When our founder, Jeremy Clubb, went off in search of rare frogs in Panama, he may well have unknowingly charted the course for founding his future company. His vision for Rainforest Cruises was motivated by providing the richest of travel experiences, including “wildlife encounters that give you a new appreciation for the natural world.” While we can’t guarantee professional inspiration, rest assured that a wildlife trip to Panama is simply awe-inspiring.
The country is home to some of the world’s richest biodiversity, a result of its unique geographical location and varied ecosystems. Situated between the Pacific and Caribbean Oceans, Panama serves as a land bridge between North and South America, which fosters a biological corridor for migrating species to travel and evolve.
In a country roughly the size of South Carolina, there are over 100 microclimates, from rainforests to islands to high-altitude mountains. This diversity, combined with a tropical climate, fosters high rates of endemism — or, species you can’t find anywhere else on the planet. From sloths to monkeys to jaguars, we’ve rounded up the top ten animals you absolutely must see on your wildlife tour of Panama. Read on and prepare for your next Panamanian getaway to take flight.
Panama’s incredible biodiversity is waiting to be explored. From rare birds to exotic mammals, the country’s rainforests and waterways are a haven for animal lovers.
Our first choice is the national animal, the Panamanian Golden Frog, a symbol of good luck and fortune with centuries of history in the country — the frog was considered sacred by pre-Columbian indigenous peoples. Though endemic to the forests of central and western Panama, the species is considered extinct in the wild. August 14th was declared National Golden Frog Day to promote conservation efforts, and today, the only place to view them is at the El Valle Amphibian Conservation Center in El Valle de Anton.
The Panamanian golden frog, a symbol of good luck in Panama, is a stunning and iconic amphibian. Look for them in the mountainous areas around El Valle.
This jungle animal is among the more unusual species of Panamanian cats — skinnier and smaller than the Jaguar, found in both rainforest and dry habitats. You can usually spot them near water, feasting on smaller predators. While jaguars are nearly impossible to spot in the wild, you’ll have a little more luck with the Jaguarundi — especially in Sarapiquí and Guanacaste (and, as always, a wildlife guide is recommended).
The jaguarundi, a unique wild cat species, is known for its slender body and weasel-like appearance. It’s a rare and fascinating sight for any wildlife enthusiast in Panama.
Up next is the national bird, the Harpy Eagle, a powerful predator that is a symbol of strength in Panama, and maneuvers the canopies of the dense lowland rainforests, with talons as long as a grizzly’s claw. Though the species can be found in other locations in Central and South America, Panama is home to the largest breeding population in the world, especially in the Darién Province. Check out the Canopy Camp in the Lowlands, and book a tour with local guides to go birding in Darién National Park. Expert guides are important for identifying the nesting sites of these elusive birds and advising on the times of day to visit, depending on the season.
A sighting of a Harpy Eagle is one of the ultimate prizes for wildlife enthusiasts. This powerful and majestic bird is a symbol of Panama’s incredible biodiversity.
Perhaps one of the more iconic animals of South and Central America, the Pygmy three-toed sloth is an endemic species found only on Isla Escudo de Veraguas, off the coast of northern Panama in the Bocas del Toro Province. Fittingly, this tiny island is home to the world’s smallest sloth. On the mainland, two-toed and three-toed sloths can be found at the Gamboa Sloth Sanctuary in the Colón Province.
The elusive Pygmy Three-toed Sloth is critically endangered and lives only on a small island off the coast of Panama. Seeing one is a privilege that few get to experience.
Panama is home to five of the world’s seven species of sea turtles: Leatherback, Loggerhead, Hawksbill, Olive Ridley, and Green Sea Turtles. Coiba National Park, off Panama’s southwest coast, is a fertile homeland for each of these species aside from the Olive Ridley (which mainly nests on Isla Cañas in the Azuero Peninsula). Nevertheless, nesting sites can be spotted on both the Caribbean and the Pacific Coasts, and visitors should book guided tours to witness their moonlit escapades from the beach to the sea without disrupting their habitats.
Witnessing sea turtles nesting or hatching on a Panama beach is a powerful experience. The country is a critical nesting site for several species, including the Olive Ridley.
Panama is home to 59 species of hummingbirds, of which the Violet-bellied Hummingbird, with its shimmering green feathers, is one of the more beautiful. This species is native to eastern Panama and northwestern South America, and can be spotted at the Panama Rainforest Discovery Center, a veritable heaven for hummingbirds. Check out the 105-foot observation tower for canopy birdwatching, or check out the visitors center, where hummingbirds buzz around you, flitting amongst the various feeders.
The Violet-bellied Hummingbird is just one of many breathtaking hummingbirds found in Panama. Their brilliant colors make them a favorite among birders.
Eight species of monkeys reside in Panama, and Geoffrey’s Tamarin (known as ‘mono titi’ by locals) is the smallest and the only tamarin species in Central America. Geoffrey’s Tamarin can be spotted exclusively in Panama and northwestern Colombia. Another monkey endemic to this region is the Panamanian night monkey (also called the Chocóan night monkey), identifiable by its oversized eyes. Panama is also home to Squirrel Monkeys (named for their speed), two kinds of Howler monkeys, and Spider monkeys. The White-headed Capuchin, a tiny monkey with a white face, is the most commonly seen across the country.
Geoffrey’s tamarins, with their striking appearance, are a delight to spot. These social and energetic primates are an iconic sight in Panama’s rainforests.
The Tapir is a unique animal that resembles a mixture between a rhinoceros and a pig — it must be seen to be believed. They’re often spotted in forests, relaxing near bodies of water, and using their short trunks to grab food (fruit is a particular favorite). Though they can be found in wildlife reserves and national parks across the country, Tapirs can be elusive animals, and a guided wildlife tour is recommended for witnessing one in the wild. La Amistad International Park, Darién National Park, and Mount Totumas Cloud Forest are the best places to catch them in their favored habitats.
The elusive Baird’s Tapir is the largest land mammal in Central America. Spotting one in Panama’s rainforests is a rare and rewarding experience.
Birding in Panama is among the best in the world, and the vibrant, colorful Scarlet Macaw, one of the world’s largest and most striking parrots, is one of the most iconic species to spot. Head to Coiba National Park to visit the largest wild colony of Scarlet Macaws in Central America, and stay on for a birding adventure. The park is home to 147 bird species, as well as more unique wildlife such as the Coiba Agouti (an endemic species of rodent) and the Coiba Howler Monkey.
A symbol of the Panamanian wilderness, the Scarlet Macaw is one of the most iconic birds in the country. Their bright colors make them a breathtaking sight in the wild.
The Morpho Butterfly, with its bright blue wings, is commonly spotted throughout Panama. There are over two dozen subspecies of the Morpho butterfly, each of which boasts an iridescent color pattern. This species thrives in the nation’s tropical rainforests and can also easily be spotted in lodges and gardens with feeders, such as Gamboa Rainforest Reserve, Pipeline Road in Soberania National Park, and Canopy Lodge in El Valle de Antón, in Coclé Province.
The Morpho Butterfly, with its magnificent iridescent wings, is a true jewel of the rainforest. Seeing one flutter by is a memorable and beautiful experience.
Finally, don’t underestimate the importance of expert guides to advise you on the best time of day and the month of the year to go on a wildlife expedition, depending on which animal you’re most interested in seeing. Since the wildlife in Panama flourishes in different habitats, from the outer islands to the high-elevation inland mountains, it’s harder to see every animal on a single trip. Luckily, booking an expedition cruise allows travelers to visit multiple destinations during one trip — and, hopefully, witness fantastic creatures, both big and small.
To truly experience Panama’s wildlife, consider joining an organized expedition. Knowledgeable guides can take you to the best locations to spot these incredible animals.
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