Gatun Lake
Lago Gatún
An artificial lake formed by the dam built during canal construction. Giant ships pass between tropical rainforest islands, and a speedboat tour to Monkey Island offers close views of howler monkeys and capuchins.
Gatun Lake was once the world's largest artificial lake, and ships sail about 33 km across it. A popular activity is a speedboat tour from Gamboa, which takes about 2 hours and costs roughly US$40 to 60 per person. The boat passes alongside giant ships and approaches Monkey Island, where you can observe monkeys, crocodiles and sloths (please do not feed them). You can also choose a canal transit cruise, which enters Gatun Lake through the Pacific-side locks. The full trip takes about 5 to 6 hours.
Opening hours
Boat tour required
Nearby sights
- Barro Colorado Island
- Agua Clara Locks Visitor Center
- Fort San Lorenzo
- Panama Rainforest Discovery Center
- Gamboa Rainforest
- Soberanía National Park
- Summit Municipal Park
- Miraflores Locks