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Panama City·Wildlife & Nature
A curious capuchin monkey eats peanuts aboard a boat during the Panama Canal Monkey Island Tour, surrounded by tourists in orange life vests.
A large cargo ship named 'Courageous Ace' navigates the Panama Canal, assisted by a tugboat, under a partly cloudy sky.
Group of tourists wearing orange life jackets enjoying a boat tour on the Panama Canal in Panama City, Panama.
Two tourists in life jackets aboard a small boat, observing a large cargo ship navigating the Panama Canal near Monkey Island.

Panama Canal Monkey Island Boat Tour

5.0 ·
4.5 hours

About this experience

Experience the Panama Canal like never before on this unforgettable wildlife boat tour through Gatun Lake. Cruise through the historic waterway that connects the Caribbean to the Pacific Ocean while spotting incredible wildlife on the famous Monkey Islands. Your expert guide, a certified biologist accredited by the Panama Tourism Authority, will lead you through the lush rainforest waters of Soberania National Park. Watch capuchin monkeys swing through the trees, hear howler monkeys call across the jungle, and keep your eyes peeled for sloths, crocodiles, toucans, and other tropical birds. Marvel at massive container ships navigating the canal locks as you learn about the engineering wonder that changed global trade. After the boat tour, browse local markets for authentic Panamanian handmade souvenirs. This half-day adventure includes round-trip transportation from Panama City, a scenic boat cruise, bottled water, snacks, and expert wildlife commentary in English and Spanish. Perfect for families, nature lovers, and anyone wanting to experience the wild side of the Panama Canal.

What you'll do

5.0 ·

1,227 reviews

Kadijah

Kadijah

Orlando, FL

· 1 week ago

Great excursion, great guide, and the driver dropped us off wherever we asked. Would recommend but avoid rainy days.

Stacey

Stacey

Bryant, AR

· 2 weeks ago

Attila was patient, approachable, and very thorough with responses to questions asked. We admire his respect and love for the animals! We'd love to enjoy another tour with him and his vast knowledge!

Lee

Lee

Freeport, The Bahamas

· 2 weeks ago

It was a lovely experience. This is my second time in Panama City. And I did the Monkey 🐒 tour before, so I decided to do it again and it was great. Our host took us to a souvenir store after our tour, which was another plus an hour to the experience also.

Ed

Ed

Dallas, TX

· 2 weeks ago

Amazing tour!! Everything was planned well and ran smoothly. Our host Sharon was very knowledgeable and made sure we got to get as close to the wildlife as possible. We saw so many monkeys and birds and even some crocs! Would definitely recommend this to any travelers looking for a fun & memorable half day

Maria

Maria

Heraklion, Greece

· 2 weeks ago

I am so so glad that I chose this experience! I couldn’t imagine there’s all this wildlife almost right next to the canal. Hosts were super knowledgeable and kind. As a solo traveler this experience is a must!

Meet your host

Carlos

Carlos

Local Guide

1,227

Reviews

5.0

Rating

I'm a biologist and Certified Nature Specialist accredited by the Panama Tourism Authority. Living near Panama City, I've spent 10+ years studying the biodiversity of Soberania National Park. Join me to spot monkeys, birds, crocodiles, and unique plants around Gatun Lake. My passion is sharing Panama's incredible wildlife with visitors from around the world.

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Where you'll be

Map of Panama City, Panama

Panama City, Panama Province, Panama

Pickup from your Panama City hotel or designated meeting point. Exact location and time confirmed after booking.

Things to know

Guest Requirements

Guests ages 2 and up can attend. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Activity Level

Light activity level, suitable for beginners. Mainly seated boat ride with short walks.

What to Bring

Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, camera with zoom lens, and insect repellent.

Accessibility

Wheelchair accessible boat available on request. Mainly flat ground at market stops. Sighted guide assistance available.

Cancellation Policy

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before start time for full refund.

Bandit Guard

Every experience on Bandits is covered by our Bandit Guard protection. If something goes wrong, we'll help make it right.

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Vetted for quality

Every experience on Bandits is reviewed by our team to ensure it meets our quality standards. Learn more

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From$68/ guest
Free cancellation
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