Located in Chiguiri Arriba, Reserva Privada Tavida is a beautiful private mountain reserve. The reserve is famous for its natural splendor and is a favorite destination for all nature lovers. The area was initially sealed off and used as an enclosure to grow livestock. Currently, the reserve is undergoing a reforestation process aimed at restoring the natural flora and creating a rich green abode.
Reserva Privada Tavida is one of the lesser known places in Panama. However, it is no less stunning than the other popular destinations as it offers a beautiful walk into the wildlife. If you are looking for a peaceful and relaxing vacation without the typical tourist buzz, this reserve will live up to and beyond your expectations.
Tavida Waterfall
Tavida Waterfall is the major attraction of this area. This 32-meter-high waterfall is enclosed by dense greenery and falls into a natural swimming pool at the bottom. When you stand at the viewpoint, you will find yourself hit by strong blows generated by the falling water, which will make you feel like you are in a jet. You can bathe in the pool below and live an out-of-this- world experience. The waterfall and pool are encapsulated by the forests and you can enjoy the privacy in your own little world. If you are looking to spend some time cut off from the rest of the world, Tavida Falls will provide you the best experience.
You have to pay $5 USD to enter the waterfall area and the guides there will instruct you on the dos and donts. If you don’t know how to swim, do not enter the water. However, you can climb the rocks surrounding the pool. Be cautious of slippery rocks and don’t engage in risky behavior. In rainy seasons, entry to the waterfall is not permitted, and as such, it’s best to plan your trip accordingly.
A fun and interesting thing to look out for – one of the trails around the waterfall takes you to petroglyphs (stones) that were painted almost 2000 years ago by ancient Panamanians and is laden with history.
Hiking Trails
If you like hiking, you will absolutely fall in love with this place. It has many trails lined with exotic tropical flora. Everywhere you turn, you will be awestruck by the lush greenery. The area is pretty dense and you will find yourself sheltered by the natural canopy. Along with the song of hummingbirds, you will also hear the trickle of streams and rivers. However, you must beware of snakes or insects, and you won’t have anything to fear if you are accompanied by a guide who knows the area in and out.
You can choose between relaxing strolls or taxing treks as the reserve offers both. During your exploration, you can spot deer, armadillos, three-toed sloths, and different breeds of monkeys.
Birdwatching
The reserve is one of the best places in Panama to watch the native birds. As the place has a thick forest area, several birds make a home here. Once inside the reserve, you can hear a lot of birds chirping merrily. This will indeed be a pleasant break from the usual city noise. You can have a memorable time spotting birds in their natural habitat and learn more about them from your guide. Remember, it is always better to go along with a guide as they will know the best routes as well as enlighten you on the surroundings and everything they hold. More than five hundred species of bird, including migratory birds, nest here throughout the year.
The reserve is home to multiple species of hummingbird and toucan. Toucans are quintessential tropical birds and you do not want to miss spotting some!
Photography
As you already know by now, the reserve holds a rich and diverse flora and fauna. If you are interested especially in bird photography, this reserve is one place you would regret missing out on. Panama has several national parks, but many places are too crowded, which scares off the birds sometimes. However, the reserve is very peaceful and it will allow you to click amazing colorful pictures with ease.
Reaching the Reserve
Reserva Privada Tavida is located in the small village of Chiguiri Arriba in the Penonome district of the Cocle Province. You will have to reach the village from Penonome City, either with a rental car or by bus. It is recommended to take a bus to the village from the Penonome market as it is cheap and you won’t have to worry about getting lost on the way. Bus services operate between 5:30 am to 6:30 pm at one-hour intervals. The journey is around eighty minutes and will cost you around $3 USD.
Stay
The Villa Tavida Lodge is located inside Reserva Privada Tavida and it the best stay you will find in the area. As there aren’t many tourists coming in, you will see that there aren’t many options for stay or for food. Rest assured, you will have a wonderful stay here with a free breakfast of local cuisine every morning. The lodge has six rooms that are well furnished and offer breath-taking views. You can cherish the sights of green valleys, peaks, and gardens. In order to protect the natural atmosphere, the lodge is smoke free. There is an in-house bar, restaurant, spa, and library. You can also enjoy good quality Wi-Fi in the common areas. If you want, you can find other places to stay around 12-15 km from the reserve.
Food
Inside the reserve, the only place you can get food is the restaurant of The Villa Tavida. Outside the reserve, you may find small eateries that serve local cuisine.
Nearby attractions
As the reserve is isolated from towns or cities, you will have to travel for at least an hour to visit other places. Here are some places that are definitely worth checking out.
Museum El Valle - 67 min drive
You’ll wonder at the impressive collection of Pre-Columbian and religious art, craftworks, and relics of the nineteenth century. The most interesting part is that it is positioned close to an inactive volcano!
Serpentarium - 68 min drive
All you reptile lovers, this is a must-visit place for you! You will have the chance to hold and click pictures with different varieties of snakes. Although the place is small, it is very interesting and the guides will help you navigate and give you a lot of information about the snakes.
What’s Nearby?
