Capture the Wonders of Panama with Expert Guidance

Big Ships, Canal Waters, Monkeys & Indigenous Culture: A Half-Day Photo Adventure

Join Panama’s only Pulitzer Prize-winning photographer, Essdras M. Suarez, for an unforgettable half-day photography tour. Capture the wonders of Panama’s birds, wildlife, landscapes, and indigenous culture with expert guidance.

Our photographic adventure begins with a fascinating boat trip on Lake Gatun—a place where unimaginable natural beauty meets the incredible engineering of the Panama Canal. As we navigate the lake, our lenses will capture the rich diversity of wildlife in the area. Among the species we may encounter are crocodiles, bats, sloths, and a variety of tropical birds.

We’ll visit a spot known as Monkey Island, where we’ll have the opportunity to observe white-faced capuchins, tamarin monkeys, and howler monkeys in their natural habitat. One of the highlights of this experience is cruising side by side with the massive vessels transiting the Panama Canal—an unforgettable juxtaposition of nature and man-made marvels.

We’ll wrap up our day with a visit to an Embera indigenous village, a community steeped in tradition and artistry. In Ella Puru, we’ll learn about their culture, customs, and way of life.

This is a day where all our senses come alive, creating memories that will stay with us long after the shutter clicks.

What’s Included:

• Hotel Pickup at Sunrise and drop-off at end of activity: Start your day with a pre-dawn pickup, ensuring perfect lighting conditions for your photos.
• Gatun Lake Cruise: Cruise the tranquil waters of Gatun Lake, where the Panama Canal begins. Enjoy birdwatching in an area recognized by the Audubon Society for its record-breaking diversity.
• Experience the Panama Canal Waters: Photograph massive container ships, private yachts, and more as you share this iconic route. Keep an eye out for crocodiles and manatees.
• Monkey Island Adventure: Visit Monkey Island to see and photograph squirrel monkeys, capuchins, and possibly howlers in their natural habitat.
• Cultural Immersion at Ella Puru: Visit the Embera indigenous village, learn about their rich culture, and enjoy a traditional meal of fried fish and plantains.
• Binoculars for you to borrow, a water bottle, and complimentary rain ponchos if needed.

Essdras M Suarez will provide expert instruction throughout, ensuring you capture the best possible photos. This all-inclusive experience covers hotel transport, access fees, meals at Ella Puru, and the boat ride.