This tour goes up into the hills outside Panama City to the Chagres River where you transfer with your guide onto an open-top Emberá motorised canoe. You zip along the clear river waters by boat through beautiful scenery to visit the small indigenous community of Emberá Indians in the Chagres National Park.
The birdlife is prolific along the river and water levels permitting you will stop for a dip in a waterfall en route. On arrival at the village you gather with other visitors and together you learn about the Emberá culture, their knowledge of botanical plants, meet their artisans and experience their traditional dances, music and food with a tasty lunch. They are very welcoming and keen to chat to you and show you their village.
Start planning your tailor-made trip by contacting one of our Panama specialists
These activities are designed to give you the most authentic experiences around where you're staying. We work with local guides, who use their knowledge and often a resident's eye to show you the main sights and more out-of-the-way attractions. Our specialists can suggest tours and activities that will introduce you to the local ways of life.
Gatún Lake Boat Tour & Rainforest Hike
Travel along the scenic Gamboa Road to the Soberania National Park for a walk along the Pipeline Road, Plantation Road or El Charco Trail, all of which are fantastic for viewing the unique ecology of the canal watershed.
Panama City & Canal Tour
The tour of Panama City takes in the Miraflores Locks on the Panama Canal, Panama Viejo and Casco Antiguo. The tour begins with a visit to the impressive Miraflores Locks on the Panama Canal.
Portobello & San Lorenzo Forts
After crossing the canal over one of the lock gates you continue to Fort San Lorenzo, which was constructed by the Spaniards in 16th century to defend against the constant threat of pirates seeking to interrupt the transporting of Inca gold. The fort is very isolated and accessed via a bumpy road, but the drive is worth it with stunning views out across the Caribbean Sea and the mouth of the Chagres River.
The Discovery Catamaran
The Discovery is owned and operated by Panama Marine Adventures (PMA) and is a 33-metre purpose built catamaran capable of travelling up to a speed of 18 knots.
You can enjoy this activity as part of the suggested tours below, or we can weave it into a trip shaped entirely around you.
