We took an inland trip to Boquete, near Volcan Baru, in Panama while the boat was still at the marina. The rainy season was still going strong, but we managed some hikes both in the rain and in great clear sunshine, too. Mike hiked up to the continental divide and was able to see both the Atlantic side and the Pacific side from the top. The highlands are lovely with cliffs, large trees covered with epiphites, including many orchids, and crystal clear streams due to the daily deluges. We had a lovely dinner up the mountain at an Italian restaurant situated right next to the creek's falls. The environment was a delight and food excelent. Boquete is a bit of an expat hideaway in Panama with lots of contstruction going on. The climate seems great, except for the rainy season, but that gives the flowers the extra they need to be glorious!

We also found a great book on the history of naturalists in Panama who have worked for the Smithsonian and before they began research in Panama during the construction of the canal. Boquete was featured a lot in the book as a retreat that has been popular since the early 1900's and it's noted for the abundance and diversity of creatures and plants living there.