Plizio Visual Lab

Cerro Cara de Iguana

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Mountain

Weather…

Cerro Cara de Iguana is a prominent geological formation on the western rim of the El Valle de Antón volcanic crater in the Coclé Province of Panama. Its name is derived from the mountain's characteristic silhouette, which, from certain perspectives in the valley, bears a striking resemblance to the profile of a sleeping iguana's head. The mountain is part of the massive, extinct volcanic caldera, which, with a diameter of about six kilometers, is among the largest inhabited calderas in the world. A well-trodden hiking trail leads to the summit, from which visitors can enjoy a spectacular 360-degree panoramic view of the entire village of El Valle, the Indio River, and the peaks of the Cordillera Central. Climatic conditions at the summit are noticeably cooler than in the rest of the country due to constant trade winds and elevation, supporting unique highland vegetation. Geologically, the Cerro stands as a testament to the region's intense volcanic history, shaped millions of years ago by massive eruptions. Today, it is a symbol of ecological tourism.

Location: Panama
Nearby: Farallón / Río Hato (8 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	26	26	27	28	27	27	27	27	26	26	26	26
Rain mm	21	9	15	108	278	273	246	255	279	275	269	111

📋 Practical info

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Getting there

Located in Valle de Antón, the starting point for this mountain is usually found right within the town itself. The trail typically winds directly through the natural monument's protected boundaries.

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Best season

The dry season, running from mid-December to April, is generally considered the best time for hiking. During the rainy season, trails here can become exceedingly muddy, slippery, and challenging.

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Terrain & paths

Expect a steady, humid incline through rich tropical vegetation before reaching more exposed, rocky sections. The path can be quite uneven and occasionally overgrown in places.

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What to bring

Breathable, lightweight outdoor clothing and strong hiking boots are essential for this tropical climate. Always carry plenty of fresh water and reliable sun protection for the exposed peak.

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Parking

Visitors typically leave their vehicles in the central areas of Valle de Antón. From there, it is usually a very short walk or a quick local ride to the official start of the mountain trail.

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Safety

Always watch your step on loose rocks and be aware of diverse tropical wildlife within the natural monument. It is generally advised to complete your hike during clear daylight hours.

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Time needed

A typical hike up to the summit and back usually takes about two to four hours in total. This generally allows enough time to comfortably rest and enjoy the views over the surrounding area.

Geography

Coordinates

8.65000, -80.08000

Facts

The summit is located on the rim of one of the world's largest inhabited calderas.
Its name translates to 'Iguana Face Hill' in Spanish.
The mountain is part of a dormant stratovolcano.
The hiking trail to the summit takes approximately 45 to 60 minutes.
On clear days, the Pacific coast can be seen from the summit.
The region is famous for its rare golden frogs.