At this mellow ecolodge on a sprawling 174-hectare farm, the seven rooms and eight-bed dorm are in a comfortable chalet and riverfront cabins in a stunning highland setting. You can hike the area and swim in a pleasing river pool. Guests can cook for themselves or sign up for good-value shared dinners with vegetarian/fish (US$7.50/10) options.
Pancake breakfasts are included. For a cooked breakfast, add US$4.50. There’s a full bar too.
Mamallena Ecolodge is a 1½-hour drive from Panama City and 30 minutes from El Valle in Coclé Province via a direct new road obviating the need to return to the Interamericana. From Panama City, coordinate a transfer or bus to Coronado where you can catch the La Laguna collectivo (US$3, 45 minutes), which will drop you off at the lodge.
