Panama
Wounaan community
Half-day tour to visit the Wounaan indigenous community along the Panama Canal.
Why is community-based tourism so important? In our price-based economy, assigning value to things is crucial; otherwise, they risk being perceived as valueless. But how can a life or nature itself be deemed without worth? There exists an intrinsic value in nature that markets often struggle to acknowledge. Tourism plays a vital role here. By attributing a monetary value to experiences like nature, culture, and personal interactions, we provide essential support to parks, communities, and wildlife conservation efforts.
When you join us to visit the Wounaan community, not only will you have an incredible experience, but you will also contribute directly to the Wounaan community’s ongoing struggle for recognition and preservation.
Add to your itinerary
- Meeting at the Gamboa pier
- Community based tourism
- Meeting at 9 AM
- Half day tour
- Daily departure
- Lunch included
- English speaking guide
Nature and outdoors
History and culture
Solidariety and community
Food and socialization
Schedule
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09 AM
Meeting at the Gamboa pier
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09:30 AM
Arrival at Monkey island
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11:30 AM
Arrival at the Wounaan community
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01 PM
Leaving the community
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03 PM
Back to Gamboa pier in Panama city
The itinerary
This tour focuses on the indigenous Wounaan community, situated near Gamboa within Soberania Park (approximately 40 km from Panama City). We will meet at the Gamboa public pier, where the chief of the Wounaan community will join us aboard the boat equipped for security. During this excursion, we will navigate the Panama Canal’s waterways, exploring secondary routes that include well-known spots like Monkey Island. Here, various monkey species such as Titi and Capuchin may approach the boat to enjoy the fruits used to attract them. With some luck, we may also observe other wildlife along the way, such as crocodiles, turtles, and a diverse array of bird species, enhancing this already fascinating experience.
The boat journey continues through the hidden islands of Gatun Lake, the primary water reserve of the Panama Canal, offering participants a unique opportunity to observe the immense ships transiting between the Pacific and Atlantic oceans. We then proceed to the village nestled in the heart of the tropical forest to uncover the secrets of Wounaan culture. You’ll have the chance to hear from a community member about the significance of their traditional dances and the enchanting music of the flutes performed during these cultural showcases.
A typical lunch is included, featuring freshly fried river fish and plantains served in banana leaves, eaten without utensils, alongside tropical fruits. You’ll also have the opportunity to get a non-permanent tattoo using vegetable dyes or take a guided walk in the forest, where a botanist will highlight the miraculous properties of various plants.
What is included?
- Gatun Lake boat tour to monkey island
- Guide in English and Spanish
- Donation to Wounaan Community village
- Lunch in the village with bottled water
What NOT included?
- Transportation from/to Panama City
- Personal expenses inside the community
What to bring?
We suggest you dress appropriately with light clothes, comfortable shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, hat or cap and raincoat. You should bring cash for personal expenses.
For those who want to swim: swimsuit, towel and dry underwear.