Monkey Island & Gatún Lake
A boat through the rainforest lake at the heart of the Canal.
Gatún Lake was created when the Chagres River was dammed to build the Canal. Its forested islands, once hilltops, are part of the Canal watershed and home to rich wildlife.
By boat, you travel close to the islands and the shoreline, with time to look for monkeys, tropical birds and other wildlife. An easy, memorable outing for families and small groups.
Know before you go
What is Gatún Lake?
- Gatún Lake was formed in the 1910s when the Chagres River was dammed to build the Canal.
- Ships cross it for part of their transit between the two oceans.
- Its islands are former hilltops, covered in rainforest.
Why it matters: It is where the Canal and the rainforest meet.
Tell us what you’re planning.
Share what you know so far. A local coordinator will come back with questions, options and a proposal.
The Going To Panama team, here in Panama
Your request is with our team.
A local coordinator will reply by email or WhatsApp with the next steps.