(The Panama Gringo) Isla Iguana is home to many exotic flora and fauna, such as mango, guava trees, iguanas, and sea turtles. Located in the Los Santos province of Panama lying just east of the Azueron Peninsula in the Pacific Ocean. This little island proves to be a great place to explore natures striking beauty. The island itself contains a large beach, littered with hermit crabs and turtles, and a jungle trail that leads to the other side of the island. If you’re planning to venture off of the trail be sure you have a machete handy because the thick bamboo and foliage will certainly be a hindrance in your exploration of the island. If you’re more into snorkeling than trail hiking then the biggest and oldest coral reefs in the Gulf of Panama is certainly a sight to see on the island. The coral reef contains many different types of coral and hundreds of reef fish.
The Island has a unique background story that dates back to World War II when the U.S planted numerous amounts of bombs that were detonated as part of a military exercise. The resulting effects of these bombs destroyed some of the coral reef and left rather large craters in the center of island. Since 1981, Isla Iguana is a Wildlife Refuge protected by the U.S, they charge a small fee upon arrival to the island.
Growing in popularity, Isla Iguana, is become more and more a tourist trap with it’s beautiful scenery, and unique vistas. If you’re looking to take a trip to Isla Iguana it will be about a 15 minute boat ride from the locals of Pedasi which runs around $60 round trip.
If you’re looking for more information about Isla Iguana, check out this PanamaGringo article – The Best Island in Panama