The Gamboa Aerial Tram and Sloth Sanctuary offers nature enthusiasts a chance to soar above the lush Panamanian rainforest and encounter its captivating wildlife. Guests embark on a thrilling ride in a tram, gliding through the canopy before visiting a sanctuary dedicated to the slow-moving sloth. With knowledgeable guides leading the way, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure filled with stunning scenery and opportunities to spot diverse creatures. Whether you’re a seasoned explorer or simply seeking a family-friendly excursion, the Gamboa experience just might leave you wondering what other hidden gems Panama has to unveil.

Good To Know

  • The Gamboa Aerial Tram and Sloth Sanctuary offers a 4-hour tour featuring an aerial tram ride, sloth sanctuary visit, and observation tower with panoramic views of the Panamanian rainforest.

  • Ideal for nature and animal lovers, as well as families, the tour provides the opportunity to see diverse wildlife, including playful monkeys, vibrant toucans, and enigmatic sloths.

  • The tour includes bottled water, air-conditioned transport, fees, and taxes, with hotel pickup and drop-off from Panama City accommodations for convenience.

  • While the sloth sanctuary is perceived as smaller than expected by some, the overall experience is praised for its breathtaking scenery, knowledgeable guides, and personal service.

  • The tour accommodates a maximum group size of 100 travelers, allowing for larger capacity, though some may prefer a more intimate small-group experience.

Location and Rating

The Gamboa Aerial Tram and Sloth Sanctuary is located in Panama City, Panama, within easy reach of the city’s hotels.

It’s a popular attraction, rated 4.0 out of 5 based on 19 reviews. The destination is ideal for nature and animal lovers, as well as families.

With its aerial tram ride through the rainforest, visit to the Gamboa Sloth Sanctuary, and observation tower offering views of the Chagres River, Panama Canal, and Soberania National Park, the sanctuary provides a comprehensive experience for those seeking to enjoy Panama’s lush environment and diverse wildlife.

Tour Duration and Inclusions

Gamboa Aerial Tram and Sloth Sanctuary - Tour Duration and Inclusions

The tour lasts approximately 4 hours and includes several engaging activities.

Visitors will experience an aerial tram ride through the rainforest, explore the Gamboa Sloth Sanctuary, and climb an observation tower for panoramic views of the Chagres River, Panama Canal, and Soberania National Park.

Bottled water and air-conditioned transportation are provided, along with all necessary fees and taxes.

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from Panama City accommodations or a designated meeting point in the Panama Province.

With a maximum group size of 100 travelers, this tour offers a personalized experience for nature and animal enthusiasts.

Meeting and Pickup Details

Gamboa Aerial Tram and Sloth Sanctuary - Meeting and Pickup Details

All Panama City hotels or a designated meeting point in the Panama Province serve as pickup locations for this tour.

The tour starts promptly at 8:00 AM, ensuring a punctual departure. Travelers will return to the original meeting point at the end of the approximately 4-hour experience.

  • Pickup locations are convenient, allowing guests to join the tour directly from their accommodations.

  • The start time is early enough to make the most of the day, yet not too demanding for most visitors.

  • The tour concludes at the same location as the pickup, simplifying transportation and logistics.

Physical Requirements and Recommendations

A moderate fitness level is required for this tour, as visitors will be navigating uneven terrain and walking on trails.

The aerial tram ride through the rainforest and visits to the observation tower and sloth sanctuary involve some physical activity.

While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s generally suitable for families and nature enthusiasts.

However, individuals with a fear of heights may want to reconsider, as the aerial tram offers panoramic views from high above the forest canopy.

The maximum group size is 100 travelers, providing a more personalized experience compared to larger tours.

Positive Traveler Feedback

Visitors have praised the Gamboa Aerial Tram and Sloth Sanctuary for its breathtaking rainforest scenery and diverse wildlife.

The tram experience and observation tower have been highlighted for their exceptional views, with travelers spotting monkeys, toucans, and, of course, sloths.

The knowledgeable guides have also been noted for their attentiveness, enhancing the overall experience.

Some key positive feedback includes:

  • Stunning views of the Chagres River, Panama Canal, and Soberania National Park
  • Impressive variety of wildlife, from butterflies to frogs
  • Personalized service that sets the tour apart from larger options

Mixed Traveler Feedback

Some travelers found the sloth sanctuary to be smaller than expected, while others experienced delays during the aerial tram ride.

The sloth sanctuary, while providing a chance to see the slow-moving creatures up close, wasn’t as large as some had anticipated.

Plus, the aerial tram ride, while offering stunning views of the rainforest, was described by some as being shorter than expected.

Visitors reported occasional delays in the tram’s operation, which detracted from the overall experience for a few.

However, these mixed experiences didn’t significantly detract from the majority of positive feedback about the tour’s highlights, including the diverse wildlife and personal service.

Highlights of the Experience

The stunning rainforest scenery and diverse wildlife are consistently cited as the highlights of this tour.

Visitors are enchanted by the opportunity to witness a variety of exotic animals in their natural habitat, including:

  • Playful monkeys swinging through the canopy
  • Vibrant toucans and other birds soaring overhead
  • The enigmatic sloths, the star attraction, observed up close at the sanctuary

The personal service and knowledgeable guides also set this experience apart, providing travelers with an intimate and educational journey through the lush Panamanian jungle.

With breathtaking views from the observation tower and the chance to explore the incredible biodiversity of the region, the Gamboa Aerial Tram and Sloth Sanctuary offers a truly immersive and memorable adventure.

Tour Group Size

This tour has a maximum group size of 100 travelers. The tour’s relatively large group size allows it to accommodate more visitors, but this may mean less personalized attention from the guides.

However, the small group experience touted in reviews suggests the guides still manage to provide an engaging and informative tour despite the larger group size.

Travelers seeking a more intimate experience may prefer a smaller group tour, but the Gamboa Aerial Tram and Sloth Sanctuary tour’s larger capacity makes it accessible to a wider range of visitors.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Currency Is Accepted for Payment?

The tour accepts Panamanian Balboas and US Dollars for payment. Visitors can use cash or major credit cards to purchase the tour package.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for the Tour?

The tour has no minimum age requirement, making it suitable for families with children. However, participants should have a moderate fitness level as the activity is not wheelchair accessible.

Are There Any Restrictions on the Types of Cameras Allowed?

The tour allows visitors to bring cameras of all types, including DSLR, compact, and even action cameras. There are no reported restrictions on the types of cameras allowed during the aerial tram ride and sanctuary visit.

Can the Tour Be Customized for Private Groups?

The tour can be customized for private groups, though specific details may vary. Travelers should contact the tour operator to discuss their group’s needs and preferences for a personalized experience.

Are There Any Dining Options Available During the Tour?

The tour doesn’t include any dining options, but guests can bring their own snacks and drinks. There are no on-site restaurants or cafes available during the tour. Visitors should plan accordingly for their food and beverage needs.

The Sum Up

The Gamboa Aerial Tram and Sloth Sanctuary tour offers an exhilarating adventure through Panama’s lush rainforest. Guests can expect a captivating experience, with a thrilling tram ride, a visit to a charming sloth sanctuary, and stunning views from an observation tower. Suitable for nature enthusiasts and families, this tour promises an unforgettable journey amid breathtaking scenery, led by knowledgeable guides.