Created in 1985, Chagres National Park is named for a legendary Indian chief who ruled the region at the time of the conquistadors. Encompassing 1,295 sq. km, the park protects the watershed of the Chagres River basin and is a veritable Noah’s Ark of animals and birds.

Hikers can try out the old Camino Real treasure trail, a narrow, overgrown, and rugged jungle path that follows the valleys of the Boqueron and Nombre de Dios Rivers. A guide is essential. The rocky upper Chagres provides a thrilling white-water run. You can camp at Cerro Azul ranger station, and there are several simple hostels and inns near Cerro Jife.