Four hikers evacuated from El Pianista trail after 12-hour rescue

Four hikers were airlifted from Panama's El Pianista trail after experiencing health problems during an expedition. The rescue operation, which lasted more than 12 hours, concluded Friday morning with the hikers transported to the Enrique Malek airport in David, Chiriquí, for immediate medical attention.

The emergency was reported Thursday afternoon, initially involving eight hikers, five Panamanians and three foreigners, who fell ill on the trail. Joint Task Force teams mobilized, trekking for hours in the dark to locate the group. They provided primary care and assessed the hikers' conditions.

Of the eight affected, four required aerial evacuation, while the remaining four received on-site treatment. Mónica Acosta, director of the National Civil Protection System in Chiriquí, confirmed the extensive duration of the rescue. She issued a direct warning to those venturing on such routes, urging tour guides and tourists to adhere to safety measures to prevent health complications arising from inadequate conditions or equipment for the demanding excursion.

The El Pianista trail is known for its challenging jungle terrain, connecting Chiriquí province with Bocas del Toro via the Central Mountain Range. It has been the site of previous emergencies involving unprepared or ill-equipped hikers.