Volcano Barú

Boquete, Chiriquí

Cross on top of the Volcano Barú in Chiriquí, Panama Photo by kevin C on Unsplash
Volcán Barú en Chiriquí desde la Via Boquete

Perched majestically above the charming town of Boquete in Panama's Chiriquí Province, Volcán Barú offers an experience unlike any other. This active stratovolcano is the highest peak in Panama, and it's a destination that promises breathtaking views and a true sense of adventure.

The Only Place to See Two Oceans at Once

The most stunning feature of Volcán Barú is a rare and magical phenomenon. On a clear day, from its summit, you can witness the Pacific Ocean to the south and the Caribbean Sea to the north. This unique view is possible due to the volcano's impressive height and the narrowness of the Panamanian isthmus. Many visitors choose to hike or drive up at night to witness the sunrise from the top, a moment when the first light illuminates the two distant oceans, a truly unforgettable sight.

Interesting Facts about Volcán Barú

  • Height: At 3,474 meters (11,398 feet), it is the highest point in Panama and the 12th highest peak in Central America.
  • Volcanic Status: Volcán Barú is an active volcano, though its last confirmed eruption was approximately 500 years ago.
  • National Park: The volcano is protected as part of the Volcán Barú National Park, a haven for biodiversity.
  • Climate: The summit's climate is much cooler than at the base, with temperatures often dropping to near freezing, especially before sunrise.

How to Get to the Summit from Boquete

Boquete is the most popular starting point for a trip to the volcano's summit. There are two primary ways to make the journey:

1. The Overnight Hike:

  • This is a challenging but incredibly rewarding experience. The round-trip hike is about 27 km (17 miles) and takes approximately 10-12 hours in total.
  • Most hikers start around midnight to reach the summit just before dawn, giving them the perfect opportunity to see the sunrise and the two oceans.
  • The trail is a wide, rocky dirt road. While it's generally straightforward to follow, it is a demanding and constant ascent. It's recommended to go with a guide, especially for those unfamiliar with the terrain or hiking at night.

2. The 4x4 Jeep Tour:

  • For a faster and more comfortable journey, guided 4x4 jeep tours are a popular option.
  • Tours typically pick up guests from their hotels around 3:30 AM. The bumpy but thrilling drive up the steep, winding road takes about an hour.
  • The tour allows you to reach the summit for sunrise without the strenuous overnight hike. Many tours also include a warm breakfast at the top, a perfect way to celebrate the feat.