A Cultural Encounter with the Emberá Private Tour
Active
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
The guardians of the Panama Canal Jungle. Learn the ancestral culture of the indigenous Emberá living within the jungle of the Chagres National Park and its biodiversity. Your experience will start at 7:30am with a pick-up at your hotel, and head to Chagres National Park. Our Emberá hosts will be waiting for us at the port of Curutu. They will take us in their traditional dugout canoes across the Chagres River, you will enjoy the beautiful nature and scenery to start a moderate 20 minutes hike through the jungle to a pristine waterfall where you can enjoy a freshwater swim in the middle of the rainforest. Afterwards, we will return to our traditional dugout canoes and head to the village of the Emberá community. We will be warmly welcomed with traditional music, and offered an authentic lunch of fried fish, plantains and fruit. We will then receive a presentation on their culture and traditional way of life and enjoy traditional dance and music performances.
Available options
Private Tour
Pickup included
What's included
Private transportation
Professional guide
Bottled water
National Park and Community entrance
Dugout Canoe transfer
Lunch
Detailed itinerary
1
We will pick you up at your hotel in Panama City at 7:30 am and head to Chagres National Park.
2
Drive to Chagres National Park
3
Our Emberá hosts will be waiting for us at the port of Curutu and take us in their traditional dugout canoes across the Chagres River
4
Moderate but slippery 20 minutes hike through the jungle to a pristine waterfall where you can enjoy a fresh water swim in the middle of the rainforest
5
Head to the village of the Emberá community. We will be warmly welcomed with traditional music, and offered an authentic lunch of fried fish, plantains and fruit. We will then receive a presentation on their culture and traditional way of life and enjoy traditional dance and music performance
6
It is time to say good bye to the Embera Community and beauty of the Chagres river and go back to Panama-City
What's not included
Optional Traditional body painting with juice from the fruit of the Jagua tree (20 USD)
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
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Tripadvisor
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Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Not recommended for travelers with difficulties to walk in slippery terrain (possibility to remove this activity walk to waterfall) from the tour
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
