Rainforest & Gatun Lake & Locks Cruise
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Port
Gatun Lake, Panama
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Activity Level
Moderate
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Excursion Type
Local Sightseeing,14,All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At
$114.95
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 5 Hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
Depart the pier for a scenic approximately 45-minute drive to a local marina and board a tour boat for a 1.5-hour eco-cruise on Gatún Lake. Gatún is a large artificial lake forming a major part of the Panama Canal transit. The lake was created between 1907 and 1913 by the building of the Gatún Dam across the Chagres River. The hills bordering the Chagres Valley open up widely around the perimeter of the lake.
Glide over the water, passing lush rain forest en route to a secluded region of Lake Gatún -- the perfect spot to experience firsthand the splendor and excitement of the jungle. Birds, monkeys, sloths, iguanas, and crocodiles are just a few of the animals that you may see in their native surroundings -- they are part of the much larger population of reptiles, mammals, insects and birds that inhabit more than 50,000 acres of Panamanian forest. An incredible 105 species of mammal, 525 species of bird and 124 reptiles and amphibian species make this one of the richest and most accessible green zones in the world.
Afterward, tour the new Agua Clara Locks area on the Panama Canal. These New Locks give you a modern perspective of the Panama Canal as they are part of the expansion project that allows the canal to accommodate neo-Panamax ships. Your guide explains the engineering feat required to move ships over a continental divide that separates two oceans. Spend approximately one hour at the Visitor Center observing the locks in operation.
Finally, reboard your air-conditioned transportation for the drive to Colón.
Notes:
Wear comfortable walking shoes. This excursion departs from Gatún Lake and ends in Colón, where you will rejoin the ship. Tour departure times may vary due to local authority clearance and will be announced on board the ship. The Panama Canal Authority assigns specific time slots for the transit of each vessel transiting the locks; the arrival of the ship in Colón may be delayed. Be prepared for such a delay by bringing any needed medication or essential items on tour. Facilities are available at the terminal in Colón while you are waiting for the ship's arrival.