Summit Botanical Gardens & Zoo

The spectacular results of a program that was established in 1923 to bring tropical plants from around the world to be Panama can be witnessed at the Summit Botanical Gardens & Zoo, 250 hectares of a gardener's wildest dreams inside the Parque Nacional Soberanía. In line with the general intention to promote environmental awareness and education, over 15,000 plant species are represented and clearly-marked paths guide visitors to marvel at them and the animals in the small zoo, originally established to help GIs identify the creatures they would come across while on assignments in the jungle. Tapirs, jaguars, and a harpy eagle compound are endlessly fascinating attractions. Several enclosures in the Botanical Gardens imitate rainforest habitats from throughout Panama, and the grounds also hold a small restaurant, playground and recreational areas for children, an auditorium & video room, and a breeding center where around 95 of the 242 species are shown to the public.