Cerro Hoya National Park

Cerro Hoya National Park (Parque Nacional Cerro Hoya) is a protected natural area of undeveloped coastline and dense virgin forests on the slopes of an extinct volcano. The park is in the Azuera peninsula of the Pacific West region of Panama. The park is the southernmost point of the North America continent. == Understand == === History === The park was incorporated into the Panama national parks system in 1984. === Landscape === It is a large park covering an area of 32,557 hectares. Aside from the seashore, the entire park is mountainous forest. The park takes its name from the highest mountain peak in the peninsula, Cerro Hoya (1,559 meters). Two other nearby peaks in the park are Cerro Moya (1,534 meters), and Cerro Soya (1,478 meters). The three mountains together give the park its common nickname, Tres Cerros. === Flora and fauna === A wide range of plants and animals live in the park. Naturalists will enjoy hiking the park's Backcountry where they might spot almost 50 kinds of mammals from large cats like the jaguar and the ocelot (the most common cat in the park), river otters, and several kinds of money including spider monkeys, night monkeys, and howler monkeys. Birdwatchers can find up to 225 species (though some are migrants and are seen only seasonally) including crested eagles, great green macaws, great curassows, and several kinds of dove. Birdwatchers will want to keep an eye open for the rare Azuero parakeet, a subspecies of the Painted parakeet. === Climate === The park features a tropical climate with a dry season from December to April and a rainy season from May to November. Annual rainfall ranges between 2,500 and 3,500 mm. Temperatures vary from 26–28 °C (79–82 °F) in the lowlands to below 18 °C (64 °F) in the higher elevations. The high humidity and frequent fog in the mountains support ecosystems such as cloud forests. == Get in and around == Access to the park is difficult with poor signage and rural dirt roads that are often impassable mud holes. There are no park improvements, not even an official access road. Locals know which ranches allow access and hiring a local tour guide to take you in is the only practical way to visit the park. By plane Domestic flight: There is no airstrip within the park. The closest airport is Chitré Airport (Marcos A. Gelabert Airport in Albrook, Panama City, for domestic commercial flights), from where you must continue by road. By bus From Panama City, buses depart to Chitré, Las Tablas, and Tonosí. To get as close as possible to the park, the best option is to take a bus to Tonosí (Los Santos Province) or Chitré (Herrera Province). By car From Panama City: Follow the Pan-American Highway (Interamericana) to Chitré, then continue towards Tonosí and take the turnoff to Cambutal (approximately 5 hours in total). It is recommended to use a 4x4 vehicle due to road conditions after Cambutal. == Fees and permits == As of June 2025: Nationals and residents: $2.00 Foreigners: $5.00 Children under 12: Free Senior citizens, retirees, and pensioners: $1.00 Prices may vary; it is advisable to check in advance. No special permit is required to enter Cerro Hoya National Park for daytime recreational visits, such as hiking on marked trails or guided tours. However, for specific activities such as scientific research, audiovisual production, organized events, or institutional educational visits, prior authorization must be obtained from the Ministry of Environment of Panama (MiAMBIENTE). These activities are subject to regulations aimed at minimizing environmental impact and may require submission of a work plan, schedule, and statement of objectives. Requests must be submitted in advance and are subject to technical evaluation. == Get around == == See and do == Hiking and birdwatching. Visit to the summit of Cerro Hoya. Wildlife and plant photography. Exploration of rivers and waterfalls. == Buy == == Eat and drink == Inside the park: There are no formal restaurants, so it is recommended to bring supplies for several days, including water, energy snacks, and non-perishable food. In Cambutal and Arenas: Small local eateries (called fondas) serve fried fish, shrimp, and ceviche, usually accompanied by patacones (fried plantains) or coconut rice. You can also find artisanal drinks made from tropical fruits like passion fruit and guava. Local markets: In Mariato and Cambutal, there are small stores where you can purchase basic items such as drinking water, cookies, and beverages. It’s a good idea to stock up there before entering the park. == Sleep == === Lodging === Eco-lodges and guesthouses in Cambutal/Arenas: Rustic cabins and family-run guesthouses are available, offering basic rooms with shared bathrooms and local cuisine. It is advisable to book in advance, especially during the high season (January–March). === Camping === Camping inside the park: Camping is only allowed in designated areas, and a permit must be obtained in advance from the MiAMBIENTE offices. There are specific zones for tents and controlled campfire areas. === Backcountry === == Stay safe == It is essential to use insect repellent. Be cautious with the humid weather. Hiring a certified guide is recommended. Bring a basic first aid kit. Carry a flashlight. Wear appropriate clothing and footwear. Bring enough drinking water. Park rules Do not leave trash behind; all waste must be packed out. Respect the flora and fauna. It is strictly forbidden to extract plants, feed or hunt animals. Avoid making unauthorized campfires. Obey all signs and respect restricted areas. Register in advance at the MiAMBIENTE offices before entering the park. Smoking is prohibited within the park. Excessive noise is not allowed inside the park. == Go next == Boquete Pedasi Volcan Barú