1-3 Nights Packages
Multiday activities in our destinations
Rafting
HIGHLIGHTS
- Panama white water rafting
- Chagres National Park
- Jungle Expedition, from sunrise to sunset
- all-inclusive package
- Class II - III
- Age: 12 and up in good health
- Gateway: Panama City Panama
White Water river rafting close to Panama City is possible at the Chagres River which goes virtually unseen as it passes through the Chagres National Park due to the lack of accessible roads, protection against settlers, and the previous non-existence of Adventures Panama. This part of the river, characterized by currents alternating with backwaters, is considered as Class II, check Panama White Water Rafting Rapid Classification here, although several rapids are considered up to Class III by the International Classification of River Navigation.
At the Panama Chagres River Map this section extend from Rio Piedras to the Embera Village. As a result of dense tropical forest covering the basin of the river, sedimentation is minimal; therefore, clear water can be expected very often. The flora is typical of the tropical rain forest, with more than three hundred species per hectarea. Although, it is the natural habitat of big mammals such as tapir and jaguar, tropical rainforest animals, they are very seldom encountered. However, It is much easier to spot several others samples of the fauna, such as rainforest monkeys (spider, howler, whiteface (cappuchino), Geoffrey's Tamarin), sloth, river otter, iguana, toucan, and plenty of fish.
Once in the virgin jungle of Chagres National Park you will ask if this is the next tv show survivor panama destination.
Itinerary
The Chagres Challenge Panama white water river rafting begins by picking up guests in Panama City at 5:00 A.M., to take them on a FWD vehicle to a remote village called San Cristobal, beyond the mountain town of Cerro Azul.
After a light breakfast, around 8:00 A.M. the tour proceeds with a hike, for about hour and half, on a narrow trail that takes us deeper into the jungle until reaching an affluent of the Chagres, called Piedras River. We might have to continue hiking for another, hour or we might start rafting in Piedras River which is very shallow and most likely will require to get down to pass the raft in several spots.
At approximately 11:00 A.M., we will start an exciting five-hour rafting tour in the Chagres virgin jungle, all the way to Madden Lake, reaching it around 4:30 P.M. We will have a fine meal somewhere along Chagres River.
We will raft by several rainforest tribes conformed by the Embera.
Close to Madden Lake, we will board an outboard motorboat indigenous wooden canoe, for about half an hour, to the nearest road. Finally, our guests will be taken back to the original pick up site around 7:00 P.M. Be ready to get some memorable rainforest pictures !
FREQUENT ASKED QUESTIONS
WHAT DOES IT INCLUDE ? All mentioned transportation, rafts and gear, guides, and meals. Our guides are trained in white-water navigation skills, first-aid and CPR.
WHO CAN GO ? Any person from twelve to seventy years old, in good health and good physical shape, ready to walk for about an hour and a half through an irregular and muddy path. As a guidance limit weight values for persons to participate are as follows: up to 210 lbs, at least 6', up to 240lbs at least 6.5' . Minors must travel with a responsible adult.
WHAT SHOULD YOU TAKE ALONG ? Swimsuit or a pair of short for navigating, sneakers or light boots with good soles, a cap, sun-block, a light jacket or windbreaker (in case the weather turns chilly), a towel and dry set of clothes for the trip back.
WHAT SHOULD NOT BE BROUGHT ? Any object than can be deteriorated by water or valuables like jewels, cash, credit cards, etc. Do not bring flip flops or beach sandal to hike or raft.
PRICE:
USD $ 185.00 per person
Group leader will go free for a group of more than ten persons.
WARNING:
Although this expedition is planned to be done in only one day, it takes place in a very remote area where if something goes wrong (raft puncture, people not paddling, or a major injury that delays the group) there is a good chance that we might have to improvise an overnight camp in the jungle (not a planned camp; with out tents, supplies, etc.) and with out communications. In more than 20 years operating this trip it had happened only once so far since. You should be aware of the risks that you assume by participating on it. If this does happens you will get out the very next day, with out extra charges (-:
SEASON:
The Chagres River has enough water to do white water rafting in Panama year-round. It usually reaches its highest water level by November, at the peak end of the rainy season, and its lowest water level by May at the end of the dry season. However, the Chagres Challenge one day tour, can only be offered when Rio Piedras, the tributary we put in, has enough water to paddle, usually from June through February. When there is enough water we paddle San Cristobal River into Rio Piedras River into Chagres River, 3 river in one day !
Usually it is good to paddle in rafts from June through December. In January paddling is limited to smaller rafts.
Usually from mid February until the date we close the season we restrain participation to people that knows how to paddle, are in very good shape, and preferable they had done it before.
OTHER PANAMA RAFTING CHAGRES CHALLENGE TOUR OPTIONS:
- An helicopter flight from Albrook Airport to the heart of the Chagres National Park, our river put-in , to them continue rafting.
For more information call our office - For those persons that are interested in enjoying the fullness of Chagres National Park to enhance chances of encountering tropical rainforest animals such as monkeys of the rainforest, sharing with local Embera indians and campesinos, overnight trips are also available.
Highligths
- Mamoni River Panama rafting
- Difficulty rating: Class III–IV
- June through March
- All-inclusive package
- Age: 18 and up in good health
- Gateway: Panama City Panama
The main economic activities that surrounds this area are: gold panning, cattle farms, subsistence agriculture, forestry, and banana plantations.
On our way down to the river, we will get the chance to go through ECOFARMS Panama, organization committed to the conservation and restoration of tropical rainforest in the Mamoni river region. We will travel through the last remaining strips of primary and secondary forests in the area, used by scientists to conduct research about tropical biodiversity. To find out more about their work, visit their website: www.ecofarmspanama.org (on low water conditions we might take out from Ecofarms).
View Mamoni River White Water by Aventuras Panama in a larger map
ITINERARY
Begins by picking up guests at Panama City around 7:00 a.m. We will arrive to the put in an hour and a half later to start Mamoni Panama white water river rafting around 9:30 a.m..
We should arrive to the take out zone around 3:30 p.m. and we should be back to the original pick up place about 5:30 p.m.
Itinerary varies with actual water level.
FREQUENT ASKED QUESTIONS
WHAT DOES IT INCLUDE ? All mentioned transportation, rafts/kayaks and gear, guides, and lunch. Our guides are trained in white-water navigation skills, first-aid, and CPR.
WHO CAN GO ? Any person older than eighteen years, in good health. During the dry season paddlers participation is more restrictive since they will be paddling inflatable kayaks by themselves, which means more aggressive participants and light weight.
WHAT SHOULD YOU TAKE ALONG ? Swimsuit or a pair of shorts for navigating, sneakers or straped sandals with good soles, a baseball cap, and sun lotion. A set of dry clothes to change for the return trip.
PRICE:
USD $ 135.00 per person
Group leader will go free for a group of more than ten persons.
WARNING:
Do not forget your ID....It is mandatory for every participant to bring along an ID that confirms that he or she is legally in Panama(such as an stamped passport). We will pass through a road immigration's check point, close to Chepo, and if you do not bring proper ID, you will be under immigration custody for more time than you can possible think as reasonable. We wont delay the group itinerary if a participant forgets his/her ID and we wont be able to assist you on this matter until our return.... Do not forget your ID.
Duckies are more demanding.....As mentioned below at SEASON, at the beginning of and during the Dry Season, when the river water level goes down, we will paddle in duckies (inflatable kayaks). This is fine for inexperienced paddlers, but participants should be aware that it is more challenging than paddling in a raft. Participant should be in good shape, weight below 180 lbs, and be ready to behave aggresively in paddling and in a self rescue situation. Guides will provide basic training, guidance, and escort ducky convoy downstream... Duckies are more demanding.
When paddling small rafts and duckies less experienced participants will be on the rafts, regardless of participants bonds, i.e. we might split a party procuring overall safety.
SEASON:
It allows rafting in Panama almost year-round except for a couple of months at the end of the dry season. The Mamoni River by Panama City Panama reaches its highest water level by November, at the peak end of the rainy season, and its lowest water level by May-April at the end of the dry season.
We pick rafts depending on water level. Usually: 14' rafts from July through December, smaller 11' raft and duckies (inflatable kayaks) from December though February, only duckies (inflatable kayaks) by March, and smaller raft and duckies from May to June when the water level is increasing due to the beginning of the rainy season.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Panama kayak whitewater river kayaking
- Lunch & beverages
- All-inclusive package
- Rapids Class II-III
- Age: 12 and up
- Gateway: Panama City
The Pacora River is located only about an hour drive from Panama City Panama, toward the northeast. Kayak Panama White Water in this gorgeous river from July through November. It is very narrow and shallow in most sections but it is ideal for kayaking during the rainy season, from July to mid December. I has some challenging Class III rapids ( check Panama White Water Rafting Rapid Classification Here ) and two section to run it.
The upper part, from Chapala to San Miguel takes around two hours and the lower part, from San Miguel to Carriazo takes around one and half hour.
It does have some challenging rapids: "La Batidora", The Shaker, has quite a drop in a narrow, rocky, channel. You don´t want to take chances on flipping in this rapid, The Slalon is an easy adrenaline rush shute, some others make this trek a very fun ride.
View Pacora White Water by Aventuras Panama in a larger map
ITINERARY
This trip is usually offered to groups on request and logistics are agree upon before trip date.
FREQUENT ASKED QUESTIONS
WHAT DOES IT INCLUDE ? inflatable or rigid kayak, guides, and snacks. Our guides are trained in kayak navigation skills, first-aid and CPR.
WHO CAN GO ? Any person from sixteen to sixty years old, in good health. Minors must travel with a responsible adult.
WHAT SHOULD YOU TAKE ALONG ? A pair of short for navigating, sneakers or straped sandals, a cap, sun-block, a towel and dry set of clothes for the trip back.
WHAT SHOULD NOT BE BROUGHT ? Any object than can be deteriorated by water or valuables like jewels, cash, credit cards, etc.
PRICE:
USD $ 115.00 per person
Group leader will go free for a group of more than ten persons.
SEASON:
Kayak Panama whitewater from July through November
HIGHLIGHTS
- Rafting in rio grande Panama
- Difficulty rating: Class II –III
- June through March
- All-inclusive package
- Age: 9 and up in good health
- Great for families and groups
- Gateway: Cocle Beach Area
Rafting Rio Grande Panama, in Cocle Province, was first pioneered by Adventures Panama in 1999. The river is classified Class III at its Upper Section and Class II-III, ( check Panama White Water Rafting Rapid Classification HERE ) at its lowest section. It runs through tropical dry forest. Most of its basin is devoted to cattle and farming.
Coclé has become Panama´s meca of beach tourism due mostly to Playa Blanca, a gorgeous white sand beach in the Pacific Ocean. Playa Blanca has attracted all included beach hotels such as Decameron, Sheraton Bijao, Marriot Buenaventura, Riu Playa Blanca and others in the area..
Coclé, besides its beautiful beach, is also well known for El Valle, a mountain village, inside a exticnt volcano crater.
This part of the river, characterized by currents alternating with backwaters, is considered as Class II, although several rapids are considered Class III by the International Classification of River Navigation.
Upper Section, Class III+
This is the best part of the river. It runs through breath taking gorges with some nice drops.
We could choose not to run it with high water due to lack of shores in some sections. If this is the case we always have the lower section alternative to have fun.
We only run this section in kayaks/duckies or small rafts
Lower Section, Class II-III
Characterized by big water pools followed with rapids.
It runs mustly through planes and small hills.
It is a introduction to rafting well suited for the whole family. Very exciting with good water level.
View Rio Grande White Water by Aventuras Panama in a larger map
ITINERARY
From Panama City: Pickup at 6:00 a.m. We will arrive to the put in location after a three hours drive to start rafting around 11:00 a.m. We should arrive to the take out zone around 2:00 p.m. and be back to the original pick up place in the city about 5:30 p.m.
From Playa Blanca beach area: Pickup around 8:00 a.m. We will arrive to the put in about hour and half later to start rafting around 9
FREQUENT ASKED QUESTIONS
WHAT DOES IT INCLUDE ? All mentioned transportation, rafts and gear, guides, and meals. Our guides are trained in white-water navigation skills, first-aid and CPR.
WHO CAN GO ? Any person from twelve to seventy years old, in good health, ready to walk for about an hour and a half through an irregular and muddy path. Minors must travel with a responsible adult.
WHAT SHOULD YOU TAKE ALONG ? Swimsuit or a pair of short for navigating, sneakers or light boots with good soles, a cap, sun-block, a light jacket or windbreaker (in case the weather turns chilly), a towel and dry set of clothes for the trip back.
WHAT SHOULD NOT BE BROUGHT ? Any object than can be deteriorated by water or valuables like jewels, cash, credit cards, etc. Do not bring flip flops or beach sandal to hike or raft.
PRICE:
USD $ 135.00 per person
Group leader will go free for a group of more than ten persons.
WARNING:
Duckies are more demanding.....As mentioned below at SEASON, at the begining of and during the Dry Season, when the river water level goes down, we will paddle in duckies (inflatable kayaks). This is fine for inexperienced paddlers, but participants should be aware that it is more challenging than paddling in a raft. Participant should be in good shape, weight below 180 lbs, and be ready to behave aggresively in paddling and in a self rescue situation. Guides will provide basic training, guidance, and escort ducky comboy downstream... Duckies are more demanding.
When paddling small rafts and duckies less experienced participants will be on the rafts, regardless of participants bonds, i.e. we might split a party procuring overall safety.
SEASON:
The river is at its highest water level by November which is the Rainy Season peak, and at its lowest water level by March-May, which is the end of the Dry Season.
We usually raft the Lower Section from June through December. From December through June we usually raft the Upper Section in duckies (inflatable kayaks) and smaller rafts.
Rafting Rio Grande Panama is fun in raft or duckies.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Rafting panama boquete
- Difficulty rating: Class III
- year-round
- All-inclusive package
- Age: 9 and up
- Gateway: Boquete Chiriqui
Chiriqui Province, east of Costa Rica and south of Bocas del Toro Province, is known has the highlands of Panama. Its highest elevation si Volcan Baru with a peak 13,000 feet above sea level. Its scenery, flora, fauna, topography and people are very different from the rest of the country. Its main economy is based on the land and it is also known as the food supplier of the country. The second largest city of Panama, David, is Chiriqui's capital.
The most popular, and best known river to enjoy white water rafting in Panama is the Chiriqui Viejo, by the Costan Rican border, with a lot of wave trains and Class III+ sections, check White Water Rafting Panama - Rapid Classification HERE.
From Boquete it is about 1.5 hours drive, from David it is about 40 minutes drive, and from Panama City it is about 7 hours drive. It can be done from Panama City in a day flying to David(30 minutes).
By far, the best white water rafting river with relatively easy access. It is 128 km long and originates on Cerro Picacho, on the northwest side of Volcan Baru, the highest elevation of Panama. It passess through beautiful mountain towns of Cerro Punta as a creek but quickly evolving as a river even before passing through the Volcan plains.
Its watershed is of 1,355 km2 and although its water level is at its best on the rainy season(June through December), there is always enough water to have fun white water rafting year around.
Salsipuedes - Paso Canoas
Class III rapids. The river does move fast with a drop of 120 mts during the 10 km of the trek, a average drop of 12 meters per kilometer. Recommended for everyone above 12 years old with or with out any white water rafting experience. Be ready to have fun. Depending on water level we will raft for about two to three hours.
View Chiriqui Viejo River Rafting in a larger map
ITINERARY
Option I.......... If you are at Chiriqui
the trip begins by picking up guests at agreed place in David, Volcán, or Boquete around 8:00 a.m. We will arrive to the put in location to start rafting around 9:00-10:00 a.m. and we should arrive to the take out zone around 2:00-4:30 p.m. and be back to the original pick up place around 4:30-6:30 p.m.
Option II........ Flying from Panama
You should be at Domestic Flights Airport of Panama City, Marcos A. Gelabert, located in Albrook, at 6:00 a.m. for the 7:00 am flight to David. The flight last around one hour. We would pick you up at either at David Airport(party of 4+) or Plaza Terronal(less than 4 persons) around 8:00 a.m. and proceed as Option I. Plane departs David at 5:30 p.m. and back to Panama City around 6:30 p.m.
FREQUENT ASKED QUESTIONS
WHAT DOES IT INCLUDE ? All mentioned transportation (not including flight tickets), rafts and gear, guides, and meals on the river. Our guides are trained in white-water navigation skills, first-aid, and CPR.
WHO CAN GO ? Any one in good health older than 12 years old. It does not require previous rafting experience.
WHAT SHOULD YOU TAKE ALONG ? Swimsuit or a pair of shorts for navigating, sneakers or strapped sandals with good soles, a baseball cap, and sun lotion. A replacement set of dry clothes.
It is mandatory to bring along an ID that confirm that you are legally in the country since we will pass through a Custom's check point, close to the Costa Rican border.
WHAT SHOULD NOT BE BROUGHT ? Any object that could be deteriorated by water or valuables like jewels, cash, credit cards, etc..
PRICE:
USD $ 85.00 per person
WARNING:
Do not forget your ID....It is mandatory for every participant to bring along an ID that confirms that he or she is legally in Panama(such as an stamped passport). We will pass through a road immigration's check point, close to Gualaca, and if you do not bring proper ID, you will be under immigration custody for more time than you can possible think as reasonable. We wont delay the group itinerary if a participant forgets his/her ID and we wont be able to assist you on this matter until our return.... Do not forget your ID.
SEASON:
Rafting Panama Boquete could be done all year long. The Chiriqui Viejo is at its highest water level by October-November, during the peak of the rainy season, and its lower volume around March-May, at the end of the dry season. It can be run year round