There are 4 major national parks in Chiriquí province, all of which offer activities such as hiking, white water rafting, swimming, fishing, and arguably the most spectacular bird watching in the world. Volcan Baru National Park is a 14,000-hectare park situated on the imposing 3,475-meter Baru volcano. On a clear day, both the Pacific and the Caribbean may be seen from the top of the volcano. The resplendent and evasive quetzal bird, tucans, and parrots, among other rare species, can be seen here.

The quaint mountain village of Boquete lies on the eastern slope of the volcano, making it the perfect rest point for hikers. Chiriquí Gulf National Marine Park encompasses over two-dozen islands and their surrounding waters. The park is a refuge for many types of wildlife, including howler monkeys, leatherback and hawksbill turtles, and tiger-herons. Reserva Forestal Fortuna spans over 19,500 hectares of highlands with more than 1,136 plant species and spectacular bird-watching. Humedal Lagunas de Volcan is great for ecological exploration as it contains the highest marsh ecosystem in Panama.