COIBA NATIONAL PARK
WELCOME TO
The Islands
Often referred to as “PANAMA’S GALAPAGOS,” Coiba National Park is a UNESCO world heritage site with astounding biodiversity and wildlife that can’t be found anywhere else in the world. As one of the largest marine parks in the world and the last refuge for a number of threatened animals, Coiba awaits you on a journey of endless discovery…
Located in the Gulf of Chiriquí, Coiba National Park is a marine reserve off Panama’s Pacific coast just over 50 km from Santa Catalina. Coiba National Park comprises a group of 38 islands including Coiba Island (Isla Coiba) and the waters surrounding them and covers 430,825 acres. Identified by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in 2005, Coiba National Park offers rich and well preserved natural resources, as well as Central America’s largest coral reef.
THE PRISON
Penal Colony of Isla Coiba
Isla Coiba served Panama as a penal colony from 1919 – 2004, and access to the island was very restricted. The prison housed over 3,000 of Panama’s most dangerous criminals in 30 camps spread around the islands. Almost by accident, 80% of the islands’ natural resources have therefore survived untouched and flourished through limited human contact.
COIBA ISLAND
Wildlife
Capuchin Monkeys
Boa Constrictor
Guacamaya Parrot
With its designations as a National Park, Isla Coiba, its surrounding waters and island neighbors have been given a greater degree of protection. While still subject to poaching, illegal logging and other trespasses, the Panamanian government has taken a large step in their preservation.
With its designations as a National Park, Isla Coiba, its surrounding waters and island neighbors have been given a greater degree of protection. While still subject to poaching, illegal logging and other trespasses, the Panamanian government has taken a large step in their preservation.