Perched on a ridge in a gorgeous nature reserve, these 10 gaily painted wooden cabins have air-conditioning and private cold-water showers, but the decor is forgettable, worn and tired. Staff are extremely attentive and meals well prepared; views from the dining area are breathtaking. Activities include guided nature hikes, night tours, boating the mangroves and swimming from a black-sand beach.
Ancon Expeditions' three-night Coastal Darien Explorer tour includes the round-trip airfare between Panama City and Punta Patiño, lodging, food and activities including a trip up the Río Mogué to the Emberá village of Mogué and a naturalist guided hike to a harpy eagle’s nest. Bring plenty of mosquito repellent.