Ancon Hill Hike

Amazing views of the past, present and future—nature for free.

Get some exercise and treat yourself to an astounding bird-eye’s view of historic Casco Viejo, modern Panama City and the workings of the Panama Canal by climbing to the top of this hill in the former American Canal Zone.

To top it off, the path winds through rainforest so you are sure to see some nature as well. Ancon hill is home of 15 species of mammals and 39 species of birds—sloths, monkeys and exotic birds are a common sight.

If you’re staying in Casco Viejo or the Canal Zone you’re very close to this hill.

To get here take a taxi to the bottom of the hill, outside of Mi Pueblito, and use the stairs outside the park entrance to access the hill. You can negotiate with your the driver to come back for you catch a taxi on the street at the bottom of the hill.

The hike is best done early morning to avoid due to Panama City’s heat and humidity and the afternoon tropical showers April-mid December.The gates are usually open from 6AM-6PM. It takes about 1.5-2 hours to go up and down. Once at the top make sure to check out the views of Panama City and of the Panama Canal/Bridge of the Americas.