I can tell you where you can get it: Los Cajones.
In English, Los Cajones means “the drawers.” Located on the way to Altos del Maria in Bejuco, this area is more of an exploratory hike. There are no clear, designated hiking trails; that just means that visitors get to make up their own paths! Visitors can easily walk over 3 km (1.8 mi) in the main picnic area alone. Head down the main road and there are other areas that can also be explored.
At the entrance of Los Cajones, the river is bordered by a picturesque canyon. Explore a little further and you can find small waterfalls, gentle rapids, and pools ideal for cooling off during a hot day. Flatter rocks around the entrance make this a perfect excuse to spend the day here and eat lunch. Just remember to take all your trash with you!
This area is filled with rocks of varying sizes that are slippery. Be sure to wear sturdy shoes when walking around. There are no defined trails and the slippery and sometimes loose rocks give this otherwise easy and relatively flat (although not level) hike a moderately easy hike rating.
It is also important to be aware of the water levels. The river runs through a canyon, which can quickly rise during rainy season. Another helpful reminder: bring your insect repellant. Water and rocks generally means pools of stagnate water, which are a breeding ground for mosquitos and other insects.
Swimming is also an option at Los Cajones. Closed toed hiking sandals may be an ideal option for anyone wanting to swim in the river; typical flip flops are not advised by this blogger. Some visitors who have visited a few days after a rain have stated that the current was a little strong and they had to find a rock to grab onto in order to get out of the river. The current seemed calmer during this recent visit. However, it is always important to be aware of your swimming capabilities and be aware of water conditions.
Finding Los Cajones is easy. From Playa Coronado, head toward Panama City, into Bejuco. Take a left at the Texaco gas station (located on the left side of the highway) and drive towards Altos del Maria. Drive for approximately 16 km (10 mi) up the road. There will be several signs for the turn off for Los Cajones just after the 7km marker for Altos del Maria. The main parking area is approximately 1km (0.6 mi) from the turn off for Los Cajones. Los Cajones also appears on the GPS app, Waze.
Although there were 2-wheel drive trucks driving along the turnoff, it may be important to know the limits of your car. The car we drove has 4-wheel drive and we utilized the option due to the road’s incline. We may have been able to get away without using 4-wheel drive due to the road’s relatively dry conditions that day. Again, be mindful of your vehicle’s capabilities. There are spots to park along side the road and then walk to the main area of Los Cajones.
Hiking and exploring Los Cajones can be a lot of fun for those who like to walk along rivers. Los Cajones is ideal for anyone wanting to explore along a river. Like all outdoor activities, but this area in particular, being mindful is important in ensuring that this tranquil hike is both fun and enjoyable.