Volcano Barú hike guide
Climb The Volcano Barú
The avid thrill-seekers and adventure enthusiasts among us can choose to climb the formidable Volcano Barú. Brace yourself for a 26-kilometre round trip that promises unparalleled challenges and rewards. This is no ordinary journey, so read up in my volcano Barú hike guide and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime.
Online Hike Guide
About the route
Starting point of the Volcano Barú
In the map below you will find the starting point which is the rightmost hiking doll. Order a taxi to the starting point, the driver knows where to go. In the case you are heading by night, it is good to pre-order one in advance. There a some taxi’s in Boquete by night, but mostly they are rare to find.
From up there, you will find a gate, security will be present during the day. This is your official start of the route, there you go!
Starting time?
We started our hike at 6 am from the gate, but many people start in the late evening, around 11 pm. They have the opportunity to witness an extraordinary and magical sunrise at the top, along with views of the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean. In my opinion, it has its pros and cons, as the way up is actually an adventure in itself and to see everything in daylight makes it a particularly lovely experience. Believe me, on the way back you just want to keep walking to get down as quickly as possible, so your first impressions are the most important. Eventually, the whole hike up and down will take from 10 to 15 hours.
Flora and fauna extravaganza
The route is an incredibly strenuous trek up the mountain, as it is a major climb via a dirt road with cobbles. Look carefully around to see all the flora and fauna because it is a tropical heaven. Surprisingly, a hummingbird flies past you in the blink of an eye, heading for the flowers. You might spot a badger as we did, it walked on the road and quickly darted into the forest as it saw us. So let yourself be surprised of the flora & fauna, making this ascent a memorable encounter with nature.
Signs with kilometres
Eventually, it gets really tough, after you feel like you have already climbed a lot there is a zigzag road and this is a 200-metre climb. There are signs every kilometre showing the distance you have covered.
Altitude Challenge: Scaling 3,475 Meters!
Prepare for the ultimate challenge as you ascend to a breathtaking altitude of 3,475 meters. Arm yourself with knowledge on altitude sickness in my article, a small investment for a safer and more enjoyable journey.
Last kilometres to the Volcano Barú
Of course, the last kilometres are the toughest. After you have already climbed a lot of metres, you have to climb another stretch, which (believe me) at such point is less fun. Fortunately, there are some flat sections and roads leading down, but do not forget that you also have to walk this route back again.
The summit aka cima of Volcano Barú
The view
However, after a fairly tough 7-hour trek up, we arrived at the summit and what an astonishing view we had over here. As I have said earlier you will have a wide view over here heading up to the Caribbean Sea and Pacific Ocean. Otherwise, you find yourself in a magical wonderland because of all the surrounding clouds.
Last steps to the ‘final top’
Most people think they are already there, but this is not the case. There is a cross at the top and from here you have the best views, especially in the morning when the sun rises it is magical here.
Crater
Should you like it and still have enough energy, you could also see the crater. There is a path down via the summit (of about 25 minutes) and here you can enjoy the stunning scenery.
The way back
In the same way, you will follow your route down. The descent mirrors the intensity of the ascent, challenging your knees and endurance. Retracing your steps on the same route ensures a faster descent, but the unexpected encounters with nature continue to captivate. Maybe, you have a bit of luck like us and have the change to jump in a truck, it saved us for the last 4 kilometres, and we had no regret taking it.
Other options in this Volcano Barú hike guide
Stay overnight and/or leave with a tour
An overnight stay is actually an ideal option, you can do this through a tour, but it is also definitely doable on your own. Just before the summit, you have some camping spots. When heading without a tour, bring your own tent and camping supplies. Thereafter, you can climb the final hour at a leisurely pace.
Book 4x4 as a tour
If you are not into hiking or find it too strenuous, you also have the option of booking a tour by 4×4, which will take you to the top. It is a bumpy ride of 2 hours up and 2 hours down again.
Tips!
My advice in this Volcano Barú hike guide is to follow these tips, after taking them into account you will be ready for your adventure!
- Enough water, as it is hugely important! 4 litres per person is advised.
- Download the app maps.me or AllTrails and keep track of the hike via the app.
- Bring sunscreen and DEET
- Sturdy high hiking boots, that way your ankles are well protected. I myself slipped once and because I was wearing high shoes, I did not sprain my ankle.
- Given the challenging ascent and mental resilience required for this hike, it is strongly recommended not to go alone, especially if you are an inexperienced hiker. You will for sure find a hiking companion in Boquete for mutual support and safety.
Last update: 16-12-2023 © Doris Leone
