Swim in the River at Los Cangilones

Visiting the local swimming hole at Los Cangilones is one of the most enjoyable things to do near Boquete. Set at a lower height than Boquete, the climate is significantly warmer, and on hot days, there's a vibrant atmosphere with music, barbecues, and food sellers. Panamanian families go long distances to splash and jump in the refreshing river water. The river narrows into a canyon in this geologically unusual location before expanding up again in a small lake at the bottom. Daring adults and older children plunge off the cliffs into the gently flowing waters, float to the bottom, get out, and repeat the process.

Children and guests wanting for a gentler experience can walk into the shallow waters when the gorge widens up. The height of the walls varies, so it depends on how daring you are and how high you want to go. Don't be fooled, the walls are much taller than you may expect. The clean water underneath confuses your height calculation. Fortunately, lifeguards are on patrol and maintain a careful check on the jumpers to ensure they resurface. There is a nominal cost to access the park, and it is a short walk down to the river from the parking spots.