Declared a World Heritage site by UNESCO, Coiba National Park is a hot spot for biodiversity as part of the Eastern Tropical Pacific Marine Corridor, one of the most complete and important ecosystems, not just in Veraguas but on the planet. Discover the fascinating history of Coiba Island, an old, high-security prison that has now become a wildlife refuge. You can also explore the other islands in the park, where you’ll find extensive, pristine white sandy beaches, crystal-clear water, and scenery that will be etched in your memory forever.

If you love marine life, take a tour at one of the best dive spots in the region: swim with whale sharks, rays, and sea turtles in the middle of the Eastern Tropical Pacific Marine Corridor, one of the regions richest in biodiversity on the planet.

When it comes to surfing in Panamá, Santa Catalina reigns. This beach put the country on the world’s radar thanks to waves so good that even the pros were stoked. And that’s why it has been chosen as the host of the ISA World Surfing Championship on two occasions. 

But Santa Catalina has more than just waves—it’s a town with a surfing soul, good vibes, and relaxed rhythm. Here, you’ll find surf schools, small hotels, yoga retreats, restaurants, bars, and tours to get the most out of the area.

Also, from the ports on the Pacific Coast of Veraguas, you can embark on exciting sport-fishing adventures.

Green Season

Take advantage of an active season throughout the year. During the “green season,” the ocean is usually calmer, and you can visit islands that are farther out. In this season, you can find wahoo, tuna, mahi mahi, and much more.

Dry Season

During the “dry season,” you can stay much closer to shore and take advantage of currents carrying smaller fish, which attract larger fish, making it the ideal time to catch marlins.

Explore the Gulf of Montijo, immense and complex wetlands that have been designated a Ramsar site, a recognition granted to ecosystems that are essential to the balance of global biodiversity. This gulf, which is connected to the San Pedro and San Pablo rivers, is one of the richest and most diverse ecosystems in Panamá. Head out in a kayak or join a tour to observe caimans as you explore estuaries, beaches, mangroves of different species, marshes, marine areas, secondary forests, and vital nesting areas for seabirds and migratory birds.

Walk alongside biologists and expert guides as you explore paths through protected areas in Veraguas, such as Cerro Hoya National Park. Get an inside look into the tropical forest and its fauna. With a bit of luck—and a lot of patience—you could see endemic species like the Azuero spider monkey, Azuero mountain-gem, toucans, and even some green macaws. Enjoy a one-day adventure or camp inside the park to climb to the top of Cerro Hoya, 1,559 m above sea level.

While exploring the Pacific Coast of Veraguas, you’ll discover more than natural landscapes; you’ll also get to know the people who live here and who protect this wildlife refuge. Take part in community-based ecotourism in the towns of Mata Oscura and Malena, in the district of Mariato, where the local culture of Veraguas takes center stage.

Conservation groups in these coastal towns have started foundations dedicated to caring for sea turtles. Visit them from June to March to learn about the community and all the conservation efforts they do to protect the four species of turtles that nest on these beaches. Plus, the rest of the year, you can join residents of the community in rural activities: milking cows, using the sugar mill (a traditional tool for extracting juice from sugar cane), bird-watching, taking part in horse-back processions, going on kayaking tours, hiking, and much more.