Panama City , Panama

Embera Village - Cultural Tour

Active

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

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Sail by canoe (dugout) along the Chagres River to meet the indigenous people, Embera.
The indigenous Embera are one of the seven Native American ethnic groups still present in Panama.

- 30 minutes by boat along the river, by canoe.
You will stop at the foot of a magnificent waterfall where you can swim.
- women and children welcome you, dressed in their traditional outfits with vividly patterned skirts, ancestral music and dances.
Explanation of their culture, gastronomy and their particular language.
Includes a traditional meal.
At the end of the trip, you can purchase their crafts, which includes small animal figurines made of tagua.
The men of Embera make detailed carvings from cocobolo wood, and the women weave beautiful baskets from palm fibers.
During the trip, you will appreciate the magnificent flora and fauna of the region and learn a little more about the way of life of the community.

Available options

Embera Village - Cultural Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Round-trip air-conditioned transport to Corotú Port

Commentary of the tour by an Embera guide himself

Dinner

Canoe trip on the Gatun River

Detailed itinerary

Several families from Embera settled near the Chagres river several years ago and developed an ecotourism project allowing them to maintain their way of life and their customs in the face of the development of the modern world.
The indigenous Embera are one of the seven Native American ethnic groups still present in Panama.

We will visit the indigenous community of Embera Puru, which is located on the Chagres River.

At the port, you will start with a 30-minute boat ride along the river, by canoe.

You will stop at the foot of a magnificent waterfall where you can swim.

Once you arrive in the community, you are greeted by women and children who arrive dressed in their traditional outfits with brightly patterned skirts, ancestral music and dances.

They will explain to you in detail their culture, their gastronomy and their particular language.

This tour includes a traditional meal and "Jagua" body painting.

At the end of the trip, you can purchase their crafts, which includes small animal figurines made of tagua. The Embera men make detailed carvings from cocobolo wood and the women weave beautiful baskets from palm fibers.

During the trip you will enjoy the beautiful flora and fauna of the area and learn a little more about the way of life of the community.

What's not included

Crafts that you can buy from the community.

Body painting

Gratuities

No room to change your bathing suit at the fall. No towel

Fruits of your choice (pineapple, mangoes, bananas ...) during dinner with Emberas

Available languages

Guide guide

EN FR ES

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Bring good non-slip water shoes (depending on the season, for walking in the river)

Depending on the season if you want to go for a swim in the fall, you will have to walk in the river (sometimes difficult).

Meeting point

Hotel Pickup or Visit Panama Tour office meet-up.

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