Panama will offer free entry to most of its protected areas on Saturday, May 9. The initiative coincides with the Global Big Day, an international bird watching event. Participants can explore national parks and reserves for the entire day.
The measure comes from Resolution DM-0175-2026. It applies for 24 hours across all sites within the National System of Protected Areas. Officials said the goal is to boost biodiversity conservation and encourage public participation. The Ministry of Environment confirmed the policy this week.
Free Entry Rules for Bird Watchers
Visitors must show proof of registration to get free access. That means presenting a digital or printed badge, card, or identification that marks them as event participants. Anyone who cannot verify their registration will pay the standard entry fee.
The exemption does not apply everywhere. Two major parks have special access rules. The Metropolitan National Park and Coiba National Park will not offer free entry under this resolution.
“We want to remove barriers for citizens who want to connect with nature,” said a ministry spokesperson. “Bird watching is a powerful tool for environmental education.” [Translated from Spanish]
“This day allows us to demonstrate Panama’s incredible biodiversity. It also strengthens our commitment to conservation through citizen science,” the official added. [Translated from Spanish]
A Global Citizen Science Event
The Cornell Lab of Ornithology organizes the Global Big Day each year. Thousands of observers worldwide record their sightings using the eBird platform. Panama has participated in this event since 2015.
Volunteers, students, environmental groups, and the general public take part. They coordinate with the Ministry of Environment for the annual count. The data helps scientists track bird populations and migration patterns.
Panama sits at a critical crossroads for migratory birds. The country hosts more than 1,000 bird species. That makes it one of the most biodiverse places on Earth for bird watching.
Park Regulations Still Apply
All normal park rules remain in effect during the event. That includes operating hours, entry guidelines, and usage conditions. Visitors must follow these regulations even with free access.
People who want to do nighttime bird watching need special permission. They must coordinate in advance with regional offices of the Ministry of Environment. Standard safety and conservation rules apply to all visitors.
The ministry reminded participants that protected areas exist for conservation first. Everyone should minimize their impact on wildlife and habitats. Bird watchers should stay on marked trails and avoid disturbing nesting birds.
Panama’s participation in Global Big Day has grown steadily since 2015. Each year brings more participants and more recorded species. The free entry policy aims to accelerate that growth.
Several National Park sites across the country will welcome bird watchers. The initiative covers reserves from the Caribbean coast to the Pacific lowlands. Each ecosystem offers different species and viewing opportunities.
Organizers expect strong turnout this year. The combination of free entry and global participation creates momentum. Panama’s bird watchers hope to set new records for species counted in a single day.