Once upon a time, an exquisite fort stood on the edges of Rio Tuira, proudly protecting the Cana gold mines from the greedy claws of pirates. Today, this magnificent fort has been transformed into a marvelous town known as El Real de Santa Maria. Popularly called El Real, the quaint town serves as a neighborhood to Yaviza (the endpoint of the inter-Americana highway). This is the pious town where Rio Chucunaque traveled from Yaviza to reunite with her mother, Rio Tuira. The reunion is beatific and worth a visit.
Despite all of the alluring features offered by El Real, tourists consider the town a stepping stone. El Real paves the way to the astounding bliss of Darien, the Darien National Parque, and at the same time, the town guides visitors towards the blissful sight of Rio Tuira. As such, it’s a mere stop before your final destination. But if you want to taste the authentic flavors of Panama, you must make El Real a destination.
El Real is an ideal destination for exploring the cultural and architectural beauty of Panama. The moment you enter the town, you will find lovely houses forming an interesting pathway to stroll around and admire. El Real also offers some facilities, including a hospital, places to stay, restaurants, bars, and even a legion of friendly roosters to entertain you. If you save the date for the 15th of August, La Virgen Santa Maria La Antigua is a festival that will enliven your trip.
Places To Stay
Hotel El Nazareno
This is the best place to stay in the region. Comfortable, private rooms are equipped with fans and some with private baths. Try to choose a room with a balcony facing the streets to enjoy the beautiful scenery. There is also a general store next door.
Narciso “Chico” Bristan lodging
In this part of Darien, if you want to experience comfortable lodging, then contact Narciso “Chico” Bristan. Generally, renting these rooms comes with the condition that you have to secure Chico’s expert boatman services. To ensure your comfort, the rooms are equipped with foam mattresses and to beat the heat, your room comes with a fan. Furthermore, showers and toilets are located down the hall.
Bar to Relax
Cana Blanca
This famous bar, with its thatched roof and splendid cane walls, is 60 years old. Either kicking off the beginning of your trip or celebrating at the end, be sure to visit, and don’t forget to call a cab!
Restaurants to Taste the Delicious Darien Flavors
Fonda Mana
Fonda Mana offers cozy ambience and the authentic flavors of Darien. It’s also amazingly affordable and fresh as they serve whatever is on hand that day. On your way to the National Park or Rio Tuira, make sure to experience this place.
Restaurante Dona Lola
You can also sit back and relax while trying tasting the flavors of Panama at Restaurante. This restaurant offers the best ambiance as well as delicious food.
In addition, El Real also features a church where you can learn about Panamanian history. In fact, Restaurante Dona Lola is just around the corner from it. Another attraction is the 16th century Spanish cannon fixed in the town’s main square. Along with exploring the culture, you can also buy essentials from the general store next to Hotel El Nazareno. The town of El Real has everything you need.
Conclusion
Usually, visitors drive or take a bus to Yaviza, and from there, they enjoy a boat trip to El Real. El Real is the last town before Darien National Parque, and as such, it is considered a gateway to the National Park. Once you leave El Real, hiring a guide is essential. But before that, make sure to spend a few hours enjoying the streets of El Real.
What’s Nearby?
