Located in the mountains of the Tierras Altas district, Chiriquí Province, Salto del Tigre waterfall is one of the most attractive natural spots in western Panama. It is located in an area with a cool climate and high-altitude landscapes, surrounded by farms, cloud forests, and panoramic views characteristic of the Volcán and Cerro Punta region.
A 30-Meter Waterfall
Salto del Tigre is notable for its approximately 30-meter waterfall, which cascades between rocky walls covered in vegetation. The surroundings are green, humid, and tranquil, ideal for those seeking direct contact with nature. The access hike combines dirt trails, wooded sections, and small natural viewpoints, making the visit a gentle adventure experience accessible to most travelers with a basic level of fitness.
How to Get to This Natural Paradise
From David City, it’s approximately a 1.5-hour drive to the Tierras Altas district taking the road to Volcen. Once in the Volcan area, continue along marked rural roads towards Salto del Tigre (Tiger’s Leap); a 4×4 vehicle is recommended in some sections. The final segment of the journey is a short to moderate hike along a nature trail. It’s also possible to arrange a visit with local guides, which facilitates navigation and enriches the experience.
Many Activities to Enjoy
At this location, visitors can enjoy various activities such as interpretive hiking through the forest, nature photography, and birdwatching . Many travelers also choose to picnic in designated areas or simply relax while enjoying the scenery and the sound of the water. During the rainy season, the water flow increases, making the waterfall even more spectacular.
Enjoy the Surroundings of the Waterfall
The Tierras Altas district allows you to complement your visit to El Tigre Waterfall by visiting agrotourism farms growing strawberries, flowers, and vegetables, as well as visits to natural viewpoints overlooking the Barú Volcano. You can also enjoy gastronomic routes featuring fresh mountain products, explore additional rural trails, and stay in cabins or rustic-style accommodations in Volcán and Cerro Punta.
Recommendations for Visitors
It is recommended to wear hiking boots or shoes with good traction, bring plenty of water, insect repellent, and sunscreen, and try to visit in the morning to enjoy better weather conditions. It is important to avoid entering during heavy rains for safety reasons, respect the signage in the area, and do not leave any trash. For first-time visitors, having a local guide can be very helpful.
The contrast between the active hike and the visual reward of the waterfall, along with the cool climate of Tierras Altas, makes this visit a highly recommended nature getaway in Panama.
