El Camino Real
El Camino Real
5
What is Travelers’ Choice?
Tripadvisor gives a Travelers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travelers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Top ways to experience nearby attractions
Are you currently on your trip?
Help us find experiences available for you.
See what travelers are saying
- Claire NPanama City, Panama5 contributionsEl camino real is a beautiful trek, with varied landscapes and with magnificent flora and fauna. Besides, it is a trek suitable for nature AND history enthusiasts, as the path is full of ruins and historical anecdotes. Even if there is little difference in level, the main difficulty is to walk in sometimes overwhelming heat and humidity and with water up to your ankles/knees or even a little more for about 30-40% of the time. It is better to be physically fit and comfortable in nature and with little comfort. ATTENTION: This trek is not recommended to do it alone: the path is very poorly drawn, you would get lost quickly and there is no phone coverage. I did it with Jungle Treks which I highly recommend!Visited January 2025Traveled soloWritten February 13, 2025
- Rommel R3 contributionsI did this adventure with Jungle Treks, it was an amazing organization. Rick will teach you a lot of history throughout the entire trek. He is a true specialist in the jungle so you will feel safe always. Highly recommended.Visited January 2025Traveled with friendsWritten February 10, 2025
- lara TLondon, United Kingdom18 contributionsAmazing experience with Jungle Treks through such beautiful and isolated landscapes ! The Camino Real allows to discover hidden gems in Panama. It's a very fulfilling adventure where you are truly connected with nature. Rick is a very nice and professional guide, from the preparation of the Trek until the very last end. He is also passionated about History. He told us a lot of stories about the Camino Real and Panama. I highly recommend this trek with Jungle Treks !Visited January 2025Traveled with friendsWritten February 9, 2025
- Noah S1 contributionI had a great experience in the jungle and would always recommend it. Jim was a cool and fun guide who explained us alot and always kept a good mood. Also thanks for the vegan/vegetarian food options. I think day 2 and 3 were by far the best days of the tour! All the national parks I in Costa Rica didn't come close to the experience I had during the jungle tour, the feeling of being on your own and part of the jungle.Visited March 2024Traveled with friendsWritten April 23, 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Contribute
Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
5.0
30 reviews
Excellent
30
Very good
0
Average
0
Poor
0
Terrible
0
traveldad11
Edmonton76 contributions
Mar 2012 • Friends
I have had my eye on the Camino Real since reading a blurb in a Lonely Planet Blue Guide a few years back but unfortunately my job never lent itself to going during the dry season. Finally the opportunity presented itself and after seconding a like minded buddy, I started making plans.
First, the saying that "Camino Real is the most famous trail no one has ever heard of" is bang on. However, after looking at the few operators out there who do offer this trek we went with Panama Pete Adventures for two reasons, price and the motto that, "we don't offer tours, just adventures". We were not disappointed. Pete himself picked us up the day of the trek, drove us to our starting point while patiently answering all of our questions while infusing a number of entertaining stories of his own. As part of the package we had provided both an Embrean porter and guide (both excellent) as well as an English speaking naturalist who also proved to be outstanding. This was far beyond our own expectations.
For the trail. This is in essence a three day trek although it can be completed in 2 1/2 days, leaving enough time to visit Portebello which is worthwhile in itself. I can't remember a cold beer tasting so good.
Day one starts tame but the intensity of trekking through virgin jungle forest increases throughout the day as you go deeper into Chagres National Park. At the end of day one you camp just above a waterfall which is something out of a postcard and allows for a cool dip in the waterfall pool. Trekking past 4 pm is not permitted due to the activity of snakes and jaguars, which for us on day 2 became apparent as to why.
Food is basic but like with any camping, it tastes so Good while outdoors.
Day 2 is by far your most intense and therefore the most rewarding. It had rained at night so fresh prints were easily identifiable - not 200 meters from camp as we started out, our naturalist pointed to the fresh jaguar tracks and they did not appear small. Pretty close to home. It was another 1/2 hour into the trek where things really got interesting. We were walking along the frond covered banks when our guide stopped, looking behind him. Sure enough he had just stepped on a small (and therefore more venomous) feur de lance snake. Definitely poisonous. The reality of where we were and how far into the jungle we had come was now becoming apparant. But as snake sightings were supposed to be relatively rare, we chalked it up to the experience and moved on. It was when I stepped on a similiar snake some 45 minutes later that things really hit home. You simply can't see them under the palm fronds as they lie hiding for the frogs in the river and this one was none to pleased to have been awoken. We moved on but there were definitely a few "what if" questions going through my mind. Please note though, Pete had made it clear that there is an excellent chance we will encounter snakes and other jungle creatures that bite, sting, itch etc. so were we in no way mislead - I just always thought it was other people this happened to. Soon after this incident, we left the creek bank into the thick of the jungle where we spent the next five hours hacking through jungle, viewing all sorts of interesting critters and plant life and manouvering through what appeared to be the impassable - very cool stuff. I cannot say enough here about the embrean guides, one of who I swear never stopped swinging the machete for the entire five hours.
Just as we were starting to wonder if we were totally lost and would need to spend the night in the thick of things, we emerged onto a dry river bed and from there, a cake walk although still the opportunity to view monkeys, lizards and a number of birds (I only can remember the toucans-thanks Fruitloops).
Please note that although this trail loosely follows the original Camino Real, there is really no remnants of the original trail itself. What you do spent most of your time following is an old abandoned mining railway, built on the foundation of the Camino Real, which must have an incredible rich history of its own although I have been looking and have not found a lot on it. Whoever built this thing was one crazy MF but I have to say, when you are in the real thick of things so to speak, there is a peace of mind seeing an old iron rail tie emerge from the jungle floor as this is the real thing in terms of jungle trekking.
Again, I can't say enough about Pete and his crew and I know my buddy echoes my sentiment. I hate packaged tours and although I sense Pete takes a little heat from the tourism community about his more adventourous, and therefore riskier approach, he stays true to his principles and that is what we were looking for. I encourage you to contact him as I did as he will pull no punches in explaining the rigors of the trail - I almost felt I was being interviewed but this is not a bad thing as this truly isn't for everyone and don't go into it thinking you will have your hand held. That said, if it is adventure you are seeking just go and experience the jungle at its finest -Fitness is an asset as is a positive attitude, I got the sense from Pete that whiners are not looked kindly upon.
First, the saying that "Camino Real is the most famous trail no one has ever heard of" is bang on. However, after looking at the few operators out there who do offer this trek we went with Panama Pete Adventures for two reasons, price and the motto that, "we don't offer tours, just adventures". We were not disappointed. Pete himself picked us up the day of the trek, drove us to our starting point while patiently answering all of our questions while infusing a number of entertaining stories of his own. As part of the package we had provided both an Embrean porter and guide (both excellent) as well as an English speaking naturalist who also proved to be outstanding. This was far beyond our own expectations.
For the trail. This is in essence a three day trek although it can be completed in 2 1/2 days, leaving enough time to visit Portebello which is worthwhile in itself. I can't remember a cold beer tasting so good.
Day one starts tame but the intensity of trekking through virgin jungle forest increases throughout the day as you go deeper into Chagres National Park. At the end of day one you camp just above a waterfall which is something out of a postcard and allows for a cool dip in the waterfall pool. Trekking past 4 pm is not permitted due to the activity of snakes and jaguars, which for us on day 2 became apparent as to why.
Food is basic but like with any camping, it tastes so Good while outdoors.
Day 2 is by far your most intense and therefore the most rewarding. It had rained at night so fresh prints were easily identifiable - not 200 meters from camp as we started out, our naturalist pointed to the fresh jaguar tracks and they did not appear small. Pretty close to home. It was another 1/2 hour into the trek where things really got interesting. We were walking along the frond covered banks when our guide stopped, looking behind him. Sure enough he had just stepped on a small (and therefore more venomous) feur de lance snake. Definitely poisonous. The reality of where we were and how far into the jungle we had come was now becoming apparant. But as snake sightings were supposed to be relatively rare, we chalked it up to the experience and moved on. It was when I stepped on a similiar snake some 45 minutes later that things really hit home. You simply can't see them under the palm fronds as they lie hiding for the frogs in the river and this one was none to pleased to have been awoken. We moved on but there were definitely a few "what if" questions going through my mind. Please note though, Pete had made it clear that there is an excellent chance we will encounter snakes and other jungle creatures that bite, sting, itch etc. so were we in no way mislead - I just always thought it was other people this happened to. Soon after this incident, we left the creek bank into the thick of the jungle where we spent the next five hours hacking through jungle, viewing all sorts of interesting critters and plant life and manouvering through what appeared to be the impassable - very cool stuff. I cannot say enough here about the embrean guides, one of who I swear never stopped swinging the machete for the entire five hours.
Just as we were starting to wonder if we were totally lost and would need to spend the night in the thick of things, we emerged onto a dry river bed and from there, a cake walk although still the opportunity to view monkeys, lizards and a number of birds (I only can remember the toucans-thanks Fruitloops).
Please note that although this trail loosely follows the original Camino Real, there is really no remnants of the original trail itself. What you do spent most of your time following is an old abandoned mining railway, built on the foundation of the Camino Real, which must have an incredible rich history of its own although I have been looking and have not found a lot on it. Whoever built this thing was one crazy MF but I have to say, when you are in the real thick of things so to speak, there is a peace of mind seeing an old iron rail tie emerge from the jungle floor as this is the real thing in terms of jungle trekking.
Again, I can't say enough about Pete and his crew and I know my buddy echoes my sentiment. I hate packaged tours and although I sense Pete takes a little heat from the tourism community about his more adventourous, and therefore riskier approach, he stays true to his principles and that is what we were looking for. I encourage you to contact him as I did as he will pull no punches in explaining the rigors of the trail - I almost felt I was being interviewed but this is not a bad thing as this truly isn't for everyone and don't go into it thinking you will have your hand held. That said, if it is adventure you are seeking just go and experience the jungle at its finest -Fitness is an asset as is a positive attitude, I got the sense from Pete that whiners are not looked kindly upon.
Written March 17, 2012
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hannah
Singapore, Singapore6 contributions
Nov 2013 • Solo
I trekked the Camino Real July 2013, and it has since gotten me hooked on hiking.
So this was one of my first group hikes ever, plus I was going solo and meeting up with a group of people I had never met before. I was initially nervous about singing up with Ancon Expeditions and Jungle Treks (Ancon is the company I booked through and Jungle Treks is the company that operates the trek). But I have to say it turned out to be an amazing experience.
Rick Morales from Jungle Treks was the trek leader and very communicative with the group right from the get-go. Weeks before we headed to Panama, he constantly stayed in touch, emailed updates about what to bring and how we could be better prepared. He was always quick to respond whether to group questions or personal questions, which is great when you're trying to pack and get ready.
I got picked up from the airport and taken to the hotel, which was clean and nice, staff was nice and there's internet. That evening the entire group met up and we were briefed on what to bring and what to expect on the actual hike. The actual hike was exactly what I was looking for: active, uphills, downhills, rocks, mud, jumping, crouching, shimmying, jumps, sloshing through rivers - I mean it was intense but so much fun (definitely bring your sticks). All the while you're surrounded by amazing scenery and nature. Rick was great about pacing and making sure everyone was okay. He'd also stop and talk about the area and the trail, provide history and context to the trail we were hiking.
The living conditions at campsites every night were great in the "outdoors-y" sort of way. We always stayed at a very scenic spots and that was truly an awesome experience when you're falling asleep to the sound of rushing water and rustling leaves. It rained here and there but the hammocks were dry, comfortable, and definitely a cool experience. Rick even taught us to set up our own hammocks. The conditions/hike are not at all "jungle survival" - we were very well fed and taken care of.
I should note that I was the only female on the trip. But everyone on the hike - from Rick to the other hikers to the porters were all very considerate and generous. I never felt uncomfortable and everyone respected my privacy if I needed it. It really felt like a family as we spent the days hiking together. In terms of the rigor of the hike for a female - it's definitely doable. I'm sort of a tiny person and not a frequent hiker but I felt like I could handle the Camino Real but at the same time got a workout everyday. Not fooling you that it's not hard but it's a good challenge type of hard. I was sometimes at the end of the group or sometimes at the front. But I didn't feel like I was always trailing behind and holding the group back. So listen ladies - definitely go for this trip and do not be intimidated!
I think overall this was a really great experience because 1) the Camino Real is just simply stunning and diversely beautiful and not overrun with other tourists/hikers 2) Rick was a terrific leader 3) group camaraderie during the hike and at night when we're chilling and talking is great. I met some really terrific people from all over the world (Germany, Spain, USA, Italy) and finally 4) there was a sense of accomplishment that was VERY rewarding at the end, especially when we were all back in Panama City eating our last dinner together (terrific Italian and red wine).
I've since been in touch with Rick and Jungle Treks and hope to take another trip with the group soon. I highly recommend - go for it!
So this was one of my first group hikes ever, plus I was going solo and meeting up with a group of people I had never met before. I was initially nervous about singing up with Ancon Expeditions and Jungle Treks (Ancon is the company I booked through and Jungle Treks is the company that operates the trek). But I have to say it turned out to be an amazing experience.
Rick Morales from Jungle Treks was the trek leader and very communicative with the group right from the get-go. Weeks before we headed to Panama, he constantly stayed in touch, emailed updates about what to bring and how we could be better prepared. He was always quick to respond whether to group questions or personal questions, which is great when you're trying to pack and get ready.
I got picked up from the airport and taken to the hotel, which was clean and nice, staff was nice and there's internet. That evening the entire group met up and we were briefed on what to bring and what to expect on the actual hike. The actual hike was exactly what I was looking for: active, uphills, downhills, rocks, mud, jumping, crouching, shimmying, jumps, sloshing through rivers - I mean it was intense but so much fun (definitely bring your sticks). All the while you're surrounded by amazing scenery and nature. Rick was great about pacing and making sure everyone was okay. He'd also stop and talk about the area and the trail, provide history and context to the trail we were hiking.
The living conditions at campsites every night were great in the "outdoors-y" sort of way. We always stayed at a very scenic spots and that was truly an awesome experience when you're falling asleep to the sound of rushing water and rustling leaves. It rained here and there but the hammocks were dry, comfortable, and definitely a cool experience. Rick even taught us to set up our own hammocks. The conditions/hike are not at all "jungle survival" - we were very well fed and taken care of.
I should note that I was the only female on the trip. But everyone on the hike - from Rick to the other hikers to the porters were all very considerate and generous. I never felt uncomfortable and everyone respected my privacy if I needed it. It really felt like a family as we spent the days hiking together. In terms of the rigor of the hike for a female - it's definitely doable. I'm sort of a tiny person and not a frequent hiker but I felt like I could handle the Camino Real but at the same time got a workout everyday. Not fooling you that it's not hard but it's a good challenge type of hard. I was sometimes at the end of the group or sometimes at the front. But I didn't feel like I was always trailing behind and holding the group back. So listen ladies - definitely go for this trip and do not be intimidated!
I think overall this was a really great experience because 1) the Camino Real is just simply stunning and diversely beautiful and not overrun with other tourists/hikers 2) Rick was a terrific leader 3) group camaraderie during the hike and at night when we're chilling and talking is great. I met some really terrific people from all over the world (Germany, Spain, USA, Italy) and finally 4) there was a sense of accomplishment that was VERY rewarding at the end, especially when we were all back in Panama City eating our last dinner together (terrific Italian and red wine).
I've since been in touch with Rick and Jungle Treks and hope to take another trip with the group soon. I highly recommend - go for it!
Written October 12, 2014
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sandra A
Augsburg, Germany2 contributions
Feb 2014 • Couples
We did the Camino Real with the company “Jungle Treks” in February. It was an amazing trip with the very experienced guide Rick Morales. On the one hand, hiking and sleeping in the jungle is itself a wonderful experience. The nature around the trek is pristine. Within the jungle we saw lots of unique plants and animals. Although we were far away from civilization, we always felt save due to the professional knowledge of the guide. On the other hand the relicts of the Spanish conquerors who used the trail to transport gold and silver from the Pacific to the Atlantic coast make this trail really special. We even could see some of the old pavements and stairs built by the Spanish. Rick knows every historical background of the Camino Real and wants the participants to dip into the past.
Everything was very well organized.. It was a great adventurous trip, which is really worth doing it.
So we can definitely recommend “Jungle Treks” and the Camino Real Trek, when you are looking for a beautiful hiking trip offside the main tourist paths.
Everything was very well organized.. It was a great adventurous trip, which is really worth doing it.
So we can definitely recommend “Jungle Treks” and the Camino Real Trek, when you are looking for a beautiful hiking trip offside the main tourist paths.
Written April 5, 2014
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Elliese Jayne
7 contributions
May 2021
I can’t recommend this trek highly enough; the Camino Real trek is hands down the best adventure hike I’ve been on in Panamá!
Rick Morales is a fantastic guide who is very prepared - he knows what he’s talking about and has an in-depth knowledge of the landscape. We got caught in some heavy rains but Rick had no issue in navigating the trail in the difficult conditions. Some of the highlights of the trip included spotting wildlife and tracks from a tapir, wild pig and other animals, and swimming in the natural pools and waterways every day. Above all, it was amazing to have the history of el Camino Real explained to us by Rick over several days as we walked through the jungle and came across the old cobblestones.
As someone who does a lot of hiking, I can safely say this is the ultimate adventure experience for outdoorsy people, I LOVED the whole experience, and totally immersive from a historical perspective. I thoroughly, thoroughly enjoyed every minute!
Gear and prep: Rick did an excellent job in communicating all the necessary preparations to make, including very detailed and complete information about the gear to bring and what to expect in terms of the physical demands of the trek. We used a hammock with a protective rain shelter to sleep - quick to set up and light to carry, and very comfortable. I had no issues in staying dry in the evenings. I found the gear recommendations and other general tips from Rick to be spot on! Rick also has comprehensive safety plans in case of an emergency.
Intensity/fitness: Definitely for adventure and jungle lovers – be prepared to be covered in mud/wet clothes most of the trip! A large part of the route follows waterways so expect to have wet feet. There can be some tricky bits with river crossings/hiking up rivers, but the trekking poles were a massive help. In terms of fitness, it’s not necessary to be a professional athlete but it is important is to be familiar and comfortable with outdoor walking/uneven terrain, and fit enough to carry your backpack up and down some hills. I packed light to avoid carrying too much weight – personal preference! Rick also organized additional local porters to carry the food, which was massive help as it cut down on weight.
Food: The meals surpassed my expectations, each meal was a different surprise and I thoroughly enjoyed the variety! There was also plenty of hot coffee available. Aside from meals provided by Rick I made my own trail mix with fruit-nut-chocolate.
Water: We refilled our water bottles enroute from the streams which are crystal clear. Rick provides a great water filter for everyone in the group to use and I had no issues. I carried a single big 1.5L bottle but it would be better to bring several smaller bottles to distribute the weight in your backpack, and make sure to have them easily accessible when you are walking.
Other tips: As we were in wet clothes-shoes all day, especially after some rain, it is very important to have a dry sleep! I brought a small dry bag just for my pyjamas and the hammock which I stored separately to other items, which kept everything dry despite multiple river crossings and rain. Bring extra garbage bags/ziplocs to keep things dry!
10/10 for diversity of terrain and natural surroundings, communication and preparation support from Rick second to none.
Rick Morales is a fantastic guide who is very prepared - he knows what he’s talking about and has an in-depth knowledge of the landscape. We got caught in some heavy rains but Rick had no issue in navigating the trail in the difficult conditions. Some of the highlights of the trip included spotting wildlife and tracks from a tapir, wild pig and other animals, and swimming in the natural pools and waterways every day. Above all, it was amazing to have the history of el Camino Real explained to us by Rick over several days as we walked through the jungle and came across the old cobblestones.
As someone who does a lot of hiking, I can safely say this is the ultimate adventure experience for outdoorsy people, I LOVED the whole experience, and totally immersive from a historical perspective. I thoroughly, thoroughly enjoyed every minute!
Gear and prep: Rick did an excellent job in communicating all the necessary preparations to make, including very detailed and complete information about the gear to bring and what to expect in terms of the physical demands of the trek. We used a hammock with a protective rain shelter to sleep - quick to set up and light to carry, and very comfortable. I had no issues in staying dry in the evenings. I found the gear recommendations and other general tips from Rick to be spot on! Rick also has comprehensive safety plans in case of an emergency.
Intensity/fitness: Definitely for adventure and jungle lovers – be prepared to be covered in mud/wet clothes most of the trip! A large part of the route follows waterways so expect to have wet feet. There can be some tricky bits with river crossings/hiking up rivers, but the trekking poles were a massive help. In terms of fitness, it’s not necessary to be a professional athlete but it is important is to be familiar and comfortable with outdoor walking/uneven terrain, and fit enough to carry your backpack up and down some hills. I packed light to avoid carrying too much weight – personal preference! Rick also organized additional local porters to carry the food, which was massive help as it cut down on weight.
Food: The meals surpassed my expectations, each meal was a different surprise and I thoroughly enjoyed the variety! There was also plenty of hot coffee available. Aside from meals provided by Rick I made my own trail mix with fruit-nut-chocolate.
Water: We refilled our water bottles enroute from the streams which are crystal clear. Rick provides a great water filter for everyone in the group to use and I had no issues. I carried a single big 1.5L bottle but it would be better to bring several smaller bottles to distribute the weight in your backpack, and make sure to have them easily accessible when you are walking.
Other tips: As we were in wet clothes-shoes all day, especially after some rain, it is very important to have a dry sleep! I brought a small dry bag just for my pyjamas and the hammock which I stored separately to other items, which kept everything dry despite multiple river crossings and rain. Bring extra garbage bags/ziplocs to keep things dry!
10/10 for diversity of terrain and natural surroundings, communication and preparation support from Rick second to none.
Written July 12, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Micha_Wuppertal
Wuppertal, Germany1 contribution
Aug 2018 • Family
My family (my wife and I and our two daughters) were interested to learn more about the recently re-dicscovered CAMINO REAL. We found the address of Christian Strassnig (cultour.info) in our Panama guidebook and honestly spoken the tour was the highlight of our time in Panama. Christian is the person who had re-discovered the trail from 2008 to 2013 together with people living in the village of Quebrada Ancha. He organized for us an one-day trip to a village commune which was deeply involved into the re-discovery of the famous CAMINO REAL. We met our translator and wonderful guide Lucia in Paraíso, a small village close to the Panama canal and went together by car to Nuevia Vigia. Here we met two people from the village (Molina and Esteban) which took us by boat to the village Quebrada Ancha. Alone the 60 minutes trip by dugout canoe over the lago Alajuela was an exciting experience. We were warmly welcomed by the people of the village and started our tour to the CAMINO REAL. We were 7 people: My family, Lucia and two local guiders Molina and Esteban which led to a very intensive and comprehensive information about the history of the trail. It was not only the trail but also the rain forest with its huge biodiversity of wildlife which had fascinated us. It was exciting to learn more about e.g. tropical plants and their strategy to protect against herbivores and to listen to the sounds of the rainforest and to see the soloists in their natural settings which is so different from what we know from good old Europe. At least it was a trip into another world and the day ended with a delicious dinner (fresh fish with baked bananas) and a dance presentation of local kids showing us the local tradition of dancing. It was nothing artificial presented for 100 or so tourists a day, it was really authentic and we had the impression that we were welcomed all time! We stayed at the village in tents over the night and the last thing I heard before I felt asleep was an orchestra of unique rain forest soloists. The next morning we headed for an Embera community, where our adventure continued...
The tour was not a bargain but the price is fair and every dollar worth. We would do it again and highly recommend it!
The tour was not a bargain but the price is fair and every dollar worth. We would do it again and highly recommend it!
Written August 16, 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Juan C
1 contribution
Jan 2018 • Friends
I could not imagine anyone better than Rick Morales to take you into the jungle. Even better, he will also guide you out of it! In the process, your senses will be treated to constant delights and surprises as you waddle thru rivers, hike up mountains and fall asleep surrounded by an ambient set Max Ritcher would be proud of.
Rick's knowledge, passion for his job, organizational skills, the team he works with and the preparation before the trip are second to none and in my opinion what make the trip with Jungle Treks a must.
Be sure to have a great mental and physical fitness so that the trip is enjoyable!
Rick's knowledge, passion for his job, organizational skills, the team he works with and the preparation before the trip are second to none and in my opinion what make the trip with Jungle Treks a must.
Be sure to have a great mental and physical fitness so that the trip is enjoyable!
Written February 9, 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
SM1306
Davis, CA5 contributions
Jan 2016 • Solo
I have only positive things to say about Rick Morales and his Jungle Treks company. I had an amazing experience on the 4-day trek in January 2016. As a single, female traveler, I was totally comfortable the entire time. I was impressed with Rick from the first time I contacted him - he always responded and was clearly very organized. I'm so happy I decided to join this trek and I hope to have the opportunity to go on another trip with Jungle Treks.
Written January 22, 2016
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Norbert
Bucharest, Romania5 contributions
Dec 2018 • Solo
El Camino Real experience definitely exceeded my expectations. The luscious jungle, the spirited guides with their stories about gold, Spaniards and pirates, made me see those places through the eyes of the first white people who set foot in that part of the world. The trail was really well organized to its smallest details and made me feel excited but safe in a wild and absolutely gorgeous jungle. Our guide, Rick, told us about the Spanish empire that used the trail to send gold and silver from Peru to Spain, crossing the isthmus of the Americas. Today you can still find the original cobblestone on different parts of the trail. I strongly recommend this astonishing experience, in my opinion, an authentic and breathtaking thing to do in Panama.
Chagres National Park is also impressive, full of rivers and waterfalls, monkeys, sloths, many species of birds, macaws, tracks of jaguars and tapirs. And let’s not forget about the amazing pools, where you can swim and cool down from the warmth of the jungle.
For those who want to spend more than 4 days in the jungle, there is also a 7-8-day expedition organized by Jungle Treks in the Darien jungle. While I was in Panama, there was no availability for this expedition, but I’ll definitely book my next trip to Panama with the extensive Darien experience in mind.
Chagres National Park is also impressive, full of rivers and waterfalls, monkeys, sloths, many species of birds, macaws, tracks of jaguars and tapirs. And let’s not forget about the amazing pools, where you can swim and cool down from the warmth of the jungle.
For those who want to spend more than 4 days in the jungle, there is also a 7-8-day expedition organized by Jungle Treks in the Darien jungle. While I was in Panama, there was no availability for this expedition, but I’ll definitely book my next trip to Panama with the extensive Darien experience in mind.
Written February 6, 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Janie P
3 contributions
Feb 2017 • Friends
Rick was an incredible guide- very knowledgeable, trustworthy, experienced, personable, fun to be around... gave very helpful tips before (very quick to respond and thorough) and throughout the trip but didn't baby you through the journey which was empowering.
The trek is well planned out and the entire team from Rick to the porters were amazingly helpful- not to mention the breathtaking connection with nature and it's beauty. I would do this again in a heartbeat...
The trek is well planned out and the entire team from Rick to the porters were amazingly helpful- not to mention the breathtaking connection with nature and it's beauty. I would do this again in a heartbeat...
Written February 12, 2017
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
986kfolsom
2 contributions
Jul 2016 • Friends
We did our trek through Jungle trek company. The way Rick and his team handled themselves and the logistics during the trek was top notch. The trip has exceeded my expectations of a rain forest trek. This opinion is not only mine but also from my friends who were part of the group. The whole jungle experience has really made a lasting impression on me - not just the pristine jungle, mountains, rivers, streams etc but also the people involved (Rick, Segundo, Kandi, Edwin and Eddie) and what they care and stand for. I surely do see myself going back to Panama.
For anyone who is interested in this trek: I could certainly say that Rick (his English is fluent and impeccable) does a great job communicating and prepping appropriately for the trip. He goes the extra length reviewing all the details from his experience with each individual joining the trip - including what is the complete item list to carry on the trek. Be assured that Rick and his team will ensure that your experiences, needs and safety on the expedition will be well taken care for.
Saludos.
For anyone who is interested in this trek: I could certainly say that Rick (his English is fluent and impeccable) does a great job communicating and prepping appropriately for the trip. He goes the extra length reviewing all the details from his experience with each individual joining the trip - including what is the complete item list to carry on the trek. Be assured that Rick and his team will ensure that your experiences, needs and safety on the expedition will be well taken care for.
Saludos.
Written July 22, 2016
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Do you have a website link so that I can book a 3/4 day tour? Many thanks
Written November 15, 2019
Se podría hacer el camino desde el Pacífico al Atlántico o sólo son visitas cortas?cuanto cuesta?
Written September 28, 2018
Showing results 1-4 of 4
*Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.
Is this your Tripadvisor listing?
Own or manage this property? Claim your listing for free to respond to reviews, update your profile and much more.
Claim your listing