Parc national de Coiba

Le parc national de Coiba est un paradis isolé et vierge situé dans l'océan Pacifique, au large de la côte du Panama. Il englobe l'île de Coiba et les écosystèmes marins qui l'entourent. Le parc est connu pour ses superbes plages de sable blanc, ses eaux cristallines et ses récifs coralliens éclatants. C'est un paradis pour les plongeurs et les amateurs de plongée avec tuba, qui ont l'occasion d'explorer la riche biodiversité sous-marine et de rencontrer des espèces marines telles que des requins, des tortues et des poissons colorés.

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Situation et moyens d'accès

Coiba National Park is situated off the Pacific coast of Panama, encompassing Isla Coiba and several smaller islands. The park's main access point is from the town of Santa Catalina in Western Panama, approximately a 1.5-hour boat ride away.

  • From Panama City: Take a 6-hour drive or a domestic flight to Santiago, followed by a 2-hour drive to Santa Catalina.
  • Boat transfers: Organized tours or private charters depart from Santa Catalina; advance booking is recommended.

Heures d'ouverture et billets

The park is open year-round, but visitor access is regulated to protect its fragile ecosystem. Day trips typically run from sunrise to sunset.

  • Entrance fee: $20 for foreign visitors, $5 for Panamanian residents (subject to change).
  • Tickets must be purchased through authorized tour operators or at the ANAM office in Santa Catalina.

Meilleur moment pour visiter

The dry season (December to April) offers calmer seas and better visibility for diving. Early mornings are ideal for wildlife spotting and avoiding midday heat.

Durée de la visite

Most visitors spend a full day exploring the park, though multi-day stays are possible with prior arrangements at the ranger station.

Activités

  • Scuba diving and snorkeling among pristine coral reefs
  • Wildlife watching (whales, dolphins, sea turtles, and endemic species)
  • Hiking through tropical forests with ranger-guided trails
  • Sport fishing (with strict regulations)

Installations

Basic facilities are limited to preserve the park's natural state:

  • Rustic ranger station with minimal amenities
  • No shops or restaurants - visitors must bring provisions
  • Compost toilets available at designated areas

Ce qu'il faut apporter

  • Sun protection (hat, reef-safe sunscreen)
  • Sturdy water shoes for rocky shores
  • Reusable water bottle and packed lunch
  • Waterproof bag for electronics
  • Binoculars for wildlife observation

Règles et règlements

  • All visitors must be accompanied by a licensed guide
  • No removal of any natural materials (shells, plants, etc.)
  • Strict no-littering policy
  • Drones require special permission
  • Night visits prohibited without authorization

Informations sur le contact

For current information and permits:

  • ANAM (National Environmental Authority) office in Santiago
  • Local tour operators in Santa Catalina