From Riu Playa Blanca – Monkey Eco Boat & Old City Tour

The ‘Monkey Eco Boat & Old City Tour’ from Riu Playa Blanca promises an exhilarating blend of nature and history. Guests embark on a high-speed boat ride through Gatun Lake, where they’ll witness monkeys and vibrant birdlife amidst the lush surroundings. The tour then takes them to the UNESCO-listed Casco Antiguo, showcasing the area’s stunning colonial architecture and vibrant streets. With knowledgeable guides leading the way, visitors are sure to have a memorable experience. But what secrets does this tour hold, and what surprises await those who venture forth?

This experience made our list of the 8 Best Tours In Panama.

Key Points

• A comprehensive eco-nature and historical tour departing from Riu Playa Blanca resort, exploring Casco Antiguo and offering a scenic boat ride on Gatun Lake.
• Guided exploration of Casco Antiguo, a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcasing the colonial architecture and cultural heritage of Panama.
• Panoramic views of Panama City’s landscape, including the modern high-rises, financial district, and the iconic Bridge of the Americas.
• Knowledgeable and enthusiastic guides providing insightful commentary on the local flora, fauna, and history, tailoring the tour to participants’ interests.
• A non-refundable booking policy with a maximum of 15 travelers to ensure a personalized and seamless tour experience.

Tour Overview and Highlights

The eco-nature tour and old city exploration offers travelers an immersive experience for wildlife enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

Departing at 7:30 am, a knowledgeable guide collects participants from the Riu Playa Blanca resort.

The tour first explores Casco Antiguo, a UNESCO World Heritage site with colonial architecture dating back to 1673.

Afterwards, guests drive around Cerro Ancon and Amador Causeway, taking in panoramic views of Panama’s skyline.

The highlight is a high-speed motorboat ride on Gatun Lake, where travelers can observe the diverse flora and fauna.

The tour returns to the resort around 3:45 pm, providing a well-rounded day of exploration and discovery.

Meeting and Pickup Information

After the eco-nature and old city exploration, the tour moves to the meeting and pickup information.

Guests meet the driver in the hotel lobby of the Riu Playa Blanca resort, where they’ll be collected for the day’s activities. The driver will be waiting in the lobby to greet the group and escort them to the waiting vehicle.

Once everyone has boarded, the tour will depart the resort, heading out to explore Panama’s natural wonders and historic sights.

At the end of the day, the group will return to the same meeting point at the Riu Playa Blanca, where the driver will drop them off, concluding the tour experience.

Tour Inclusions and Costs

In an article titled ‘From Riu Playa Blanca – Monkey Eco Boat & Old City Tour’, it’s now time to discuss the CURRENT SUBTOPIC ‘Tour Inclusions and Costs’.

The tour package includes an air-conditioned vehicle, a bilingual guide fluent in both Spanish and English, and round-trip transportation from the Riu Playa Blanca resort.

Lunch isn’t included, though the guide will suggest local restaurants for participants to enjoy at their own expense.

Plus, there’s a separate boat fee of $25 per person, payable in cash directly to the guide.

The tour accommodates a maximum of 15 travelers.

Prices for the tour start from $99.00 and may vary depending on the group size.

Boat Ride on Gatun Lake

Aboard a high-speed motorboat, participants embark on an immersive journey through Gatun Lake, where they can observe the diverse flora and fauna of the region.

The boat ride offers a unique vantage point to see the lush greenery lining the lake’s shores and the variety of birds that inhabit the area. Monkeys may even be spotted swinging from the trees.

The guide provides insightful commentary, sharing fascinating facts about the lake’s ecosystem and the local wildlife.

This exhilarating boat excursion allows travelers to connect with the natural wonders of Panama in an up-close and personal way, creating lasting memories of their eco-adventure.

Exploring Casco Antiguo

Following the motorboat excursion on Gatun Lake, the tour heads to Casco Antiguo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases Panama’s colonial architecture dating back to 1673.

Visitors will explore the charming streets lined with brightly colored buildings, churches, and plazas that have stood the test of time.

The guide provides historical context, sharing insights into the district’s pivotal role in Panama’s past.

Guests can admire the iconic Plaza de la Independencia, the striking Metropolitan Cathedral, and the San Jose Church with its stunning golden altar.

This walking tour offers a unique glimpse into Panama’s rich cultural heritage and the preservation of its architectural gems.

Panoramic Views of Panama

The tour then takes guests on a drive around Cerro Ancon and Amador Causeway, offering panoramic vistas of Panama’s striking skyline. From these vantage points, visitors can gaze upon the modern high-rises of the financial district, the iconic Bridge of the Americas, and the verdant, forested hills in the distance. This scenic interlude provides a nice contrast to the historic ambiance of Casco Antiguo.

View	Description
Cerro Ancon	Panoramic views of Panama City’s skyscrapers and cityscape
Amador Causeway	Overlooking the Bridge of the Americas and Balboa harbor
Financial District	Towering modern high-rises of Panama’s business center
Forested Hills	Lush green hillsides in the backdrop of the urban landscape
Bridge of the Americas	Iconic suspension bridge connecting North and South America

Guide’s Knowledge and Patience

According to reviews, the guides on this eco-boat tour demonstrate exceptional knowledge and patience. They captivate guests with interesting facts about the local flora, fauna, and history, while also showing great care and understanding for each participant’s needs.

Guests praise the guides’ ability to create an engaging and educational experience, such as:

1. Sharing little-known details about the animals and plants encountered along the way.

2. Patiently answering all questions with enthusiasm, regardless of the group’s level of familiarity.

3. Tailoring the tour pace and content to accommodate the diverse needs and interests of the participants.

4. Maintaining a warm, friendly demeanor that puts everyone at ease and encourages exploration.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

Travelers can expect to receive their tour confirmation within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability. The tour is non-refundable, and cancellations don’t qualify for any refunds. This policy ensures the tour operator can plan and execute the experience seamlessly.

While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate and enjoy the highlights, including the colonial architecture of Casco Antiguo and the panoramic views from Cerro Ancon and Amador Causeway.

The high-speed motorboat ride on Gatun Lake to observe flora and fauna is a must-see.

With a maximum of 15 travelers per tour, guests can expect personalized attention from the knowledgeable and humorous bilingual guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour does not have a specific dress code, though comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing is recommended. Casual attire such as lightweight shirts, shorts or pants, and closed-toe walking shoes are suitable for the activities and environments visited.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participants?

There are no specific age restrictions for participants on this tour. The tour is suitable for travelers of all ages, though children should be accompanied by an adult. Active participation is recommended, as the tour involves some walking and boat activities.

Can the Tour Be Customized for Special Requests?

The tour can be customized for special requests, though specific details may vary. Travelers should contact the tour provider to discuss any modifications or accommodations needed for their group or individual needs.

Are There Any Discounts or Packages Available?

There are no discounts or packages mentioned for this tour. The price starts at $99 per person, with an additional $25 per person boat fee. Group size is limited to a maximum of 15 travelers.

What Is the Process for Providing Feedback After the Tour?

Customers can provide feedback after the tour by contacting the tour operator directly. The operator encourages reviews, which can be submitted online or shared with the guide. Feedback helps improve the tour experience for future participants.

Recap

The ‘Monkey Eco Boat & Old City Tour‘ from Riu Playa Blanca is a captivating blend of nature and history.

Travelers can spot wildlife on a high-speed boat ride, then explore the UNESCO-listed Casco Antiguo, all guided by knowledgeable experts.

With panoramic views and a seamless experience, this tour provides an unforgettable way to discover the beauty and culture of Panama.