Panama’s Ministry of Environment has announced that the La Cruz trail in the Altos de Campana National Park and Biological Reserve will reopen to visitors in January 2026. The trail restoration is a central component of a $2.5 million rehabilitation project for one of the nation’s most iconic protected areas, funded by the Inter-American Development Bank.
Authorities conducted an inspection tour this week to evaluate progress on the infrastructure upgrades. The project, managed by the firm Panamericana BC, Inc., aims to enhance the visitor experience while strengthening the park’s conservation capacity. Similar interventions are planned for other national parks including Camino de Cruces, Soberanía, Portobelo, and San Lorenzo.
“The Los Pinos camping area has been completely rehabilitated, with public bathrooms in optimal condition to receive families,” said Environment Minister Juan Carlos Navarro. [Translated from Spanish] He confirmed the Campana lookout point was expanded and trails were restored to ensure visitor safety.
Work is proceeding while the park remains open to the public. All entrance fees are directly allocated to the maintenance and conservation of the protected area, officials noted.
Project Focuses on Public Use and Ranger Operations
This initiative falls under the broader Project to Support the Conservation of Cultural and Natural Heritage. Its core objective is strengthening the park’s administrative and operational management. This is achieved by modernizing infrastructure for public use and improving facilities for the daily work of park rangers.
The Altos de Campana National Park, established in 1966, holds the distinction of being Panama’s first national park. Its rehabilitation is seen as a model for future upgrades across the country’s network of protected areas. The project addresses both accessibility and the practical needs of conservation staff working on the ground.
“We invite families, hikers, scientists, and all visitors to come and see the park,” said Katherine Hurley, MiAmbiente’s Regional Director for Panama Oeste. [Translated from Spanish] She highlighted the panoramic views from the lookout, which offer sights of hills, mountains, and a section of the Panama Canal.
This investment arrives as Panama seeks to balance eco-tourism growth with robust environmental protection. Improving key infrastructure in a flagship parque nacional supports both goals simultaneously. The restored La Cruz trail, once complete, will provide a new and safe route for exploring the park’s diverse ecosystems.
Officials expect the enhancements to attract more domestic and international tourists. Increased visitation, managed sustainably, will generate further revenue for conservation. This creates a positive cycle of investment and preservation for the long term.
The project’s scope demonstrates a comprehensive approach to park management. It is not merely about building trails. The work encompasses everything from campground facilities to operational bases for rangers. This holistic upgrade is designed to make the park more resilient and better equipped for future challenges.
With the January 2026 target now set, contractors will focus on the final phases of trail construction and site finishing. The ministry plans continued public updates as milestones are reached. For now, visitors can still enjoy the park’s existing open trails and the newly improved camping and lookout facilities. The ongoing work at Altos de Campana reflects a broader national effort to value and invest in natural heritage, ensuring these spaces remain accessible and protected for generations to come.