Protecting the brawny, thickly forested flanks of Panama’s sole volcano, this park is easily accessed, providing fantastic, albeit challenging hikes and prime quetzal viewing. On clear days you can see both the Caribbean Sea and Pacific Ocean from the mountain’s summit.

Hiking with a seasoned guide enhances the possibilities of spotting quetzals, whose melodious two-note whistles lure you on like the mysterious calls of Rima the bird girl from Green Mansions. Black- bellied and brown violet ear hummingbirds flit past, the metallic clang of the endangered three-wattled bellbird rings through the forest, and hikers thrill to sightings of such endemics as yellow-thighed finches and black-chested warblers.

The park’s thriving mammal population includes all five species of cats. Pumas are particularly common, although infrequently seen. Wildlife viewing is enhanced by participating in guided hikes, offered from Boquete by Coffee Adventures.