Tour Details

Monkey Island and Gamboa Rainforest Reserve

A once in a lifetime chance for you to drive on a luxurious, air-conditioned motor bus along a path that was formerly taken by the Spanish Conquistadors and the 49ers looking for a shortcut to find gold. The Panama Canal cuts through one of the narrowest parts of the Isthmus of Panama approx. 80 kilometers long. In simple terms, it bisects the Continental Divide and links North and South America with the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.

The first stop will be Monkey Island at Gamboa Rainforest Reserve. Guests will have the opportunity to observe and interact with monkeys in their natural habitat. The huge jungle region that is now the Gatun Lake was packed with a astonishing number of animals prior to the Panama Canal being constructed. Animals sought shelter in the mountain peaks as the area was flooded to form the lake, which is today home to many islands. Explore the bays, islands, and back channels that make up this distinctive ecosystem. Travel through thick rain forests to a remote area of the lake and experience the beauty and excitement of the jungle firsthand. Guests will embark on a boat tour around the island with a guide. Your tour guide is a knowledgeable naturalist who will give insight about the monkeys' behavior, diet, and conservation status. Cameras are a necessity as this is often regarded as the best place in the world to see monkeys and other creatures in the wild. The islands are also home to many monkey species like the capuchin, tamarins, and howler monkeys that may be seen bouncing on the branches above. On rare occasions, they might descend from the trees to the ground to investigate visitors.

As you continue your search toward the Pacific, you will eventually find yourself in the middle of a lush tropical forest. The dense forest progressively clears as you travel through Pedro Miguel's second set of locks, a single flight that was the first to be finished. Continue to the Balboa townsite for a quick look at the former Canal Zone, where American military installations serve as a subtle reminder of the area's strategic importance.

Your next stop will be a popular artisan market, Corozal Arts and Crafts Center. Local artisans will showcase a variety of traditional Panamanian crafts, artwork, and souvenirs. Guests will be able to find delicately crafted items such as handmade jewelry, pottery, textiles, woodwork, paintings, and other unique pieces that highlight Panama's rich cultural heritage. Enjoy this vibrant and authentic shopping experience where visitors are able to interact with artisans to learn about the craftsmanship behind each piece, and support the local artistic community.

Your final stop is Fort Amador on the Causeway, where you'll have some free time to enjoy the breath-taking views of the city's magnificent skyline and the entrance to the Panama Canal. The moment has come to turn around and return to the buses so that you may go back to the pier where your ship is waiting. Make the most of your trip to Panama by giving you an in-depth overview of the Panama Canal and its beautiful surrounding areas.

Please note: This tour may operate in reverse order. Consider physical fitness and medical history when selecting this tour. Boarding/debark of local Panga style boat requires a minimum of strength and flexibility.