Rules for Visiting Protected Areas, Wildlife Reserves, and National Parks in Panama
Panama is renowned for its rich biodiversity and commitment to conservation, with numerous protected areas, wildlife reserves, and national parks scattered throughout the country. These areas are not only vital for preserving Panama’s unique ecosystems but also offer incredible opportunities for eco-tourism. To ensure that these natural wonders remain pristine and that visitors have a safe and enjoyable experience, there are specific rules and guidelines that must be followed when visiting these protected areas.
Entrance Permits and Fees
When visiting national parks and wildlife reserves in Panama, it’s important to know that many of these areas require an entrance permit or fee. Since August 23rd, 2024 you will be able to pay admission fees online directly from the Government’s Environmental Ministry website. The fees collected are used to maintain the parks and support conservation efforts. These fees are typically modest and can be paid at the entrance to the park. Be sure to pay them in advance since it will be more difficult and time consuming to pay on-site and you’ll be required to carry your invoice as proof. There are three sections in the provided link to pay, so make sure all travelers in your group pay and mention this to your guide as this new rule will be enforced and some of the guide might not be updated with such info.
Respect Wildlife and Natural Habitats
One of the most important rules when visiting Panama’s protected areas is to respect the wildlife and their natural habitats. This means observing animals from a safe distance and never feeding or attempting to touch them. Human interaction can disturb animals and disrupt their natural behaviors, so it’s crucial to be a passive observer. Additionally, stay on designated trails and avoid trampling vegetation or disturbing the landscape. Many of these areas are home to rare and endangered species, so following these guidelines helps protect them and their ecosystems.
Leave No Trace
Panama’s national parks and wildlife reserves are places of natural beauty, and it’s essential to keep them that way. The “Leave No Trace” principle is a key rule for all visitors. This means carrying out all trash, including food scraps, wrappers, and any other waste. Littering is strictly prohibited, and in most areas, there are fines for leaving trash behind.
Super impotant!: It’s also important not to remove any natural objects, such as rocks, plants or animals, or shells, as they play a vital role in the local ecosystem. Panama is part of CITES convention and carrying any of these on you or your luggage will raise alarms and punishments go from high fines to prison time.
Do not buy animals or plants
Panama has a strict regulation on wildlife traffic, this includes any animal or plant sold anywhere. This goes from turtles’ eggs, to orchids, to frogs, to sharks or any derivative from any kind. The only way to buy animals are from specialized and certified locations. As a rule of thumb: do not buy or extract any kind of wildlife.
Campfires and Cooking
In most of Panama’s protected areas, campfires are either restricted or prohibited to prevent wildfires and minimize environmental impact. If camping is allowed, it’s important to use designated camping areas and follow all guidelines for fire safety. In some parks, portable stoves are permitted for cooking, but open flames are not. Always check the specific rules for the area you’re visiting before planning a campfire or cooking outdoors, and never leave a fire unattended.
Respect Cultural Sites and Local Communities
Many of Panama’s protected areas are also home to indigenous communities and cultural heritage sites. When visiting these areas, it’s essential to respect the customs and traditions of the local people. Follow all posted signs and guidelines, and avoid entering areas that are restricted or considered sacred. Engaging with local communities respectfully can enhance your experience and provide valuable insights into Panama’s cultural diversity.
Guided Tours and Group Sizes
For certain sensitive areas, guided tours may be required to minimize human impact and ensure the safety of both visitors and the environment. Even when guides are not mandatory, joining a guided tour can be beneficial as local guides provide valuable knowledge about the area’s flora, fauna, and history. Additionally, some parks limit the size of groups to reduce environmental impact. It’s important to adhere to these limits and stay within the recommended group sizes to help protect the delicate ecosystems you’re exploring.
Drone Usage
Drones are increasingly popular for capturing stunning aerial views, but their use is often restricted or prohibited in Panama’s protected areas. Drones can disturb wildlife, particularly nesting birds and other sensitive species. If you plan to use a drone, check the regulations for the specific park or reserve you’re visiting. In many cases, you may need special permission or permits, and violating drone regulations can result in fines.
There are restrictions for flying drones in protected areas, please make sure to contact the Civil Aeronautic authority to get required permissions. This procedure may take up to 7 labor days, so plan in advance. Drones also have different restrictions according to size and weight.
Stay Informed and Follow Local Guidelines
Each protected area in Panama may have its own set of rules and regulations, so it’s important to stay informed before and during your visit. Park rangers and local authorities are there to ensure that the rules are followed and to help visitors have a safe and enjoyable experience. Always pay attention to any signs, guidelines, or instructions given by park staff, and don’t hesitate to ask questions if you’re unsure about something.
By following these rules and guidelines, you can help protect Panama’s precious natural resources while enjoying some of the most beautiful and biodiverse places in the world. Whether you’re exploring the cloud forests of Volcán Barú National Park, snorkeling in Coiba National Park, or birdwatching in the Darién National Park, respecting the environment ensures that these incredible places remain intact for future generations to experience and enjoy.
No Pets Allowed
As a norm and a strict rule in Panama’s protected areas, no pets of any kind are allowed to enter. No matter if it has a leash or a muzzle, even if your guide tells you that it’s fine, it’s not. Avoid a fine.
This applies to all parks including the Metropolitan National Park Panama City
