Panama City, Panama-hiking-areas

Top Hiking Areas in Panama City, Panama 🏞️

Explore the lush and diverse landscapes of Panama City by embarking on some unforgettable hiking adventures. Here are the best hiking areas that you won’t want to miss:

  1. Cerro Ancon (Ancon Hill) 🏝️
    • Distance from downtown: 3 km
    • Elevation gain: 160 m
    • Difficulty level: Easy

Cerro Ancon, or Ancon Hill, is a popular hiking spot offering stunning views of the Panama City skyline and the Pacific Ocean. The trail leads to an old U.S. military fortress, ruins of which still stand today.

  1. Parque Natural Metropolitano (Metropolitan Natural Park) 🌳
    • Distance from downtown: 13 km
    • Elevation gain: Variable (up to 300 m)
    • Difficulty level: Moderate

Stretching over 2,400 hectares, this park is home to numerous hiking trails that traverse through the dense rainforest. Visitors may encounter a variety of wildlife, such as monkeys, sloths, and toucans.

  1. El Tornillo Trail in Soberania National Park 🐨
    • Distance from downtown: 35 km
    • Elevation gain: Variable (up to 200 m)
    • Difficulty level: Moderate

Soberania National Park is a haven for nature enthusiasts, with the El Tornillo Trail being one of its most popular hikes. The trail takes you through dense rainforest and offers opportunities to spot capuchin monkeys, sloths, and even jaguars in their natural habitat.

  1. Pueblo Viejo Ruins Trail 🏯
    • Distance from downtown: 32 km
    • Elevation gain: Minimal (<50 m)
    • Difficulty level: Easy

This easy trail takes you to the ruins of Pueblo Viejo, an ancient Spanish colonial town that dates back to the 16th century. The hike offers a glimpse into Panama’s rich history and stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

  1. Camino de Cruces (Trail of Crosses) 🌳
    • Distance from downtown: 45 km
    • Elevation gain: Minimal (<100 m)
    • Difficulty level: Easy

This historic trail connects Panama City with Portobelo on the Caribbean coast. The trail takes hikers through dense rainforest and passes by the Camino de Cruces National Park, which was part of the old Spanish colonial road system.

Tips for Hiking in Panama City:

  • Always bring plenty of water, snacks, and sun protection.
  • Wear appropriate footwear and clothing to protect against mosquitoes and other insects.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and respect the wildlife and natural environment.
  • If you’re embarking on a more challenging hike, consider hiring a local guide for added safety and knowledge of the area.