APROVACA — the Association of Orchid Producers of El Valle and Cabuya — is a non-profit nursery and conservation centre dedicated to protecting Panama's endangered orchids. The centre displays around 147 species, most of them native to the Coclé province, arranged in shade houses along a short walking path. It is small enough to see in an hour but rich enough to hold your attention for longer if you have any interest in botany.
The best time to visit is the wet season, from May to November, when the greatest number of species are in bloom. The centre is open daily from 9am to 4pm and charges a modest entrance fee that goes directly toward conservation work. The staff are knowledgeable and happy to point out the rarities, including Panama's national flower, the Holy Ghost orchid (Peristeria elata).