Ride an aerial tram through the forest canopy, boat the back channels of Gatun Lake to Monkey Island and visit Panama’s first sloth sanctuary. This half-day eco tour packs wildlife viewing, canopy science and a hands-on conservation stop into one practical outing from Panama City.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You lift out of the shadowed understory in a slow, humming gondola and the forest unfurls beneath you—layers of green that catch the sun like a restless sea. Below, the boat slips through the back channels of Gatun Lake, islands sliding past where howler calls punctuate the humid air. The day finishes in quiet company with sloths at a small rescue center, where slow, deliberate movement feels like the island’s heartbeat.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
4–5 hours
Fitness Level
Basic mobility and the ability to stand and walk short distances; suitable for most fitness levels
Wildlife
History
Gatun Lake was created during construction of the Panama Canal in the early 1900s; flooded forest and islands are a direct legacy of that engineering project, and Soberanía protects the remaining rainforest.
Conservation
The sloth sanctuary rehabilitates injured and orphaned animals and relies on visitor support; stay on trails, don’t feed wildlife and dispose of waste properly to minimize impact.
Reserve your spot on the Panama Eco Adventure: Gatun Lake, Aerial Tram & Sloth Sanctuary today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Binoculars for birds and monkeys
Bring compact binoculars—the best wildlife views are in the canopy and across narrow channels.
Expect tropical rain
A short, heavy shower can hit anytime—pack a lightweight rain jacket and quick-dry layers.
Respect the sanctuary rules
Observe sloths from designated areas only; touching or feeding is not permitted to protect animal health.
Cruise passengers: provide ship details
If arriving by cruise, supply ship name and docking time when booking to guarantee pickup coordination.
Lightweight rain jacket
Quick protection in tropical downpours keeps you dry during tram or boat segments.
summer
Binoculars
Helps spot canopy birds, monkeys and sloths across islands and treetops.
Insect repellent
Mosquitoes and biting insects are common in humid lowland rainforest.
summer
Water bottle (insulated)
Staying hydrated in the humid climate is important—refill where provided.