Why You Should Visit Ola, Panama, The Town Nobody Talks About

Intro

If you’ve never heard of Ola, don’t worry, most people haven’t. It’s one of those small Panamanian towns that rarely makes it onto travel itineraries, and even locals sometimes give you a puzzled look when you mention it. But after spending a couple of days here, I can say it’s one of the most underrated spots I’ve visited in Panama.

Quiet, scenic, and surrounded by some of the best landscapes in Coclé province, Ola feels like a smaller, more authentic version of El Valle de Antón, just without the crowds or trendy cafés.

Getting There – The Detour That’s Worth It

Ola sits in the Coclé province, about 30 minutes inland from Penonomé, or around an hour and a half from El Valle de Antón if you take the mountain route. The drive is part of the experience, with winding roads, misty hills, and small roadside villages where everyone waves as you pass.

It’s one of those drives where every bend looks like a postcard, and you end up pulling over every few minutes for another photo. My quick journey somehow took double the time, and I didn’t mind at all.

There isn’t much signage, and Google Maps occasionally panics and tells you to turn around. Don’t. You’re in the right place. That’s just part of what makes Ola so peaceful.

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Finding a Place to Stay – Camping in Someone’s Garden

Accommodation in Ola is extremely limited. You won’t find hotels or hostels here, just a few listings online. I stayed at Mirador y Camping Victoria, which I found on Airbnb.

As the name suggests, it really is someone’s garden, but it’s a very good one. Set on a hill with mountain views, it’s quiet, green, and surprisingly comfortable. The hosts were friendly, the evenings were cool, and one curious chicken kept trying to see what was inside my tent.

When I booked, I imagined a small patch of grass behind a house. Instead, I got a front-row view of Panama’s highlands and a peaceful place to unwind. Facilities are simple, but that’s the charm. Bring your own gear and a sense of humour.

You may also be interested in: A Day in San Lorenzo National Park and Castillo de San Lorenzo: Panama’s Forgotten Jungle Fort

Hiking in Ola – Small Town, Big Trails

For such a small town, Ola has some excellent hiking. The trails lead through steep hills, valleys, rivers, and waterfalls, and you’ll hardly see anyone else all day.

People often compare Ola to El Valle de Antón, but I’d say it’s better. If El Valle is the social-media version, Ola is the real thing. It’s quieter, more rugged, and doesn’t come with queues at viewpoints.

Here are a few places you shouldn’t miss:

Cerro Los Picachos de Olá

This is the must-do hike in Ola. It’s short, only about 45 minutes to the top, but it’s steep and has drops on both sides near the summit.

Go for sunrise if you can. The early light across the hills is incredible, and the cooler air makes the climb easier. You pay $3 to the local landowner for access, and it’s worth every cent.

Bring a headtorch if you’re starting before dawn, and take your time. The path can be uneven, especially in the dark, and the edges are quite exposed near the top.

It’s short, steep, and guaranteed to wake you up faster than coffee. Once you reach the ridge, you get a full 360-degree view of Coclé. On a clear morning, the valleys below fill with mist, and it’s easy to forget you’re only 45 minutes from town.

Chorros de Olá

A short drive from town, Chorros de Olá is a beautiful waterfall with a natural pool that’s perfect for a swim. It’s usually quiet, maybe a few locals cooling off in the afternoon, and there’s no noise except the sound of the falls.

The road in is a bit rough, but manageable in a regular car. Bring water, snacks, and a towel because there isn’t anything nearby once you’re down there.

Las Mesitas Waterfall

For something even quieter, head to Las Mesitas Waterfall. It’s surrounded by forest, easy to reach, and rarely busy. You’ll likely have it to yourself.

It’s a great spot for photos or a relaxed swim. The short trail in is easy enough, and the setting feels natural and untouched.

Cerro Tazajera

If you still have some energy, try Cerro Tazajera, another peak near Ola that offers fantastic views over the surrounding valleys. The road up can be tricky, especially after rain. We learned that the hard way when our 2WD struggled on the loose gravel of a steep hill and came to a complete stop. Thankfully, a group of local kids appeared and helped push us the rest of the way to the top. Panama hospitality at its finest.

The view from the summit makes the effort worthwhile, but if you don’t have a 4WD, take it slow and be ready for an adventure.

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Green Hills and Empty Trails

The scenery around Ola is some of the best in central Panama. Rolling green hills, farms, small rivers, and wide open skies. You’ll pass farmers leading horses, kids walking home from school, and locals working in fields that seem to stretch forever.

It feels remote but in the best way possible. The air is cooler, the nights are quiet, and it’s the kind of place where you can actually switch off.

If you like photography, hiking, or just being outdoors, this area is ideal. Every direction looks like a postcard, but it never feels crowded or commercial.

Why Ola Deserves More Attention

Ola might not have luxury resorts or souvenir shops, but that’s what makes it special. The people are welcoming, the landscape is beautiful, and there’s a sense of calm that’s hard to find in more popular destinations.

It’s safe, simple, and surprisingly photogenic. There are no yoga studios or smoothie cafés here, just real Panama and a rooster that doesn’t care what time you went to bed.

If you’re road-tripping through central Panama and want somewhere quiet to stop, Ola is 100 percent worth it. Even one night camping here will remind you what slow travel is meant to feel like.

Practical Tips

Getting there: Best with your own car. Roads are in good condition but signage is limited.
Accommodation: Mirador y Camping Victoria on Airbnb is the best option. Bring your own tent and supplies.
Entrance fees: Cerro Los Picachos de Olá costs $3 per person, paid directly to the landowner.
Best time to visit: December to April for clear skies and dry trails.
What to bring:
- Tent and camping gear
- Food and water (no restaurants open late)
- Hiking shoes
- Headtorch for sunrise hikes
- Sunscreen and insect repellent
- Cash, as there are no ATMs in town
Nearby stops: Penonomé and El Valle de Antón are great for onward travel.

You may also be interested in: Backpacking Panama: A Real Travel Guide for Adventurous Travellers

Final Thoughts – A Worthwhile Detour

Ola isn’t on most travel blogs, and that’s exactly why you should go. Between the mountain hikes, waterfalls, and backyard camping, it’s one of those places that lets you slow down and see a side of Panama that most people miss.

If you’re the kind of traveller who enjoys small towns, quiet trails, and real experiences, put Ola on your list. And if you end up camping in someone’s garden too, you’re doing it right.