The Embera Indians are one of the many ethnic indigenous tribes in Panama, they are located on the banks of one of the most important rivers in the Canal Basin at 2 hours and a half distance from the beach area (Coronado, Gorgona and Playa Blanca). After this scenic bus ride to the banks of the San Juan or Chagres River, we are met by representatives of the Embera Indians who take us up to the river in piraguas for 30 minutes. We then arrive to the community originating from the mountainous region of the Darien province.

We will experience the history and culture of the indigenous culture, through narrative, traditional dance and craftsmanship like baskets woven form the natural fibers of the chunga, maquenque and naguala palm trees, as well as figures carved in cocobolo wood and natural  tagua available for sale.

We will enjoy a typical lunch of fried fish and yucca  or plantains, listening  to an explanation on behalf of the shaman or witch doctor on the medical use of some plants.  This is a good opportunity to try an ancestral custom in the form of a tattoo with jagua, an extract from vegetables seeds which the Indians  use to adorn thier bodies with geometrical patterns or animals for ceremonies .

After or before visiting the community (it depend of the weather) we will discover an amazing waterfall after a nice walk in the nature guide by Indians. There is time for a refreshing bath…

THIS TOUR INCLUDES: ground transport, transport in powered piragua into the river, guide, lunch, soft drinks, fruit and snacks, tattoo if desired.

RECOMMENDATION FOR WHAT TO BRING: wet shoes, swimsuit, beach towel, cash for souvenir and donation, light clothes and change of it, sun block and insect repellent.

COST:  
$85 per person for a group of 6 people or more
$95 per person for a group of 4 or 5 people
$120 per person for 1 or 2 people