If you have a long layover in Panama—at least 8 hours, with arrival before 10:00 AM—this private tour offers a unique opportunity to experience the culture, nature, and beauty of Panama in just a few hours.

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Your guide will be waiting for you right at Tocumen International Airport (PTY), holding a sign for easy recognition. From there, you’ll begin a 1-hour scenic drive through the countryside, heading toward the Corotú Dock, located near the edge of Chagres National Park.

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At the dock, you’ll board a traditional handcrafted Emberá canoe powered by a small motor and glide upriver for about 20–25 minutes through lush rainforest scenery. Keep your eyes open—you might see tropical birds, monkeys, or even turtles along the way!

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Once you arrive at the Tusipono Emberá community, you’ll be warmly welcomed by members of the tribe. During your stay, they will share fascinating insights into their history, traditions, medicinal plants, and artisan crafts. You’ll enjoy a delicious traditional lunch of fresh fish and fried plantains, followed by a cultural dance and music presentation performed by the villagers.

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You’ll also have time to browse or purchase handmade crafts (perfect for souvenirs), or even get a temporary traditional Emberá body painting made from natural jagua fruit ink.

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After about 2 to 2.5 hours in the village, you’ll hop back on the canoe and return to the dock, then drive back to Tocumen International Airport. The entire tour lasts approximately 6 to 7.5 hours, giving you enough time to comfortably check in for your next flight.

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We can be back at the airport not later than 4:30 pm. If you arrive early, we can get to the airport before 3:00 pm.

 

Travel with ease—you can bring your luggage or carry on, as it is private, we have more space.

 

This tour is easy to moderate—some light walking and stairs are involved, but most travelers can comfortably participate.
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What is included?​

• Private round-trip transportation from Tocumen Airport

• Bilingual local guide

• Canoe ride

• All entrance and community fees

• Lunch in the Emberá village

• Cultural demonstration and dance

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Price per Adult:

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$135.00 USD (2 up to 3 people)

 

$120.00 USD (4 up to 8 people)​​

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$100.00 USD (More than 8 people)

★ Discounts available for large groups

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Price per child (6–11 years old):

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$75.00 USD

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Requirements to travel to Panamá

Information updated July 2025

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- A passport valid for at least 6 months past the date of entry.​

- A return ticket to the home country or onward destination.

- Sometimes immigration officers ask for economic solvency, which means that you should have $500 in cash or its equivalent, a credit card, or a bank statement. It is to show them not to turn it over.

- For more information about requirements for other nationalities, visit this link: https://www.tourismpanama.com/plan-your-vacation/advisories/

 

 

 

 

 

Frequently asked questions

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How to book?

To reserve the activity, choose the date and complete the form on this page.

You will receive your confirmation immediately. - We normally request a deposit to secure the guide and car.

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Is a minimum number of participants required?

This activity requires a minimum of 2 participants.

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How long is this tour?

This activity is approximately 7 hours.  

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Where do I meet the guide?

The guide will enter 30 minutes after your plane lands and will be located in Terminal #2 by the door P-17 if you travel with Copa Airlines, United or KLM/Air France. You can also select at the form what time you need the guide to show up at the airport. 

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What happens if my flight gets delayed?

We can wait if your flight is delayed, as this is a private tour. We monitor the flight. If the flight is cancelled, unfortunately is something out of our control and the deposit will not be refunded.

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How long does it take to exit the terminal or pass immigration?

Normally, it takes 45 minutes to 1 hour to complete the process from the time the plane lands to exit the terminal.

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Free cancellation

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the activity starts. Any cancellations after this time or no-shows on the day will not be refunded.

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