volcan baru panama tour

Sunrise at Volcan Baru: Jeep Tour

Watching the sunrise at Volcan Baru is one of the most adventurous things to do in Panama and will be a highlight of your Panama itinerary . The bumpy ride to the top will result in the most epic view in the country, standing at the volcanic peak, watching the sunrise over the Pacific and Caribbean. This guide includes helpful tips for the sunrise jeep tour of Volcan Baru.

Are you considering taking the Volcan Baru jeep tour? Here is my honest review of the 4×4 sunrise jeep tour with Beyond Adventure Tours. 

Disclaimer: This is a sponsored post on behalf of Beyond Adventure Tours. All thoughts and opinions are my own. 

Table of Contents

About Volcan Baru

Standing 3474 m high, Volcan Baru is the highest point in Panama. The only Panamian volcano, Baru, has the 12th highest peak in Central America. With seven volcanic craters, there are several hiking trails to see each, varying in difficulty level. 

Found inside Volcan Baru National Park, the park is home to over 240 species of birds, 86 types of mammals, 25 bat species, and 7 types of jungle cats. The view from the top of Baru Volcano is lush and unforgettable; it is the only place in the world where you can see both the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean on a clear day. 

Can You Drive Up Volcan Baru? 

There are two ways to travel up the volcano: jeep tour or hiking. You cannot drive your own vehicle up the volcano as the road is extremely rough, and even a regular 4×4 is not enough to conquer it. It takes really good tires and skilled driving to reach the top.

Volcan Baru: Jeep Tour vs Hiking

If you want to experience the sunrise at Volcan Baru, but don’t want to do the long hike, the 4×4 jeep tour is for you. It takes about an hour of driving up the steep and winding 14km road and then another hour back down the volcano by jeep. If you have back problems, it may not be best to take the jeep tour due to all of the bumping around in the jeep while it climbs over boulders and potholes. Be prepared for how bumpy it is, and choose to go up Volcan Baru at your own discretion. 

Prefer to hike? Hiking to the top will take 5-8 hours in each direction, depending on your fitness level. Do not hike Volcan Baru if you are not physically fit. It is a challenging hike, especially the last portion up to the summit, where you will rock climb. The air is thinner at the summit, so prepare for heavier breathing the higher altitude you reach to get to the top. During my jeep tour, we saw people who had hiked to the top, and they told us how they started their hike around 11 pm to midnight to reach the top before sunrise.

About Beyond Adventure Tours 

Beyond Adventure Tours is a tour operator in Boquete, offering adventurous tours: including Volcan Baru jeep tours, white water rafting, birdwatching, rock climbing, hot springs, and more. The owner Rolando is responsive and accommodating, and his staff are fun and professional. 

Location 

Located in downtown Boquete, Beyond Adventure Tours can be found on the main highway passing through town. Their small shop is next to Brasilerissimo pizza, with a big sign hanging out front.

Address: Av. central, Bajo Boquete, Boquete 0413, Bajo Boquete, Panama 

The Scenery

Located in Panama’s Chiriqui Highlands, inside Volcan Baru National Park, Volcan Baru is the highest point in the country. You will be up above the clouds and experience cooler temperatures than in town. During your tour, you will witness the most picturesque views and an endless landscape of mountains and oceans. 

Sunrise Jeep Tour with Beyond Adventure Tours

Here is what it’s like going on the sunrise jeep tour with Beyond Adventure Tours:

Our morning began with an early start as we were to be ready for pickup outside our hotel at 3:45 am. Hopping in the jeep, we headed off to pick up the rest of the group for today’s tour. There were six of us, including the driver, and we called each other by the countries we called home: Switzerland, Poland, USA, and us two Canadians. We were on our way to Volcan Baru National Park.

Once checked in with the park ranger, you will begin the super bumpy ride up the volcano. And I’m not exaggerating about how rough it is. It may be only a 14 km ride, but your guide drives the steep incline, curving around and conquering large boulders and potholes along the road. It makes for quite the adventure! Luckily we had the slow driver, as he called himself. We were all thankful, as we couldn’t imagine driving up the volcano faster.

After an hour or so of driving slowly up the volcano, we stopped. We had reached a smooth platform where the jeeps would park, and we would continue by foot to hike to the summit. At this point, my stomach was all out of wack from the bumpy ride, so I took a motion sickness pill to help me be able to climb. It was still dark out at this point. We slowly headed to the top, feeling the air a little thinner at this elevation.

We made it to the top! The view from the summit was incredible and breathtaking. Shortly after, the sun peeked above the clouds. Seeing the sunrise over Volcan Baru was all I had hoped for, an unforgettable experience. 

We could see the Caribbean Sea in the distance, but the Pacific Ocean hadn’t shown itself yet. After waiting awhile and soaking in the views, the cloud forest started to roll in. In the distance, the Pacific Ocean made its appearance. Lucky us! Watching the sunrise over two major bodies of water from the summit of a volcano, we felt like we were on top of the world! 

After hiking back down to where the jeeps are waiting, it is time for breakfast. Breakfast included warm ham sandwiches and hot chocolate or coffee. It was the perfect way to warm up after the hike. While eating breakfast, we had a surprise appearance from the local wildlife. The little animal was very friendly and would ask for scraps. Once finished breakfast, it is time to head back down the volcano, this time by daylight. 

It’s the same bumpy path back to the bottom, but in the daylight, you can see all the boulders and potholes. Safely at the volcano base, the tour concluded and we were each dropped back off at our hotels. What a great morning, and it was only 9:30 am at the finish!

Prices for the sunrise 4×4 jeep tour with Beyond Adventure Tours start at 125 USD per adult. They also offer hiking with a guide starting at 90 USD and overnight camping starting at 160 USD. The jeep tour includes breakfast and hot drinks at the top of Volcan Baru after you watch the sunrise.

Tips for the Volcan Baru Jeep Tour

• Dress warmly and in layers , as it’s cold at the volcanic peak, especially before sunrise. I wore a tank top, t-shirt, athletic sweater, and a light jacket, and I was still cold. Others wore jackets and hats, and some people even brought blankets. Plan to wear an extra layer than you think you need, as you can always take it off if you get too warm.
• If motion sickness affects you, take medication before boarding the jeep or once you get out of the jeep at the top to climb to the peak. The ride was incredibly bumpy, and while I didn’t think I would be affected, I felt sick at the top and took a motion sickness pill before climbing, which helped.
• Get plenty of sleep before your sunrise jeep tour, and plan the rest of your day lightly after, as you will most likely want to nap when you return. When my tour finished around 9:30 am, I was exhausted and napped for 2-3 hours.

Volcan Baru Sunrise Tour with Beyond Adventure Tours: Final Thoughts 

Watching the sunrise at Volcan Baru was one of the best things I’ve done in Panama. I love volcanoes and this was my third volcano experience, after volcano boarding Cerro Negro in Nicaragua and horseback riding Taal Volcano in the Philippines . It was the bumpiest ride of my life, but oh, it was so much fun!  I had a positive experience and would recommend the sunrise jeep tour of Volcan Baru with Beyond Adventure Tours. 

While yes, it’s cheaper to hike, after watching what the hike up would be like, I was very happy I chose to drive up. Our tour group was a fun bunch, and we made unforgettable memories while being bumped around in the jeep from the rough path, laughing along the way. Whether you choose to hike or take the 4×4 jeep tour, if you are considering Volcan Baru, I highly recommend you go.

To learn more about Beyond Adventure Tours, and book your sunrise jeep tour, visit their website .

I hope this information helps you plan your Volcan Baru sunrise jeep tour with Beyond Adventure Tours.  

Happy travelling!

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Melissa is the founder of My Beautiful Passport. A Canadian who has explored 15+ countries on 4 continents, she enjoys combining adventure and affordable luxury. Through sharing her own experiences, travel tips, and destination itineraries, she helps others plan their unique adventures whether it be at the beach, in the city, or in the mountains.

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Baru Volcano Jeep Tour

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Go to the highest point of Panama on this exhilarating Jeep 4x4 tour of Barú Volcano. On a clear day, this chilly volcano peak offers incredible views of both the Caribbean and Pacific. Bundle up and get ready for the off-roading experience of a lifetime.

You’ll leave early in the morning — at 4:00 AM! — to get to the top in time to watch the sunrise. It can get quite cold on the volcano, but the closed Jeep keeps the freezing winds away. Buckle up, though — you’re in for a bumpy, adventurous ride! It takes just 2 hours to get to the top of the volcano in the Jeep.

Once you arrive, you’ll remain in the vehicle with a warm mug of coffee until just before the sun rises. At that point, you’ll hop out to take photos, at an incredible elevation of 11,398 feet (3,474 m). Afterward, you’ll begin the descent, this time with enough sunlight to appreciate the incredible environs.

Note: This tour is not for anyone with back problems or motion sickness. Anyone pregnant or with altitude sickness issues is not allowed on this trip. You may or may not have a clear view from the top, depending on the weather. The tour may be cancelled due to severe weather or other unforeseen circumstances.

Attraction Visited

Set just outside the town of Boquete in Panama’s western highlands, the Barú Volcano National Park (Parque Nacional Volcán Barú) is large and impressive. The park contains Panama’s only volcano, highest peak, and several scenic (albeit rugged) hiking trails. Birders are especially fond of the park, as it offers the chance to spot one of Central America’s most elusive birds, the resplendent quetzal.

Read more: Baru Volcano National Park

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Extremely warm clothes including a hat and gloves; rain gear, snacks, food, sturdy shoes, waterproof camera, bottled water, and sunscreen.

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Jeep tour, driver, and coffee.

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Many of our tours and activities offer transportation pick up & drop off options from several locations and destinations. Options vary by tour, see “BOOKING REQUEST” for full details.

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Volcan Baru Hike

(hike volcan baru national park to reach the summit at sunrise), let us help you plan your trip. you're just a click away.

Volcan Baru Summit at Sunrise Hike Details

Volcan Baru Hiking Tour Includes:

• * Round-trip transportation from Boquete to Volcan Baru National Park
• * Bilingual hiking guide
• * Volcan Baru National Park entrance fees
• * Light snacks
• * Limited head lamps

Departures: Available daily, but dependent on a minimum of participants. Weather is also a factor. Best to call us to check availability a week in advance. Hotel pickup is provided from select hotels in Boquete. Departs from the Plaza Los Establos in the center of Boquete around 11:00pm. Exact meeting instructions will be provided with your confirmation voucher.

Length: Approximately 11 hours, depending the pace of the group.

Recommendations:

• * Layered clothing (it is really cold at night and windy at the summit, but the hike down you may want to peel a layer or 2)
• * Sturdy hiking shoes (very uneven terrain in some spots, rain complicates the terrain even more)
• * Warm hat & gloves
• * Rain poncho or rain gear
• * Additional snacks, food and energy bars
• * Refillable water bottle
• * Your own headlamp or flashlight
• * Eco-friendly bug spray
• * Waterproof camera
• * Cash for the tour balance, souvenirs & tips for your amazing guides

Children: Sorry, given the physical challenge of the hike, this tour is not appropriate for children.

Insider tip:

The summit of the Baru Volcano is extremely cold with strong wind gusts. The hike operates rain or shine, unless of course there is a major weather even that shuts down the Volcan Baru National Park. The best time of year for this hike is December through April which is our driest season. The rest of the year there could be inclement weather during the hike. Prepare yourself and bring a heavy rain coat and waterproof equipment if you have it. Boquete is a small mountain town that pretty much lives in a perpetual spring, so don’t expect to find an REI to gear up nearby. For the most up-to-date weather forecast, Mountain Forecast has some great information about Volcano Baru.

Note: During the rainy season, the Volcan Baru National Park hours are open from 5:00 am to 1:00pm for your safety. At that time, the hike will take place early in the morning to get you back down before the afternoon rains.

About Your Online Reservation: Booking online does not guarantee that spaces are available and your reservation is confirmed. Our reservation offices are open from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm CST daily and we do our best to confirm your reservation and send your confirmed voucher with meeting instructions within 24 hours. If you are booking a tour in less than 24 hours in advance, we recommend you contact us to check availability for you.

IMPORTANT NOTICE!!! If you are not a Panamanian citizen, you MUST have your passport on you at all times in Panama.

Reserve Your Volcan Baru Sunrise Hike Now

Groups of 4 or more? Book your space today for just $74 per person. If you are traveling alone, you can book this discounted price, but you will be put on standby until we can get a group of 4 together. So be sure to invite your friends or hostel bunk mates!

Real Deal: $74.00

** PLEASE NOTE: Due to strictly enforced sales tax laws in this region, 7% sales tax will be added to the final payment made to the operator. Sales tax already included in the deposit amount.

Volcan Baru Sunrise Hike Tour deposit is $10.00 per person. (The balance of $64.00 per person in cash must be paid the day of the tour) This tour departs at 11:30pm.

Only 2 of you in your group, but do not want to be put on standby? We offer you a special discount price of $85 per person. Book today and get your confirmation within 24 hours! Ideal for couples looking to take on the challenge of hiking to the summit of Volcan Baru together.

Real Deal: $85.00

Volcan Baru Sunrise Hike Tour deposit is $10.00 per person. (The balance of $75.00 per person in cash must be paid the day of the tour) This tour departs at 11:30pm.

Traveling alone but want to ensure you do not miss out on this experience of a lifetime? This option allows you to book now for $100 and your spaces are guaranteed! Even if you are the only person wanting to take on the challenge to reach the summit of Volcan Baru, you will have a one of a kind experience all to yourself.

Real Deal: $100.00

Volcan Baru Sunrise Hike Tour deposit is $10.00 per person. (The balance of $90.00 per person in cash must be paid the day of the tour) This tour departs at 11:30pm.

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Tour Volcan Baru 4×4

Starting from Downtown Boquete, we will take you on a certified 4×4 tour through the middle of the forest (approximately 1.30 hours each way) to the highest point in Panama: Volcán Barú. This majestic Volcano of 3,475 meters high, offers wonderful views and the opportunity to see the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, will undoubtedly amaze you.  

The adventure continues with a hike to the top ending with a picnic with hot coffee, chocolate or tea to recover your energies while enjoy the great wildlife diversity and spectacular views.

The trip starts at 4:00am and ends aproximately at 10:30am. Available all year round.

Tour cost: 125$ per person. This one-day tour can handle groups of 2 up to 20 peopl e.

The trip includes:

• 4X4 transportation.
• English and Spanish spoken guide.
• Snack (sandwich).
• Drinks (water | coffee | hot chocolate | tea).
• National park permits
• We can provide coat |gloves| hat if needed.

What to bring?

• Appropriate clothing (long pants | long-sleeved sweater | hiking shoes or sneakers | coat |hat and gloves).
• Water and extra snacks if you want.
• ID / Passport
• Health insurance.

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Choose destination, 4x4 adventure in baru volcano.

Departing from Boquete in a fabulous 4x4 jeep, you will explore the maintenance route of Volcán Barú until you reach the top. You will climb more than 3, 400 meters above sea level and you can admire the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea from the same place. The tour will end at the same starting point.

• Arrive to the highest point of Panama.
• Enjoy a hot chocolate while the sun rises.
• Take spectacular photos to remember.

AVAILABILITY

Start location.

Our offices in Boquete

END LOCATION

Tour language.

English and Spanish

Related places and things to do

Baru Volcano Tours

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Explore all tours in Chiriqui

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Adventure Tours

Sightseeing Tours

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Detailed description.

Departing from the offices of Boquete Outdoor Adventures at 3:45 AM to the highest point of the Republic of Panama, the Volcán Barú. You will climb the maintenance road of Volcán Barú until you reach the top, the road will be quite rocky but you can enjoy the view of the landscape all the way. You will climb in a jeep for 2 hours 3, 474 meters above sea level until you reach the top of the volcano where you can admire the beautiful sunrise and an unforgettable view of the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. You will return the jeep where you will end up in the same starting point at approximately 10:00 AM.

Tour Tickets (may vary by date)

Tour itinerary.

The ascent begins

We reach the top

The descent begins

- Round trip transportation. - Experienced driver.

Recommended

- Cash to pay the entrance to National Park (Cost $ 5.00 USD). - Gloves. - Hat - Rain clothes. - Snacks, food and energy bars. - Shoes to climb mountains. - Warm clothes. - Water bottle. - Waterproof camera.

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Spirit of adventure.

Baru 4x4 Adventure

During this tour you will know the Baru Volcano and you will see the sunrise from the highest point of Panama as you enjoy the scenery, watching the Atlantic Ocean and the Pacific Ocean from the same point.

We will pick you up at your hotel at 3:30 a.m. to start climbing the volcano and you can see the sunrise from the highest point of all Panama. It will take two hours to climb, and meanwhile the guide will tell you some important anecdotes about the volcano. At 6 a.m. we will arrive to the antennas, where we leave the vehicle. Already in the antennas can be appreciated the landscape, nevertheless the highest point is in the cross. Some people do not walk there because it gives them vertigo although it is a safe way, but you can choose what you want; either way the guide will be with you at all times, so he can accompany you to the highest point if you want to go there. being at the top we will have breakfast with a sandwich with juice, coffee or a delicious hot chocolate and granola bars. There we will be able to observe the whole town of Boquete, David, Bocas del Toro and even Costa Rica!  At about 8:00 a.m. we begin to descend and we will arrive at the town of Boquete around 10:30 a.m.  It is important to note that the road is not comfortable, however we have vehicles modified appropriately for this type of terrain. We have Jeep for 4 four people and also with a special vehicle for groups of up to 14 people. This vehicle has comfortable seats with seatbelts and airbags. In addition, it is discovered, which helps you to take better photos. Do not worry if it rains because the vehicle is ready for this and you will never get wet. 

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National Parks of the World: Tourism, Accommodation, Routes, and Guides

Home » North America » National Parks in Panama

Volcán Barú National Park

• 1.1 Location
• 1.2 History and Recognition as a National Park
• 1.3 Climate
• 2.2 Diverse Fauna
• 2.3 Endangered Species
• 3.1.1 Altitude and Geography
• 3.1.2 Panoramic Views of the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans
• 3.2 Hiking Trails
• 3.3 Views from the Volcano Summit
• 3.4 Coffee Plantations in the Surroundings
• 3.5 El Paso del Respingo
• 4.1 Hiking and Camping
• 4.2 Photography and Bird Watching
• 4.3 Rock Climbing and Mountain Biking
• 5.1 Best Time to Visit
• 5.2 Equipment Recommendations
• 5.3 Regulations and Safety Suggestions
• 6.1 Access from Panama City
• 6.2 Local Transportation and Nearby Accommodation
• 7.1 Tourism and its Influence on Local Development
• 7.2 Conservation Projects and their Impact
• 8.1 Climate Change and Its Impact
• 8.2 Ongoing Conservation Efforts
• 9 Photo Gallery

In Panama, near the border with Costa Rica, the Volcán Barú National Park rises, a dream destination for nature and adventure enthusiasts. Its unique geography, fascinating biodiversity, and unparalleled panoramic views from its highest point invite you to discover a world of unforgettable experiences.

National Park Data

Located in the Chiriquí Province of Panama, the Volcán Barú National Park is a natural gem that extends across 14,000 hectares of lush mountainous landscape. Its geolocation can be determined using the coordinates: 8°48′28″N 82°32′34″W / 8.80777778, -82.54277778

History and Recognition as a National Park

Declared under the Spanish name " Parque Nacional Volcán Barú ", on June 24, 1976, through Decree No. 40, the Barú Volcano stands as a monument to Panama’s natural diversity and a testament to the country’s rich geological history. This protected area takes its name from the highest natural elevation in the Republic of Panama, the Barú Volcano , which reaches a maximum height of 3,475 meters above sea level. The park covers an area of 143.25 km².

The climate within the Volcán Barú National Park exhibits significant variability based on altitude and geographical location . In the lower zones, rainfall is less intense, averaging around 4,000 mm per year. However, in higher areas, precipitation exceeds 6,000 mm annually. This difference in rainfall amounts contributes to the diversity of landscapes and ecosystems within the park.

Regarding temperatures, they also vary significantly with altitude. At the summit of the volcano, average annual temperatures are quite cool, hovering around 10ºC. This area experiences colder weather due to its high elevation. On the other hand, in lower altitude zones, average annual temperatures are warmer, around 20ºC. These milder temperatures are due to the influence of proximity to sea level.

Biodiversity of the Park

The park is home to a wide variety of endemic plant species , creating a mosaic of lush landscapes and vibrant flowers that bring its exceptional natural beauty to life. Various types of forests and habitats are unique to Panama. These include Very Humid Montane Forests, Low Montane Humid Forests, Low Montane Rainforests, Montane Rainforests, Very Humid Low Montane Forests, and Premontane Rainforests. Each of these ecosystems harbors a diversity of flora and fauna, forming a mosaic of landscapes and biodiversity.

In some areas of the park, areas of lava flow with scant vegetation can be found, creating a unique environment. Additionally, there are areas with natural woody vegetation and forests with different characteristics, such as the Cloud-Shrouded Lower Montane Evergreen Broadleaf Forest, the Cloud-Shrouded Lower Montane Evergreen Broadleaf Forest, and the Cloud-Shrouded Upper Montane Evergreen Broadleaf Forest. Each of these forests has distinctive characteristics in terms of plant species and microclimates.

Places like Paso del Respingo are especially noteworthy for birdwatching, hosting species like the Quetzal and Toucan. They are also ideal for discovering a variety of plants such as orchids, ferns, and mosses that thrive in these wet mountainous environments.

Diverse Fauna

The park harbors an incredibly diverse fauna , including a variety of birds, mammals, and reptiles, some of which are endangered species. There are at least 250 different species identified so far. Among the iconic species are the toucan ( Ramphastidae) , the quetzal ( Pharomachrus mocinno ), the black-and-white hawk-eagle ( Spizaetus melanoleucus ), and the hummingbird ( Trochilidae ). These birds are recognized for their beauty and uniqueness in the animal kingdom.

It is also home to endemic birds, meaning they are only found in that specific region. Some examples of these endemic species include the black guan, the slate-throated redstart, the zeledonia, and the yellow-crowned euphonia. These birds are of great importance for biodiversity conservation, as their presence and survival are limited to a specific geographic area.

Endangered Species

Endangered species such as the jaguar and the resplendent quetzal call this park home, making it a critically important site for biodiversity conservation.

Main Attractions of the Park

Barú volcano, altitude and geography.

The Barú Volcano is the highest point in Panama, rising to an impressive elevation of 3,474 meters above sea level. Its unique geography provides a home for a variety of ecosystems and stands as the most prominent geological feature within the park.

From the summit of Barú, one can gaze upon both oceans and a significant portion of western Panama. Barú Volcano has shown activity in the past, dating back to around 600 AD. Throughout the park, from the lowest point at 1,800 meters above sea level to the summit, there are lava formations, tuffs, and volcanic cliffs. This unique geography results in rugged topography and a wide diversity of life zones within the park.

Panoramic Views of the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans

From its summit, on a clear day, you can have the unique experience of seeing both oceans, the Atlantic and the Pacific, simultaneously. A truly impressive sight.

Hiking Trails

The park offers several hiking trails that vary in difficulty, allowing visitors to explore its wonderful landscapes at their own pace.

Views from the Volcano Summit

The volcano’s summit offers unparalleled panoramic views of both oceans and the surrounding landscape, an exciting reward after the challenging hike.

Coffee Plantations in the Surroundings

The surrounding region is famous for its high-quality coffee, and many plantations offer tours to visitors, allowing them to learn about the coffee production process and taste local flavors.

El Paso del Respingo

El Paso del Respingo is a prominent location within the Volcán Barú National Park in Panama. It is known for its scenic beauty and its significance for birdwatching. This natural mountain pass offers visitors the opportunity to admire iconic birds such as the Quetzal and the Toucan while enjoying the park’s natural environment. It is a serene and picturesque spot, ideal for connecting with nature and capturing special moments in photographs.

Outdoor Activities

Hiking and camping.

Hiking and camping are popular activities among visitors, providing an excellent opportunity to experience the park’s natural beauty up close.

Photography and Bird Watching

With its diverse fauna and flora, the park is a paradise for photographers and bird watchers, offering endless opportunities to capture the beauty of nature.

Rock Climbing and Mountain Biking

For the more adventurous, the park offers exciting opportunities for rock climbing and mountain biking, sure to quicken the pulse of any adrenaline enthusiast.

Planning Your Visit

Best time to visit.

The best time to visit the park is during the dry season, from December to April, when the weather conditions are most favorable for outdoor activities.

Equipment Recommendations

It’s important to be well-equipped for your visit, including appropriate clothing for cold and wet weather, hiking footwear, camping supplies, and binoculars for wildlife observation.

Regulations and Safety Suggestions

Always remember to follow the park’s regulations, including not leaving litter, not feeding animals, and staying on marked trails to protect both visitors and wildlife.

Getting There

Access from panama city.

From Panama City, you can take a flight to the city of David, followed by a short car journey to the park. Daily buses also make this route.

Local Transportation and Nearby Accommodation

There are various lodging options near the park, ranging from luxurious resorts to cozy cabins and camping areas. Local taxis and organized tours can facilitate transportation within the region.

Impact on the Community and Local Economy

Tourism and its influence on local development.

Tourism in the park has played a crucial role in the development of the local economy, creating employment opportunities and promoting biodiversity conservation.

Conservation Projects and their Impact

Conservation projects within the park, many of which are funded by tourism revenues, have significantly contributed to the protection of endangered species and the preservation of its exceptional natural beauty.

Challenges and Future of the Park

Climate change and its impact.

Climate change poses a serious challenge to the park’s future, as it could disrupt its delicate ecosystems and impact its rich biodiversity.

Ongoing Conservation Efforts

Despite these challenges, several conservation efforts are underway to preserve and protect this natural treasure for future generations.

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• 2-Day Trip: “Coffee, Canyon, and Cloud Forest”
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24-Hour: “Boquete Challenge” Volcano Baru 4×4 and Whitewater Rafting

Home » 24-Hour: “Boquete Challenge” Volcano Baru 4×4 and Whitewater Rafting

Price: $165 per person

Save with this internet special – 24 hours of boquete challenging trips: adrenaline-filled whitewater rafting and a volcan baru 4×4 experience, what’s included:.

• Tour Equipment and Transport
• Full Lunch and Drinks (Rafting)
• Experienced Bilingual Guides
• National Park Entrance Fees
• Volcan Baru Hiking Guide

Highlights:

• 4×4 Volcan Baru Sunrise Summit
• Panoramic Views of the Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea
• 3,474 meters (11,398 feet)
• Challenge Yourself to New Heights
• Adrenaline Filled Whitewater Rafting
• Scenic River and Jungle

“Boquete Challenge” Trip Description:

For anyone looking experience an adrenaline-filled sense of adventure and accomplishment, this 24-hour “Boquete Challenge” features a full day whitewater rafting on the rivers of Panama, and an amazing Volcan Baru 4x4x experience for an amazing sunrise summit at 11,398 feet! This action-packed vacation visits Panama’s heart-pounding whitewater rapids and tops the Volcan Baru National Park.

STEP 1 – Whitewater Rafting on the Heart-Pounding Chiriqui Viejo River

This adventure offers heart-pounding excitement that makes Chiriqui a world-famous whitewater rafting destination. With exciting river runs ranging from Class II to Class III, this adrenaline-filled trip will be one of the highlights of of your Boquete vacation, as it is certainly one of our most popular day trips. We most often select the famous Chiriqui Viejo River year round, however with varying rainfall, other rivers may be selected for your day.

The routes that our experienced guides will select for your trip will depend on water levels for the trip day, your prior rafting experience, skill, and desire. Our jungle run provides one of the best riverside lunches in Panama as well as some celebratory drinks at the end.

Includes: Roundtrip Transportation, Equipment, Experienced Guides, and Riverside Lunch and Drinks, FREE PHOTOS (depending on river conditions and camera functionality).

Click Here – More Whitewater Rafting Info

STEP 2 – 4×4 Volcan Baru to the Sunrise Summit 13,398 feet 

Includes: Hotel Pick to and from the Volcano hot drink/snacks, National Park Entrance Fees, Experienced Guide. Click Here – More Volcan Baru Info

**Limited Time Only** Internet Special if you book directly with us!

Normal rate $190/ p person 

Rafting+Volcano 4×4 Combo: $165/person + tax = $171.20/pp

Internet Special prices are subject to change at any time. Discount price is not available on existing or third-party reservations or Agencies Must reserve first directly with Boquete Outdoor Adventures depending on our Avalibility. Special price may not be available during holiday weeks or peak season dates .

• Rafting: Monday-Saturday: 845am – 5pm (exact times may vary)
• Volcan Baru 4×4: 

Boquete, Chiriqui Province, Panama. How to get to Boquete.

Meeting Place:

Rafting: At the BOA Office in Plaza Los Establos on Main Street in Boquete. How to get to our office in Boquete. Volcan Baru 4×4: Boquete Hotel Pickup or meet at the stairs of Plaza Los Establos

Trip Notes:

Price subject to 7% tax. Minimum age is 5 years for Rafting, adult age for Volcan Baru 4×4.

2-person minimum for Volcano 4×4. Participants should be in good physical condition for moderate paddling of up to 4 hours. Tour days are flexible. (Example: Day 1 Rafting, Day 2 Hike). Based on availability, please Contact Us about available dates and spaces. Not available on holidays and peak season dates.

Sun Protection

Panama is located between 8 and 9 degrees from the equator. The sun here is strong, we guarantee it is much stronger than you are used to at home! Up to 14,000 tons of sunscreen makes its way to our oceans, bleaching coral and damaging reefs and wildlife (imagine what those chemicals do to your body!). In fact, Hawaii has passed legislation to ban most types of sunscreen that includes chemicals such as oxybenzone and octinoxate. If you use sun screen, please use eco-friendly and approved products. For the best sun protection on the river, we recommend a quick-dry long-sleeved shirts and long pants, or leggings/workout tights to protect tops of the knees and upper thighs, and shoulders. It is sunny on the river 365 days a year. Don’t say we didn’t warn you!

Volcano IMPORTANT TRIP INFO. PLEASE READ:

• Trail Length:  from the ranger station to the summit is 8 miles  (13km) one way. 16 miles (26km) round trip.
• Trail Elevation: 7,498 feet (2,274 meters) in elevation in just 2 hours from Boquete 3,900 feet (1,200 meters) to the top of Volcan Baru 11,398 feet (3,474 meters). There is a chance of altitude sickness.
• Required Fitness Level: You must be in excellent physical hiking fitness to attempt this climb. This is a strenuous uphill climb on a steep rocky road.
• Summit Conditions: The summit is extremely cold, sometimes below freezing, please bring plenty of warm clothing (hat, gloves, scarf, warm socks, rain gear, multiple layers on top and bottom) and extra water (4 liter minimum per person).
• If there is rain, cloudiness, or bad weather at the top to obstruct your view, no refunds can be given.
• Greater chance of rain is during the rainy season (July-November).
• If you would like to see the Resplendent Quetzal and other wildlife, we recommend alternate trails and our cloud forest hikes .
• It is your choice to take this trip and we can not be held responsible if you are unaware of the above details.
• Trip details may change due to severe weather or unforeseen events.
• The price of this hike is due to the extreme nature of the hike, and the experience of the guide it requires.

What To Bring For Your Trip:

• Change of dry clothes
• Clothes to get wet – due to increasing levels of sunscreen toxins damaging oceans, we recommend to wear quick-dry pants and shirts for best sun protection
• Packed lunch when you get to the Summit at Noon
• Headlamp / Flashlight
• Passport or Cedula
• Snacks, Food, and Energy Bars
• Eco-Friendly Sun Block
• Sturdy Hiking Shoes
• Warm Clothing – EXTREMELY warm clothing!!!
• Water Bottle
• Water Shoes
• Waterproof Camera

Contact Us for your Boquete Challenge Combo

More Days in Panama?

Panama package tours and specials, 2-days: “boquete quick combo”.

Interesting and Exciting! – Best that Boquete has to offer – Whitewater Rafting, Coffee Tour of a gorgeous Fair Trade plantation, and Hiking in the cloud forest of…

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3 Days and 4 Adventures! – Whitewater Rafting, Island Trip, Waterfall and Wildlife Hiking, and a Coffee Tour in the best…

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Extraordinary Adventures! – Panama Mountain and Island Tour – Whitewater Rafting, Coffee, Hiking, Zip Lining, Horseback Riding, and an Island Trip with Snorkeling with…

8-Days: “Rumble in the Jungle”

Panama Panoramic! – Experience everything you can do in Panama with this jam-packed itinerary with all the details taken care of! Highlights include the Panama Canal, Whitewater Rafting, an Overnight Island Trip to see monkeys and…

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VOLCÁN BARÚ 4X4

• ITINERARIO Y DESCRIPCIÓN
• Book the tour

RESERVA EN LÍNEA!

!PREGUNTAR PRIMERO POR DISPONIBILIDAD!

PUNTO DE PARTIDA:

Boquete, Chiriquí

¿QUE INCLUYE?

Transporte 4×4

¿QUE LLEVAR?

Mascarilla, Gel alcoholada o Alcohol

Abrigo grueso para el frío

Guantes para el frío

1 maleta pequeña por persona

NO ESTA PERMITIDO LLEVAR BEBIDAS ALCOHOLICAS

NO ESTA PERMITIDO LLEVAR COOLER 

RESTRICCIONES DE SALUD

No recomendado para viajeros con problemas de espalda.

No recomendado para mujeres embarazadas.

 No recomendado para viajeros con problemas cardíacos u otras afecciones médicas graves.

POLITICAS DE CANCELACIÓN

Si cancela su reserva antes de las 72 horas de su transferencia, le reembolsaremos el 50% del costo total.

Si cancela su reserva antes de las 48 horas de su transferencia, le reembolsaremos el 25% del costo total.

Si cancela su reserva menos de 48 horas antes del día de salida, no habrá reembolso. Se le cobrará el importe total de su reserva original.

Si no se presenta en el horario de salida, no habrá reembolso. Se le cobrará el importe total de su reserva original.

Los reembolsos se realizarán en efectivo.

EN CASO DE CANCELACIÓN DE RESERVAS POR TARJETAS DE CRÉDITO O PAYPAL

La empresa Bongo Outdoors Tours  retendrá el 15% extra del total de la reserva en caso de cancelación

Reservas canceladas realizadas con tarjeta de crédito obtendrán su reembolso en 7 días  hábiles.

    Una vez usted realice la reserva, estará aceptando   el consentimiento o liberación de responsabilidad   de la Agencia de Viajes y Tour Operador   Bongo Outdoors Tours

SUBIR VOLCÁN BARÚ EN 4X4

El Volcán Barú es el punto más alto del territorio Panameño y el volcán más alto del sur de America Central con sus 3475msnm, el Parque Nacional Volcán Barú tiene una extension de 14.300 ha  y su ultima erupción reportada fue hace mas de 500 años.

Pertenece al Parque Internacional la Amistad que colinda con nuestro país vecino Costa Rica.

Por lo angosto del territorio Panameño podemos observar el Océano Pacifico, Océano Atlantico, Bocas del Toro, Costa Rica, etc.

SUBIR EL VOLCÁN BARÚ EN 4X4

Los amaneceres y atardeceres son sumamente una experiencia inolvidable en la cima del Volcán y se reportan temperaturas bajo 0 grados.

Hora de inicio

Hora de llegada a la cima, hora de retorno, hora de llegada a boquete.

Tour Reviews

Excellent trip ! The view was beautiful and our tour guide was kind and super helpful. Will definitely climb it again !

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Volcan Baru National Park

Visit the highest point in the country, which also happens to be a volcano! At 3,474 meters high, the towering Baru Volcano is the 12th highest peak in Central America and the only place in the world where, on the clearest of days, you can see the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans at the same time. The Volcano and its surrounding land feature five different ecosystems thanks to a combination of rainforest highlands, as well as the byproducts of volcanic eruptions that occurred millions of years ago. 

Volcan Baru National Park is located in the province of Chiriqui , which is an internationally recognized producer of geisha coffee, thanks to the area’s volcanic soil. This high-quality coffee is grown at extremely high altitudes and is one of the most expensive coffee varieties in the world. Make sure to pick some up when you visit!

Baru Volcano has seven craters, and several hiking trails you can take to see them. Some trails are quite challenging, while others are shorter and more accessible. If you’re a very experienced hiker, you can make the epic journey to the top of the volcano via the town of Volcan. This demanding hike can take up to eight hours there and back. For a more accessible journey to the top, you can enter the park in the town of Boquete, where you can access the peak by 4x4 in about 90 minutes, or by hiking on a long, but easier trail. When you get to the top, you’ll be standing at the highest point in Panamá. If the timing’s right, stay for an incredible sunset above the clouds, or consider camping there to experience a night close to the stars. 

Getting There

The Baru Volcano is located in the Chiriqui Highlands, surrounded by the towns of Boquete, Volcan and Cerro Punta. The entrance of the Park is in Boquete, where hikes and most tours start from.

Somos 4x4 Volcan Baru

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Parque Nacional Volcán Barú

Volcán Barú is Panama's only volcano and the dominant geographical feature of western Panama. It is no longer active but has seven craters and its summit, at 3474m, is the highest point in Panama. On clear days it affords views of both the Pacific and Caribbean coasts. The 143-sq-km park provides ample opportunities for hiking, mountain climbing and camping. It's home to abundant wildlife, including pumas and the resplendent quetzal, most commonly seen here between February and May.

The fertile soil and the temperate climate of Volcán Barú's mid-altitude slopes support some of Panama's most productive agriculture, especially in the areas around Boquete and Cerro Punta, which is effectively Panama's vegetable garden. Large trees dominate the volcano's lower slopes, giving way on the upper slopes to smaller plants, bushes, scrub and alpine wildflowers.

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Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

10.39 MILES

On the west side of Hwy 41, some 3.5km south of Volcán, you’ll spot this workshop where master carver and artist José de la Cruz González makes and sells…

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This orchid sanctuary, 500m from the center beyond the landmark Los Quetzales Ecolodge & Spa, is one of Latin America’s finest orchid collections, with…

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Some 4km west of Volcán, this protected area encompasses the highest lake system (1240m) in Panama. The two picturesque lakes swell in the rainy season,…

El Explorador

Great for families, this private garden is located in a hilly area 3km northeast of the town center. You can walk to it in about 45 minutes. The 2…

Sitio Barriles

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The pre-Columbian ruins at this site 6km west of Volcán along the Río Gariche date from between AD 300 and 900, when the settlement had as many as 1000…

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23.57 MILES

This is a lush cloud forest covering more than 167,000 hectares set high in the Talamanca mountains. There are three trails maintained by MiAmbiente in…

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The Church of the Sacred Heart, facing downtown's central Parque de Cervantes, has a bell tower and dates largely from the 19th century.

Parque José Domingo Médica

Boquete's central plaza has flowers, a fountain and a children’s playground.

Nearby Highlands attractions

1 . Parque José Domingo Médica

2 . El Explorador

3 . Finca Dracula

4 . Arte Cruz

5 . Área Silvestre Protegida Lagunas de Volcán

6 . Sitio Barriles

7 . Bosque Protector de Palo Seco

8 . Iglesia de la Sagrada Familia

Volcan Baru Hike in Boquete, Panama: My Experience + 15 Hiking Tips

Posted on Last updated: February 12, 2020

I first heard about the Volcan Baru hike in Panama when I stayed at Lost & Found Hostel,  which had a perfect view of this massive volcano from my room’s window. Not one to ever turn down a good adventure, I was intrigued when I heard some other backpackers talking about it. This volcano is right next to another Panamanian mountain town a few hours away called Boquete, and apparently, people hike Volcan Baru at night to watch the sunrise from the top.

Upon hearing this, I started to make tentative plans to work a casual volcano ascent (or so I thought at the time) into my next Panama plans. I teamed up with a few other travelers who were keen to hike it, and we headed to Boquete next.

The only issue was that a few days before we were set to head to Boquete, I woke up with a super swollen lymph node. After going to the doctor in Boquete, I was given antibiotics (and a shot you-know-where) and told that rest would be my best option.

Volcan Baru Hike Tip #1: Try your very best to be healthy before you hike.

But….. I only had two nights in Boquete before my speedboat trip in the San Blas Islands. It was now or never for me to climb the volcano – I could either do it while sick, or not do it at all.

I bet you guys all know what I chose to do….

Preparing for the Volcan Baru Hike

After feeling sorry for myself for a little while and wallowing in a bit of sorrow, I decided to man-up and accept my fate. I have incurable fomo for adventures (and sunsets… or sunrises in this case) and I knew that if I missed out on this I would definitely regret it.

So, off we went to the store to buy snacks and water for the 5 hour uphill climb in the dark. Our hostel owner helped us organize a taxi, and we were off to the base of the volcano around 12:30am for a 6am sunrise.

Volcan Baru Hike Tip #2: Bring snacks… lots of them. And at least 2L of water each.

This is important. This isn’t the kind of hike you can squeeze by without proper preparation… trust me.

Volcan Baru Hike Tip # 3: Get a taxi to the base of the volcano at least 5-6 hours before sunrise, and split it with other travelers.

The volcan baru hike: so it begins.

The moment we got to the base of the volcano is when I realized that I truly honestly had NO idea what I was in for… at all. I knew it was a 5-hour uphill hike, but I wasn’t sure about the distance.

When we saw a sign that said 13 kilometers to the summit, I knew I had either grossly underestimated the difficulty of this hike or just subconsciously decided that ignorance is bliss. Either way… we began to trudge our way up.

Volcan Baru Hike Tip # 4: Things you should know before you go, unlike me: it’s 13km each way.

Now, I’m not kidding you when I say it’s 13km straight up. It’s usually quite a steep ‘up’ as well. We all had flashlights or headlamps and were pretty lucky to have the light of the moon providing a bit more assistance to our dark trek.

So we trekked… up, and up, and up. About 2km in, the heel came fully off of my boot after kicking a big rock that was able to dodge the beam of my mini flashlight.

This could have been the end of me, but luckily I was afraid of just that happening and had some spare trainers to put on. My boots were already on their way out, so this was a good last hurrah for them!

But, unfortunately, my trainers too were destined to fail me. They started rubbing against my heels within a few more kilometers, and I had to put on some band-aids I had packed along. Great.

Volcan Baru Hike Tip # 5: Make sure your shoes are either functional or broken in. Actually, make sure they are both!

Staying positive and only complaining a tiny bit, we made our way up. And up… and guess what? Then we went up some more. We stopped for food and water every 20 minutes or so, resting and catching our breath.

We couldn’t stop for long, though, because the sweat we had worked up on our way up the latest stretch of hill would start to dry and become freezing cold on our skin.

Volcan Baru Hike Tip # 6: Do NOT wear a cotton bottom layer! It turns wet and cold with sweat when you stop walking. Preferably wear something sweat-absorbent.

This might not have been the reason you imagined, but yes, it will make you colder in this night.

Volcan Baru Hike Tip # 7: IT WILL BE COLD! Bring enough to keep you warm, especially at snack/water stops. 

Remember – Boquete is actually quite high in the mountains, and the volcano exceeds 3600m! You will be able to feel this when it’s the actual middle of the night doing the Volcan Baru hike for sunrise, when the place is at its absolute coldest. This is true especially when you reach the top and are waiting for the sun to come up.

Volcan Baru Hike Tip # 8:  I know you were just on beaches in the Caribbean, but now you’re actually at a pretty high altitude. Dress accordingly.

Hours passed as we seemingly stayed in the same place while walking. There was ALWAYS another hill around the corner! The trail switched back and forth hundreds of times, sometimes turning around to what would surely be a nice view in the day time – lit up by the moon and distant twinkling stars.

It was 2am, then 3am, then just past 4 when we first caught sight of the massive cell phone towers that were lit up at what was surely the top. They seemed soooo close… yet SO far away when we hit our first downhill after spotting them for the first time. Sigh.

We made our way down a hill and up again, and this time the bright towers were much closer. We passed a little campsite that said it was at 3400m or so, meaning we had just over 200m (upwards) to go to the summit!

We had never been so relieved, but of course this was the most vertical (and slippery) part of the whole trek. You can really feel the altitude at this point as well – our breath was gone from our lungs unusually quickly around this point!

Volcan Baru Hike Tip # 9: Some dirt is very loose and slippery, so take care going up and especially down when it’s super dry outside. I think we all fell on our asses at least once.

It’s a slippery slope for a bit of a different reason out here! The loose dirt lead to tons of spills – no bad ones, but annoying just the same!

Volcan Baru Hike Tip # 10: You will feel the altitude, especially at this point. Take breaks to give your body time to adjust!

When we reached the promised land of radio tower light, we could see people huddled in sleeping bags waiting to see the same sight we had all come for. The sky was beginning to lighten up, just in time. It turned out that the light poles were a bit deceiving, and that we had to keep going a little bit more to reach the real summit. It seemed to be marked by a big white cross we could see in the distance.

Volcan Baru Hike Tip # 11: The very top is where you’ll see a big white cross. This is the best panoramic view and photo point, and has a few other little trails around it that will be great for photo ops.

We made our way along a more precarious trail, climbing up some rocks on our hands and knees after scarfing down a few candy bars to replenish energy we had spent. It felt as if anything we ate would just disappear into nothing, as we had just burned countless calories getting up to this 3650m elevation. Our legs were aching, but making it up this last little stretch was a piece of cake compared to what we had just done!

I set up my phone to take a time lapse, and was snapping photos in every which way as the sky got lighter and lighter. On a clear day, you can actually see the Caribbean AND Pacific Oceans, and oh what a sight that would be!

This is something super unique about the Panama Volcan Baru hike – it’s such a thin country, so seeing two oceans at the same time really is possible. It was quite cloudy for us, but I used my phone’s compass to pick out where each ocean would be. We could see a bit of the Pacific along one side.

Volcan Baru Hike Tip # 12: See if you can see the Caribbean and Pacific Oceans at the same time, which would be a very unique moment! If not, check your map to see where they would be and see if you can trace the thin coastlines of Panama.

We got amazing photos of the sunrise and of the clouds opposite the sun turning yellow and pink, and even got the almost-full moon in a couple of the photos as well. It was not an easy accent, but it was so worth it to see the sun rise from 3650m over a sea of clouds at the highest point in Panama.

We waited quite a while taking photos until the sun was well up, and even made friends with some ‘famous’ Panamanian luchadores (fighters of some kind… like the ones in Nacho Libre 😛 )who had driven up in a jeep to have a photo shoot of the sunrise. We were all half-hoping that these guys would drive us down the mountain again!

Volcan Baru Hike Tip # 13: There are SO many amazing places and angles to take photos – take adventage of them! Feel free to use mine for inspo. 😉 

It’s definitely worth taking some time at the top to explore and relish in the amazing view and accomplishment.

Volcan Baru Hike Back Down

As soon as we started making our way back down, I felt a strange and new pain in my knee. This pain worsened and worsened as we went down, and I could tell that something was wrong. Soon it was almost unbearable to keep walking, and I wasn’t sure what to do.

But looking at it from a logical perspective, what could I do besides keep going?! Wait and hope that a car would pass us by eventually and beg them to take the cripple down the mountain? That wasn’t the most logical thing, so I took some ibuprofen and pressed on – in a fair amount of pain.

Nothing like this has ever happened to me before, especially in that I was an athlete my whole life and have always been used to high levels of training. But upon later research, I figured that it must have been the sudden massive increase in movement – 13km uphill and 13km back down again is NO joke to the body!

Volcan Baru Hike Tip # 14:  If climbing Volcano Baru is going to be a sudden massive increase in physical activity for you (which I didn’t even think it was for me, but coming from 2 festivals it must have been!) prepare yourself with ibuprofen and maybe a brace to wrap any sore body parts, just in case! This is true especially if you have a history of injury anywhere. Beware – if you are hurting there is pretty much no other way down!

You might be thinking ‘yeah, yeah… I’ll be fine,” but trust me when I say this NEVER happens to me! I love long multi-day treks and have been an athlete my entire life. But Volcan Baru showed me!

I made it down most of the mountain by skipping and walking backwards, which were apparently the easiest ways for my knee to handle going down. Well, this was true besides the fact that when I walked backward, it agitated the blisters on my heels more.

So it was kind of a lose-lose (-lose), and I was honestly just chuckling at my stupid fate most of the way down between stings of knee pain. And, my lymph node was still kinda swollen. It was bad. I can actually feel you rolling your eyes at me through the computer screen 😛

Anyway, we got about 6 or 7km down the volcano, which seemed to take days, when we heard some wheels behind us. A few cars had gone by already, none of which had given us the time of day. Despite not really thinking anyone would pick us up, we stuck our thumbs out anyway. Anything would be better than this (at first I was all for walking back, until my knee started to hurt…).

This car stopped and looked at us, and motioned for us to come over. Could it be true?!? They told the two boys to get in the back, and us two girls to squeeze into the car with them. They could see the disbelief, pain, and relief in our faces as   we got into the car, and found it hilarious as they drove off down the hill knowing they had basically saved our lives.

Volcan Baru Hike Tip # 15:   This hike is hard. Don’t feel guilty accepting a ride, especially for the end. And that means a lot coming from me – someone who ALWAYS feels the need to complete things they started.

By this time it was probably well past 9am, and after the lovely workers dropped us off at the National Park entrance, we found a taxi to take us back to our hostel. WE HAD DONE IT! But first, we obviously had to eat our absolute body weight at this epic breakfast place one of the boys suggested. Honestly, a meal has never tasted as good as this one did.

By the time we ate and found another taxi back to our hostel, it was at least 1pm. I decided I would try to make it at least until that night to keep my sleeping on some sort of regular schedule. Luckily my hostel had Netflix (which was a DREAM), and after working through one very difficult sleepiness spell I was able to watch movies until the evening time.

Read more about Boquete and where I stayed throughout Panama in my Complete Panama Backpacking Guide!

So, the moral of the story is that the Volcan Baru hike is not for the faint of heart. Doing the Volcan Baru hike actually unknowingly more than prepared me for Patagonia – it was longer and higher in elevation than any day hike I did in Patagonia a few weeks later … and I trekked over 100 miles in a month. Just let that sink in.

My knee bothered me for a little while, and I was actually terrified about it when I was heading to hike the W Trek in Torres del Paine in Patagonia . I did exercises each day to strengthen my patella tendon, and it bothered me for a few days of the W Trek. But, the pain somehow dissipated after day 3…. I think it might be because I got back into shape?!

Anyway, I hope my ridiculous story and pointers have helped you prepare to do the Volcan Baru hike in Boquete! Let me know what you think, or let me know what your experience was like in a comment below!

Thursday 21st of June 2018

Oh Gosh! what an adventure! I am in Mexico heading down towards Panama. Can't wait to do this hike! Can you tell me if you need a guide to do this hike? thanks a lot :) and thanks for the great post!

Sunday 24th of June 2018

Hey Isabella! You must be so excited for your trip! :) No, you don't need a guide. Honestly the tips in here should be all you really need to be aware of! Its a totally straightforward path so as long as you get a taxi to the start point, you're fine. Let me know if you have any more questions!

Complete Panama Backpacking Guide: Routes, Hostels, and What to Do

Saturday 2nd of June 2018

[…] people come to Boquete to hike Volcan Baru, a 3650m-ish elevation volcano in the middle of Panama. Volcan Baru is the highest point in Panama, […]

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