Panama City-Monkey Island & Sloths
Monkey Tours
On our second day in Panama, we woke up bright and early for a tour to Monkey Island and the Sloth Sanctuary. We had booked the excursion through Get Your Guide, a company we’ve used over the years for various tours and cruise excursions. This time, we knew it was a small group tour, but when a little white Toyota Corolla pulled up, Bruce and I exchanged that look. “What is this?” we thought. “Where’s the tour van?”
Our guide stepped out and opened the doors. She spoke very little English, but we climbed in anyway—yes, we’re very trusting! There was already a tourist seated in the front, and with the two of us in the back, we were surprised when our guide said we still had one more person to pick up.
We drove into the center of Old Town, where we picked up our final fellow traveler. We all looked at each other, shook our heads, and then off we went—on a somewhat unconventional start to our Monkey Island adventure.
The real thrill began when our small monkey boat set off into the canal among massive cargo ships. Cruising alongside these giants was a once-in-a-lifetime experience—it felt both humbling and exhilarating.
As we crossed Lake Gatun, surrounded by lush rainforest and the distant calls of howler monkeys, anticipation built. The island is home to several monkey species, including white-faced capuchins, tamarins, howlers, and squirrel monkeys—many of which are now familiar with human visitors.
As we neared the island, monkeys began emerging from the trees, swinging from branches and even hopping onto our boat, drawn by the fruit we had on hand. Being so close to these curious, intelligent creatures in their natural habitat was truly unforgettable.
Gamboa Rainforest Reserve
On the way to the Sloth Sanctuary, we made a memorable stop at the Gamboa Rainforest Reserve. Nestled where the scenic Chagres River meets the Panama Canal, this magnificent destination is the only resort property in the area—an ideal spot to pause and soak in the serene beauty of the rainforest. With panoramic views, a great cup of coffee, and some delightful sweets, it was the perfect place to recharge before continuing our journey.
Sloth Sanctuary/Frogs
Once we arrived at the Sloth Sanctuary, we quickly discovered it was much more than we expected. In addition to the adorable sloths, the sanctuary featured a walk-through butterfly garden and a fascinating display of Panama’s most poisonous frogs. Having never seen these tiny, vibrant creatures up close before, I found it both intriguing and a little surreal—it’s amazing how something so small can be so powerful.
The Butterfly Garden at the Gamboa Sloth Sanctuary is a serene and captivating exhibit that showcases the rich diversity of Panama’s butterfly species. Visitors can stroll through a lush, enclosed environment where approximately 20 species of butterflies native to Panama are on display, including the striking Blue Morpho butterfly known for its vibrant iridescent wings.
This immersive experience allows guests to observe these delicate creatures up close as they flutter among tropical plants and flowers. The garden not only offers a visual feast but also serves an educational purpose, highlighting the importance of butterflies in pollination and the broader ecosystem. It’s a delightful addition to the sanctuary visit.
Then it was on to the one thing I came to Panama City to see—the sloths! And the sanctuary absolutely didn’t disappoint. Being that close to these gentle creatures was everything I hoped for. Watching them eat (slowly, of course) and just hang out in their typical laid-back style was oddly mesmerizing. They don’t do much—but that’s part of their charm. With their sweet, sleepy expressions and deliberate movements, it’s impossible not to fall in love. They’re just so darn cute.
Sloths are fascinating and iconic creatures, Panama is home to both two-toed and three-toed sloths. These slow-moving, tree-dwelling mammals are an integral part of Panama’s rich biodiversity, especially in its tropical rainforests. A trip to the sanctuary is a must when you visit Panama City.
Old Town Panama
Our last stop of the day was The Old Town of Panama City, known as Casco Viejo or Casco Antiguo, is a charming and historically rich district that offers a vivid glimpse into Panama’s colonial past.
Today, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its narrow cobblestone streets, colorful colonial buildings, and beautifully restored plazas. You’ll find a vibrant mix of architecture, from Spanish colonial to French and neoclassical influences, reflecting Panama’s diverse cultural history.
The Mirador de San Francisco de Asís is a scenic viewpoint located atop the Iglesia San Francisco de Asís in Casco Antiguo, the historic district of Panama City. This mirador offers panoramic views of the city’s skyline, the entrance to the Panama Canal, and the surrounding bay. Visitors can access the viewpoint for a donation of $5.00 plus tax. The site is open from Tuesday to Sunday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
The church itself is a significant historical and architectural landmark in Panama City. Climbing to the top provides not only breathtaking vistas but also an opportunity to learn about the rich history of the area. The experience is enhanced by informative displays that offer historical context and interpretation of the sights visible from the tower.
For those interested in photography, history, or simply enjoying a unique perspective of Panama City, the Mirador de San Francisco de Asís is a must-visit destination.
After two full days of touring the beautiful Panama City—immersing ourselves in its rich history, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine—we’ve gained a newfound appreciation for this incredible country. It’s a place that has truly captured our hearts, and we would wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone planning a trip. Panama is not to be missed.
