Adventure in Panama

Panama City is a buzzing metropolis known for its soaring skyscrapers, striking megamalls, top-notch restaurants and vibrant nightlife. It provides the ultimate experience for fast-paced city slickers.

But those wanting to escape the concrete jungle don't need to venture far to reach paradise. The majestic Panamian rainforests lie 30 minutes away, bordering the city's outskirts.

Home to diverse wildlife and a colourful variety of birds, the 340-acre Gamboa Rainforest Reserve offers an abundance of outdoor activities in an untouched, pristine setting.

Whether you're an avid outdoor enthusiast chasing an adventure or want to immerse yourself in nature on a leisurely forest stroll, there's something for everyone in this haven.

And while there are countless activities in which to participate, Gamboa's most sought-after pastime is their Zip Lining adventures.

Not designed for the faint-hearted, this adrenaline-pumping experience will send your heart racing as you glide the treetops at exhilarating speeds.

Though some consider this a real-life Tarzan experience, zip lining doesn't involve tree swinging or encounters with six-foot gorillas, for that matter. Instead, safety is paramount. Zip-liners are secured to industry-grade harnesses and taught how to zip-line responsibly. Any wildlife you spot on your epic aerial adventure is at a safe distance.

Armed with essential zip-lining knowledge, adventure-seekers embark on an intense, uphill hike to reach the ten canopy platforms where the excitement starts.

Suspended above the tree line, you’ll be fastened to sturdy wire extensions before whizzing between trees while catching glimpses of Panamas’ idyllic watery landscape, the Chagres River.

Approximately 70 feet off the ground, you're advised not to look down even if you're tempted. But from this vantage point, you've entered another world, with the sights and the sounds bound to capture your attention and melt away fears.

From up top, scan for sleepy sloths clinging to branches and brightly beaked toucans swooping between the canopies of trees. Loud and raucous calls may echo through the forests and startle you, but rest assured, they belong to howler monkeys, small and peaceful marsupials looking for mates.

If you prefer your legs firmly planted on land, trade the treetops for a sunset cruise along the Chagres River. Keep your limbs inside the boat, as the river ominously derives its name from the three types of crocodiles inhabiting these waters. But don't worry; you'll unlikely encounter a cold-blooded reptilian one-on-one. As our local guide tells us, he grew up swimming, splashing and playing with friends, assuring us that no limbs or lives were lost. However, naturally, he advises against water-based adventures or daring to swim in the crocodile-infested water.

With a drink in hand, cast your gaze to the shore for wildlife at the water's edge while drinking in the soft, orange-hued sunsets.

Planning a Panamanian getaway? From city sightseeing and shopping to connecting with nature, there's a lot to fill your itinerary on an adventure in Panama.