Location: Chiriqui Gulf Map
Area: 150 sq km (58 sq mi)
Tel. 775 3163
Closed: Sat & Sun
The Gulf of Chiriquí National Marine Park (Parque Nacional Marino Golfo de Chiriquí) is a pristine and biodiverse protected area along Panama’s Pacific coast in the Chiriquí Province, established in 1994 to safeguard 14,740 hectares (36,423 acres) of marine and terrestrial ecosystems. Encompassing 25 islands, 19 coral reefs, and extensive mangroves, the park is a tropical paradise known for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant marine life, and secluded white-sand beaches. Located in the Gulf of Chiriquí, which stretches from the Costa Rican border to the Azuero Peninsula, the park is a haven for snorkeling, scuba diving, sport fishing, and wildlife observation, offering a less touristy alternative to other Central American destinations.
The Gulf of Chiriquí National Marine Park is situated on Panama’s
western Pacific coast, centered around the Parida Archipelago at
geographical coordinates approximately 7°19′28″N, 81°48′00″W. Covering
150 square kilometers (58 square miles), the park includes a diverse
array of islands, islets, and marine environments. Key islands include
Isla Parida (the largest, inhabited), Paridita (inhabited), and
uninhabited islands such as Santa Catalina, Pulgoso, Gámez, Tintorera,
Obispo, Obispone, Los Pargos, Ahogado, Icacos, Corral de Piedra,
Bolaños, Bolañitos, Berraco, San José, Linarte, Salino, Sainitos,
Iglesia Mayor, Carey Macho, and Carey Hembra.
The park’s
geography is characterized by:
Islands and Islets: Rocky, volcanic
formations with rugged cliffs, tropical forests (cedar, hawthorn, oak),
and coconut palms. Many islands feature white or gray-sand beaches,
often deserted, lapped by turquoise waters.
Coral Reefs: Nineteen
vibrant reefs, among the largest in the Pacific, support a rich marine
ecosystem.
Mangroves: Dense mangrove forests, some of Central
America’s richest, provide critical habitats for marine and terrestrial
species.
Marine Meadows: Seagrass beds enhance biodiversity and
stabilize coastal ecosystems.
The park is part of the Gulf of
Chiriquí, a broader region that includes Coiba National Park (a UNESCO
World Heritage Site) and notable fishing areas like Hannibal Bank. Its
location, sheltered by the Continental Divide and peninsulas, results in
calm seas (typically 2 feet or less in the dry season), ideal for water
activities. The tropical climate averages 27°C (80.6°F), with a dry
season (December–April) offering clear skies and optimal visibility, and
a wet season (May–November) bringing rain but lush scenery and humpback
whale migrations.
The Gulf of Chiriquí National Marine Park is a biodiversity
hotspot, protecting a mosaic of marine and terrestrial ecosystems
critical to the Tropical Eastern Pacific Marine Corridor (CMAR).
Managed by Panama’s Ministry of Environment, the park promotes
sustainable tourism and scientific research to preserve its natural
resources for future generations.
Marine Biodiversity
The
park’s turquoise waters teem with marine life, supported by
nutrient-rich currents like the Humboldt Current, which drives
upwelling at sites like Hannibal Bank.
Fish: Over 1,000
species, including the endemic Gulf Snapper (Lutjanus panamensis),
yellowfin tuna, black marlin, sailfish, jacks, snapper, and wahoo.
Coral reefs host colorful tropical fish like parrotfish,
butterflyfish, and sergeant majors.
Marine Mammals: Humpback
whales (August–November, calving season), bottlenose dolphins,
spinner dolphins, fin whales, pilot whales, and tropical bottlenose
whales.
Sharks and Rays: Hammerhead sharks, whitetip reef sharks,
nurse sharks, black-tip sharks, giant manta rays, eagle rays, and
whale sharks (seasonal).
Sea Turtles: Leatherback, hawksbill,
green, and olive ridley turtles nest on island beaches, particularly
from July to January at low tide.
Invertebrates: Endemic corals,
marine anemones, lobsters, moray eels, harlequin shrimp, seahorses,
pipefish, starfish, and sponges.
Terrestrial Biodiversity
The islands’ forests and beaches support diverse wildlife:
Mammals: Howler monkeys, white-faced capuchins, raccoons, agoutis,
and squirrels.
Birds: Notable species include the Scarlet Macaw,
Plain Pigeon, Brown-throated Parakeet, White-cheeked Parakeet, Blue
Heron, Tiger-Heron, and Red-fronted Parrotlet. The park is a top
birdwatching site in Panama.
Reptiles and Amphibians: Green
iguanas, American crocodiles (in mangroves), and the Green and Black
Poison Dart Frog (Dendrobates auratus).
Flora: Tropical forests
with cedar, hawthorn, oak, coconut palms, and mangroves. The
islands’ vegetation supports nesting birds and provides timber,
though logging is a threat.
Conservation Efforts
Established to protect ecosystems and endangered species, the park
supports:
Research: Studies on humpback whales, sea turtles, and
coral reefs, aided by initiatives like Panama’s Tommy Guardia
National Geographical Institute’s whale-watching map.
Sustainable
Tourism: Regulations prohibit littering, touching corals, or
disturbing wildlife. Eco-lodges like Islas Secas and Isla Palenque
promote low-impact travel.
Challenges: Threats include illegal
logging, overfishing, and climate change impacting coral reefs. The
park’s remote location limits enforcement, but conservation groups
advocate for stronger protections.
The Gulf of Chiriquí has a rich cultural heritage tied to indigenous
communities and Panama’s maritime history. Ngäbe and other indigenous
groups inhabit areas near Boca Chica and maintain traditional practices,
such as fishing and crafting, visible in local markets. The park’s
islands, historically used for fishing and trade, reflect Panama’s role
as a Pacific trade hub.
The park’s establishment in 1994 aligns
with Panama’s growing environmental consciousness, spurred by leaders
like Omar Torrijos, whose legacy influenced conservation policies. The
Green Association of Panama’s 2003 “Save the Whales” campaign raised
awareness of the gulf’s marine mammals, shifting public perception. The
park’s proximity to Coiba National Park, a former penal colony turned
UNESCO site, adds historical depth, with shared species and conservation
goals.
Culturally, the park is a gateway to Chiriquí’s diverse
attractions, from Boquete’s coffee plantations to Tierras Altas’ cooler
highlands, fostering eco-tourism that supports local economies.
The Gulf of Chiriquí National Marine Park is a paradise for adventure
seekers, nature lovers, and those seeking secluded relaxation. Its
relative obscurity compared to destinations like Bocas del Toro keeps it
uncrowded, though its proximity to Boquete’s expat community signals
growing interest.
Access and Transportation
Location: 500 km
from Panama City, accessed via Boca Chica (gateway village, 18 miles
south of the Inter-American Highway via Horconcitos) or Pedregal Port.
By Air: Fly from Panama City to Enrique Malek International Airport
(DAV) in David (1 hour, ~$100 USD). From David, drive or bus to Boca
Chica (~1 hour, ~$5–20 USD).
By Car: From Panama City, take the
Pan-American Highway to exit 407 (Horconcitos), then a 420-km (6.5-hour)
drive to Boca Chica. The final 16 km is unpaved and dusty, manageable
without 4WD unless raining.
By Boat: Regular boat services from Boca
Chica or Pedregal to islands like Isla Parida (3 hours) or Boca Brava
($1 water taxi). Private charters (~$50–200 USD) offer flexibility.
Best Time: Dry season (December–April) for clear waters and calm seas;
wet season (May–November) for whale watching and lush landscapes.
Entrance and Facilities
Cost: No formal entrance fee, but tours
or boat transfers cost ~$50–200 USD, depending on activities. Camping on
Isla Parida requires a ranger permit (~$5–10 USD).
Facilities:
Ranger Station: A small administrative office and refuge on Isla Parida,
with minimal amenities.
Boca Chica: Basic lodges, restaurants, and
tour operators. No ATMs, so bring cash (USD, Panama’s currency).
Islands: Few facilities; some eco-lodges (e.g., Islas Secas, Isla
Palenque) offer luxury accommodations.
Rules:
No littering or
touching corals/stalactites.
Respect wildlife (e.g., no disturbing
turtle nests).
Follow guided tour protocols to minimize environmental
impact.
Activities
Snorkeling and Scuba Diving: Explore 19
coral reefs with visibility up to 80 feet (December–April). Popular
sites include Isla Secas and Isla Contreras (70 minutes from resorts),
where divers see black coral, manta rays, and hammerhead sharks. Selva
Terra Resort offers dive retreats (~$200–500 USD).
Sport Fishing:
World-class at Hannibal Bank (13 miles east of Isla Montuosa), targeting
black marlin, sailfish, and yellowfin tuna. Catch-and-release is
encouraged. Sport Fish Panama Island Lodge on Isla Parida provides
guided trips (~$1,000 USD/day).
Whale Watching: Humpback whales
migrate from August to November, with sightings near Isla Montuosa and
Coiba. Tours (~$100 USD) include dolphin encounters.
Sea Turtle
Nesting: Observe leatherback and hawksbill turtles nesting on Isla
Bolaños or Isla Parida at night (July–January). Guided tours ensure
minimal disturbance (~$50 USD).
Island Hopping: Visit Isla Gámez,
Isla Bolaños, or Isla Parida for white-sand beaches and picnics. Boats
from Boca Chica (~$50–150 USD) offer day trips.
Kayaking and
Paddleboarding: Navigate mangroves and calm waters around Boca Brava or
Isla Palenque. Rentals available (~$20 USD/hour).
Birdwatching: Spot
Scarlet Macaws and Blue Herons on islands or mangroves. Guided tours
(~$30 USD) enhance sightings.
Hiking: Trails on Boca Brava and Isla
Parida lead through forests, revealing howler monkeys and iguanas. Isla
Palenque Resort offers jungle hikes and canopy walks (~$50 USD).
Sunset Cruises: Luxury cruises (~$100 USD) showcase vibrant sunsets and
marine life.
Beach Relaxation: Lounge on secluded beaches like Isla
Gámez, with no high-rises or crowds.
Highlights: The park’s “tropical paradise” status comes from its
deserted beaches, vibrant reefs, and abundant wildlife. Snorkeling among
manta rays, fishing at Hannibal Bank, or watching humpback whales breach
are bucket-list experiences.
Challenges: Limited infrastructure
(e.g., no ATMs, basic facilities) requires planning. The unpaved road to
Boca Chica is dusty, and boat travel can be costly. Wet-season rains may
reduce visibility for diving.
Duration: Day trips (~6–8 hours) cover
snorkeling and island hopping. Multi-day stays at eco-lodges allow
deeper exploration, including diving and fishing.
Accommodations
Boca Chica: Budget lodges (~$20–50 USD/night, e.g., Boca Brava Hotel)
and mid-range options (~$80–150 USD).
Isla Palenque: Luxury
eco-resort with private villas (~$300–600 USD/night), offering jungle
hikes and yoga.
Islas Secas: Exclusive ecolodge on 16 private islands
(~$1,000 USD/night), ideal for diving and privacy.
Boca Brava: Small
lodges (~$50–100 USD/night) with trails and wildlife.
David: Urban
hotels (~$50–200 USD) for pre/post-trip stays, 1 hour away.
Dining
Boca Chica: Local restaurants serve ceviche, fried fish, and
sancocho (~$5–15 USD).
Eco-Lodges: Gourmet dining at Isla Palenque or
Islas Secas (~$20–50 USD/meal), often with private chefs.
Islands:
Bring snacks for day trips, as no vendors exist. Some tours include
beach BBQs (~$30 USD).
Access: The 6.5-hour drive from Panama City or 3-hour boat ride from
Pedregal requires planning. Public bus service to Boca Chica is spotty,
favoring private transport.
Infrastructure: Minimal facilities (e.g.,
no ATMs, limited restrooms) mean visitors must be self-sufficient. Cash
(USD) is essential.
Crowds: The park remains uncrowded, but growing
interest from Boquete’s expat community may increase visitors. Book
tours early in peak season (December–April).
Safety: Calm seas and
guided tours ensure safety, but divers should check credentials of
operators. Avoid touching corals or disturbing wildlife.
Weather: Dry
season offers best conditions, but wet-season whale watching is a draw.
Rain may affect diving visibility or road access.
Conservation:
Illegal logging and overfishing threaten ecosystems. Support
eco-friendly operators to minimize impact.
The Gulf of Chiriquí National Marine Park is Panama’s “Pacific
jewel,” offering an unparalleled blend of adventure and serenity. Its 25
islands and 19 coral reefs teem with life—humpback whales, sea turtles,
and hammerhead sharks—making it a diver’s and snorkeler’s paradise.
Secluded beaches on Isla Gámez or Bolaños, free of high-rises, invite
relaxation, while Hannibal Bank delivers world-class fishing. The park’s
mangroves and forests, home to howler monkeys and scarlet macaws,
enhance its eco-tourism appeal.
Unlike more developed
destinations, the park’s remote, untouched nature, as noted by Frommer’s
as a “best-kept secret,” offers an authentic experience. Supporting
local operators and eco-lodges contributes to conservation and
indigenous communities, aligning with Panama’s sustainable tourism
goals. Whether kayaking through mangroves, spotting dolphins at sunset,
or hiking volcanic trails, the park is, as one source calls it, “the
promised land of divers, fishermen, and nature lovers.”
Practical
Tips:
Timing: Visit December–April for diving/snorkeling;
August–November for whale watching. Start tours early (7–8 AM) for calm
seas.
Gear: Pack snorkel gear, water shoes, biodegradable sunscreen,
and a waterproof camera. Rent dive equipment from certified operators
(~$50 USD/day).
Tours: Book with Selva Terra (+507 838-6020) or Sport
Fish Panama Island Lodge (1-866-245-1492) for diving/fishing.
EcoCircuitos offers multi-day packages (~$500 USD).
Budget: Day trips
(~$50–200 USD), lodging (~$20–1,000 USD/night), meals (~$5–50 USD).
Total cost: ~$100–500 USD/day.
Combine: Pair with Coiba National
Park, Boquete coffee tours, or Tierras Altas for a 5–7-day Chiriquí
adventure.
Conservation: Choose eco-friendly operators, avoid
single-use plastics, and respect wildlife protocols.