Sunday Market -- El Valle is regionally famous for its Sunday Market that takes place along the town's main Avenida Principal. It's not a grand bazaar but a colorful and lively event that draws vendors, many of whom are Ngobe-Buglé and Emberá Indians from around the area who come to hawk traditional clothing, handicrafts, baskets, ceramics, vegetables, orchids, food items, and more. There is a scaled-down version of the market open every day -- Saturdays are often quite happening. Hours for the market are 8am to 5pm.
Next to the market is the Tienda Artesanía Don Pepe (tel. 983-6425; daily 8am-6pm), which has an extensive selection of well-made indigenous art and handicrafts from around Panama, plus other trinkets, souvenirs, and maps. Next door to Don Pepe is the Residencial El Valle and its ground-level shop David's (tel. 983-6536; daily 7am-7pm), with a similar, high-quality selection of handicrafts, many of which are made on the premises.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
