Nature lovers and birdwatchers ought to visit Fortuna road, the popular birding destination in Panama. The only path connecting the Chiriqui Province to the Bocas del Toro Province, it’s a vital stop for most visitors. Keeping in mind its significance, Fortuna Road provides some of the best places to stay in the province. Adding to its significance, Highway 4, located in western Panama, is the only road connecting the Pacific Ocean to the Caribbean.
The real beauty of Fortuna Road lies in the magnificent birding that it offers. The reason behind this splendid bird diversity is the altitude at this continental divide, with a maximum elevation of about 3500ft.
The road is flanked with dense forest, offering a habitat to a wide variety of bird species. Most of the birdwatching is concentrated along the roadside itself, though a few birding locales are found near Fortuna Dam, specifically on the Caribbean side.
Birdwatching
Birdwatching is the best way to admire nature and connect to its wonders. Fanatic or not, a visit to Fortuna Road would do anyone some good. Birdwatching is best during the morning and late afternoon. That’s when most birds are out looking for food. During this time, look at for the three-wattle bellbird, along with other famous bird species.
Willie Mazoo tent camp, located on the Caribbean slope, is a fantastic stop to spot hummingbirds and to search for other forests birds, including the lattice tailed trogon.
To find wetland birds, one has to travel downslope to the Mali Marsh, where you can find the Red-breasted Blackbird, White Collared Seedeater, Green Breasted Mango, and Olive Crowned Yellowthroat.
There are various unmarked trails one can use. The area around the oil terminal company in the far-off lowland sites neighboring Chiriqui Grande typically provides home to Gray-headed Kite, Black-chested Jay, and Chestnut colored Woodpecker.
Places of Stay
Fortuna Road is the only way to reach the Bocas del Toro Province from the Chiriqui Province, and as such, it offers many places to stay.
Lost and Found Hostel
This stay is one of the only cloud forest lodges in Panama. If you are a backpacker looking for a shelter, then Lost and Found is for you.
This lodge resides on a steep hill, giving it its panoramic views. The interior contains two dorms of ten to fifteen bunkbeds, along with four basic private rooms. The shared bathrooms are well maintained keeping in mind and the kitchen is stocked with fundamental provisions for sale. You can also order the food as well. For entertainment, there is a mini pub, lounge, and a movie room/loft have also been set up. And to ensure your sleep is sound, the entertainment is far away from the sleepers.
The stay’s Canadian owners plan plenty of activities. There is even a treasure hunt, along with an eight-hour long maze of trails through the La Fortuna Forest Reserve that go as high as 2200m. Furthermore, hikers are rewarded with a picturesque waterfall. Horseback riding is available as well. The owners can also arrange for visits to the indigenous community if culture is your thing. For coffee lovers, a visit to the coffee farm can be arranged. For adventurous types, the lodge offers a free mini zip line.
El Refugio La Brisa del Diablo
With marvelous views of Boquete, Volcan Baru, and the Pacific, this pretty B&B lies on the main road between Bocas and David. The two rooms are bright and comfortable covered with wood-beamed ceilings, tiled bathrooms, and private terraces. This home away from home features comfort through a fireplace lounge, swimming pool, reading nook, and a restaurant. Overlooking the coffee plantations, this B&B is owned by extremely helpful French-Canadians who will assist you in getting to the local hot springs, coffee farms, and nearby hikes as well.
Fortuna Road is named after the enormous artificial lake – Lago Fortuna – that supplies most of Panama’s hydroelectric power. The Fortuna Reserve was first established in 1976 and it still stands firm, serving Panama. While you are in Panama, Fortuna Road is a must-visit. It is more than just a road surrounded by forests; Fortuna Road is an ideal place to stay as well as admire the hike and birdwatch.
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