Fortuna Forest Reserve, known in Spanish as Reserva Forestal de Fortuna, is a protected cloud forest in western Panama, spanning approximately 48,200 acres across the provinces of Chiriquí and Bocas del Toro. Nestled in the Cordillera de Talamanca, the reserve lies along the continental divide and plays a vital role in protecting Panama’s freshwater sources, feeding rivers that flow to both the Pacific and Caribbean coasts. Elevations range from about 3,300–7,200 feet, creating a cool, misty climate ideal for cloud forest ecosystems. Fortuna is renowned for its incredible biodiversity, including orchids, tree ferns, howler monkeys, jaguars, and a wide array of bird species such as the resplendent quetzal, making it a prime destination for birdwatchers, researchers, and eco-tourists. At its heart lies Fortuna Lake, an artificial reservoir created by the Fortuna Dam, which supplies hydroelectric power to much of western Panama.

Though remote and rugged, Fortuna is accessible from several major towns. It lies roughly 43 miles from David, about 40 miles northeast of Boquete—a well-known highland town popular with travelers and expats. The drive from Boquete or David typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours, making Fortuna an ideal day trip for those seeking a wilder, more pristine experience than Panama’s more developed nature parks.