Los Quetzales Trail is one of Panama’s most iconic hiking trails, popular with expats, local and international tourists alike. Located in the highlands of Chiriqui province, this trail crosses the Volcan Baru National Park, connecting the towns of Boquete and Cerro Punta. It is renowned for its impressive biodiversity and mountain landscapes.
An Immersive Nature Tour
This trail offers a deep immersion in nature, allowing tourists to explore cloud forests and diverse high-altitude habitats. The recent rehabilitation of the trail, with an investment of over $793,000.00, has improved the infrastructure to offer a safe and enriching experience for visitors.
A Biodiversity Paradise
The trail is known for being a habitat for the quetzal (Pharomachrus mocinno), a bird species highly seek by birdwatchers. Additionally, it is possible to spot hummingbirds, pumas, and various species of frogs and orchids, making it an ideal place for biodiversity lovers.
A Natural Refuge That Attracts Thousands of People
Every year, thousands of visitors, including expats, enjoy panoramic views, crystal-clear rivers, and waterfalls along the trail. The region’s cool, humid climate offers a pleasant contrast for those from warmer areas, making the trail an attractive natural refuge.
A Trail that Connects Boquete and Cerro Punta
The trail connects the towns of Boquete and Cerro Punta, offering routes of varying lengths and difficulty levels. This allows tourists to choose the route that best suits their interests and physical abilities.
Moderate to Difficult Experience
The trail is approximately 9.6 kilometers long and takes about 4 hours to hike one way, although some sections can extend up to 18.2 km, depending on the chosen route.
Altitude: The highest point of the trail reaches 2,500 meters above sea level, offering stunning panoramic views of the Talamanca mountain range.
Difficulty: The route is considered moderate to difficult, suitable for hikers in good physical condition. The terrain can be slippery and steep in some sections, especially during the rainy season.
Responsible Tourism in the Quetzales Trail
Panamanian authorities promote responsible tourism along the Los Quetzales Trail, urging visitors to respect conservation regulations and to preserve this valuable ecosystem for future generations.
The Los Quetzales Trail offers expats, local tourists, and foreigners a unique combination of adventure, natural beauty, and commitment to conservation, establishing itself as a must-see destination for those seeking authentic nature experiences.
