Baru Volcano National Park
The highest point in the country
Baru Volcano National Park, in the Chiriqui Province, is a wildlife corridor of international importance, protecting over 141 km2. Thanks to the creation of the park, a huge ecosystem has been preserved, home to over 400 species that inhabit the volcano and its surroundings.
Explore the trails of Baru Volcano National Park and discover its unique ecosystems: from lush tropical rainforests and mysterious cloud and dwarf forests, to natural savannahs, high-altitude grasslands, and volcanic terrain. Every corner has something different to show you.
The top of Baru Volcano, at 3,474 m above sea level, offers a unique reward to those who complete the journey: the chance to see both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans from the same spot.
The Baru Volcano has seven craters and two hiking routes to reach the summit: the Los Llanos trail and the Boquete trail.
From Volcan
The Los Llanos trail, near Volcan, is rated as difficult, and it is more challenging. Although it requires more effort and preparation, it is the more wild and comprehensive option. This trail takes you through diverse landscapes and altitudinal zones: you’ll see how the vegetation gradually changes. It begins in a savannah with agave and cedar trees, then crosses through moist forests with Cecropia trees, and continues through forests laden with mosses and endemic plants.
Along the way, enjoy the enormous variety of flora and fauna you’ll encounter, such as different types of orchids and mushrooms of all sizes and colors. Finally, you will reach a rocky area without vegetation: the summit, where you’ll be above the clouds.
The hike can last up to 8 hours and can be done in two ways:
– Ascend in the morning, hike during the day, enjoy the scenery, and watch how the colors change. You’ll reach the top at sunset.
– Start at midnight, explore the jungle by moonlight, and enjoy an even more special experience. Then, you’ll see the sunrise from the highest point.
From Boquete
If you can’t hike up and don’t want to miss this incredible scenery, don’t worry. The road to the top via Boquete can also be accessed by specially modified 4x4 vehicles.
Although this route can be accessed by 4x4s, many hikers also choose to ascend this way, as it is the less steep option and requires less physical effort.
Tours on 4x4s are perfect for those who want to enjoy the view from the top but don’t have the time or the physical ability to complete the challenge on foot. These tours include transportation from your hotel to the summit of the volcano and, in some cases, an unforgettable picnic with one of the best views in the country. The vehicles are modified with special tires and engines so the ascent itself is quite an experience.
However you climb up, the top of the Baru Volcano is something you won’t want to leave off your itinerary. Enjoy the scenery, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife along the way, and cross your fingers for a clear day that rewards you with the best view in Panamá.
And if you want to make the most of the experience, remember that there is a camping area where you can stay to fully immerse yourself in the two most magical moments: sunrise and sunset, without having to hike at night.
Plans for Hiking and Ecotourism
If you enjoy hiking, you’ll find several routes to explore in Baru Volcano National Park.
How to get to Baru Volcano National Park
The Baru Volcano is located in the province of Chiriqui. To visit the park, it is best to first head to Boquete, the town with the largest selection of hotels, other accommodation, and restaurants in the area, and from which most tours and hikes depart.
To get to Boquete, you can take a direct flight from Panama City, departing from Tocumen International Airport or Marcos A. Gelabert International Airport, to David, in the province of Chiriqui. From David—the provincial capital—it’s approximately a 50-minute drive. If you’d prefer to travel by road from the city, either by car or public transportation, the entire trip will take between 7 and 8 hours.
To reach the entrance to the Los Llanos trail, you must travel to Paso Ancho-Los Llanos in the Tierras Altas district, 80 kilometers from the center of Boquete. The adventure to the top of the Baru Volcano, via Volcan, begins at this checkpoint.
Ready to conquer Panamá’s highest point? Plan your adventure to the Baru Volcano with certified, local operators.
Frequently Asked Questions
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You can, but we don’t recommend it. For safety reasons, it’s always best to be accompanied by a guide or go on a tour.
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The Baru Volcano has two hiking routes you can take to reach the top: the Los Llanos trail, which is more challenging and recommended for experienced hikers, can take roughly up to 8 hours. If you choose the shorter and more accessible route starting from Boquete, you can reach the summit in as little as 6 hours. Keep in mind that the ascent time depends on your fitness level and hiking pace.
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Warm clothing, a flashlight, water, snacks, and appropriate footwear.
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