Área Silvestre Protegida Lagunas de Volcán


Some 4km west of Volcán, this protected area encompasses the highest lake system (1240m) in Panama. The two picturesque lakes swell in the rainy season, with lush, virgin forest at their edges and Volcán Barú in the background. Surrounding woodlands are excellent sites for birdwatching.

To get to the lakes from downtown Volcán, turn west onto Calle El Valle and follow the signs. Buses don't run here, but you can take a taxi from Volcán for about US$6.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Sitio Barriles

2.1 MILES

The pre-Columbian ruins at this site 6km west of Volcán along the Río Gariche date from between AD 300 and 900, when the settlement had as many as 1000…

2. Arte Cruz

3.07 MILES

On the west side of Hwy 41, some 3.5km south of Volcán, you’ll spot this workshop where master carver and artist José de la Cruz González makes and sells…

3. Finca Dracula

10.89 MILES

This orchid sanctuary, 500m from the center beyond the landmark Los Quetzales Ecolodge & Spa, is one of Latin America’s finest orchid collections, with…

4. Parque Nacional Volcán Barú

12.79 MILES

Volcán Barú is Panama's only volcano and the dominant geographical feature of western Panama. It is no longer active but has seven craters and its summit,…

6. El Explorador

17.39 MILES

Great for families, this private garden is located in a hilly area 3km northeast of the town center. You can walk to it in about 45 minutes. The 2…

7. Wilson Botanical Garden

19.39 MILES

The world-class Wilson Botanical Garden is internationally known for its collection of more than 2000 native Costa Rican species. Species threatened with…

8. Finca Cántaros

19.65 MILES

About 3km south of San Vito, Finca Cántaros is a recreation center and reforestation project. Over 7 hectares of grounds – formerly coffee plantations and…

  • placement: superzone
  • path: Destinations/POIs/superzone
  • possible size: [970, 250], [970, 90], [728, 90], [1, 1],
  • targeting:
    {
      "url": "panama/volcan/attractions/area-silvestre-protegida-lagunas-de-volcan/a/poi-sig/1332641/1328825",
      "position": "superzone"
    }