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.

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.

• 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.

• Hiking and birdwatching.
• Visit to the summit of Cerro Hoya.
• Wildlife and plant photography.
• Exploration of rivers and waterfalls.

• 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.

• 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.

• Boquete
• Pedasi
• Volcan Barú