How to Plan Your Panama City Gatun Lake and Monkey Island Tour

Are you planning a trip to Panama City and looking for a unique tour experience? Look no further than the Gatun Lake and Monkey Island Tour. This tour offers the chance to observe three different species of monkeys in their natural habitat, explore Gatun Lake in a boat navigating the Panama Canal, and discover the enormous biodiversity of the Panamanian rainforest. Here’s how you can plan your own Gatun Lake and Monkey Island Tour.

Step 1: Book Your Tour

The first step in planning your Gatun Lake and Monkey Island Tour is to book your tour. Luckily, booking this tour is easy. You can book directly through the tour’s website or by using a third-party site like GetYourGuide. Here is the link to book the tour: book the tour here. Be sure to book your tour in advance to guarantee availability.

Step 2: Prepare for the Tour

Before you depart on your tour, there are a few things you should do to prepare. First, make sure you bring plenty of water and sunscreen. You’ll also want to wear comfortable, lightweight clothing and shoes suitable for walking. Since you’ll be spending time on a boat, it’s a good idea to bring a light jacket or sweater in case the weather gets chilly. Finally, don’t forget your camera so you can capture all of the incredible sights.

Step 3: Join Your Tour

On the day of your tour, your guide will pick you up from your hotel in Panama City. From there, you’ll head to the town of Gamboa in the Soberania National Park. Once you arrive, you’ll board a boat and depart along the Gatun Lake next to the huge ships that cross the Panama Canal.

Step 4: Explore Monkey Island

One of the highlights of the Gatun Lake and Monkey Island Tour is the chance to observe three different species of monkeys in their natural habitat. After departing from the boat, you’ll head over to Monkey Island. Here, you can admire the white-faced capuchin, Geoffroy’s tamarin, and howler monkeys. The monkeys are used to humans and are quite sociable, so you can expect to get up close and personal with them. Be sure to follow your guide’s instructions and respect the monkeys’ boundaries.

Step 5: Explore Gatun Lake

After exploring Monkey Island, it’s time to get back on the boat and explore the rest of Gatun Lake. During the boat trip, you’ll have the opportunity to marvel at the fauna and vegetation of the tropical forest. You’ll also have the chance to see many species of birds like toucans, hawks, herons, snail kites, and other mammals like agoutis, coatis, and capybaras.

Step 6: Return to Your Hotel

After your boat trip and Monkey Island experience, it’s time to head back to your hotel. Your guide will drop you off at your hotel so you can get some rest and relive all of the incredible experiences from your tour.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a unique and memorable tour experience in Panama City, the Gatun Lake and Monkey Island Tour is the perfect choice. By following these simple steps, you can easily plan and enjoy this incredible tour. Be sure to book your tour in advance, prepare properly, and enjoy all that Gatun Lake and Monkey Island have to offer.

An Insider’s Guide to Panama City: The Gateway to Gatun Lake and Monkey Island Tour

Panama City, the capital of Panama, is a modern metropolis that offers a unique blend of urban attractions and natural wonders. Its strategic location at the entrance of the Panama Canal makes it an essential stop for travelers interested in exploring the country’s vibrant culture, history, and biodiversity.

Attractions in Panama City

Panama City boasts several must-see landmarks, including the Panama Canal, the Casco Viejo (Old Town), and the Biomuseo. The Panama Canal is the world’s most crucial waterway, connecting the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans and allowing ships to sail from New York to San Francisco without ever leaving the water. Visitors can watch the canal’s operations from the Miraflores locks and visit the Canal Museum, which tells the story of this engineering marvel.

Casco Viejo is a historic neighborhood with colonial-era architecture, a vibrant nightlife, and an eclectic dining scene. Visitors can stroll its narrow streets, visit the baroque San Jose Church, and admire unparalleled views of the city from the rooftop of the American Trade Hotel.

The Biomuseo, designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry, is a museum dedicated to Panama’s staggering biodiversity. Its colorful exhibits tell the story of the country’s rich fauna and flora, from the unique species that inhabit the Darien Jungle to the marine life that thrives in the Gulf of Chiriqui.

Dining Spots in Panama City

Panama City has an eclectic dining scene that reflects the country’s cultural diversity. Local favorites include ceviche, sancocho, and arroz con pollo. One of the best places to taste these dishes is Mercado de Mariscos, a vibrant seafood market where visitors can buy fresh fish and sample traditional Panamanian cuisine from street vendors.

For a more refined experience, visitors can head to Casco Viejo’s rooftop bars and restaurants, such as the Tantalo Hotel, where they can indulge in gourmet cuisine while enjoying panoramic views of the city skyline.

Cultural Experiences in Panama City

Panamanians are known for their warm hospitality, and visitors can immerse themselves in their culture by attending a traditional folkloric show or joining their lively festivals. One such event is the annual Carnival of Panama, where locals and tourists alike dance to the rhythm of the conga drums and enjoy colorful parades.

Another cultural highlight is the Panama Jazz Festival, which takes place every January and features some of the world’s best jazz musicians. Visitors can attend concerts, workshops, masterclasses, and jam sessions throughout the week-long event.

Local History in Panama City

Panama City has a rich history that dates back to the colonial era. One of the best places to learn about it is the Panama Viejo, the site of the original Spanish settlement. Visitors can explore the ruins of the first European city on the Pacific coast, including the impressive cathedral and the tower of the former Convent of the Company of Jesus.

Another must-see historical landmark is the Museum of Panama Viejo, which houses a collection of ceramics, gold artifacts, and colonial-era furniture. The museum’s exhibits offer a fascinating glimpse into Panama’s cultural and artistic heritage.

Off-the-beaten-path suggestions

For those who seek adventure and nature, Panama City offers several off-the-beaten-path attractions worth exploring. One such place is Soberania National Park, a haven for birdwatchers and hikers. The park is home to over 500 species of birds, including toucans, hummingbirds, and parrots.

Another hidden gem is the Embera Indian Village, located in the Chagres River Basin. Visitors can take a boat ride to the village, where they can interact with the Embera indigenous people, learn about their culture and traditions, and enjoy a traditional meal.

Conclusion

Panama City is a city that offers something for everyone, whether you’re interested in exploring its cultural heritage, indulging in its vibrant dining scene, or experiencing its natural wonders. And, of course, it’s the gateway to Gatun Lake and Monkey Island, two of Panama’s most popular attractions. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, Panama City is a destination you won’t soon forget.