Centroamerica Big Day 2025
Centroamérica Big Day is an annual event that brings together birdwatchers from around the world to celebrate and document the incredible diversity of bird species.

Panama: A Birdwatchers’ paradise
On March 15th, bird enthusiasts in Central America will celebrate the Centroamérica Big Day, a global event where birdwatchers come together to observe and record as many bird species as possible within a 24-hour period. Panama, with its incredible biodiversity and stunning landscapes, is the perfect destination for this event. From urban parks to remote rainforests, Panama offers a wide range of birding hotspots that are sure to delight even the most seasoned birdwatchers.
Participation is free and you can register using this link and later register your sightings on e-bird.

Places to go for birdwatching
This is a list of our recommended places to go and participate. You can arrange ground transportation with us or a flight to further destinations with accommodations and other facilities.
Once you are ready, contact us to help us book your destination.

Isla Colón, Bocas del Toro
This Caribbean island is part of the Bocas del Toro archipelago and is known for its vibrant culture and rich birdlife. Isla Colón is home to species like the Green Kingfisher and the Red-lored Parrot. With its mangroves, beaches, and rainforests, Bocas del Toro offers a diverse range of birding opportunities.
Isla Colón is also known for its activities such as dolphin watching, turtle conservancy, and surfing.

Pedasí
The Azuero Peninsula, particularly the town of Pedasí, is known for its beautiful landscapes and diverse birdlife. This region is home to species like the White-tailed Hawk and the Vermilion Flycatcher. With its coastal and inland habitats, the Azuero Peninsula offers a variety of birding opportunities.
We have regular daily flights to Pedasí. Click on the link to know more about schedules and prices.

Coiba Island National Park
This UNESCO World Heritage site, located off the Pacific coast, is home to over 147 bird species. Coiba National Park is known for its rainforests and abundant wildlife, including rare and endemic species such as the the Brown Booby and the Coiba Spinetail. Visitors can explore the park by boat, offering a unique perspective on the local birdlife.
We’ve covered Coiba Island National Park many times on our blog where you’ll get more information.
If you are interested in traveling to Coiba Island, we have private charter flights to Coiba Island or boat transportations from Lago Bay or Pixvae

Boquete and Volcán
Located in the highlands of Panama, Boquete is a popular destination for birdwatchers. This region is home to the elusive Quetzal and the Three-wattled Bellbird. With its cool climate and cloud forests, Boquete offers a peaceful and scenic birding experience.
Book your birding travel to boquete for birding and stay for the best coffee in the world. Ask us how.

Punta Chame
Located on the Pacific coast, Punta Chame is known for its stunning beaches and rich birdlife. This area is home to species like the Brown Pelican and the Laughing Gull. The nearby wetlands and mangroves provide additional opportunities for birdwatching, making it a popular destination for both tourists and locals.
You can book a ground transportation from Panama City to Punta Chame and also arrange lodging.

Biomuseum
The Biomuseum, located on the Amador Causeway, offers a blend of culture and nature. Its gardens and surrounding areas are home to a variety of bird species, including the Yellow-crowned Night-Heron and the White-collared Manakin.
The museum’s unique architecture and interactive exhibits provide a fascinating experience for visitors of all ages.
We have a blog entry about the Biomuseum you’ll enjoy too. For more information on the Biomuseum and how to get there, follow the link.

El Valle de Antón
This picturesque valley, located in the heart of Panama, is surrounded by lush forests and offers a variety of more than 300 bird species. Visitors can spot Black-cheeked Woodpecker. The area’s cool climate and scenic trails make it an ideal location for birding and nature walks such as Cerro Gaital and La India Dormida.
You can arrange ground transportation from Panama City to El Valle de Antón and hotel accommodations to enjoy your stay.

Panama Rainforest Discovery Center
The Panama Rainforest Discovery Center is at the very entrance of the Pipeline Road, located in Soberania National Park, is one of the top birding destinations in Panama. This 24-kilometer road passes through a variety of habitats, offering birders the chance to spot over 525 species. Highlights include the Keel-billed Toucan, the Rufous-vented Ground-Cuckoo, and the Agami Heron. The road is accessible to both vehicles and pedestrians, and guided tours are available for those looking to maximize their bird sightings.
At the Panama Rainforest Discovery Center you can climb to a tower above the forest canopy to have an even better view of your surroundings. You can also check a virtual tour on their site before you go.

Darién National Park
As the largest protected area in Central America, Darién National Park is a biodiversity hotspot. This park is home to over 533 bird species, including the endangered Great Green Macaw and the Baudo Oropendola. With its diverse habitats ranging from rainforests to mangroves, Darién offers a once-in-a-lifetime birding experience. However, due to its remote location, it is recommended to visit with a local guide.
You can fly to Darién with our private charter flights

Metropolitan National Park
Nestled within Panama City, Metropolitan National Park is a hidden gem for birdwatchers. This urban oasis is home to over 280 bird species, making it a hotspot for both casual birders and avid ornithologists. Visitors can spot vibrant species like the Keel-billed Toucan and the Blue-gray Tanager. The park’s lush greenery and tranquil trails provide a peaceful escape from the bustling city, making it an ideal location for a morning of birding.

Panama Viejo Historical Center
This UNESCO World Heritage site is not only rich in history but also in birdlife. The ruins of the old city provide a unique backdrop for birdwatching, with species like the Mangrove Swallow and the Great Kiskadee often spotted in the area. The nearby mangroves and wetlands are home to a variety of water birds, making it a must-visit location for bird enthusiasts.

Parque Omar
Just a short distance from downtown Panama City, Parque Omar is another urban haven for birdwatchers. This park is known for its diverse bird population, which includes species like the Rufous-collared Sparrow and the Gray-breasted Martin. With its well-maintained gardens and ponds, Parque Omar offers a picturesque setting for birding and nature photography.