Three highlights in one day: the Monkey Islands, the indigenous culture of the Emberá and the engineering of the Panama Canal.
Gamboa, Panama Canal, Monkey Islands
Gamboa is a small town in Panama, about 30 kilometres from Panama City. It lies on the banks of the Panama Canal and is surrounded by lush rainforest. Soberanía National Park is right nearby; birdwatching is especially popular here, as the park is home to a wide variety of bird species, including the famous harpy eagle.
Tour schedule
We drive about 40 minutes from the port in Colón to Gamboa. Here we switch to a local lancha and travel for about 40 minutes along the Chagres River, which is fed partly by Gatun Lake, through the Panama Canal, passing some of the largest ships in the world. We then turn into a side arm of the Panama Canal and visit several islands that are home to capuchin monkeys, tamarins and howler monkeys, among others. With a bit of luck we will spot other animals such as crocodiles, turtles or iguanas. You can admire a very rich birdlife and will fondly remember this short, magical trip into the rainforest.
Emberá Quera: visiting the indigenous community
Your adventure begins on the shore of Lake Alajuela, where you meet the Emberá with their handmade canoes. You take a 30 to 60-minute boat ride (the time depends on the river’s water level) through untouched rainforest and can watch many birds such as herons, ospreys and perhaps toucans and parrots. You may also see turtles, a caiman and, with a bit of luck, a sloth, an otter or a monkey. On arrival in the village you are welcomed with traditional music and receive a fascinating presentation of the history, culture and life of the Emberá in a typical communal hut. Afterwards there is time to look at or buy the hand-woven baskets, plates or masks made of palm fibre, cocobolo (rosewood) or tagua nut, get a temporary tattoo, chat with the villagers or take photos.
Time with the Emberá approx. 1–1.5 hours (depending on your cruise ship’s time window). Please note: depending on the water level in the canal and its side arms, the tour to the village in Colón may be cancelled and replaced by another village in Gamboa.
Agua Clara Locks
The Agua Clara Locks are one of the Panama Canal’s lock complexes and are located near Colón. They opened in 2016 and are part of the canal expansion that allows larger ships, known as Neopanamax vessels, to pass through. From the visitor centre you have an impressive view of the locks and can watch the locking process up close. Informative exhibitions and films explain how the canal works and why the expansion matters: a technological masterpiece and an impressive example of engineering.
This tour is ideal for anyone who wants to experience as much of Panama as possible during their shore visit.
What to expect
- Boat ride to the Monkey Islands in the Panama Canal
- Dugout canoe ride to the Emberá village
- Traditional music, culture and crafts
- Agua Clara Locks visitor centre
- Guide in your language, admission and water included
Payment
Cash in US$ at pick-up on site, or bank transfer in euros to a German account.
