Los Cajones in Panama: Tubing and Rafting

Los Cajones de Chame continue to consolidate itself as one of the main natural attractions of the province of Panama Oeste, boosting local tourism and benefiting dozens of families that depend on this economic activity.  José Morán, tour guide and founder of Viajes Rachel, explained that the site constantly receives visits from national and foreign tourists interested in exploring the canyon, enjoying tubing and admiring the characteristic turquoise color of its waters.  “Tourism has been growing quite a bit here in the Los Cajones area.

We always have visitors from foreigners and Panamanians who come to see this place,” Morán commented.  The guide explained that there are different options for visiting the attraction, with prices ranging from $15 to $25, depending on the operator.  Viajes Rachel, for example, offers a day trip for $20 that includes food and a tour of the river using inner tubes.  Although many visitors prefer to visit during the summer, Morán assured that the best time to visit Los Cajones de Chame is in winter, since, due to the rains, the river quickly recovers the clarity that characterizes its waters. 

“The best time is in winter. The river rises and after a few days the water becomes completely clear, with that turquoise color that is so striking,” he said.  In addition to the tour of Los Cajones, visitors can complement the experience with excursions to nearby waterfalls such as La Nativa, El Manglarito and the Saltos de Filipinas, located a few minutes from the site.  Morán urged everyone to preserve the natural environment by avoiding leaving any trash behind during their visit. “We invite you to bring your smiles, your joy, and your good friendship, but not your garbage,” she said.  The guide emphasized that tourism benefits the entire community, from transporters and landowners to parking lots, restaurants, and tour guides. “A single tourist contributes to the income of at least five people in the community,” he noted.