In recent years, birdwatching in Panama has become one of the fastest-growing activities for young travelers and backpackers. Once thought of as a pastime for older generations, birding is now being embraced by a new wave of eco-conscious explorers who crave both adventure and a deeper connection with nature. With over 1,000 species of birds calling the country home, Panama has quickly become a top destination for those who want to combine backpacking, hiking, and wildlife travel into one unforgettable journey.
For many young travelers, birdwatching offers the perfect mix of eco-tourism, mindfulness, and adventure. The thrill of spotting a resplendent quetzal, a colorful toucan, or the loud and mysterious three-wattled bellbird adds a layer of excitement to jungle hikes and mountain treks. Birding also pairs naturally with popular activities like photography, backpacking, and nature travel, making it an accessible way to enjoy Panama’s biodiversity while creating lasting memories.
One of the best places for birding in Panama is the Fortuna Forest Reserve in Chiriquí. This vast cloud forest is recognized internationally as an Important Bird Area and is famous for its misty trails, lush vegetation, and rare species. Birdwatchers can encounter the resplendent quetzal, bare-necked umbrellabird, trogons, and the iconic bellbird with its booming call that echoes through the valleys. Thanks to its elevation and rich ecosystem, Fortuna has become a must-see stop for both serious birders and curious backpackers searching for unique wildlife encounters.
For those who want to combine birding with a true backpacker community, the Lost and Found Hostel in Panama is one of the most unique eco-lodges in Central America. Located deep inside the Fortuna Forest Reserve, it is the country’s only hike-in jungle hostel, offering travelers the rare chance to stay directly in the rainforest. Guests can spot toucans, hummingbirds, and motmots right outside their dorm rooms, and the hostel’s private trails make it easy to discover even more bird species while hiking. With its social vibe and incredible location, Lost and Found has become a top choice for anyone interested in birdwatching, backpacking, and eco-tourism in Panama.
Beyond Fortuna and Lost and Found, other top birdwatching destinations in Panama include Boquete, where cloud forests around Volcán Barú are prime quetzal territory; Pipeline Road in Gamboa, one of the world’s most famous birding hotspots; and Bocas del Toro, where mangroves and coastal forests attract a wide range of tropical species. Each destination showcases a different ecosystem, making Panama one of the best countries in the Americas for birdwatching and biodiversity.
The growing popularity of birdwatching among young travelers in Panama reflects a larger trend in sustainable travel and eco-tourism. Instead of rushing from one attraction to another, backpackers are slowing down, connecting with the environment, and finding joy in spotting wildlife. Whether exploring the cloud forests of Fortuna, staying at the Lost and Found Hostel, or hiking in Boquete, Panama offers birders and backpackers an unforgettable combination of adventure, community, and incredible wildlife.