One of the main reasons I moved to Panamá is my love of hiking. Panama trails are so different from any trails I have ever done in the U.S.: jungly, slippery and super-exotic, they are usually well worth the effort. Nowhere is this more true than Sendero La Cruz, in Altos de Campana National Park. A little over an hour from PTY, this first Panamanian national park has everything: cooler temperatures, epic mountain and ocean views, lush flora and a technical trail that will have you coming back for another round. It’s adventure time in Altos de Campana, NP.
As Panama’s very first national park, established in 1966, this 12,000 acre wonderland sits just 50 miles west of Panama City, yet it feels like stepping into another world entirely. Rising in elevation to 3,379ft–1,030m–the park’s rugged, volcanic terrain is stunning with expansive views of the Bay of Chame and sloping, green ridges. I’ve done the Sendero La Cruz hike at Altos twice and last year I said I wouldn’t do it again, but to be honest I kind of can’t resist. It’s just too fun.
PANAMA’S FIRST NATIONAL PARK
Altos de Campana National Park was initially established as a biological reserve to protect the endemic species, unique, sweeping vistas and a key water resource in the Chame area receiving about 98″ of rainfall every year. The tropical forest is home to over 500 plant species and 39 different, illusive animals. Sendero La Cruz isn’t the only worthwhile trail in the park. Check out Sendero Podocarpus or the Altos de Campana Loop trails if you’re looking to spend the day.
SENDERO LA CRUZ: MY FAVORITE TRAIL TO DATE IN PANAMÁ
The first time I hiked Sendero La Cruz in Altos de Campana, it was relatively dry, especially in comparison with the second time. The conditions in days leading up to hike time will really impact your hiking experience, so we try to do this hike during dry season which is “officially” December through April. However, there’s no guarantee. I’ve done the trail both times at the end of January.
The trail is pretty consistently full of tree roots that create little steps to make your climb somewhat easier. You start up an incline in a beautiful cloudforest which always seems to be dripping with condensation from the clouds that drift by. The plants are gorgeous and the mist creates an other-worldy mood. As you make your way down the ridge, you’ll come across pipes and rails to hang onto as you cross deep gullies cut into the side of the mountain. Honestly, doing this trail made me feel like a kid again. It was not your ordinary trail: swinging over and under, navigating the best way down slick inclines on ropes tied to trees. It is not the most strenuous hike, I have ever done, but it is a very technical hike.
When you are almost at the top, you’ll pull yourself up one last rope to reach the incredible summit. It is truly breathtaking to look out out across the horizon all the way to the Pacific Ocean. If you are brave enough, you can climb the huge boulder with the cross on top for a photo finish of this huge accomplishment.
EXPLORING PANAMA’S MOUNTAINS
GETTING THERE
If you are leaving from Panama City, the drive is about an hour or so. It is definitely a doable day trip as avid hikers can complete the trail in about 2 hours.
PRO TIP: We usually make a point to stop along the way at Quesos Chela in Capira for the best empanadas to snack on at the top of the mountain. Their handcrafted cheeses and freshly squeezed chichas really hit the spot before, during or after the hike.
ENTRANCE FEES
The National Park System fees in Panamá are quite affordable. Foreign visitors/tourists pay $5 and nationals/residents pay $2 to hike the trails of this gorgeous park. You can pay at the visitor’s center or pay the national park system online before you set out on the hike of your choosing.
WHEN TO VISIT
Because of the massive amounts of rainfall the park receives throughout the year, the trails in the park are subject to closings for maintenance and safety purpose. Check Mi Ambiente before planning your trip for trail updates.
TRAIL ESSENTIALS
APPROPRIATE SHOES ARE A NON-NEGOTIABLE! The first time I hiked this trail, I wore my Columbia hiking shoes. Totally appropriate, however they rubbed a gigantic blister on my toe. The second time around I opted for my cute little Sketchers which proved to be so not the right choice. The trail was considerably muddier and after about an hour and a half of sole-sucking, I chose to rip the rubbery bottom off my shoe and complete the trail with only one shoe, lest I mortally injure myself.
If you’re hiking early in the day, you might be able to get away with not wearing a rain jacket. I typically don’t wear one, but the chances of showers go up as the day progresses. Even during “la temporada seca” or the dry season, there has been evidence of significant rainfall the two times I have hit this trail.
Water and snacks: of course, we always need to stay hydrated and you’ll get really good workout completing this trail. The summit is spectacular here, so a little picnic at the top is a pretty fabulous plan.
Bug repellent: Panama is a buggy place, so better safe than sorry.
CONCLUSION
My friend asked me yesterday, what I like so much about this trail. For me, it is the combination of a sense of adventure, accomplishment and the magnificent views at the top. Everything about this trail is unique, so if you’re looking for a challenge that, in my opinion is well worth it, Altos de Campana is one for your list.
For more Panama hikes, check out my blogpost, 10 Memorable Hikes in Panama.
What trail inspires you in Panama? Comment below.