Panama National Parks — How to Visit
Day hikes near the city, UNESCO rainforests, marine reserves, and peak summits.
See nature events- Easy day trips from Panama City
- UNESCO: Darién, Coiba & La AmistadLearn more
- Check permits/fees; bring cash where needed
Near Panama City
Short, easy access to rainforest paths and birdwatching just outside the capital.
Soberanía National Park (Pipeline Road)
Famous for birding along Pipeline Road; visit the Rainforest Discovery Center for canopy views and hummingbird decks.
Metropolitan Natural Park (City rainforest)
Urban forest minutes from downtown; short trails with skyline lookouts and frequent sloth and iguana sightings.
Camino de Cruces National Park
Historic stone trail linking oceans; mixed-forest hikes, quieter than Soberanía.
Pacific Side
Altos de Campana National Park
Panama’s first national park; cloud-forest lookouts over the Pacific and Punta Chame.
Volcán Barú National Park
Panama’s highest peak (3,475 m); sunrise hikes with possible Pacific & Caribbean views.
Coiba National Park (Marine)
UNESCO marine reserve with world-class diving, snorkeling, and secluded beaches.
Gulf of Chiriquí Marine National Park
Islets and mangroves; boat tours, snorkeling, and whale watching in season.
Caribbean Coast
Isla Bastimentos National Marine Park
Coral reefs, Red Frog Beach, and nesting sites; easy access from Bocas Town.
Portobelo National Park
Coastal rainforest around colonial forts; calm bays for kayaking and culture.
Frontier & UNESCO Sites
Darién National Park
UNESCO biosphere with exceptional biodiversity; access only with permits and certified guides.
La Amistad International Park
Binational UNESCO park of cloud forests and highland wildlife in Bocas and Chiriquí.
General Omar Torrijos National Park
Mid-elevation and cloud-forest trails near El Copé; strong birding.
El Valle add-on: Cerro Gaital Monument
Cerro Gaital Natural Monument (El Valle)
Protected cloud-forest ridge above El Valle de Antón; short, steep trails and orchids.
Conditions, access, and fees can change. For the latest park advisories and permits, check Ministry of Environment (MiAmbiente).