Where to See Monkeys in Panama (Even with Kids in Tow!)
One of the most magical things we did in Panama?
Seeing wild monkeys up close—right from a boat on the Panama Canal.
If you're traveling to Panama with kids (or you're just a monkey-loving grownup like me), here's how to plan an unforgettable day spotting monkeys in their natural habitat—with zero stress and max fun.
🐒 Monkey Island: The Best Place to See Monkeys in Panama
Yes, it’s a real place—and yes, it’s just as awesome as it sounds.
Monkey Island is located on Lake Gatun, the man-made lake that forms part of the Panama Canal. Several small islands here are home to different species of monkeys, and boat tours will take you right up to the shores (and sometimes into the trees!) where they live.
Depending on the day, you might see:
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White-faced capuchin monkeys (the mischievous ones)
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Howler monkeys (you’ll hear them before you see them)
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Geoffroy’s tamarins (tiny and adorable)
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Spider monkeys (less common but super cool if you spot one)
🛶 What the Tour Is Like
We booked a half-day boat tour from Gamboa, just 30–40 minutes outside Panama City. The ride was smooth, relaxing, and packed with nature.
✅ Covered boat for shade
✅ Life jackets for kids
✅ Knowledgeable local guide
✅ Cooler with water and snacks
The boat slowly winds through lush canals, past massive cargo ships, and then into quiet jungle areas where the monkeys hang out.
Pro tip: The earlier your tour, the more active the monkeys!
📸 Can You Feed or Touch the Monkeys?
Short answer: Please don’t.
Some tours used to feed the monkeys to lure them closer, but that’s no longer encouraged (and in many places, it’s actually banned).
The best tours respect wildlife boundaries while still offering amazing views and photos.
And honestly? Watching a capuchin monkey leap from branch to branch is way cooler than handing one a banana.
👨👩👧👦 Is It Kid-Friendly?
Absolutely! My son was blown away by how close we got to the monkeys, and he didn’t stop talking about it for days. There’s something magical about seeing wildlife in the wild—not behind glass or in a zoo.
Most tours welcome kids ages 3+
🧭 How to Book a Monkey Island Tour
You can book it here 👉 Panama Canal Monkey & Wildlife Boat Safari
🐾 Bonus: Other Wildlife You Might See
While you’re out there, keep your eyes open for:
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Crocodiles
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Sloths
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Iguanas
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Tropical birds like toucans and herons
Final Thoughts
If you're headed to Panama, do not miss this.
It’s one of the easiest and most rewarding excursions for families, and it’s a chance to get face-to-face with Panama’s incredible biodiversity.
Want to book this tour? You can do that here 👉 Panama Canal Monkey & Wildlife Boat Safari
Need help planning your Panama family trip? [Contact me here] or check out my Panama family travel video on TikTok.
Sheila @ SheMamaMaps
Helping Families Travel Smarter Not Harder ✨
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