A Fully Off-Grid
Luxury Nature Reserve
The resort operates completely off-the-grid and has achieved 100% energy and water independence, due to its comprehensive solar energy infrastructure and proprietary artesian wells that provide safe drinking water for guests.
This level of environmental stewardship is unmatched in the region — a rare commitment that allows guests to experience refined luxury within a truly self-sustaining nature reserve.
Selva Terra is a
Globally Recognized
Luxury Eco Resort
Selva Terra has been awarded the 2025 Global Recognition Award, an honor recognizing its leadership in sustainable luxury hospitality and environmental stewardship. The resort was distinguished for its fully off-grid operations, regenerative design, and deep integration with the surrounding ecosystem — setting a new benchmark for responsible tourism in Panama.
This recognition places Selva Terra among a select group of global hospitality leaders redefining what modern luxury can look like when it is fully aligned with nature.
The Finca &
Responsible Sourcing
Wildlife Spotting
Surrounded by jungle and the ocean, the resort offers some of Panama’s most immersive nature experiences in one place. Guests are encouraged to explore the network of nature trails that wind through the reserve, providing opportunities to discover native flora, spot wildlife, and experience the rainforest at a slower pace.
During free time, guests can also swim, kayak, or paddleboard in the resort’s bay, explore the surrounding mangroves, or paddle just five minutes to nearby surf breaks. Wildlife sightings are common, from howler monkeys and iguanas to toucans, parakeets, pelicans, frigatebirds, and countless tropical bird species.
Beneath the surface, snorkeling and diving excursions reveal sea turtles, eagle rays, reef fish, and seasonal visitors such as whale sharks. Between July and November, humpback whales migrate through these waters, offering unforgettable whale-watching opportunities.
Eco Exploration
During free time, guests can swim, kayak, paddleboard in the resorts bay, or explore our nature trails and six private beaches on the reserve. Or take a kayak or stand-up paddleboard to explore the surrounding mangroves, or paddle just five minutes to nearby surf breaks.
Complementary kayaks, fishing kayaks, stand-up paddleboards and surfboards are available to guests to explore in their own time.
Catch & Release Fishing
Fishing at Selva Terra is guided by a strong commitment to conservation and responsible stewardship of the surrounding marine ecosystem. Certain species are strictly catch-and-release, and guests are educated on which fish can be sustainably harvested and which must be returned to the water.
We are committed to supporting the long-term health of the region’s marine ecosystem while allowing guests to enjoy world-class fishing in a responsible way.
Tips While Visiting an Eco Resort in Panama:
While many of these problems have complex solutions, to help save marine life in Panama, remember:
- When choosing your sunscreen, be careful of the ingredients you put on your body, as they will be washed out to sea. Choose a sunscreen that is free of oxybenzone and octinoxate (generally known as reef killers), zinc, PABA, or parabens.
- Pay attention to where your fish is sourced. While at the Resort you can be sure that the fish offered has been sustainably caught; however, once you leave, be sure to continue verifying that your fish is sustainably sourced.
- When utilizing snorkeling equipment, be careful to not touch reefs as this could cause damage. In addition, be mindful to refrain from making sand clouds, as this could disrupt and damage the ecosystem around you.
- Follow the Facebook group of the World Marine Heritage to be more involved.
Helpful Resources:
http://www.coibanationalpark.com/marine-conservation.html
Press Releases:
WINNER 2025 Selva Terra Island Resort Celebrates 2025 Global Recognition Award™