Sarigua National Park
Sarigua National Park is a protected natural area on Panama's Pacific West coast. Most of the park is an eerie, barren landscape, but it is also the location of an archaeological site called La Mula.
Understand
The park preserves mangrove swamps, coastal beaches, and offshore marine environments. The onshore lands are a sorry example to the world of what happens when unfettered over-development is allowed in a fragile environment. The park is sometimes referred to as "Sarigua Desert" because nothing grows there, but it gets rainfall, but nothing grows in the poisoned soul saturated with salt.
History
The park was created on January 24, 1985, making it the first official "national park" in Panama.
Archaeological sitə
Archaeological studies conducted in 1984 revealed pre-Columbian settlements in Sarigua. A village dating back as early as 5000 BC was uncovered, along with various ceramic shards and stone tools. A nearby fishing settlement is thought to be twice as old.
Landscape
The park's landscape is a muddy dried up lakebed. Part of the park has abandoned pastures while part has short hills with signs of gullies and volcanic rocks. Erosion, sedimentation, and periodic flooding are evident. The park is affected by flows from the Santa Maria River and tidal influxes from the Parita Bay.
Flora and fauna
Climate
A dry tropical climate affects the park with a dry and a wet season. The average daytime temperature is 41 °C, but can reach 45 °C in the dry season. Nighttime low temperatures are about 19 °C. Bring water and wear a hat.
Get in
By car
From most areas of Central Panama, drive west on the Pan American Highway (CA-1) until you reach the intersection with CA-2. Turn south on CA-25 and continue for 40 km to the park entrance.
Fees and permits
Park gates are open daily from 08ː00 to 16ː00. Dogs are allowed.
Get around
Hike.
See
̈ Observation Tower - get a birds-eye view of the park