How To Get To The Pipeline Trail from Boquete
Public Transport
There are colectivos waiting on Calle 1a Sur outside the Casa Bruña supermarket (maps) – look for one with ‘Bajo Mono’ on the front. These cost $2.50 per person, and the driver we spoke to said they leave every 45-60 minutes. For this trail, we’d recommend trying to be on one for around 7.00 – 7.30am.
If staying outside the town (i.e. at the popular Bambuda Castle), then ask your hotel/hostel where’s the best place to stand on the roadside to hail it.
Depending on stops and how full the colectivo is, the journey time will be about 30 minutes from Boquete to the bus stop right by the Pipeline Trail entrance road – find it here on Google Maps.
By Car or Taxi
We had a rental car for half of our month in Panama, and it was ideal for independently exploring the fincas and trails around Boquete.
It’s a beautiful 20-minute drive out from the town: winding narrow roads over hanging bridges, past little fincas, and rose farms over the river. When you come to what looks like the end of the road by the bus stop (it’s not – it curves round to the left), you’ll see signposts for several walks: Quetzales Trail, The Pipeline Trail, and The Lost Waterfalls Trail.
We parked by the bus stop and walked up the signposted road (note the sign says both ‘Pipeline Trail’ and ‘The Waterfall Trail’; don’t be confused as it’s not the ‘Lost Waterfall’ trail), however there’s a small car park for five to six vehicles by the ticket office (here on Google Maps) which should have space if you don’t arrive too late.
To get to the carpark, it’s a bit of a rough track followed by two concrete wheel guiders, but you do not need a 4×4 or high-clearance vehicle to access it.
If you don’t have your own wheels, a taxi driver will be delighted to take you to the Pipeline Trail. You’ll find them stationed outside Parque Central (maps) – we were quoted prices ranging from $12-16. Alternatively, ask your accommodation to arrange a ride on your behalf.
Travel Tip // If you’re doing a lot of hikes and finca visits, having your own wheels is super convenient in Boquete. There are a few rental companies scattered around town charging about $40/day, whilst you can also find some deals on Rentalcars.com. If you’re considering a Panama road trip, then absolutely must read our essential Panama driving tips post.
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It’s easy to reach the Pipeline Trail with public transport or taxi, and the hike can…
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