The Metropolitan Natural Park, only minutes from Albrook Mall and El Dorado, is an oasis of peace in the middle of the bustling metropolis of Panama City. Created in July 1985, it has quickly become the favorite of many city dwellers. This park covers a total of 265 hectares and is located near the limits of the city of Panama bordering the Panama Canal watershed. Because of its proximity to the Canal it is part of the protected areas in the Panamanian transisthmian region.
The park regularly hosts workshops and other events. In the park can be found a variety of birds and vertebrate animals typical of the tropical rainforest, such as: marmosets, capybara, macaws, squirrels, etc. It also has natural trails from where you can see the forest, landscapes and a panoramic view of the capital city. It is considered that approximately 75% of the park is covered by Pacific tropical dry forest, an ecosystem that has almost disappeared in other regions of the country. Also in the same park there are about 284 plant species, including trees that reach between 30 and 35 meters (100 to 115 feet) in height, with a large number of vines, epiphytes, orchids and mosses that add color and life to the forest. Throughout the year there are 227 species of birds, 45 of mammals, 36 kinds of snakes and 14 types of amphibians.
The park has several paths such as Los Monotides, Los Caobos, El Roble, El Mono Titi as well as three viewpoints with magnificent views of Ancon and Albrook. Currently, the Metropolitan Natural Park has a Management and Operational Plan and is managed by a General Director. It has specialized staff in Environmental Education, Research and Interpretation of Protected Areas, bilingual guides with extensive knowledge, park rangers highly prepared for protection, a body of security, administrative staff and maintenance personnel.
The park is open seven days of the week and on holidays from 6:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Entrance costs $1 for adults and $0.50 for children and pensioners. For more information visit www.parquemetropolitano.org/.
By the visitor panama
