Metropolitan Natural Park

Parque Natural Metropolitano

A tropical forest reserve within the city limits, offering hiking trails with wildlife and skyline views. It's one of the few urban rainforests in the Americas, home to sloths, monkeys and abundant birds.

Things to do

• Hike the Mono Tití Road Trail — Follow the wide main trail beneath the canopy where you can often spot Geoffroy's tamarin monkeys in the early morning.
• Climb to the Mirador (Cerro Cedro Viewpoint) — Reach the hilltop lookout for a panoramic view of Panama City's skyline rising beyond the treetops.
• Spot sloths and birds on the La Cieneguita Trail — Walk this shorter loop watching for two-toed sloths, toucans and dozens of resident and migratory birds.
• Visit the Smithsonian Canopy Crane — See the research crane that scientists use to study the rainforest canopy from above near the park.
• Guided early-morning wildlife walk — Join a ranger or naturalist guide at dawn when animals are most active and the heat is milder.
• Learn at the Visitor Center — Browse exhibits on the park's ecosystems and pick up a trail map before setting out.

Food to try

• Carimañola — A deep-fried yuca fritter stuffed with seasoned ground meat, a popular Panamanian breakfast and snack sold at nearby stalls.
• Sancocho de gallina — Panama's national comfort dish, a hearty chicken soup with yuca, corn and culantro found in local fondas.
• Raspado — A refreshing shaved-ice treat drenched in fruit syrup and condensed milk, ideal after a hot hike.
• Patacones — Twice-fried green plantain rounds served crispy and salted as a ubiquitous side.
• Fresh chicheme — A sweet, thick corn-and-milk drink flavored with cinnamon and vanilla, sold by street vendors.

Local customs & good to know

• Start early and bring water — Panama's tropical heat and humidity peak by midday, so arrive at opening for cooler temperatures and better wildlife sightings.
• Pay the entrance fee at the center — The park charges a small admission that supports conservation, so carry some cash in balboas or US dollars.
• Stay on marked trails — This is a protected rainforest reserve, so keep to designated paths and never feed the monkeys or sloths.
• Bring insect repellent — Mosquitoes are active in the forest, and repellent helps you enjoy the trails comfortably.

Nearby

• Panama City — 3 km
• Casco Viejo — 5 km
• Miraflores Locks — 5 km
• Panamá Viejo — 7 km