Los Cangilones de Gualaca, Natural swimming pools in Gualaca, Panama.
Los Cangilones de Gualaca is a series of rock pools carved by the Esti River into canyon formations. These basins of varying depths were shaped by water erosion and now hold clear water suitable for swimming and wading.
These pools formed over millions of years as the river cut through rock layers and gradually shaped the landscape. Rock walls here contain fossilized marine remains that speak to the area's ancient geological past.
Local people gather here on weekends to swim and relax with family, making it an important spot for the community. You can see how this place remains woven into everyday life through the well-worn paths and informal gathering spaces people use.
The site is reached by walking a short path from the parking area, but there are no shops or facilities at the location itself. Bring your own food, water, and supplies, as nothing is available for purchase nearby.
The clear water allows visitors to observe how rocks were sculpted and smoothed by flowing water over countless years. You can see the different textures and shapes created by river erosion across the pool walls and surfaces.
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