Top Nature in Panama Province

Remember sunscreen! I thought I could skip it just for a walk, but I ended up sizzling by midday. A good sunblock can make a huge difference.

I recommend visiting on a weekday if you can. The weekends can get super crowded, and that can make it tough to find a good spot to relax.

plan to visit in the early morning around 7 am. it's cooler and quieter, plus you might catch glimpses of wildlife before the heat drives them away. i loved having the trails mostly to myself.

If you want to save some cash, consider packing a picnic lunch instead of dining at the one restaurant in the park. I did this and enjoyed a peaceful break surrounded by nature

Check out the lesser-known trails. I stumbled across one that wasn't in the main guide, and it was incredible – way fewer people and stunning views. Don’t just stick to the main paths!

Make sure to wear sturdy shoes if you plan on hiking; the trails can get muddy and slippery. I found this out the hard way! Comfortable footwear made a huge difference for me.

Download a good offline map. Cell service was spotty in some areas, and getting lost isn’t fun! I saved time the second day by having everything planned out ahead

Bring snacks and water because options inside the park are limited and can be pricey. I saved money by packing my own food and really enjoyed picnicking in the scenic spots.

I suggest you bring snacks and drinks if you're planning to spend a lot of time exploring. There aren't many places to grab food around Gatun and I wish I had packed some munchies to save time and avoid disappointment.