Duo Rainforest Adventure – Monkey Island & Sloth Sanctuary
Starting from $129/pers$149/pers
This specially crafted tour is tailored for guests of Riviera Pacifica all-inclusive resorts and hotels
Journey into Panama’s lush rainforest on a captivating adventure that brings you face-to-face with the country’s most beloved wildlife. Cruise the jungle-lined waters of Gatun Lake to encounter playful monkeys in their natural habitat, then continue to a hidden sanctuary where rescued sloths and other native species thrive under expert care. Surrounded by tropical beauty and guided by passionate naturalists, this full-day experience offers a rare and heartwarming glimpse into Panama’s wild side—perfect for nature lovers, families, and curious explorers alike.
Monkey Island Safari – Gatun Lake
Your adventure begins with a scenic boat ride through the majestic waters of Gatun Lake, a vast expanse formed by the Panama Canal and surrounded by untouched rainforest. As you glide through narrow channels and around small jungle islands, your expert guide will help you spot a variety of wildlife—including crocodiles, toucans, and exotic birds.
The highlight of this excursion are the islands, home to several species of free-roaming monkeys such as white-faced capuchins, howlers, and Geoffroy’s tamarins. These curious and energetic primates often swing through the trees overhead or venture close to the boat, offering incredible opportunities for observation and photography in their natural habitat.
This immersive wildlife experience, set against the backdrop of one of the world’s most vital engineering marvels, offers a thrilling introduction to Panama’s rich biodiversity and the remarkable ecosystems that thrive along the Panama Canal corridor.
Sloth Sanctuary Experience
Nestled within a private rainforest reserve just outside Panama City, the Sloth Sanctuary is a peaceful haven dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and conservation of Panama’s native wildlife. Operated by a local non-profit organization, the sanctuary is home to two- and three-toed sloths, toucans, monkeys, coatis, and other animals that have been injured, orphaned, or displaced.
During your visit, knowledgeable bilingual guides will walk you through shaded jungle trails and natural enclosures, sharing the inspiring stories of the animals in their care. You’ll learn about sloth behavior, their unique role in the rainforest ecosystem, and the challenges they face in the wild. This is not a zoo, but an ethical and educational experience where close encounters feel personal, respectful, and uplifting.
The sanctuary visit typically lasts around 1 to 1.5 hours and offers meaningful interaction opportunities without direct contact, in line with animal welfare best practices. It’s a heartwarming highlight for wildlife lovers and a memorable moment of connection with Panama’s extraordinary biodiversity.
A stop for lunch at a typical Panamanian restaurant is planed. The meal is NOT INCLUDED in the price. Average meals prices range from $US12 – $US20.
Note: a minimum of 5 participants are required for us to run this tour. You will be notified in advance and refunded if the minimum is not met.
-
Days availables
- Sundays
- Wednesday (in high season only November-April)
-
Pickup time & duration
Pickup time: between 7:00am and 7:30am
(based on your hotel – exact time will be displayed on your confirmation)
Duration: 10.5h
-
Included
- Hotel pick up (from hotels located in the Riviera Pacifica/Playa Blanca)
- Comfortable transportation
- Guide
- Tickets to Panama Canal (Miraflores Visitors Center & IMAX theater – a value of US$17.22)
- Boat to Monkey Island
- Bottled water
- Taxes
-
Not included
- Lunch / Meals (we will stop for lunch at a local restaurant)
- Gratuities
-
What to bring
- Hat / Cap / Sunglasses
- Comfortable shoes
- Light & comfortable clothes
-
Difficulty
- Level: Easy
- Details: Light walking (1h to 2h), some stairs, must be able to embark and disembark on a lancha/boat
- Suggested age: 3yo+
Reservation
Searching Availability...
Notes
- This is a group tours that offers an exclusive small group (max. 12 guests) experience with personalized attention, while allowing for some interaction with other like-minded travelers.
- This tour must be booked at least 24 hours in advance of the tour date.
- This tour requires a minimum number of participants.
- A 20% refundable deposit is required to process the reservation and grantee your spot. If the minimum number of participants is not reached your deposit will be fully refunded.
- As soon as we reach the minimum number of participants you will receive an email requesting payment of the remaining balance.
- If the tour is cancelled by us, you will be advised minimum 48 hours before the tour date and all refunds will be processed immediately.
- Cancellation terms and conditions
-
We had an amazing time exploring Panama City! The visit to the Panama Canal was a highlight – watching the ships pass through was a unique experience. The views from Ancon Hill were absolutely breathtaking. Our guide was knowledgeable and made the day fun and informative. Casco Viejo was a delightful blend of history and charm. Highly recommend.
Sarah J.
Date of experience: August 2024 | From:
-
What an incredible day! We started at the Panama Canal, and I can't believe how close we got to the locks. Ancon Hill was such a peaceful retreat in the middle of the city with beautiful wildlife. The Causeway offered some of the best views of the skyline and ocean. Our guide made sure we had a fantastic time from start to finish!
Mark T.
Date of experience: September 2024 | From:
-
Fantastic tour! Our guide took us through Panama's most iconic spots, starting with the awe-inspiring canal. Ancon hill’s view over the city is simply stunning, and we even spotted a sloth! The old town had so much character with its beautiful architecture. We couldn’t have asked for a better experience.
Emily W.
Date of experience: July 2024 | From:
-
I had an unforgettable day on this tour! We visited the Panama canal, which was impressive. Ancon Hill is a small hike to the top but it was such a cool spot with a nice view of the city. Casco viejo was like stepping back in time, and our guide shared fascinating stories along the way. This tour is a must for anyone visiting Panama city.
David L.
Date of experience: March 2024 | From: