Altos de Campana National Park
Panamá Oest
Altos de Campana National Park, located in the Capira district of Panama Oeste, is the oldest national park in Panama, established initially as a biological reserve in 1966. It spans approximately 49.21 square kilometers in the westernmost part of the Central Mountain Range and plays a crucial role in the hydrological basin feeding the Panama Canal, particularly draining into Lake Gatún. The park features diverse terrain including valleys, steep hills, and peaks such as Cerro Campana at 1,030 meters and Cerro La Cruz at 905 meters. Its tropical humid climate with over 2,500 mm of annual rainfall supports a rich ecosystem that benefits surrounding communities. As part of the Mesoamerican Biological Corridor, it contributes significantly to regional conservation efforts. Managed under Panama's National Protected Areas System, the park is zoned for various uses including intensive recreation and recovery zones, ensuring sustainable protection of its natural resources and scenic beauty.
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Tip: The best time to visit Altos de Campana National Park is during the dry season to enjoy hiking and panoramic views comfortably. Visitors are advised to check for any park regulations or required permits in advance. Group tours or guided hikes can enhance the experience and help navigate the diverse terrain safely. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or organized groups; purchasing tickets or permits ahead of time is recommended to avoid delays.
Interesting facts
- •Altos de Campana is Panama's first national park, established in 1966.
- •The park covers approximately 49.21 square kilometers in the western Central Mountain Range.
- •It plays a key role in the hydrology of the Panama Canal, draining into Lake Gatún.
- •The park includes peaks such as Cerro Campana (1,030 m) and Cerro La Cruz (905 m).
- •It receives over 2,500 millimeters of rainfall annually, supporting a tropical humid climate.
- •Approximately 6,718 people from 18 nearby communities benefit from the park's water resources.
- •Altos de Campana is part of the Mesoamerican Biological Corridor, a major conservation initiative.
History
Altos de Campana National Park was first designated as a biological reserve by Executive Decree No.
153 on June 28, 1966, making it Panama's first protected area.
Its boundaries and status were modified in 1977 via Executive Decree No.
35, published officially in 1978.
The park's creation aimed to protect important water sources and natural scenic beauty.
Over the decades, it has become integral to the Mesoamerican Biological Corridor and continues to serve as a vital ecological and hydrological resource for Panama.
Place Guide
Cerro Campana
The highest peak in the park at 1,030 meters, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes and a challenging hike for visitors.
Cerro La Cruz
A prominent peak at 905 meters known for its diverse flora and fauna, providing excellent opportunities for birdwatching and nature photography.
Contact
Phone: 254-2848