Urban Rainforest: Parque Natural Metropolitano, Panama

Welcome to the rainforest, in the middle of a metropolis!

Seriously though, lots of cities have parks, many of which are absolutely amazing. The unique thing about Panama’s Parque Natural Metropolitano is that it’s the biggest wildife refuge and forest environment within city limits. That’s right, within. You can drive 10 minutes out of the city center and escape to a lush rainforest!

The Parque Natural Metropolitano is the largest of its kind in the entire Tropical Americas. Make sure you bring your walking shoes! I of course hiked it in sandals, cus this is just about as athletic as I get…

There are lots of animals to be seen of course. Apparently, if you visit early in the morning (not a morning person so that did not happen) or during the dry season you will have a better chance of spotting some critters. I still managed to make friends with these guys, who were not at all timid. I named them Coco and Christain (after some fabulous designers), because they seemed to appreciate my outfit and therefore had excellent fashion sense right!?

As you hike around you’ll be amazed by the sheer size of some of the trees. I couldn’t believe how thick and lush a city rainforest could be. I couldn’t help but feel so small and insignificant compared to these all-powerful trees that are probably thousands of years old. We get so caught up in our own lives and daily trials. We’re just a small part of the picture!

Before you know it, you’ve reached the top. Your reward? An absolutely spectacular view of Panama City! Not many rainforest hikes can give you that I imagine.

Spending a couple of hours walking the trails of this beautiful park was a fantastic way to escape the bustle of Panama City. Many of the locals enjoy it too and can be seen exercising, biking and getting their recreation on among the greenery and fresh air. A great way to unwind, reflect and relax in Panama City.

Fast Facts and Tips about visiting the Parque Natural Metropolitano, Panama City Rainforest:

♥ You can very easily drive to the Parque Natural Metropolitano, it’s reached via a great road, Corredor Norte. A cab can also easily drop you there as it’s not at all far from the city center (10 minutes).
♥ Admission will cost you a very expensive $4 total!
♥ A great place to start is at the Visitor’s Center where you’ll be able to park, view maps, and some information about the local flora and fauna. Big sign, easy to find.
♥ If you’re an avid bird watcher, this is the place for you. Parque Natural Metropolitano is home to over 250 bird species. Bring binoculars!
♥ If you’re really keen on spotting as many animals as possible, I suggest you visit during the dry season (I went during the wet season). That’s when many of the trees drop their leaves and critters are more easily spotted.
♥ Some of the animals that you may see are: iguanas, snakes, sloths, birds, turtles, coatis (super cute) and even deer (don’t worry if you fear reptiles, they’re more scared of you than you are of them).
♥ If you’re not the most physically active/fit you have options! There are multiple trails, some shorter than others. There are some steep hills, gravel and rocks about, so be careful.
♥ Bring water with you, you’ll probably be sweating! And use the washroom (there is one at the Visitor’s Center) before you venture out, they are few and far between on the trail (although some would argue that you are in a forest, so…)

The Panama adventure continues! Visit old town Panama: “Ola! Historical Old City Casco Viejo Panama” and a seldom known island: “Panama Pearl: Isla Contadora in the Pearl Islands, Panama”.

Anna