Gatun Lake: Monkeys & Exotic Wildlife by the Canal
Active
4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Set out from Panama City in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle bound for Gamboa Marina. Board your riverboat and glide across Gatun Lake, a vital section of the Panama Canal surrounded by lush tropical rainforest.
As you cruise, watch for the lake’s most famous residents — white-faced capuchins, howler monkeys, and Geoffrey’s tamarins. With a bit of luck, you may also spot sloths resting in the treetops, colorful tropical birds, or crocodiles sunning on the shore.
Your certified guide shares fascinating insights about the canal, its history, and the rich biodiversity of the Chagres River basin, making this more than just a wildlife encounter.
End your adventure with a comfortable return ride to Panama City, arriving back at your hotel with unforgettable memories and photos of Panama’s wildlife.
Available options
Private Tour
Private Tour: Please note that the private option has to have a minimum of 4 people to operate.<br/>Pickup included
Monkeys and wildlife
Tour pickup: From 6:25am to 10:30am
10:50am to 3:30PM
1:30PM to 5:30PM<br/>Pickup included
Miraflores Visitor Center
Miraflores Visitor's Center : Experience the perfect blend of Panama’s history and nature! Start your day with a visit to the Miraflores Visitors Center<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Professional local guide
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Boat ride included
Transport by air-conditioned car or minivan
Detailed itinerary
1
The tour starts with hotel pick up in Panama City followed by a transfer to the Gamboa Marina. Once there, you will go on a 15-minute boat ride on the Gatun lake until you observe 3 kinds of Monkeys in a wild.
Together with a guide, you will spend about 80 minutes observing the different species of monkeys. After the visit, you will go on a 15-minute boat ride back to the Gamboa Marina followed by a transfer back to your hotel.
2
Stop 2
Pass by
We navegate on the lake and probable you will see big cargos on the lake
What's not included
Meals
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.8
855 reviews
5★
735
4★
69
3★
35
2★
5
1★
11
Tripadvisor
4.8
924 reviews
5★
827
4★
55
3★
24
2★
9
1★
9
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
May be operated by a multilingual guide
Child rate applies only when sharing with 2 paying adults
Bring raincoat or towel and extra cloth in case you need it after the boat ride.
Important notes
• You will go to tropical RAIN-forest, be ready to get wet by the rain.
Bring comfortable dry fit clothes, tennis shoes or sandals, sunscreen, hat or cap, sunglasses, and camera.
• Secondary contact numbers are +507 69784948 or +507 68213947 or +507 65000136
• Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative date or full refund.
Hotel pickups commence prior to this time (morning; between 6;15am and 7am or afternoon: between 1:15pm and 2pm)
Hotels around the PTY airport need to take a taxi and meet us at the downtown.
Hotels or Resorts outside the downtown area like Playa Bonita, Costa Del Este, Santa Maria, have extra cost US$20 total payable in cash to the driver to cover round trip transfers for your party between 1 and 10 members or if you prefer, you could take a taxi or uber to meet us in any hotel inside the downtown,
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
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
