During my trip to Panama, I had the chance to visit many beautiful places. One of the more extraordinary ones was Isla Iguana. This picturesque island is located in the Panamanian province of Los Santos. It’s less than 5 kilometers from the coast, so getting there isn’t particularly difficult.
It’s not just an ordinary island, it’s a protected area with unique fauna and flora. Thanks to this, the island is a real paradise for wildlife lovers, divers, and beachgoers.
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How to Get to Isla Iguana?
Trips to Isla Iguana start in the town of Pedasí, specifically at Playa Arenal. An alternative is to depart from the nearby town of Mariabe, where the crossing from Playa El Rincon to the island is a bit shorter. Personally, I used this option, and the journey is an experience, especially when you have the chance to see dolphins (bottlenose and spotted) or whales. More specifically, from June to October, whales migrate here to give birth and teach their young to swim around the island.
Nature and Wildlife on Isla Iguana
The island is famous for its abundant wildlife. It is home to one of the largest coral reefs in the Pacific, with 17 species of corals and 347 species of fish. The island is covered by a dry tropical forest, inhabited by crabs, black and green iguanas, as well as boa constrictors (though I didn’t see any). Furthermore, Isla Iguana is home to thousands of frigate birds, with a population of at least 5,000 birds circling above the island.
Isla Iguana is also one of the most important nesting sites for sea turtles. During the season between April and September, you can see five species of turtles that lay their eggs on the beaches.
What to Do on the Island?
I’ll start with what not to do. The island is guarded by rangers who check what you bring with you. Bringing and consuming alcohol or carrying glass is prohibited. Such items will be confiscated by the rangers. Of course, you must take all the trash you “produce” with you.
The island is small enough that you can walk around it with ease. There are two beaches on the island. The first, the main beach El Cirial, is a popular spot for relaxation. The second beach, El Faro, is more exposed, and you won’t find any shade there, so if you plan to spend time there, it’s worth bringing an umbrella to shield yourself from the sun. On the first beach, finding shade is easier, especially on weekdays when you can often have the beach almost to yourself.
Remember, there are no shops on the island, so it’s worth bringing plenty of water, snacks, and sunscreen. Make sure your sunscreen is reef-safe. Sunscreens with chemical UV filters (like benzophenone-3) harm and can even kill coral reefs.
The History of Isla Iguana
Today, Isla Iguana is a must-see for anyone looking to experience Panama’s wild nature. In 1981, the island was declared a protected area, but during World War II, the U.S. Army used the island as a bombing test site. Although most of the bombs were removed in the 1990s, it’s still recommended to stay on the trails. You never know if all the unexploded bombs have been removed.
Where to Stay on Isla Iguana?
There are no hotels on Isla Iguana, and the island is uninhabited. If you plan to visit, it’s worth considering staying in the nearby town of Pedasi. Personally, I stayed at Hotel Pedasí Nature Paradise. I recommend it for its comfort and delicious breakfasts.
Why Visit Isla Iguana?
Above all, it’s the perfect place for those seeking closeness to nature – from white sandy beaches to colorful coral reefs, to majestic frigates and migrating whales. Everyone who visits Isla Iguana leaves with memories of exotic animals and the island’s unique history.
Special thanks to the Panama Tourism Authority & Adventure Travel Trade Association for the invitation to Panama.
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