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If you’re headed to Panama, make sure to put Monkey Island on the top of your list for places to visit. This unique area allows you to get up close with monkeys and experience Panama’s tropical landscape. Here’s everything you need to know about visiting Monkey Island!
About Monkey Island
Located in the middle of Gatun Lake, Monkey Island is actually a collection of small islands where you can get up close and personal with, you guessed it, monkeys! Monkey Island visitors are able to see a variety of monkeys in their natural habitat, and even have them hop aboard their boat if they’re lucky. The drive to the Monkey Island dock is about 40 minutes from Panama City. It’s important to note that the area is only accessible by boat and visitors can’t actually step foot onto Monkey Island. Keep reading for more information on how to get to Monkey Island!
Types of Monkeys
The three most common types of monkeys to see on Monkey Island are capuchins, howlers, and tamarins. Capuchin monkeys are easy to spot in the brush with their distinct white and black coloring. Some of the capuchin monkeys are very friendly and will climb on board your boat.
The howler monkeys can be spotted in large groups high up in the trees. Listen closely while you’re near the howlers – they’re very intrigued by the boat’s noises and will let off their distinct roar as the boat revs its motor.
Make sure to keep an eye out for tamarin monkeys swinging among the branches. These small brown monkeys can move quickly and usually have no problem jumping onto the boat. We were lucky enough to have a few get close to us!
Getting to Monkey Island
Since Monkey Island can only be accessed by boat, it’s best to go there with a tour company so they can arrange all logistics. This tour through Viator is a great option. As part of the tour, you’ll board a small boat and spend about an hour cruising around Gatun Lake. We were able to see all three types of monkeys in multiple spots during our tour. Additionally, the tour will also take you to Fort San Lorenzo and the Agua Clara Locks Visitor Center. More information about the tour can be found in our 3 Days in Panama Itinerary. If you’re only interested in spotting wildlife, check out this Gatun Lake Wildlife Tour.
Check out our TikTok to see what our trip to Panama was like!
Looking for more to do in Panama? Check out our 3 Days in Panama Itinerary!
Disclaimer: All information presented in this post was accurate at the time of our trip. Attractions, availability, circumstances, operating hours, prices, etc. are subject to change and this post may not reflect the most up-to-date information. Readers are advised to do their due diligence in researching the location prior to travel. Hyperlink content may be out-of-date and is not sponsored by or affiliated with Scenic Sites unless otherwise noted.
Visited October 2022 | Posted May 2023
