Soberanía National Park Voyage Tips and guide

Contents

Soberanía National Park, approximately 25 km from Panama City, was established as part of the Panama national parks system in 1980 to protect more than 19,000 hectares of tropical rainforest within the Panama Canal watershed. The park plays a key role in conserving the region's biodiversity and maintaining ecological connectivity.

Within the park lies the historic Camino de Cruces, a colonial trail used during the 16th and 17th centuries to transport goods and people across the Isthmus of Panama, linking the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. This adds significant cultural and historical value to the park, complementing its ecological importance.Today, the park preserves both its natural ecosystems and a notable part of Panama’s colonial heritage.

The park's terrain consists primarily of tropical moist forest with dense vegetation, rolling hills, and river systems that contribute to the Chagres River basin. Its strategic position along the Canal's ecological corridor makes it a key habitat for many species and an important zone for scientific research.

Soberanía National Park protects a rich diversity of plant and animal life. The dense forest is home to species from both mature and regenerating secondary forests. Some notable trees include Espavé (Anacardium excelsum), Cuipo (Cavanillesia platanifolia), Almendro (Dipteryx oleifera) and Cedro Espino (Bombacopsis quinata). Epiphytes, orchids, ferns, and vines are also abundant.

The park is also a world-class birdwatching destination, with over 525 bird species recorded, including keel-billed toucan (Ramphastos sulfuratus), violaceous trogon (Trogon violaceus), crested eagle (Morphnus guianensis) and the harpy eagle (Harpia harpyja), rare but possible to spot. Mammals include the white-headed capuchin (Cebus capucinus), mantled howler monkey (Alouatta palliata), Geoffroy's tamarin (Saguinus geoffroyi), Geoffroy's spider monkey (Ateles geoffroyi), Panamanian night monkey (Aotus zonalis), two- and three-toed sloths, anteaters, agoutis, coatis, and armadillos. Predators such as jaguars, ocelots and margays inhabit the park but are rarely seen due to their nocturnal and elusive nature.

The park has a humid tropical climate with temperatures ranging from 24°C to 32°C. Although it is open year-round, the dry season, from January to April, is generally the most favorable for visits.

From Panama City, take Vía Omar Torrijos toward Gamboa. The route is well-marked. Travel time is around 30 minutes (25 km). For certain trails like Camino de Cruces, you may need to divert to Madden Road.

• From the Albrook bus terminal: Buses to Gamboa stop in front of the park's administrative center (approximately 1 hour).
• Check return times in advance, as service is limited in the afternoon.
• To use public transportation, you must have a Rapipass or MiBus card, which costs $2.00. It is also recommended to top up your ticket with at least $2.00 to cover the fare and avoid inconveniences during your trip.

• Nationals and resident foreigners: B/. 4.00 (US$4.00)
• Non-resident foreign adults: B/. 7.00 (US$7.00)
• Seniors (nationals and resident foreigners): B/. 2.00 (US$2.00)
• Children under 12, nationals or foreigners: Free

Camping and campfires are not allowed within the park.

Entry to Soberanía National Park does not require a special permit for daytime recreational visits, such as hiking on marked trails or participating in guided tours. However, specific activities—such as scientific research, audiovisual production, organized events, or institutional educational visits—do require prior authorization from the Ministry of Environment of Panama.

These activities are subject to regulations designed to minimize environmental impact and may require the submission of a work plan, schedule, and justification of objectives. Requests must be submitted in advance and are subject to technical evaluation.

Marked trails allow for exploration on foot or by bike. It is advisable to carry water, wear sturdy footwear, and avoid leaving trash behind, as there are no bins inside the park.

Map of Soberanía National Park

The park features several marked trails that can be explored on foot or by bicycle:

• Pipeline Road: A 17-km trail known for its high concentration of bird species.
• Camino de Cruces: A historic 10.8-km route that was once part of the colonial trail.
• El Charco Trail: A short path with natural pools, ideal for family visits.
• Spirit of the Forest Trail: A brief route designed for environmental education and interpretation.

The most common activities include hiking, birdwatching, cycling, nature photography, and guided tours.

There are no food services or shops inside the park, so you should bring drinking water and light snacks for your visit. It’s essential not to leave any trash behind—carry out all waste you generate, as there are no bins along the trails. However, just outside the park, especially in Gamboa and Summit, you’ll find restaurants and small shops where you can eat before or after your hike.

For an overnight stay, you can stay at Gamboa, very close to Soberanía National Park.

• Gamboa
• Summit Municipal Park