Aerial Tram & Sloth Sanctuary in the Rainforest

An Aerial Adventure and Sloth Sanctuary in Panama: A Balanced Look

If you’re eager to see Panama’s lush rainforest without having to trek through thick undergrowth, this tour offers a fantastic compromise. For $132 per person, you’ll spend about five hours exploring from above and within the canopy. The highlight is Panama’s only aerial tram—a gondola ride that glides 600 meters through the treetops—offering a bird’s-eye view of Soberania National Park, the Chagres River, and, if luck is on your side, glimpses of sloths and monkeys. Afterwards, a visit to the Sloth Sanctuary provides a chance to learn about these slow-moving creatures’ habits and conservation efforts.

We particularly appreciate the panoramic observation tower — it’s a real highlight, offering sweeping views that encompass some of Panama’s most iconic landscapes. The guided commentary by knowledgeable guides like Juan enriches the experience, making the rainforest come alive with insights about local wildlife and ecosystems.

However, a word of caution: some reviews note that the tour is somewhat shorter and less active than expected, with limited animal sightings, especially at the sanctuary. This is a protected forest, after all, so animals roam freely and may not always be visible. Still, if you’re keen on birdwatching, learning about conservation, and enjoying incredible views, this tour remains a worthwhile option.

It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy nature, easy excursions, and want a good introduction to Panama’s rainforest without strenuous hiking. Families, wildlife enthusiasts, and photography lovers will find plenty to love here.

Key Points

• Unique aerial tram experience offers a bird’s-eye view of Panama’s rainforest canopy.
• Panoramic observation tower provides stunning, 360-degree views of national parks and landmarks.
• Wildlife & Conservation focus at the Sloth Sanctuary allows for educational encounters.
• Guided expertise enhances understanding of local flora and fauna.
• Shorter duration might mean fewer animal sightings, but the views and experience compensate.
• Comfortable group size (max 20 travelers) ensures a more personalized experience.

Exploring Panama’s Rainforest from Above and Beyond

When you book this tour, you’re signing up for more than just a typical jungle walk. It’s about seeing the rainforest from a different angle—literally—from the aerial tram that floats you above the trees. We loved the way the gondola offers a peaceful, smooth ride through the canopy, giving us a chance to spot birds like toucans and, with a bit of luck, the elusive sloths and monkeys that call this forest home.

We appreciated the way the guide explained the flora and fauna, making the experience both fun and informative. As one reviewer pointed out, Juan was “very informed,” which made spotting wildlife more meaningful. The 600-meter tram ride is just long enough to enjoy the view without feeling like you’re in transit forever, and reaching the Observation Tower feels like the highlight of the day. From there, you get sweeping vistas of Soberania National Park, the Chagres River, and the Panama Canal, all in one breathtaking panorama.

The Journey to the Rainforest

The trip begins with a 45-minute drive from Panama City, making it accessible and comfortable. The departure point is in the Multillaes Vista Hermosa area, a convenient spot for most visitors. The group size is capped at 20, which helps keep things intimate and allows guides to give more personalized attention.

The Aerial Tram: A Unique Panama Experience

The gondola ride is the tour’s star attraction. Unlike other rainforest excursions, this one is a panoramic, canopy-level experience that allows you to glide silently through the treetops. As one happy reviewer shared, “We had a great time gliding through the jungle canopy. Spotted a toucan and just enjoyed the ride.” The ride is smooth, quiet, and offers excellent opportunities for birdwatching and photography.

While some travelers found the walk to the observation tower short, most agree that the views from the tower are worth the slight climb. The platform is accessible for wheelchair users, and the panoramic sightlines are stunning. The feedback from visitors emphasizes that the views make the effort worthwhile, with descriptions like “great,” “fantastic,” and “incredible.”

Wildlife & the Sloth Sanctuary

The second major stop is the Sloth Sanctuary, where you’ll observe and learn about these gentle animals. Reviews highlight that the sanctuary is educational, with guides explaining sloth habits and conservation efforts. We loved the chance to see sloths resting, although some visitors noted that the animals sleep most of the time, which is natural behavior.

Along With sloths, the butterfly house and frog exhibits showcase the rainforest’s vibrant insect and amphibian life. These stops are brief but rewarding, especially for families and nature lovers who want a broad taste of rainforest biodiversity.

The Experience’s Pacing & Value

Many reviews point out that the tour duration feels just right—around five hours total—though a few found it shorter than advertised. This is partly due to the transportation, which is smooth and punctual, and the visits that are well-paced for most travelers. The price of $132 includes admission to the tram and sanctuary, making it a good value for the experience offered, especially considering the expert guides and panoramic views.

Practical Considerations

A few reviews mention that animal sightings can be hit or miss, which is common in free-roaming environments. The sloths, in particular, may be sleeping, and the sanctuary has only a few animals out at a time. Still, many visitors found the experience informative and engaging, thanks to the guides’ passion and knowledge.

The shorter duration and limited animal sightings may not satisfy those looking for an adventure-heavy tour, but it’s perfect for travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic, and educational experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you love birdwatching, panoramic vistas, and gentle wildlife encounters, this tour is a real winner. It’s especially suitable for families, older travelers, or those with limited time but still want a taste of Panama’s rainforest. People who appreciate guided insights and comfortable, small-group environments will find this experience rewarding.

However, if you’re chasing rare animal sightings or want a more active, lengthy trek, you might find this tour somewhat limited. Still, the value for money, the knowledgeable guides, and the stunning views make it a solid choice for a first rainforest pass in Panama.

Final Thoughts on the Tour’s Value

This experience offers a rare chance to see Panama’s rainforest from above—a perspective that’s both peaceful and thrilling. The aerial tram provides a gentle, relaxing way to observe the canopy, with frequent opportunities to spot exotic birds. The observation tower extends that experience, revealing panoramic vistas that make you appreciate the lush landscape and the vastness of the national parks.

The Sloth Sanctuary adds an educational component, giving insight into conservation efforts and the slow-paced lives of these charming creatures. Visitors rave about guides like Juan, whose enthusiasm and knowledge enhance the trip, making it more than just a sightseeing ride.

While the tour isn’t designed to be a wildlife safari—animal sightings are unpredictable—it compensates with stunning scenery, expert narration, and a laid-back vibe. It’s an ideal choice for those wanting a gentle, scenic, and informative rainforest adventure.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The total experience lasts about five hours, including transportation, the tram ride, and the sanctuary visit.

What’s included in the price?
The $132 fee covers the aerial tram ride and entrance to the Sloth Sanctuary, including exhibits like the butterfly house and frog exhibit.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, pickup from your hotel in Panama City is offered, and the return trip is included, making the logistics simple.

What are the main highlights?
Expect panoramic views from the observation tower, a smooth gondola ride through the canopy, and learning about sloths and rainforest ecology.

Are there any accessibility concerns?
The observation platform is accessible for wheelchair users, and guides are accommodating, but check specific needs beforehand.

What is the group size?
The tour caps at 20 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience and easier interaction with guides.

Can I see wildlife like sloths and monkeys during the tour?
Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed—animals are free to roam—but guides do their best to spot them and point out what they can.

What should I bring?
Light rain gear in case of showers, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a camera. Comfortable clothing and closed shoes are recommended for walking.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Absolutely, especially for families who enjoy gentle wildlife encounters and scenic views. The calm pace and educational focus make it great for kids.

To sum it up, this tour balances scenic beauty, wildlife education, and comfort in a way that appeals to a broad range of travelers. It’s particularly recommended for those who want a relaxing day of sightseeing, with a touch of adventure and plenty of photo opportunities. While it may not satisfy everyone seeking a wildlife safari, its stunning panoramic views and knowledgeable guides make it a worthwhile addition to your Panama itinerary.