In the heart of the Azuero Peninsula, where the landscape seems to silently tell stories, lies Sarigua National Park in Herrera Province, a destination that defies expectations and redefines Panama’s natural beauty. Far from the tropical lushness that characterizes the country, Sarigua offers an almost desert-like setting, steeped in mystery, history, and cultural value, making it one of the isthmus’s lesser-known—yet most fascinating—treasures.
Where Panamanian History Was Born
Sarigua is not only a natural spectacle; it is also one of the country’s most important archaeological sites. Evidence of human settlements dating back more than 11,000 years has been found in its soil, making it the oldest human settlement in Panama.
Research has revealed ceramic remains, stone tools, and other artifacts that allow us to reconstruct the lives of the first communities that inhabited the region.
How to Get to Sarigua and General Information
Reaching Sarigua National Park is part of the experience, as the journey allows you to appreciate the transition of the Panamanian landscape towards the Azuero region:
From Panama City (approx. 4.5 to 5 hours by car):
Take the Pan-American Highway inland towards Divisa. From there, continue towards Herrera province, passing through Chitre until you reach the Parita area. Then, follow the signs to Sarigua.
From Chitre (30–40 minutes):
Drive towards Parita and then to the coast, where the park is located.
Public Transportation:
You can take a bus from the Albrook terminal to Chitre. From there, it is recommended to use a taxi or local transportation to Sarigua, as the final access point does not always have frequent service.
Costs and Access:
General Admission: Foreign tourists $7.00, Panamanian citizens and foreign residents (over 12 years old) $4.00, retirees and seniors $2.00, and children under 12 enter free (prices may vary according to regulations of the Ministry of the Environment of Panama)
Hours: 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m
Recommendations: Bring water, sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable shoes, as the terrain is arid and there is no shade.
Tourism that Promotes Ecosystem Conservation
Tourism in Sarigua also presents an opportunity to promote conservation. The fragility of its ecosystem and the importance of its archaeological heritage needs a responsible approach, where each visitor becomes a guardian of this legacy.
Rediscovering Panama
Sarigua is an experience that connects past, present, and future. A natural jewel that, in its apparent austerity, reveals the depth of Panama’s ancient history and the transformative power of time.
