Los Santos
Los Santos Province is located on the Azuero Peninsula with main cities of Las Tablas and Chitre. The town of Las Tablas is surrounded by deserts and a number of small towns and villages, some of which keep remains of colonial times.
Once a year Las Tablas draws thousands of tourists and local visitors because it is considered one of the best places to celebrate carnival. The city rapidly gains a worldwide popularity.
Coastal town Pedasi, located in the south-eastern corner of Azuero Peninsula, has an easy access the preserved island of Iguana. There is no infrastructure on the island, but it is home to many sea and land creatures. The natural reserve is protected by one of the largest reefs in the Gulf of Panama with a total area of 16 hectares. The island is full of iguanas and Hermit crabs that get easily attracted by the smell of food.
At the southern coast of the Azuero peninsula there is Canas sanctuary. It was created in 1994 to protect the coastal area of 13 km long, which is visited by thousands of turtles every year and is the biggest turtle natural incubator.
Directions
By car: From Panama City, about four hours west on the Pan-American Highway to the town of Chitre. The only road across Azuero peninsula will gradually take you to the towns of Las Tablas, Tonosi and finally, Pedasi.
By bus: regular buses run between Albrook terminal in Panama City and Chitre. One way ticket fare is about $ 15. Except for holiday times tickets are widely accessible.
Some things you might need if going to Iguana island
- Passport (sometimes required when boarding the boat from Pedasi)
- Drinks and food
- Sun screen
- Equipment for snorkeling (can be rented)
Activities in Los Santos:
- Sighseeing (Iguana Island, Las Tablas, Chitre, Pedasi)
- Surfing
- Watching sea turtles
- Whale watching (seasonal)
