Panama is a special destination that simply works on so many levels. Close to North America, flight times can be in the single digits instead of double. Plus, depending on your time zone, jet lag is minimal at best since time zone differences are usually 3 hours from the West Coast of the United States at most.
During EST, Panama is on the same time zone as the East Coast. The climate is warm and tropical year-round, so there is really no need to bring heavy winter clothing and gear. And the country speaks a bit of English almost everywhere.
Finally, the Panamanian dollar is tied to the USD, so there is no need to change currency for local cash. USDs are accepted everywhere as is credit cards in most places. Plus, the country has a bit of everything: from sparkling coastal beaches to tropical rainforests and an abundant diversity of wildlife. Not to mention that Panama City is replete with culture, history, and engineering marvels. There is something here in Panama for just about any type of traveler.
The Location
Panama is straddled by the Pacific Ocean on the West Coast and the Atlantic Ocean on the East Coast. The oceans are separated by the Isthmus of Panama, about 480 miles of land. The Panama Canal transits ships and ferries between the two oceans.
Gamboa Rainforest Reserve Hotel is located on the Atlantic Ocean side of the country, in a dense rainforest brimming with exotic flora and fauna. Harbored within Soberania National Park, where the Chagres River meets the Panama Canal, the Gamboa Rainforest Reserve is on 340 acres where explorers and pirates once roamed. The vistas are expansive; the scenery is majestic. Yet, it is only 30 minutes from Panama City.
The hotel offers an outdoor pool and a spa with views that will inspire you. The place is somewhat remote, nevertheless they offer many adventure tours on the premises that include aerial tram rides, night safaris on the Chagres River and Panama Canal kayaking adventures to guided boat tours, and fishing expeditions. Individuals, families, and groups are all welcome to this exotic vacation sanctuary.
Traveling Soon? These useful links will help you prepare for your trip.- Get an eSim to be able to use your smartphone abroad.
- Get a universal plug adapter
- Buy Travel Insurance
- Get a Car Rental
- Get an eSim to be able to use your smartphone abroad.
- Get a universal plug adapter
- Buy Travel Insurance
- Get a Car Rental
The Hotel
A Member of Preferred Hotels and Resorts, the resort also has a gift shop and tour desk.
The Room
Our room was spacious and airy, with a second level that accommodated a second bed. Perfect for families. Also, the property offers free Wi-Fi in all rooms. The air-conditioned rooms and suites at Gamboa Rainforest Reserve feature balconies with garden or river views. All accommodations include a flat-screen cable TV and a marble bathroom with free toiletries.
The Meals
The Gamboa’s restaurant serves international cuisine, and room service is available. Since this is a somewhat remote site, there are few other options available. However, I found the food to be tasty and varied enough to appeal to a variety of palates. Snacks are for sale at the shops, but you might want to pack some of your own since the items are somewhat pricey. A hearty Breakfast Buffet is included.
The Rates
For the best rates online as well as special packages, book directly with Gamboa Rainforest Reserve Hotel. Depending on the day of the week, season, and room type, rates run from around $119 – $410 USD per night for two. Check the website for special promotions.
Check rates for Gamboa Rainforest Reserve Hotel online at Expedia, Booking.com, Agoda.com, or Hotels.com.
For a review of another place to stay in Panama, check out this Hotel Scoop Review for the Hotel Riu Playa Blanca.
The Bottom Line
This is the rainforest, and there is plenty of water nearby. Be sure to bring insect repellent, sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses.
The resort has plenty to keep you busy, from onsite swimming pools to aerial trams over the rainforest canopy.
The views are amazing.
The resort has been around awhile so some parts of it appear to be in need of a facelift.
Karin Leperi Pezo is a writer and photographer living part-time in Peru and part-time in Nevada. She paid full fare for two nights as part of a tour with Tara Tours.
All photos are by Karin Pezo, unless otherwise noted. As always, all opinions are those of the author and are based on actual overnight stays at the property. This contrasts with AI (artificial intelligence) generated reviews, which are computer-generated summaries of what other people wrote about the place.
