Tour to a Waterfall and Embera Village with Lunch
About this experience
Experience the magic of the Panama rainforest on this unforgettable adventure combining a jungle waterfall hike with an authentic visit to an Embera indigenous village. This full-day tour takes you deep into the Chagres National Park, one of Panama's most pristine protected areas. Your hosts Cesar and Demetrio have been offering top-notch experiences since 2015 and have built a genuine friendship with the Embera people since 2016. Together they work with meticulous attention to detail to ensure you have the best and most unforgettable experience possible. The adventure begins with a free pickup from your accommodation in Panama City or Casco Viejo. After a scenic drive to the Chagres River, you'll board a traditional dugout canoe paddled by Embera guides for a peaceful journey upriver through the rainforest. The canoe ride offers excellent opportunities to spot wildlife including toucans, monkeys, and exotic birds. At the trailhead, you'll embark on a moderate jungle hike through water, mud, and rocks to reach a spectacular hidden waterfall. Take a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear pool or simply relax and absorb the stunning natural beauty of the cascading water surrounded by lush tropical vegetation. After hiking back, the canoe takes you to an Embera village where you'll be welcomed with open arms. Enjoy a traditional lunch prepared by the community and learn about the Embera way of life that has remained largely unchanged for centuries. The visit includes a captivating performance of traditional music and dance, and you'll have time to explore the village and browse beautiful handcrafted souvenirs including intricate baskets and Jagua body art tattoos.
What you'll do
622 reviews
Kadijah
Orlando, FL
Phenomenal experience. The guide was great, the food was phenomenal, the waterfall was beautiful, and I appreciated the opportunity to see the local culture.
Gerardo
Ciudad López Mateos, Mexico
Translated from Portuguese.
Lindsay
Cincinnati, OH
Everything was perfect and such an incredible experience! As my dad said (this was for his 70th birthday) “I did something at few people will ever do!”
Kahlil
Los Angeles, CA
This tour was good for the day saw and learned some things I never would have knew
Kai
Kingston, Jamaica
It was lovely! I learnt so much and the provided value was great!! The emberans are amazing and intelligent people and I can’t wait to visit again
Kadijah
Orlando, FL
Phenomenal experience. The guide was great, the food was phenomenal, the waterfall was beautiful, and I appreciated the opportunity to see the local culture.
Gerardo
Ciudad López Mateos, Mexico
Translated from Portuguese.
Lindsay
Cincinnati, OH
Everything was perfect and such an incredible experience! As my dad said (this was for his 70th birthday) “I did something at few people will ever do!”
Kahlil
Los Angeles, CA
This tour was good for the day saw and learned some things I never would have knew
Kai
Kingston, Jamaica
It was lovely! I learnt so much and the provided value was great!! The emberans are amazing and intelligent people and I can’t wait to visit again
Zhi-Xuan
A wonderful and informative day tour! I gained great insight into Panama’s indigenous tribes, particularly the Emberá culture. Plus, the lunch and fresh fruits were delicious.
Meet your host
Carlos
Local Guide
Reviews
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.
To protect your payment, never transfer money or communicate outside of the Bandits website or app.
About your guide
To protect your payment, never transfer money or communicate outside of the Bandits website or app.
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.
Where you'll be
Panama City, Panama Province, Panama
Free pickup from accommodations in downtown Panama City or Casco Viejo. Alternative meeting point at Starbucks Albrook Mall if preferred.
Things to know
Guest requirements
Guests ages 5 and up can attend. Must bring $35 cash for Embera Community tax.
Activity level
Moderate activity level, beginner skill. Expect to walk through water, mud, and rocks.
What to bring
Water shoes or hiking sandals, swimsuit, change of clothes, sunscreen, $35 cash per person, extra cash for souvenirs.
Accessibility
Trail involves uneven terrain. Message host for specific accessibility details.
Cancellation policy
Cancel at least 1 day before for a full refund.
Things to know
Guest requirements
Guests ages 5 and up can attend. Must bring $35 cash for Embera Community tax.
Activity level
Moderate activity level, beginner skill. Expect to walk through water, mud, and rocks.
What to bring
Water shoes or hiking sandals, swimsuit, change of clothes, sunscreen, $35 cash per person, extra cash for souvenirs.
Accessibility
Trail involves uneven terrain. Message host for specific accessibility details.
Cancellation policy
Cancel at least 1 day before for a full refund.
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Art & Culture vetted for quality
Every experience on Bandits is reviewed by our team to ensure quality, safety, and authenticity. Learn more
Vetted for quality
Every experience on Bandits is reviewed by our team to ensure it meets our quality standards. Learn more