Metropolitan Natural Park

Right in the heart of Panama City sits a 573-acre park known as Metropolitan Natural Park. This nature sanctuary in the midst of a metropolis is the city’s only wildlife preserve, and the only tropical forest to serve as a public recreational park for a metropolitan area. Despite being close to a city, the park is also home to 227 bird species, 45 mammals, 36 kinds of snakes and 14 kinds of amphibians. In addition, there are about 284 plant species, including trees that reach between 100 and 115 feet high.

To get the most out of your visit to the park, consider taking a guided tour so to learn about all of the flora and fauna along the way. If you’re up for a hike, there are 5 trails to choose from, and each offers a little something different. The Mono Titi Road, for example, will take you to the top of Cerro Cedro for impressive views of Panama City. After your hike, consider stopping by the park’s butterfly house, too.

Getting There

The park is just a few minutes from downtown Panama City, and can be reached by car or taxi.