Metropolitan Natural Park — Attraction in Ancón

Here is an amazing ecological park split into three different hiking circles. Within these three circles are five different trail options, each with their own level of difficulty. Since they are designed to be circular trails, there is no way to get lost. Simply follow the established path. Look at the picture of the map to better understand.

First is the smallest of the three circles called the Momotides trail. It is the least challenging at under one kilometer in distance. Took us under twenty minutes of continuous slow walking to complete.

Second is the combination of Caobos and Roble trails at a total of one and a half kilometers with easy to moderate difficulty. The turtle pond was the most memorable part. Nothing else to see besides greenery. Another highlight is a tiny seating area with a roof where you will have a small view of the city. This circle took us half an hour to finish.

Third is the largest at over two kilometers comprising of the Cienagita and Camino del Mono titi trails. There is more uphill walking required than any other trail but it was nothing too taxing. The best part is getting to the very top where you will have views of the city. Took us about eighty minutes to complete.

Here is what I learned from the hikes. First, the trees protect you from the sun most of the time. Second, bring water because they are no kiosks along the way. Third, dress comfortably and be aware of insects that bite. Overall, the heights are not strenuous but you will get slightly tired and sweaty. The trails are clearly marked for everyone to follow.

Nature lovers will appreciate these trails but others may find them a bit boring. Sad to say but we did not see any animals besides turtles.

The visitors center has ample parking and bathroom. There are guides that answer any questions you may have. I have to compliment the staff there, especially those who are outside on foot. They were always kind and informative answering...

Metropolitan Natural Park was an absolute highlight of our trip to Panama City—easily ranking among our top three favorite experiences! From start to finish, everything about this park was exceptional.

The guides were incredibly helpful, welcoming, and friendly - they were happy to answer questions and share their knowledge about the park’s flora and fauna. The facilities, including the bathrooms, were clean and well-maintained.

The trails were well-marked and categorized by difficulty (easy, medium, or hard) and we were impressed with how well-maintained the pathways were, with clear markers, visible pathways, and thoughtful touches like benches and covered rest stops for those needing a break.

The wildlife and scenery were incredible! Along the trails, we saw howler monkeys, turtles, parrots, agoutis, leaf-cutter ants, stunning butterflies, and a variety of vibrant plants. The viewpoints along the way and at the top were breathtaking, offering panoramic views that made the hike well worth the effort.

Getting to the park was easy and affordable—just a 15-minute Uber ride from our hotel in Casco Viejo, costing no more than $7. We started our morning with breakfast at El Trapiche, which was a great way to fuel up before hitting the trails. While we spent all morning exploring, we easily could have spent the entire day here.

We wholeheartedly recommend Metropolitan Natural Park to anyone visiting Panama City. It’s a perfect blend of nature, adventure, and relaxation that will leave you feeling rejuvenated and inspired....

Worth a visit for the wildlife and wild history of the United States Military using the park as a staging ground for the very unjustified “Operation Just Cause.” Take the Mono Titi trail up to the top for amazing views of the city, Fort Clayton and the Canal. The trail loops back down to the main visitor center and I am an average ability hiker and it only took me about an hour. It was perfect. It is truly wild to physically be in the heart of the city with this tropical jungle at your feet. Some districting moments of seeing some lizards swimming in dirty trash/sewer water. But I tried not to let it spoil my nature in the city time. I took the subway for my first time to the Albrook train stop and it was a great way to get here. The subway/Metro is super clean and easy to use. You do not need a Metro card to ride. You simply swipe your Visa or Mastercard on the entrance stall. Once at Albrook, cross the bridge over the large central Panama bus depot to the mall and I got an Uber for like 2.00 to take the short ride to the park entrance. Park fees to enter are 4.00 for foreigners and only a 1.00 for residents. I enjoyed seeing a lot of locals using the park for exercise as well as all the foreigners exploring the nature. I...