Coiba National Park

With an extension of 49,300 hectares, Coiba is the largest island in the American Pacific. Due to its geographical isolation, a penal colony was established in 1910, which still exists today, situation that has favored maintaining the island’s forests in an unaltered state.

The Coiba National Park offers attractions such as beaches, diving, and fishing along its entire coastal perimeter. The very fine sands, and the transparency of the water, are characteristic to beaches such as Playa Damas and Playa Blanca on Isla Coiba, as well as those that can be found on the Granito de Oro, Ranchería, Uvas, Contreras and other islands. From any island within the park you can organize a day for scuba diving or simply for fishing, an activity that is internationally recognized in the area of Coiba due to the species that are found there, such as the merlin. The islands feature a diversity of flora and fauna for nature lovers, including the nesting of turtles in the beach areas.

The Coiba National Park can be reached by air flying from Panama City to the City of Santiago in 20 minutes, or by road (245 kilometers) in five hours. Once in Santiago, take the road (25 kilometers) that leads to Puerto Mutis, to travel by sea to the island. Transfer time will depend on weather conditions, and the type of boat used. In a fast boat, and with good weather, the trip can take about two hours, otherwise, it could take up to six hours. To visit Isla Coiba it is required to obtain prior permits from the Ministry of the Environment.