Gatun Lake was created when the canal was built, and its former hilltops are now jungle-covered islands. On this boat tour you explore its channels to watch howler and capuchin monkeys, tamarins, sloths, iguanas, crocodiles and toucans, while huge canal ships pass alongside.
How the tour works
- Pick-up in Panama City and transfer to Gamboa.
- Boat ride across the lake and jungle islands.
- Wildlife viewing from the boat, without landing.
- Views of ships transiting the canal.
Who it is for
Families and nature lovers. Animals are never fed or touched: they are watched from the boat at a respectful distance so their behaviour isn’t disturbed.
What to bring
- Insect repellent and sunscreen.
- Binoculars and a zoom camera.
- A light rain jacket in the wet season.
Best time
All year. Early mornings bring more animal activity and less heat.
Booking and combining
You can book this experience online as a standalone activity or add it to your sailing week with us. After booking we confirm the exact time and meeting point, and if weather or sea conditions force a cancelation we offer another date or a full refund.
Included
- Panama City hotel pick-up
- Boat with naturalist guide
- Life jackets
- Water and fruit
FAQs
Do you feed the monkeys?
No, they are only watched from the boat.
What animals will we see?
Monkeys, sloths, crocodiles, iguanas and many birds.
How long does it take?
4 to 5 hours including transfers.
