Embera Experience at the Chagres National Park
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Embera Experience at the Chagres National Park

Active
(29 reviews)
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

The Emberá ethnic group, renowned for preserving their traditional attire, offers a distinctive cultural immersion. Their minimal clothing provides a window into a unique heritage, and a journey in Panama reveals an unexplored side, promising a captivating experience that dispels worries. Connecting with the Emberá culture unveils people distinguished by unmatched nobility, kindness, and purity.

Rafael Tello, the tour guide and founder, hails this as his favorite tour. Boarding the boats brings a pause to time, with nature's embrace and the people's astonishment creating an unparalleled tranquility. This expedition challenges participants to leave their comfort zones and uncover the HIDDEN PANAMA. It guarantees a pleasantly surprising adventure, encouraging individuals to embrace the unknown and savor the extraordinary blend of culture, nature, and tranquility in this unique corner of the world.

Available options

Pickup Only in Panama City

Pickup Only in Panama City<br/>Duration: 8 hours<br/>Pickup IN PANAMA CITY DOWNTOWN: Staying in Panama City or Downtown? Select this option.
Solo traveler? Contact us now for assistance!<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Small-group tour
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Bottled water
Professional & Bilingual Tour Guides
Snacks
Lunch
Seasonal Tropical Fruits

Detailed itinerary

1

Our guide will pick you up at your hotel and welcome you, apply the biosecurity protocols and guide you to this incredible day full of incredible surprises!

2

This is where you start to discover a different part of Panama City that you will only know if you dare to enjoy this incredible adventure.

From the road, see a cemetery in its traditional form.

3

The further we advance, the further we enter the heart of the local towns, San Miguelilto is one of them. Known for being declared a special district since the late 1960s

With its more than 300 thousand inhabitants, distributed in areas of social invasions that took place with the seizure of power by the military and the dictatorship of the time, San Miguelito, has become one of the areas in the Republic of Panama, with higher population density.

4

La Cabima has become the commercial center of the communities that live in the mountains of that area. Transportation problems, very dense traffic and long hours on public transport to get to the city center, has been the number one cause of growth in this area.

Here we make a 10-minute stop to buy the fruits with which you will accompany your lunch. The main reason for our stop is to support the local economy. By doing this, we contribute to making our tours more sustainable while supporting producers in the region.

You can also enjoy taking the best photos of true Panamanians in their hard daily work.

5

Cemex is the world's largest cement factory that arrived in Panama during the boom in the construction of the 3rd set of locks for the Panama Canal and its Expansion project.

6

Here begins our journey within the limits of the Chágres National Park.

You will be able to see the way of life of the locals who today are the guardians of this invaluable natural reserve.

After having reached the northern limit of the province of Panama, we entered the limits of the Chágres National Park. We make a 15-minute stop to use the restrooms and tour the Park's visitor center.

The Chágres National Park Visitor Center offers a very good introduction to the location, biodiversity and lifestyle of the area's inhabitants.

7

Puerto Corotú is an artisanal port of embarkation for locals used by the surrounding communities, located right in front of Alajuela Lake. This man-made artificial lake, flooded in the late 1930s to contain the waters of the Chágres River during the rainy season, is the entry point to beautiful communities of fishermen, peasants and indigenous people.

Here will be your meeting with the indigenous people of the Embera ethnic group, who will welcome you, remember the biosecurity protocols during your visit and guide you to the place where you will board your "Piragüa" (boat made from the trunk of a single tree)

8

This artificial lake, created in the mid-1930s by the Americans, became the first improvement made to the Panama Canal. The water that supplies this lake comes mainly from the Chágres River

9

The Chágres River is the most important river for the operation of the Panama Canal. It provides more than 35% of the water that is required for the transit operations of ships through the interoceanic route.

During the dry season, the tour of this river can be extended up to 1 hour of navigation. In the rainy season, the river is at its maximum levels and the travel time is reduced to 40 minutes of navigation.

You will enjoy a trip through the tropical jungle, and nature will surprise you with its species of birds, amphibians and reptiles that you can appreciate, while the skilled indigenous people maneuver the boat on its journey through El Chagres!

10

This is the place where two worlds meet ... The fascinating Embera Indigenous culture and visitors from all over the world.

Their music, their art, their gastronomy and their sincere smiles will mark your memory with incredible memories!

Here you will enjoy the best experience that you will never forget !!!

What's not included

Gratuities (recommended)

Available languages

Guide guide
EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.5
2 reviews
5★
1
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor 5.0
27 reviews
5★
26
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Children must be accompanied by an adult
At time of booking, Cruise ship passengers must provide the following information at time of booking: ship name, docking time, disembarkation time and re-boarding time
Refunds will not be issued if tour/activity is missed due to late or non-arrival of cruise ship
Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required
Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking
Not recommended for participants with back problems
Not recommended for participants with heart complaints or other serious medical conditions
Not recommended for pregnant women
Due to uneven surfaces, this tour is not recommended for those with walking disabilities or using a wheelchair
Not wheelchair accessible

Important notes

Things to bring:
- All terrain shoes. preferably boots, slippers or sandals with belcro. DO NOT BRING FLIP FLOPS
- Take 3 Zip-Log bags. 1 for your personal documents, another for your cameras and electronic equipment and a third for your wet clothes
- Although we carry disposable ponchos, try to bring your own waterproof gear.
- Cap, hat or scarves to cover yourself from the sun
- Sun creams, blockers, UV protectors for your skin
- BRING YOUR MEDICATIONS.

About Panama City

Panama City, the capital and largest city of Panama, is a vibrant metropolis where modern skyscrapers meet historic colonial architecture. Situated at the Pacific entrance of the Panama Canal, it offers a unique blend of urban sophistication and tropical charm, making it a compelling destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

Panama Canal

One of the most significant engineering feats in history, the Panama Canal connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.

Historical Half-day to full day Free to visit locks, tours vary

Casco Viejo

The historic district of Panama City, Casco Viejo is a UNESCO World Heritage site with colonial architecture, vibrant nightlife, and cultural landmarks.

Historical Half-day to full day Free to explore, entry fees for museums

Biomuseo

Designed by Frank Gehry, the Biomuseo explores the biodiversity and natural history of Panama.

Museum 2-3 hours Moderate

Ancon Hill

A popular hiking spot offering panoramic views of the city and the Panama Canal.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Panama Viejo

The ruins of the original Panama City, founded in 1519, offering a glimpse into the city's colonial past.

Historical 1-2 hours Free to explore, entry fee for museum

Must-Try Local Dishes

Sancocho

A hearty chicken and root vegetable soup, often served with rice and corn.

Soup Contains meat, can be made vegetarian

Ceviche

Fresh raw fish marinated in lime juice, mixed with onions, peppers, and cilantro.

Appetizer Contains seafood, can be made with various types of fish

Ropa Vieja

Shredded beef stew with vegetables, served with rice and beans.

Main Course Contains meat

Hojaldres

Fried dough pastries, often served with cheese or jam.

Snack Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking in Soberanía National Park Kayaking in the San Blas Islands Beach day at Playa Blanca Spa day in a luxury hotel Exploring Casco Viejo Visiting the Biomuseo Snorkeling in the San Blas Islands Boat tours through the Panama Canal

Best Time to Visit

December to April

This is the dry season with sunny days and minimal rainfall, ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

24°C to 32°C 75°F to 90°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: Spanish
  • Widely spoken: English
  • English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Panamanian Balboa (PAB)

Time Zone

GMT-5

Electricity

110VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Panama City is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas. Exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings.

Important Precautions:
  • • Keep valuables secure
  • • Use official taxis or ride-sharing apps
  • • Be cautious in crowded areas

Getting there

By air
  • Tocumen International Airport • 24 km (15 miles) from city center
By bus

Albrook Terminal, Panama Viejo Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Modern, efficient, and air-conditioned. A convenient way to travel within the city.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Didi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Casco Viejo El Cangrejo Bella Vista San Francisco

Day trips

San Blas Islands
300 km (186 miles) from Panama City • Full day to overnight

A group of islands known for their pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and Guna Yala culture.

El Valle de Antón
80 km (50 miles) from Panama City • Full day

A picturesque mountain town surrounded by lush forests and waterfalls.

Soberanía National Park
30 km (19 miles) from Panama City • Half day to full day

A lush rainforest offering a variety of wildlife and hiking trails.

Festivals

Panama Carnival • February (4 days before Ash Wednesday) Panama Jazz Festival • January Festival de las Mil Polleras • July

Pro tips

  • Visit the Panama Canal early in the morning to see ships pass through the locks
  • Explore Casco Viejo on foot to discover its hidden gems and vibrant street life
  • Try local street food for an authentic culinary experience
  • Use the metro for efficient and affordable travel within the city
  • Book tours and activities in advance to secure your spot and avoid disappointment
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 12-99
1
Childs
Age 6-11
0
Infants
Age 0-5
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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