Five years have passed since West Panama turned into a province, but its charm has conquered visitors from all over the country and the world for many years already. Its 2,786 square kilometers surface has mountains such as Cerro Trinidad (300 meters above sea level), or beaches like Punta Chame, Malibu and La Hermita, which runs along the waters of the Pacific. Thinking about touring this province, is to be encouraged immediately to go to Altos de Campana National Park, the first park created in the country in 1966, located on the western slope of the Panama Canal and very close to the coast of Chame. A magical place with a 523 meters elevation that can be reach hiking, and be amazed by the panoramic view of the surrounding mountains and the sea.
The Ascend
The road to Cerro Chame, which is close to Bejuco and Altos de María, can take approximately an hour and a half or two hours. On the way you can enjoy the rural landscape. To stay overnight, you must bring a tent that is resistant to strong winds. If you choose to travel the path of the Cross, you will be able to reach the top of Cerro Campana such as Cerro La Cruz, where you can visualize the mountains of Chicá, Cerro Chame and Punta Chame. The ideal place to combine camping, lagoon, campfire and hiking is the top of Cerro Picacho. To get to the viewpoint of Altos del María or Cerro La Gaita you can walk the nature trail. The main trail starts near the San Carlos lagoon, but as time passes the trail gets narrow and entering the forest, forces you to have to be accompanied by a tour guide.
Other Attractions
Besides the beautiful mountains, Panama Oeste specifically in Altos de Campana National Park, are located the headwaters of the main rivers of the region. It also has various waterfalls near Cerro Chame such as the Chorro de Las Lajas, located in the corregimiento that bears the same name, and Los Cajones de Chame, a place where many local Visitors from Panama City go to take a swim or a dive without traveling too far away.
Tourist Information
Those who wish to explore the nature Altos de Campana Natural Park has, should approach the regional office of the Ministry of Environment (MiAmbiente), to request information on the paths and trails available to travel and the recommendations took how to do it. Is always better to ask for a certified guide who can lead safely this adventure. However, the trails are well signposted in order for Visitors to safely in groups.
