If you're looking for a unique and authentic cultural experience in Panama, look no further than the Embera tribe. With a small population of 12,358 (in 2023), the Embera people are an indigenous group that live in the rainforests of Panama and Colombia. They have a rich cultural heritage and have managed to maintain their traditions and way of life despite modernization and outside influences.

Visiting the Embera tribe is an opportunity to learn about their customs, beliefs, and way of life, and to witness their traditional dances, music, and crafts. As a guest on a tour, you'll be welcomed into the tribe and given a firsthand look at their daily routines.

TOUR OVERVIEW - Embera Indian Village, Chagres River and Waterfall

Getting There

At 8:00 am your friendly, bi-lingual guide will pick you up from your Panama City hotel. Sit back and relax in our comfortable, air-conditioned car while gazing at the various sites we will pass on our 40 minute drive to our tour starting point in the Chagres National Park. The Embera tribe lives in remote areas of the rainforest, and the only way to reach them is by boat. However, the journey is part of the adventure, and you'll get to see some of the stunning scenery that Panama has to offer.

The Boat Ride

At the port of the Chagres River, an Embera Indian will take you and your guide in a traditional boat called "piragua" on a 20 minute ride upstream to the Mono waterfall, where you can take a refreshing plunge (note: only available during the Dry season months from December through April. During the Wet Season months we may not be able to visit the waterfall due to strong currents). As you make your way through the rainforest, you'll be surrounded by lush greenery and the sounds of wildlife. The boat ride is a great opportunity to take in the sights and sounds of the jungle and to snap some incredible photos.

Meeting the Embera People

Once you arrive at the Embera village, you will meet the Parara Puru Embera Indian tribe that has managed to reject our modern, technological ways of life and maintained its simple traditions. Once you step off your boat, you will be greeted by the friendly and welcoming Embera people. They'll introduce themselves, and you'll have the chance to ask questions and learn about their way of life.

The Tour

After our little hike and a delightful refreshing dip under the waterfall, we will continue to the Embera community.

The tour will take you through the village, where you'll get to see how the Embera people live, work, and play. You'll see how they build their homes, cook their food, and make their crafts. You'll also get to witness traditional dances and music performances.

One of the highlights of the tour is the chance to see the Embera people's intricate body art. The Embera people have a long tradition of using natural pigments to create intricate designs on their skin. You'll be able to see some of these designs up close and learn about the significance of each one. For a small fee, you can have the Embera design a body painting for you. The paint will be a temporary remembrance of your visit to the Embera tribe and will slowly fade away after a few days.

TOUR SUMMARY - Embera Indian Village, Chagres River and Waterfall

• Shared Tour
• Tour (minimum 2 guests)
• Price - $69 per adult, $64 per child (until age 10)
• Duration - 6 hours
• Start time - 8:00 am - daily

WHAT'S INCLUDED

• Pick-up and drop off at your Panama City lodging
• Well-maintained, air-conditioned car
• Bi-lingual guides (English/Spanish)
• Tour of Mono waterfall, Embera village and Lake Gatun
• Seasonal fruits (pineapple, banana, orange, and tangerine)
• Traditional Lunch (fried river fish with patacones)
• Bottled Water

WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED

• Protected park and community fee ($40 per adult and $30 per child under 10, to be paid to the guide in USD, cash only)
• Henna tribal paintings (optional)
• There is a surcharge for pickup from hotels outside of Panama City such as Costa del Este and Santa Maria, Tocumen Airport & Playa Bonita
• Rain ponchos (please bring your own if desired)

WHAT TO BRING

• Comfortable and adequate clothing to protect yourself from the sun and thus avoid the use of sunscreen. Creams (even biodegradable ones) are polluting and for that reason we do not promote their use
• Comfortable and safe footwear (sandals or water shoes)
• Swimwear
• Sun glasses
• Towel
• Camera
• Cap or hat
• A reusable bottle to fill with water during the day
• Cash for tips and souvenirs

Please Note:

• There are no ATMs in the area, vendors do not accept card payments either. Cash Only!
• ATTENTION LAST MINUTE BOOKINGS: Bookings made after 6:00pm for the following day are NOT guaranteed until we respond and explicitly confirm your tour itinerary. If your booking is not confirmed by one of our booking specialists, your tour will be scheduled for the subsequent day.

FAQ

What can I expect during an Embera Tribe tour?

The tour offers a unique opportunity to visit the Embera people in their rainforest village. You’ll experience a canoe ride along the Chagres River, traditional Embera dances and music, a guided tour of their community, and an authentic lunch. You’ll also have the chance to purchase handcrafted items and, during the dry season, and swim in a nearby waterfall.

Is the tour physically demanding?

Yes and No. While the actual visit the the village only involves a mellow canoe ride and walking around the village, the hike to the waterfall can be a bit challenging as it involves stepping over slippery rocks and hiking through the rainforest for about 15 minutes. However, those who want to skip the hike are welcome to hang back in the canoe and enjoy the lush jungle surroundings.

Why is the waterfall sometimes inaccessible during the rainy season?

During Panama's rainy season (typically May to November), heavy rainfall can cause high water levels and strong currents in rivers and streams. These conditions make it unsafe to hike to or swim at the waterfall, as paths may become slippery, and water flow can be unpredictable. In this case we offer an alternative swim at a different location.

Are the Embera villages authentic?

Yes, the Embera people maintain their traditional way of life and are welcoming to visitors who respect their customs. This experience provides an authentic glimpse into their culture and lifestyle​.

Is the tour suitable for families with children?

Yes, the Embera Tribe tour is family-friendly and educational, offering kids the chance to learn about a different culture while exploring the rainforest​.

What should I bring?

Pack light but include essentials like comfortable clothes, swimwear, a towel, change of clothes, sandals or water shoes, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a reusable water bottle. Don’t forget cash for tips and souvenirs, as there are no ATMs in the area​.

To learn more about the fascinating Embera tribe, please visit our comprehensive article in the blog section.

OTHER TOUR SUGGESTIONS

Enhance your Panama experience with these additional tours, each designed to complement your visit and offer even more insights into the country's rich history, diverse landscapes, and iconic sites. Check out the links below for more unforgettable adventures! We personally believe that the following adventures should not be missed while travelling to Panama.

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Ultimate Monkey & Sloth Adventure: Explore Monkey Island in Panama - $119
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Bioluminescence Tour - $39
Dive into another world as you float in a sea of glowing lights

CANCELATION POLICY

Please read our Tour Cancelation Policy before booking.