Embera Village Day Tour, Chagres River & Waterfalls + Lunch, Fruits & Water

Panama City , Panama

Embera Village Day Tour, Chagres River & Waterfalls + Lunch, Fruits & Water

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(115 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Step off the beaten path just 1 hour from Panama City and immerse yourself in the stunning rainforest of Panama. On this unforgettable day tour, you’ll visit a traditional Embera village, meet the community, and discover their rich culture through music, handcrafted art, and daily life.

Nature lovers will be amazed by the incredible biodiversity of the region, from playful spider monkeys and other wildlife to colorful tropical birds, reptiles, and amphibians, along with lush plant life. You’ll also enjoy a refreshing waterfall along the Chagres River, where you can walk along the riverbed and cool off in the natural pools.

This tour offers a perfect mix of culture, adventure, and nature, giving you an authentic Panamanian experience away from the crowds. Ideal for day trips from Panama City, family-friendly adventures, wildlife spotting, and cultural immersion, it’s a must-do for travelers seeking an authentic Embera village experience.

Available options

Pick up in Playa Bonita

Duration: 6 hours Lunch, Fruit & Water Comfortable car with AC Pickup included

Embera Village Day Tour & Waterfalls

Duration: 6 hours Lunch, fruit, water comfortable car with AC Pickup included

What's included

Transportation from Hotel to Tour Starting Point

Bottled water

English speaking tour guide

Seasonal fruits (pineapple, banana, orange, and tangerine)

Traditional Fried fish and plantain

Detailed itinerary

You’ll start with a visit to an authentic Embera village, where you’ll be warmly welcomed by the community. Learn about their unique customs, traditions, and handicrafts, and gain insight into their daily life. Enjoy a delicious traditional Embera meal, freshly prepared by the villagers, accompanied by tropical fruits and refreshing water.

Next, we’ll head to a refreshing waterfall along the Chagres River. Depending on the season, you’ll enjoy a short 5–20 minute walk along the riverbed, surrounded by lush jungle scenery. Be sure to bring water shoes or Crocs, as parts of the trail may be slippery or wet. Take a moment to cool off in the natural pools and capture some unforgettable photos!

What's not included

Not included: Rain ponchos (please bring your own if desired)

Not included: Optional henna tribal tattoos at the community

Not included: Chagres National Park

Not Included: Emberá - Comarca

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8

65 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.8

50 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

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

IMPORTANT - FOR LAST MINUTE BOOKINGS ONLY: You need to obtain a verbal confirmation from our office to confirm your tour. If you have not received our confirmation or an itinerary from our office team, the tour is NOT CONFIRMED and it will be scheduled for the following day.

If the water level of the river is too high or too low, this tour does not include the tour to the waterfall. We will attempt to substitute the waterfall with another option where guests can bathe in the Gamboa River. During the rainy season, with high amounts of rain or during dry seasons with drought like conditions, we reserve the right to skip this part of the tour for the safety of our guests

THERE IS A SURCHARGE FOR PICK UP AND DROP OFF AT HOTELS OUTSIDE OF PANAMA CITY, SUCH AS TOCUMEN, COSTA DEL ESTE, PLAYA BONITA AND OTHERS. Please select the relevant booking option or kindly send us a message.

The 15–20 minute hike to the waterfall involves walking on a jungle path that may be slippery and have larger rocks, so we strongly recommend wearing water shoes or Crocs. This portion of the tour is not recommended for travelers with mobility issues, back problems, knee or foot injuries, or any other medical concerns that could limit your hiking ability. Please use caution and judge your own abilities. Guests who prefer not to participate in the waterfall hike can remain in the piragua boat under the supervision of one of the Embera guides.

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

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