Conservation in Action: How Panama is Leading the Way in Central America

Panama has long been a leader in ocean conservation, with some of the strictest protection rules in Central America. But last year things went a step further, which is only good news for our Marine Safaris…

1. Leading the Way

We’re proud at Islas Secas to be champions of our ocean environment, and 2023 saw that commitment strengthened when the Panamanian government committed to protecting over 54% of its waters. This is a big jump ahead of the global 30×30 initiative, which pledges to protect 30% of our oceans by 2030, making Panama a world leader. “We want to be a model for other countries to protect, preserve, value and sustainably take advantage of our marine resources to positively impact the lives of our people in an inclusive manner,” said Augusto Valderrama, Panama Minister of Agricultural Development, last year.

2. Regulated Waters

As part of this, Panama’s President Laurentino Cortizo signed commercial fishing restrictions covering 56 nautical miles in the Gulf of Chiriquí – the waters which surround Islas Secas. This means that all commercial fishing activities are restricted, from the use of damaging gillnets and indiscriminate trawlers, to lobster fishing. Local pole-and-line fishing and recreational catch-and-release fishing remains protected, which means our local communities are protected and fishing at Islas Secas is as sensational as ever. “From artisanal fisheries to sports fishing, our message is clear: The oceans are for everybody to enjoy,” said Flor Torrijos, Panama Aquatic Resources Authority Administrator.

3. Safe Haven

The expansion of Panama’s Marine Protected Area covers Panama’s deep-sea mountain environments, which helps make a Marine Safari at Islas Secas – a naturally eco-friendly activity – so special. This includes safeguarding the migratory routes for oceanic species such as our beloved humpback whales, so it will be possible to spot whales in season for generations to come. The opportunity to scuba dive around dramatic seamounts, spotting manta rays or hammerhead sharks and other pelagic marvels, is only strengthened by this decree.

4. A 360-Degree Approach

The Panama Tourism Authority knows the country’s value lies in its extraordinary landscapes and communities, and it has committed to a sustainable tourism model to back that. This includes the Host Communities Program, which promotes experiences that preserve and regenerate the country’s natural and cultural heritage while benefiting the host communities. “This represents a great opportunity to empower local communities… thus creating financially sustainable, nature-based solutions,” said Ivan Eskildsen, who was Minister of Tourism from 2019-2023.

5. Drawing the Right Crowd

“Data shows that global travelers are looking for authentic experiences in contact with local culture and pristine nature,” said Eskildsen last year. In response, Panama has pledged US$4 million to establish visitor centers around the country that highlight the country’s natural and cultural heritage. We, too, are continuously working to expand the valuable work of the Islas Secas Foundation, funding vital research, conservation and community projects. Adventurous activities, extraordinary surroundings and an ethos that perfectly reflects our mission to protect and preserve our unique environment: that’s what Islas Secas is all about