Caldera Hot Springs

Pozos Termales de Caldera

Natural thermal pools near the village of Caldera, set beside the river in a rustic countryside setting. Visitors soak in the mineral-rich warm waters believed to have therapeutic benefits after a short hike from the trailhead.

Things to do

• Soak in the thermal pools — Relax in a series of mineral-rich warm pools of varying temperatures said to ease joint pain and improve circulation.
• Hike the trailhead path — Walk the short 15-minute forested trail from the entrance down to the springs, passing farmland and river views.
• Cool off in the Río Chiriquí Viejo — Dip into the cold river running beside the pools for a refreshing contrast to the hot mineral water.
• Apply the natural mud — Coat your skin with clay-rich mud from the riverbank that locals use as a natural exfoliant and skin treatment.
• Visit the Caldera petroglyphs — Stop at the nearby Piedra Pintada, a large boulder carved with pre-Columbian rock art a short drive from the springs.
• Explore Caldera village — Wander the quiet rural town with its central church and small shops before or after your soak.

Food to try

• Sancocho de gallina — A hearty Panamanian chicken soup with yuca, ñame, and culantro often served at rural eateries around Caldera.
• Patacones — Twice-fried green plantain slices, crisp and salty, a common side found at local sodas.
• Carimañolas — Fried yuca fritters stuffed with seasoned ground beef, a popular Chiriquí snack.
• Fresh Boquete coffee — The nearby highlands produce world-class arabica coffee worth sampling hot in the cool countryside air.
• Tortillas de maíz with fresh cheese — Thick fried corn tortillas paired with local queso blanco, a classic highland breakfast.

Local customs & good to know

• Bring cash for entry — The springs charge a small fee collected at the gate and there are no card facilities in this rural area.
• Wear water shoes — The paths and pool edges are rocky and can be slippery, so sturdy sandals protect your feet.
• Go on weekdays for quiet — Weekends draw local families, so visit midweek for a calmer, more peaceful soak.
• Pack out your trash — Facilities are minimal and locals value keeping the natural setting clean, so carry your waste out.

Nearby

• Boquete — 15 km
• The Lost Waterfalls — 18 km
• Volcán Barú National Park — 25 km
• Cerro Punta — 31 km