Baru Volcano - Panama
At 3,474 metres high, the Baru volcano is the highest volcano in Panama. This active volcano offers a unique view of both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea at the same time.
Practical guide for hikers
The route starts in the small town of Boquete, in the province of Chiriqui, the most important mountain town in the country. This town is the preferred area for those who are looking for relaxation, nature and pleasant temperatures. At the same time, the more adventurous also choose this town for all the options it offers for active tourism. There are many activities that can be done in the area: climbing, canopy, rafting, hiking, cycling and bird watching among others.
Regarding the volcano route, the most popular method of climbing the mountain is by hiking. The route can be done independently or by hiring the services of a guide. The path is very easy to follow and it is practically impossible to get lost.
The first thing to do is to take a taxi from Boquete to the Baru Volcano National Park. From there you will start the hike to the top.
The route is done in a single day, but as it takes a little more than 6 hours, it is advisable to camp or sleep in the lodge. There are two possible options for hikers: On the one hand, you can start the hike at midnight and reach the summit by sunrise. In this way, you could use the day to descend the volcano (this option is recommended for the more experienced hikers). On the other hand, start climbing early in the day and reach the summit by midday. For the more curious, another option is to climb the mountain in the afternoon, enjoy the sunset, camp at the summit and descend the following morning.
People who are not so fit or do not feel able to walk this route on foot can do the route in a 4 x 4 vehicle.
The route follows a wide dirt road surrounded by green forest on all sides. The path divides into slopes that offer incredible views of the area.
It takes about 6 hours walking at a relaxed pace to complete the walk. Along the way you will find the shrine of the Virgin of Guadalupe and behind her there are some rocks that you have to climb to reach the top. There is a large white cross full of graffiti that offers a breathtaking 360º view above the clouds.
People who do the route in the afternoon and decide to camp will have to take with them all the necessary elements to spend the night: tent and sleeping bag among others.
Advice for hikers
As this is a high altitude mountain, warm clothing will be necessary. During the hike the temperatures will drop as the altitude increases. If the route is to be done at night, the clothing should be very warm. If the route is done during the day, the clothes could be lighter but warm clothes will be necessary for the summit. It is essential for everyone to wear comfortable, sturdy walking shoes.
With regard to food and drink, it is important to calculate the rations that will be necessary. Those who have done the route on a single day should carry at least 2 litres of water. Those who decide to camp and descend the following day will need to drink to go up, spend the night and descend the following morning, so at least 4 litres will be necessary. In the case of food, people doing the route during the day will need to bring some sandwiches to eat. People doing the route over two days will require more food.
Although there are no major problems in following the path, it is recommended to use a GPS device to avoid any risk. This way, in the event of an injury or any kind of problem, the rescue services will be able to act very quickly. Although in the case of people who are not experienced in hiking routes, it would be a better idea to hire a guide.
It is important to plan the trip in advance as weather conditions will make the route easier or more difficult. In order to be able to climb to the summit it will be important to take into account whether or not there is rain and wind.
