Bird-Watching

Soberanía has world-class bird-watching, especially from November to April, when the northern migrants boost the local population. Unless you're an expert, though, you're really better off joining a tour or hiring a guide through one of Panama City's nature-tour operators. Guests at the Canopy Tower enjoy almost nonstop birding and tours led by the lodge's resident guides.

Advantage Panama. Advantage Panama has a day trip to Soberanía that combines a forest hike with a boat trip on Gatún Lake. 507/6676–2466; www.advantagepanama.com.

Ancon Expeditions. This company has excellent guides that can take you bird-watching on Pipeline Road, or on Gatún Lake. They also have a tour that combines a hike through Soberanía National Park with a boat trip on the Chagres River. 507/269–9415; www.anconexpeditions.com.

EcoCircuitos Panama. A Soberanía birding tour is offered that starts with a hike and ends with a boat trip, birding on Pipeline Road, a hiking tour on the Camino de Curces trails, and a tour to Barro Colorado Island. 507/315–0315; www.ecocircuitos.com.

Pesantez Tours. Pesantez Tours runs a half-day tour to Soberanía. 507/366–9100; www.pesantez-tours.com.