There are several well-developed trails—in some cases they lead to old roads—leading into a variety of ecosystems within the Punta Patiño Nature Reserve [1].
The Sendero Piedra de Candela (Flintstone Trail) is named for the reddish quartzes along this stretch; striking them with a machete sets off sparks. It’s a loop trail that takes about an hour to walk.
The trail goes through secondary-growth coastal forest where birders can hunt for mannakins, common black hawks, woodpeckers, and tanagers. It’s also a good place to spot Geoffroy’s tamarin and, at night, red-eyed tree frogs. It’s a flat, easy trail. After 2.5 kilometers it meets a coastal road that eventually leads to the Afro-Colonial town of Punta Alegre in one direction and back to the lodge in the other.
A trail that starts behind Cabin 10 merges with a road leading to the back part of the reserve, which consists of primary lowland forest. There’s also a road/trail that leads through the coconut plantation into some wetlands, and another short one leading onto the airstrip.
While walking the trails is the main activity here, don’t forget the beach just down the hill from the lodge. It’s black sand, but pleasant, and you’ll have it all to yourself. There’s a second beach a 10-minute boat ride away.
Links:
[1] http://www.moon.com/destinations/panama/the-darien/coastal-and-upriver-darien/punta-patino-nature-reserve