Panama Elevation Facts
| Average elevation |
360 m (1,181 ft) |
| Highest point |
Volcan Baru: 3,475 m (11,401 ft) |
| Lowest point |
Pacific Ocean: 0 m (0 ft) |
| Elevation range |
3,475 m (11,401 ft) from the lowest point to the highest |
| Highest-elevation city |
Santiago: 176 m (577 ft) |
| Lowest-elevation city |
Almirante: 2 m (7 ft) |
Panama's topography is characterized by a diverse range of terrain that varies from rugged mountains to low-lying coastal plains, making it one of the most ecologically diverse countries in the world.
The country is home to thousands of species of plants and animals, many of which are unique to the region due to its varied elevation and climate.
The majority of Panama's land is covered in lush rainforest, and the country's rugged mountain ranges provide a natural barrier between the Pacific and Atlantic oceans.
The elevation map of Panama shows an intricate network of ridges, valleys, and peaks, with the highest points reaching over 3,000 meters above sea level.
Highest Point in Panama
The highest point in Panama is the Volcan Baru, reaching an elevation of 3,475 meters above sea level and located near the western border of the country.
Lowest Point in Panama
The lowest point in Panama is the Pacific Ocean where the country's coastline reaches sea level.
Countries with Similar Topography to Panama
Panama's topography bears similarities to other Central and South American countries such as Costa Rica, Colombia, and Ecuador due to the prevalence of mountain ranges and rainforests.
Highest-Elevation Cities in Panama
Of the 10 cities listed below, Santiago is the highest at 176 m (577 ft) above sea level, and Almirante is the lowest at 2 m (7 ft).
| City |
Elevation |
Elevation in feet |
| Santiago |
176 m |
577 ft |
| Penonome |
73 m |
240 ft |
| La Palma |
72 m |
236 ft |
| Panama City |
30 m |
98 ft |
| Las Tablas |
23 m |
75 ft |
| David |
21 m |
69 ft |
| Chitre |
15 m |
49 ft |
| Bocas del Toro |
5 m |
16 ft |
| Colon |
4 m |
13 ft |
| Almirante |
2 m |
7 ft |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the highest point in Panama?
The highest point in Panama is Volcan Baru, at 3,475 m (11,401 ft) above sea level.
What is the lowest point in Panama?
The lowest point in Panama is Pacific Ocean, at 0 m (0 ft).
What is the average elevation of Panama?
The average elevation of Panama is 360 m (1,181 ft) above sea level, based on the CIA World Factbook.
What is the highest-elevation city in Panama?
Of the cities listed for Panama, Santiago is the highest, at 176 m (577 ft) above sea level.
What is the lowest-elevation city in Panama?
Of the cities listed for Panama, Almirante is the lowest, at 2 m (7 ft) above sea level.
What is the elevation range in Panama?
Elevation in Panama ranges from 0 m (0 ft) at Pacific Ocean to 3,475 m (11,401 ft) at Volcan Baru, a difference of 3,475 m (11,401 ft).