Lagunas de Volcán
Highland lakes near Volcán town, among the highest wetlands in the country and good for birds.
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Two lakes sit in a shallow basin at around twelve hundred metres near Volcán, formed where the ground slumped after volcanic activity, and they are among the highest wetlands in Panama. Forest comes down to the water and the setting has Volcán Barú rising behind it. Birdwatchers come for the mix of highland and wetland species, including the rosy thrush-tanager and various waterfowl. The track in is rough and often muddy.
What you actually see
- The two lakes - highland water in a basin at around twelve hundred metres.
- The Barú backdrop - the volcano rising behind the lakes on clear days.
- The birdlife - highland and wetland species together in one place.
- The lakeside forest - woodland running down to the water's edge.
When to go
December to April is drier and the track is passable. Early morning is best for birds. Rain makes the approach very difficult.
Honest expectations
The access track is rough and regularly impassable without four-wheel drive. There are no facilities of any kind at the lakes. Views of Barú are frequently closed by cloud.
Nearby
Sitio Barriles is nearby, and Cerro Punta is northeast.
What to pack for Lagunas de Volcán
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.