Half Day Private Kayak Tour on Lake Gatun

Panama City , Panama

Half Day Private Kayak Tour on Lake Gatun

Active

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

In the early morning, your guide will meet you at your hotel lobby and take you to the Chorrera public ramp or Lake Gatun public ramp after a transfer of 45 minutes where you will start the kayaking trip. From the ramp, your guide will take you into the Chagres River to explore the nature of the area from your kayak.

Explore rowing on a kayak on the beautiful Chagres River before it merges at Gatun Lake where the huge vessels and boats transit from Ocean to Ocean. The Chagres River is the main tributary of water of the Canal. A quiet waterway, enjoying the sound of the wildlife of this dense tropical forest. You will have the opportunity to see a sloth in a tree, a colorful bird peacefully living in the jungle, or at the top the water plants, caimans, and turtles among many other species of the local fauna.

After this amazing adventure, your guide will take you back to the Gamboa public ramp or Chorrera public ramp where your transportation awaits to take you back to your hotel.

Available options

Half Day Private Kayak Tour on Lake Gatun

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

Bottled water

Kayak

Air-conditioned vehicle

Private Guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

The Gamboa public ramp is where you will start this excursion in Gamboa Park region for your kayaking trip. From the public ramp Gatun Lake your guide will take you into the Chagres River passing by the Panama Canal to explore the nature of the area from your kayak. This area is very popular for spotting iguanas, small crocodiles, kingfishers, sloths, and many more species. You will have the opportunity to see a sloth in a tree, a colorful bird peacefully living in the jungle, or at the top the water plants, caimans, and turtles among many other species of the local fauna. After this amazing adventure, your guide will take you back to the Gamboa public ramp where your transportation awaits to take you back to your hotel.
Travel time to/from Panama City is 45 minutes which leaves over 2 hours of kayaking.

What's not included

Lunch

Snacks

Pickup from Playa bonita hotels

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

The total duration includes the time for kayaking.

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