Monkey Island – A Wild Adventure in the Heart of the Panama Canal

Tucked between the Chagres River and Gatun Lake, right in the middle of the legendary Panama Canal, lies one of the most unforgettable nature experiences you can have in Panama — Monkey Island.

We started our journey from a quiet dock at the edge of the Chagres River, where the jungle seems to lean in and whisper secrets. Within minutes, we were floating into a world that feels like something out of a National Geographic documentary — thick green canopy above us, water all around, and the distant hum of ships making their way through one of the greatest engineering marvels of our time.

This place is a living contradiction — raw, untouched jungle sitting right next to the massive, man-made structure that connects oceans. As you cruise through Gatun Lake, you’ll spot enormous cargo ships and tankers gliding by like floating cities — it’s an insane contrast to the little motorboat we’re on, sneaking quietly toward the islands.

And then, the real stars of the show start to appear — the monkeys.

This jungle is the natural home to four species:
The squirrel monkeys, small, fast, and super curious
The howler monkeys, whose deep growls echo through the trees like a primal jungle anthem
The clever and playful capuchins, always up for mischief
And the spider monkeys, graceful acrobats swinging from branch to branch like circus performers

With a little patience (and some fruit in your hand), you might be lucky enough to have one of these guys come right up to the boat — or even take a snack right from your palm. It’s a truly magical moment, one you’ll never forget.

But monkeys aren’t the only locals here. Keep your eyes peeled for crocodiles sunning themselves on the banks, turtles floating lazily in the water, iguanas camouflaged in the branches, and even bats hiding under overhanging trees. And let’s not forget the sky — it’s often filled with eagles, toucans, macaw parrots, and dozens of other birds that paint the air with sound and color.

What makes this place even more special is the backdrop. You're literally in the middle of the Panama Canal — watching gigantic ships drift by as monkeys swing through the treetops. That contrast between wild and engineered is surreal.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're a wildlife lover, a photographer, a family looking for an adventure, or just someone who wants to see a wilder side of Panama, Monkey Island delivers. It's easy to reach, yet feels like a different world altogether.

And hey — if you're looking to experience it like a local, reach out to me. I’d be more than happy to take you there, share the stories, and help you spot all the amazing creatures that call this place home.

See you in the jungle!
Riko