Exploring Veraguas Province, Panama’s Verdant Paradise For Ecotourism

27.03.2024 - 20:55 / forbes.com / National Park

Equipped with vast swathes of tangled rainforest and both a Pacific and Caribbean coast, the Central American nation of Panama is rife with spectacular natural beauty all across its borders—and the province of Veraguas is no exception. Spanning from the western reaches of the Azuero Peninsula up to the nation’s northern shore, this sprawling region offers a wide array of dazzling attractions for visitors to enjoy. As you plan your next trip to Panama City, be sure to save some room on the itinerary for a trip to Veraguas, a gorgeous region that’s rife with top-tier attractions for nature lovers.

Located in the westernmost reaches of the province, the massive Isla Coiba stands out as the crown jewel for Veraguas island ecotourism. Designated a national park in 1992, this sprawling natural feature serves as the largest island in all of Central America—and all of that wide open space leaves plenty of room for wildlife to flourish. Upon arrival, visitors can tackle the Sendero Cerro Gambute—a short, steep trail that offers gorgeous views of the surrounding water and its many tiny islands, with potential wildlife sightings spanning from magnificent frigatebirds to capuchin monkeys to the agouti, a small rodent that’s related to the guinea pig.

For those wishing to explore the spectacular beauty of Coiba National Park, few tour operators offer the level of expertise exhibited by Pacific Adventures. Established more than a decade ago, this Veraguas-based tour company comes equipped with a diverse array of expeditions focusing on sport fishing, snorkeling whale watching and other aquatic activities. For those hoping to come face-to-face with native reef fish, the Cebaco Island, Beach & Snorkeling Day Tour is a top choice, while visiting gastronomes should be sure to spring for the Seafood Lunch In Leones Island And Gulf Of Montijo tour, an excursion that invites guests to sample fresh seafood on the pristine shores of Isla Leones.

Massive, pristine, and brimming with native Panamanian flora and fauna, the Azuero Peninsula is an essential stop for any nature lovers paying a visit to Veraguas Province—and for those seeking cozy accommodations on the peninsula’s shore, there’s no beating Morrillo Beach Eco Resort. Perched high above the pristine Playa Morrillo, this idyllic lodge serves as the perfect base for exploring the surrounding region, with six spacious rooms complete with private balconies and locally-made health and beauty products. During a stay, guests can snag a paddleboard or kayak and explore the surrounding mangroves, while the on-property dining program showcases fresh produce and protein sourced from local farms and producers—and to sweeten the deal, Morrillo Beach Eco Resort has mastered the