Panama is a country with a variety of flora and fauna and this is why it is abundant in National Parks. In some parts, conservation has come, much after the destruction of ecological sanctity has set in. In other parts, the situation is not so grim and a lot of conservation and development of the natural ecosystem has been achieved. Parks and ecosystem are a success only if the locals and the authorities function in unison.
The various national parks in Panama
The National Park at Altos de Campana, is situated in the Province of Panama, and is about an hour’s drive to the west, of Panama City. The famous "Golden Frogs" of Panama are found here. There are many other types of flora and fauna found here which is signature of Panama’s tropical landscape. Altos De Campana is one of the best national parks in Panama.
The friendship park
Another of the many famous National Parks in Panama is the Amistad National Park. This park is jointly run by Panama and Costa Rica and hence is an International sanctuary. The word Amistad means friendship, which is apt for this park. The Amistad is situated in the west part of Panama mostly situated in the mountainous terrain. It offers a diverse variety of life forms and is breath taking in its beauty.
The snorkeler’s paradise
Bastimentos Island National Marine Park is another one of the National parks in panama, worthy of mention. It is a haven for Snorkelers and scuba divers as it has some of the most exciting diving sites, in all of Panama. The Crystal clear beautiful waters and virgin coral reefs attract over 200 kinds of fish, turtles and manatees to the park. It is truly a surfer’s paradise, and the tranquility of the place is a true delight.
The barren lands
The Cerro Hoya National Park which is situated in the south western corner of the Azure Peninsula is also one of the better known National Parks in Panama. Though this area is protected now, but it stands witness to what indiscriminate human activities can do to a once fertile land. It is hard to believe that this expanse of barren land was once fertile and agriculturally productive.
The park on the canal
Coiba Island National Park is the biggest island in the coast of Panama. Chagres National Park in Panama is also very well reputed. The park was mainly built to conserve the hydrographic basin of the Panama Canal. White water rafting is a very popular sport in these parts, making it one of the famous National parks in Panama.
The largest park
Darien National Park is the largest of all the National Parks in Panama. It has been designated the status of a biosphere reserve. The ethnic groups of Embera, Kuna, and Waunana still live here. Birds like Macaws, peccaries, parrots, and tapirs are found in these tropical forests. This beautiful park is also home to the majestic harpy eagle, which is Panama’s national bird.
Some other famous National parks in Panama are El Cope National Park, Las Cruces Trail National Park, and the Metropolitan Nature Park. Some other ones which are worthy of mention happens to be Portobello National Park, Sarigua National Park, Soberania National Park, and Volcan Baru National Park.