Pacific Coast of Veraguas
The province of Veraguas in central Panamá is an exciting destination full of epic...
Your browser is not supported for this experience.
We recommend using Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari.
A remote nature reserve. A unique submarine paradise.
Located on the Pacific coast of Panamá, Coiba National Park protects more than 270,000 hectares of forest, islands, mangroves, and marine life. It is considered one of the places with the greatest biodiversity in the tropics and a must-visit destination for ecotourism in Panamá.
Conservation in Coiba is a collective effort. Thanks to the joint work of institutions such as the Panamanian Ministry of the Environment, scientists from the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, and local communities, the park is held up as a model of responsible and sustainable tourism. Visits are closely regulated in order to protect the marine and terrestrial ecosystems, thus promoting research, environmental education, and respect for biodiversity.
Each visitor contributes directly to the preservation of this natural treasure on Panamá’s Pacific coast. Plus, as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Coiba complies with strict international standards of conservation, monitoring, and sustainable intervention. If you visit Coiba, remember to follow the instructions from the guides. Your support is essential to the sustainability of this place.
Snorkel or dive in crystal-clear waters full of life. Swim alongside sharks, manta rays, turtles, colorful schools of fish, and dolphins. There are 31 well-known dive sites, which are among the best on the entire Pacific coast of Panamá.
Coiba National Park is also a secret kept by expert surfers. On the islands here, you’ll find excellent waves to practice your tricks. Book a tour from Santa Catalina, a port and world-renowned beach famous for its waves.
On the mainland, hike trails that lead through mangroves, swamps, and tropical forests. Explore beaches with white and golden sand, and feel like you’re in another world.
Coiba is an Important Bird Area (IBA), with more than 147 registered species. One of the last healthy populations of scarlet macaw lives here, along with toucans, herons, and many endemic birds from the tropical Pacific.
Coiba is an ideal destination for those who love wildlife, the peace of the ocean, and the excitement of exploring remote areas. Either underwater or on its trails, this park allows you to form a profound connection with nature in Panamá.
From Panama City, take the Pan-American Highway to Santiago de Veraguas (about 4 hours). From there, you can head to one of these three ports:
- Santa Catalina: the most touristic choice, with accommodation options and diving centers;
- Pixvae: the closest to the island; or
- Puerto Mutis: with access to local operators.
From any of these spots, you can take a boat to the park.
The province of Veraguas in central Panamá is an exciting destination full of epic...
The Riviera Pacifica extends along the Pan-American Highway, a 25 mile (40 km) stretch of road...
El Valle de Anton is a beautiful mountain town nestled in the crater of an extinct volcano. Located...