Paddling adventures in Panama City deliver remarkable bang for your buck. The Chagres River stands out as the top spot, where guided tours combine wildlife watching with authentic visits to Embera communities. You’ll get the best value at Gatun Lake, perfect for both beginners and experienced paddlers, especially during morning runs when the water’s calm and wildlife is active. The cityscape paddles near sunset offer a completely different perspective of Panama’s modern skyline.
I’m particularly fond of the combination tours that pair kayaking with zip-lining or horseback riding – they’re well-organized and pack multiple experiences into one day. Half-day trips work great for most visitors, though multi-day expeditions reveal more remote sections of the waterways.
Check out these tried-and-tested kayak and canoe tours below.
Good To Know
- Explore the Chagres River and Gatun Lake through guided half-day kayaking tours with potential wildlife sightings and visits to indigenous Embera communities.
- Experience multi-day kayaking expeditions from Panama City, crossing the Gatun Locks and paddling through the dense jungle with a professional guide.
- Embark on extended eight-day kayak adventures on Gatun Lake and Chagres River, including stays in Embera villages and camping on the lake.
- Enjoy private and small-group kayaking tours on serene Lake Gatun, with options for stand-up paddleboarding and snorkeling excursions in the San Blas Islands.
- Choose from a variety of adventure and eco-tourism experiences, such as Portobelo sea kayaking and snorkeling or a zip-line and kayak/horse riding combo.
Kayaking Tour in the Chagres River
The Chagres River kayaking tour offers visitors a chance to explore the lush, tropical forests surrounding Panama City.
This guided, private half-day adventure is recommended by 92% of travelers, with an average rating of 4.7 stars. The tour allows participants to paddle the river before it reaches Gatun Lake, where they may spot wildlife like sloths and turtles.
The tour also includes an opportunity to visit an indigenous Embera site. Travelers can expect all necessary equipment, including kayaks and life jackets, as well as bottled water, breakfast, and lunch.
Transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle is provided, and all fees and taxes are covered.
Read our full review: Kayaking Tour in the Chagres River Review
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Chagres River Kayak Expedition From Panama City
Embark on an exciting Chagres River kayak expedition from Panama City, where you’ll cross the iconic Gatun Locks via ferry before paddling through dense jungle to the historic Fort San Lorenzo.
Led by a professional guide, you’ll enjoy commentary on the area’s history and environment. The tour includes all necessary equipment, lunch, and snacks, with hotel pickup and drop-off in Panama City.
Accommodating a maximum of 12 travelers, this adventure isn’t recommended for those with physical limitations, but it’s a moderate activity suitable for fit individuals.
Priced from $168 per person, the expedition offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a lowest price guarantee.
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Panama Kayak Adventure: Explore Wild Chagres River
Discover the untamed beauty of the Chagres River on a thrilling eight-day small-group kayak adventure in Panama. Experience this incredible tour for expert paddlers, where you’ll explore the Gatun Lake and Chagres River, spotting wildlife like howler monkeys along the way.
Spend two nights immersed in Embera indigenous villages, and camp under the stars on Gatun Lake for two nights. With all kayaking gear, most meals, and ground transfers included, this adventure offers an unparalleled way to discover Panama’s natural wonders.
Suitable for ages 12-65 in good health, the tour requires moderate fitness but not wheelchair accessibility. Priced from $1,450 per person, this Panama Kayak Adventure is available year-round.
Read our full review: Panama Kayak Adventure: Explore Wild Chagres River Review
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Bridge of the Americas Stand-Up Paddle Private 2 Hours Tour
Get ready to paddle your way through the tranquil waters of Panama City on this private two-hour stand-up paddle tour.
Explore the iconic Bridge of the Americas while enjoying a leisurely paddle on the water. This 5-star rated tour includes all necessary equipment, such as a paddleboard, paddle, leash, and life jacket.
You’ll be transported to and from the meeting point, so you can focus on enjoying the beautiful scenery.
With a moderate physical fitness level required, this tour is suitable for most travelers, except those with back problems, pregnant women, or serious medical conditions.
Don’t miss this chance to experience the city from a unique perspective.
Read our full review: Bridge of the Americas Stand-Up Paddle Private 2 Hours Tour Review
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Day Tour in San Blas + 4 Islands + Umbrella + Kayak + Towels Etc.
This San Blas day tour takes you to four unique islands, each with its own distinct charm.
You’ll depart from Panama City early in the morning and travel by 4×4 truck and shared boat to reach Isla Perro Grande, the Natural Pool, Isla Perro Chico, and the optional Isla Diablo.
Along the way, you’ll enjoy a varied lunch menu with a drink, as well as amenities like umbrellas, chairs, fruit, kayaks, and snorkeling gear.
While the 3-hour drive may be long, the stunning natural scenery and activities make this trip well worth it.
Just remember to bring your passport, cash, and necessary essentials like sunscreen and sandals.
Read our full review: Day Tour in San Blas + 4 Islands + Umbrella + Kayak + Towels Etc. Review
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Kayak & Horseback Riding in the Jungle
Visitors seeking to enjoy Panama’s lush jungle landscape can embark on a captivating half-day tour that combines the thrill of kayaking on Gatun Lake with the enchantment of horseback riding through the rainforest.
The experience begins at 8 AM, with a scenic drive in an air-conditioned vehicle to the meeting point. Guests will then paddle their kayaks, spotting diverse wildlife like herons, agoutis, and coatis, before embarking on a guided horseback ride through the verdant rainforest.
The tour includes round-trip transport, snacks, and bottled water, and can accommodate up to 10 travelers. With a 5.0 rating and a lowest price guarantee, this adventure promises an unforgettable exploration of Panama’s natural wonders.
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Portobelo Sea Kayaking and Snorkeling Tour
The Portobelo Sea Kayaking and Snorkeling Tour provides an exhilarating opportunity to explore the serene waters and vibrant marine life off the coast of Portobelo, Panama.
Included in the tour are lunch, snacks, and the use of top-notch snorkeling equipment, ensuring a comfortable and enriching experience. A professional guide leads the way, offering hotel pickup and drop-off within Panama City.
Suitable for travelers aged 12 and up with a moderate fitness level, this tour has a maximum of 12 participants and can be freely canceled up to 24 hours in advance.
Whether you’re seeking adventure or a chance to learn about the natural beauty of Panama, this tour isn’t to be missed.
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Snorkeling & Kayak – Portobelo
Exploring the captivating serenity of Portobelo’s waters, the Snorkeling & Kayak tour immerses participants in the vibrant marine life and scenic surroundings.
Equipped with snorkeling gear and kayaks, adventurers can marvel at the underwater wonders and glide along the coast. The tour includes convenient pickup and drop-off services, air-conditioned transportation, and a delicious lunch.
With a maximum of 10 travelers, the experience ensures an intimate and personalized encounter. Travelers should possess a strong fitness level, as the activities require physical exertion.
Cancelations are free up to 24 hours prior, making this tour a flexible and accessible option for those seeking a memorable Panamanian adventure.
Read our full review: Snorkeling & Kayak – Portobelo Review
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2 in 1 Excursion Visiting Bayano Caves and Kayaking in Río Tigre
Embarking on a captivating adventure, the “2 in 1 Excursion Visiting Bayano Caves and Kayaking in Río Tigre” offers visitors an unparalleled opportunity to explore the natural wonders of Panama.
Priced at $145 per person, this full-day tour accommodates up to 8 travelers with a 6:00 am start time. Highlights include a visit to the Bayano Caves and kayaking in the Río Tigre.
Included amenities are lunch, protective gear, and bathrooms. However, reviews suggest room for improvement in safety and guidance.
While not recommended for certain health conditions, this excursion promises an immersive experience for moderately fit adventurers.
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One Island Day Tour to San Blas Islands – Snorkel & Kayaks
One unforgettable day tour transports visitors from Panama City to the San Blas Islands, where they can enjoy a world of water-based adventures.
The tour includes shared transportation, snorkeling gear, and one complimentary drink. After a 2.5-hour drive and 40-minute boat ride, guests can enjoy activities like snorkeling and kayaking in the picturesque islands.
Lunch is included, with an optional lobster upgrade. The tour accommodates up to 20 travelers and operates from 5:20 AM to 6:30-7:00 PM.
Guests should come prepared with their original passport, sun protection, and cash for any additional purchases on the islands, which have limited services and power.
Read our full review: One Island Day Tour to San Blas Islands – Snorkel & Kayaks Review
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Kayak and Embera Village in Chagres Park
Travelers seeking a more immersive cultural experience can embark on a kayak tour to the Embera Village in Chagres Park. Priced from $276.93 per person, this private tour takes guests on an air-conditioned vehicle to the Chagres National Park, where they’ll paddle a kayak on the river and explore an authentic Embera community.
The tour includes lunch, kayak, and safety equipment. Guests must have a moderate fitness level, know how to swim, and be aware of health restrictions.
With confirmation received at booking and free cancellation up to 24 hours before, this experience offers flexibility and convenience for visitors to Panama City.
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San Blas Islands Full-Day Snorkeling and Kayak Tour
For those seeking a day of aquatic adventure in the San Blas Islands, the full-day snorkeling and kayaking tour provides the perfect opportunity.
Participants will be picked up from their Panama City hotels as early as 5:20 AM and taken to the islands, where they can swim in natural pools, snorkel in turquoise waters, and kayak around the area.
The tour also includes a tasty fish lunch and the chance to learn about the Guna culture.
With round-trip transport, snorkel gear, and island and port fees included, this tour offers a convenient and comprehensive way to explore the San Blas Islands.
Just be sure to book early, as the tour is limited to a maximum of 15 travelers.
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Panama City Skyline Sunset/Sunrise Kayaking
Kayakers can witness the stunning Panama City skyline as it comes alive during the golden hours of sunset or sunrise on this engaging tour.
Departing from Parque Paitilla, participants paddle single or double expedition kayaks along the coastline, enjoying the city’s iconic skyline and landmarks.
The 4-hour experience includes private transportation, refreshments, and a maximum group size of 12 travelers.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for moderately fit individuals, though it’s not recommended for those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with serious medical conditions.
Secure your spot with the option to pay later, and take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the start.
Read our full review: Panama City Skyline Sunset/Sunrise Kayaking Review
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New Panama Zip-Line Over Gatun Lake and Kayak or Horse Riding
This new Panama experience offers adventurers the chance to soar over the expansive Gatun Lake on an exhilarating zip-line, followed by a choice between kayaking or horseback riding.
Priced from $189 per person, this tour operated by Vitaventuras Tours includes lunch and all necessary equipment.
Pickup is available from various locations in Panama City, with an additional charge for pickups from Playa Bonita, Colon, or cruise ports.
The tour starts at 8:30 am and has a lowest price guarantee, allowing for free cancellation up to 24 hours prior.
Whether seeking a thrilling aerial adventure or a serene water or land-based activity, this Panama City excursion has a lot to offer.
Read our full review: New Panama Zip-Line Over Gatun Lake and Kayak or Horse Riding Review
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Half Day Private Kayak Tour on Lake Gatun
Adventurers can embark on a half-day private kayak tour on the serene waters of Lake Gatun, situated in the heart of Panama City.
The tour includes a kayak, an air-conditioned vehicle for transportation, bottled water, a private guide, lunch, and snacks.
Pickup is available from a selected location, with a start time of 7:00 am.
The tour is wheelchair accessible, but it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers. A moderate level of physical fitness is required.
Confirmation is provided at booking, and there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts.
Prices start from €240.52 per person, with a lowest price guarantee.
Read our full review: Half Day Private Kayak Tour on Lake Gatun Review
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The Sum Up
Panama City offers a range of exciting canoe and kayak experiences. From serene river tours to adventurous expeditions, visitors can explore the Chagres River, San Blas Islands, and Gatun Lake. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful sunset paddle or an adrenaline-fueled zip-line and kayak combo, there’s an option to suit every taste and skill level. These water-based activities provide a unique perspective on Panama’s natural wonders and vibrant cityscape.