Panama City has limited green spaces, with Ancon Hill being one of them and accessible at all times. The Ancon Hill Nature and History Hike provides a guided tour to the highest viewpoint in the city. Most of the hill remains undeveloped and serves as a 48.25-hectare nature reserve featuring a tropical rainforest. The highest point, which was previously reachable by car, can now only be accessed via a 30- to 45-minute hike. Visitors can observe a variety of wildlife, including sloths, armadillos, Geoffroy’s tamarins, iguanas, coatis, agoutis, deer, bats, and many bird species, such as toucans. In total, 68 animal species and 212 plant species inhabit the area.
At an elevation of 199 meters above sea level, Ancon Hill is the highest point in Panama City. The summit offers stunning views of the skyline, Casco Viejo (Old Quarter), the port area, and the Panama Canal. At the base of the hill are several notable buildings, including the historic Gorgas Hospital. The residence of the Panama Canal Administrator, previously known as the Governor of the Canal Zone, is still located on Ancon Hill, along with the homes of high-ranking military officers in Quarry Heights, where the hike begins.
Here, one can find the largest flag in the country, measuring 15 meters by 10 meters, equivalent to the size of a basketball court. This flag has been on display since 1977. The tour also delves into the historical aspects of Ancon Hill, which was part of the former Canal Zone, territories that were occupied by the United States military. The Torrijos-Carter Treaties were signed in 1977, leading to the return of the hill to Panama, with the rest of the Canal Zone being returned gradually until 2000, when Panama regained full control of its canal.
Ancon Hill’s history extends much further back, linked to the early days of the first city of Panama and later its successor. Guides often share stories involving pirates and conquistadors. The beauty of this hill has even inspired poets. A guided walking tour of Ancon Hill offers a valuable opportunity to learn about Panama’s history while appreciating its diverse flora and fauna.
Tour Info
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Guided
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English, Spanish, German
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Viajeros Hostal in Casco Viejo
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2 hours
Ancon Hill Nature and History Hike
Ancon Hill, a 48.25-hectare undeveloped tropical rainforest nature reserve, is one of Panama City’s few green spaces. It offers a guided hike to its 199-meter summit, providing panoramic views of the city skyline, Casco Viejo, the port, and the Panama Canal. The reserve is home to 68 animal and 212 plant species, including sloths, tamarins, and toucans. Historically significant, Ancon Hill was part of the Canal Zone, returning to Panamanian control after the 1977 Torrijos-Carter Treaties. The site also features the country’s largest flag and has connections to Panama’s early history, pirates, and conquistadors. A guided tour offers a comprehensive understanding of Panama’s history, flora, and fauna.
Trip highlights
- The best panoramic views of Panama City, Casco Viejo, the ports and the Panama Canal.
- Opportunity to see many animal species, including iguanas, sloths, and monkeys.
- See the biggest flag of Panama!
- Knowledgeable guide who will explain the importance of Ancon Hill in the history of Panama.