Monkey Island

Monkey Island is actually a group of small islands scattered across Gatun Lake, the massive man-made lake at the heart of the Panama Canal. When the Gatun Dam was built in the early 1900s, it flooded the Chagres River valley and turned hilltops into isolated islands — creating natural sanctuaries where wildlife thrives without ground predators.

Three species of monkeys call these islands home. White-faced capuchin monkeys are the most interactive — highly intelligent and curious, they often approach boats and even jump aboard. Mantled howler monkeys, the largest of the three, are famous for their deep calls that carry up to five kilometers through the forest canopy. The smallest residents are Geoffroy's tamarins, known locally as "titi monkeys" — Panama's only tamarin species, roughly the size of a squirrel, with a distinctive reddish-brown nape and white forehead tuft.

Beyond the monkeys, the surrounding rainforest is home to sloths, caimans, green iguanas, toucans, parrots, kingfishers, and many other tropical species. The boat ride itself is part of the experience — you'll cruise alongside massive cargo ships and cruise liners transiting the Panama Canal.

For the best wildlife sightings, early morning tours are ideal when the animals are most active. The dry season (mid-December through April) offers the most comfortable conditions.

Tour Highlights

• Boat tour on Gatun Lake alongside Panama Canal ship traffic
• Up-close encounters with capuchins, howler monkeys, and Geoffroy's tamarins
• Spot sloths, caimans, toucans, iguanas, and tropical birds
• Explore the rainforest islands formed during Panama Canal construction
• Kosher travel options available

What to Bring

• Hat
• Sunscreen
• Insect repellent
• Camera or binoculars
• Light, breathable clothing