ancon hill panama city panama
Rising approximately 654 ft. above sea level, or about half the height of the Empire State Building, Ancon Hill offers visitors unparalleled views of the surrounding area, including the Amador Causeway, Casco Antiguo, Panama City, Panama Bay, Bridge of the Americas, and the Panama Canal.
It is the highest point within the Panama Canal basin and resides just west of downtown, towering over Panama City.
The single-lane access road that leads to the top passes through the upscale residential community of Quarry Heights, which resides just behind the Panama Canal Administration Building. Remember that vehicles are not permitted to stop when ascending or descending, so if you intend to take pictures or sight-see along the way, you're better off walking.
For those wanting to walk, the best place to start is near the entrance to MiPueblito; taxis should know where this is. It's just a few minutes from downtown and on the way to the Bridge of the Americas.
Follow the paved road left of MiPueblito. Before reaching its end, which isn't very far, you'll see a staircase off to the right side. It has freshly painted red handrails; you can't miss them. Climb the staircases, and turn right when you reach the access road. The road is in good condition and moderately steep; keep an eye out for passing vehicles.
Panoramic views of Panama City, Casco Antiguo, and the Cinta Costera are also possible along the access road. There are few openings in the forest that provide expansive, unobstructed views. In many respects, they are superior to those at the top.
Visitors have a choice between three viewing areas; they are a short distance from each other.
Two face south overlooking Panama City, Panama Bay, Casco Viejo, and the Amador Causeway. The lower-lying of the two resides along the cement path that leads to and from the access road. To reach the upper section, you'll need to walk up a short, steep incline; the Panamanian flag rests at the very top of Ancon Hill. Unfortunately, tall tree growth partially obstructs the view in both locations. However, you should be able to see Casco Antiguo and the Cinta Costera that wraps around it in their entirety.
The sole platform facing north offers panoramic, unobstructed views of the Bridge of the Americas, Albrook Airport, Balboa Port, and, on a clear day, the southernmost section of the Panama Canal, e.g., Miraflores Locks, Pedro Miguel Locks, Cocoli Locks, and the Centenary Bridge.
There is no public transportation to and from Ancon Hill, which is open daily between 8:00 - 4:00 and free to enter. So you will need to arrange transportation. There are no public bathrooms, and if you plan to walk, I recommend bringing something to drink because there are no stores nearby or refreshments up top.