Soloy is an ideal location for people who are interested in the study of nature and have respect for Indigenous Cultures in the Americas. Our goal is to combine conservation of natural resources with the preservation of local culture.
In many areas of the Comarca, there are a lack of opportunities for the local people to earn money. Many times, they must leave the area to work on coffee farms and sugar plantations. This means leaving behind their culture and customs for part of the year. Eco and Ethno tourism is a great way for the community to stay in their Comarca and better their lives as well as conserve their natural resources.
Production and sale of traditional Ngobe handcrafts, food production, educational activities, and scientific studies are all ways that the Ngobe people can generate incomes without negatively influencing the environment as well as keep their cultural identity.
Recreational Activities:
- Swim in the crystal clear water of the River Fonseca.
- Visit a women’s handcrafts group which produces bags from natural fibers and natural dyes derived from local plants. Bags can cost anywhere from $1.00 to $30.00.
- Let a local dance group perform traditional dances and balsearia. Price per person is US $3.00.
- Buy and wear a colorful traditional dress or shirt decorated with the Ngobe dientes designs.
- Walk mountain paths to small communities around Soloy and within the town.
Visit the Botanic Garden Ngobe.
Directions to the Botanic Garden Ngobe Bugle:
From Panama City, take a bus to the town of David in the Chiriqui Province (7 to 8 hours). From the David bus terminal, find the Soloy “chiva” a closed Range Rover car which goes to Soloy three times a day. The Soloy car leaves between 9, 10, and 11 in the morning and 2, 3, 4 in the afternoon.
It is recommended that you leave as early as possible because of the lack of electricity in Soloy. You will pay US $3.30 for the two and a half hour trip which takes you through the Panamanian countryside. The road is rough and many times the chiva is full, but people are nice and always make room. When in Soloy, take the chiva to the last stop in front of the Cooperativa Ngobe-Bugle. Ask directions to the footbridge that crosses the Rio Fonseca and for directions to Plinio Bejerano’s house or el Jardin Botanico Ngobe-Bugle. The bridge is about 400 meters away and Plinio’s house on the other side of the river.
RECOMMENDATIONS:
- Flashlight
- Hiking boots
- Insect Repellent
- Fast drying, light clothing Raingear if during the rainy season
- A bottle for water
- Sunscreen
The town of Soloy has small stores which sell food and most necessary items. There are small restaurants which sell típico plates of food which generally consist of chicken, rice, and beans for lunch and dinner. And Ojaldre or yuca and coffee for breakfast. There are medical services available for emergencies. A doctor, nurse, and ambulance are available. See Maps of the Besiko District.
Guesthouse
Our guesthouse has room for four people. We have one room for one person and another room which can hold three. Prices: Volunteers: $5 per day (plus a 10% tax) Tourists: $16 per day (plus a 10% tax) Botanic Garden members or associates: Free
