Metropolitan Natural Park

Parque Natural Metropolitano is the only protected tropical rainforest located inside a major city in the Americas — and one of only a handful in the entire world. Spanning 265 hectares of dense Pacific dry and semi-deciduous forest, it sits just minutes from Panama City's banking district and skyscrapers — a striking contrast that makes the experience truly unique.

The park was originally part of the Panama Canal Zone, set aside by the U.S. military as a buffer area. When the canal was handed over to Panama in 1999, the land was preserved as a national park. Today it serves as a vital green lung for the city and a corridor for wildlife moving between larger forest reserves.

Several well-maintained trails wind through the park. The Sendero La Cienaguita is an easy, flat loop ideal for birdwatching. The Sendero Los Momides climbs through denser forest, and the Sendero del Mono Titi is named for the Geoffroy's tamarins that inhabit the canopy. All trails converge near the Cerro Cedro lookout, a hilltop viewpoint offering a sweeping 360-degree panorama of the city skyline, the Panama Canal, Ancon Hill, and the Bridge of the Americas.

Wildlife sightings are common. The park is home to sloths, white-faced capuchin monkeys, Geoffroy's tamarins, agoutis, green iguanas, and over 250 species of birds including toucans, motmots, and hawks. Early morning is the best time to spot animals, which is why our tour starts at 7:00 AM before the heat of the day.

Go Beyond provides a knowledgeable guide who knows the trails and where to find wildlife. The hike is moderate — expect some uphill sections on the way to the lookout — but the trails are well-marked and accessible. This is a perfect half-day activity that pairs well with an afternoon city tour or a visit to the nearby Panama Canal.

Tour Highlights

• Guided rainforest hike on maintained trails
• Wildlife spotting: sloths, toucans, monkeys, and more
• Panoramic views from the Cerro Cedro lookout
• Only 15 minutes from downtown Panama City
• Kosher travel options available

What to Bring

• Closed-toe shoes or hiking shoes
• Water bottle
• Insect repellent
• Sunscreen
• Camera or binoculars
• Light, breathable clothing