The Chagres Challenge – a Full Day Jungle Expedition From Sunrise to Sunset

The Chagres Challenge offers adventurers a chance to explore the lush rainforests and thrilling rapids of Chagres National Park in Panama. Kicking off at sunrise, this full-day expedition immerses participants in the breathtaking beauty of the jungle, from spotting native wildlife to tackling Class II and III rapids under the guidance of experienced professionals. With meals provided and a scenic 4×4 ride, the Chagres Challenge promises an unforgettable journey that will leave you craving more.

Key Points

• A full-day adventure in Chagres National Park, Panama, combining a rain forest hike and exhilarating white-water rafting on the Chagres River.
• Opportunity to spot diverse wildlife, including monkeys, sloths, river otters, and colorful toucans and butterflies, with expert naturalist guidance.
• Experienced guides lead the white-water rafting on Class II and III rapids, ensuring a safe and thrilling experience.
• Includes hotel pickup, breakfast, lunch, and all necessary equipment for the expedition.
• Moderate physical fitness level required, and the activity is not suitable for individuals with certain medical conditions.

Overview of the Chagres Challenge

The Chagres Challenge is a full-day jungle expedition that takes adventurers from sunrise to sunset through the lush landscapes of Chagres National Park in Panama.

This exhilarating adventure combines a rain forest hike with river rafting on the Chagres River, featuring Class II and III rapids. Participants will have the opportunity to spot native wildlife such as monkeys, sloths, river otters, and toucans.

The full-day trip departs from Panama City, offering a chance to take in the country’s natural wonders while enjoying breakfast and lunch along the way.

Activities and Itinerary

After departing from Panama City via 4×4 vehicle, the day begins with a morning hike through the lush rain forest of Chagres National Park. Travelers have the opportunity to spot native wildlife like monkeys, sloths, river otters, and toucans. Following the hike, the adventure continues with an afternoon of river rafting on the Chagres River, tackling Class II and III rapids. The full-day expedition includes:

Inclusions	Meals Provided
Rafts and gear	Breakfast
Professional guide	Lunch
Hotel pickup and drop-off	Bottled water

The Chagres Challenge is a thrilling jungle adventure that combines the best of Panama’s natural wonders.

Observing Native Wildlife

Wildlife might one encounter during the rain forest hike? Guests on the Chagres Challenge can spot playful monkeys swinging through the canopy, three-toed sloths lazily climbing the trees, and curious river otters splashing in the Chagres River.

Colorful toucans and other tropical birds soar overhead, while vibrant butterflies flutter around the lush vegetation.

The diverse ecosystem of Chagres National Park provides ample opportunities to observe the region’s abundant and unique wildlife up close.

With the expert guidance of the tour’s naturalist, participants can learn about the behaviors and habitats of the animals they encounter throughout their full-day jungle expedition.

Rafting on the Chagres River

Following the exciting hike through the lush rain forest, guests on the Chagres Challenge journey to the Chagres River for the next part of their adventure.

They’ll tackle Class II and III rapids aboard sturdy rafts, led by experienced guides trained in white-water navigation, first-aid, and CPR.

As they navigate the winding river, they may catch glimpses of monkeys, sloths, river otters, and vibrant toucans along the riverbanks.

Lunch is provided along the way, keeping participants fueled for the thrilling river rafting experience.

With a maximum group size of 15, the Chagres Challenge offers an intimate, adventurous day in Panama’s stunning wilderness.

Inclusions and Pricing

The Chagres Challenge expedition is priced from $189.75 per person and includes a range of essential components.

Participants receive:

• Rafts and all necessary gear for the white-water river rafting
• A professional guide trained in white-water navigation, first-aid, and CPR
• Hotel pickup and drop-off in Panama City
• GST (Goods and Services Tax)
• Breakfast, lunch, bottled water, and gratuities

The maximum group size is 15 travelers, and a minimum of 4 people is required to book.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience starts.

Meeting and Pickup Information

Where do participants meet for the Chagres Challenge expedition?

Pickup is available from any hotel within Panama City, with an extra fee for locations outside the city.

The adventure begins bright and early at 5:00 AM. Participants will receive their confirmation details at the time of booking, unless the trip is booked within 7 days of travel.

The maximum group size is 15 travelers, with a minimum booking requirement of 4 people.

This exciting jungle expedition promises an unforgettable day of discovery, from the lush rainforest to thrilling river rafting on the Chagres River.

Health and Safety Considerations

Although the Chagres Challenge expedition offers an exhilarating adventure, it’s not suitable for everyone.

Participants must be in moderate physical condition, as the activity involves strenuous hiking and white-water rafting. The expedition isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for individuals with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with heart conditions or serious medical issues.

To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, the tour operator requires all participants to sign a waiver. Guests can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the start of the activity.

• Not suitable for wheelchair users
• Not recommended for those with back problems, heart conditions, or serious medical issues
• Moderate physical fitness level required
• Participants must sign a waiver
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the activity

Preparing for the Chagres Challenge

To ensure a successful and enjoyable Chagres Challenge expedition, participants should prepare thoroughly. This includes bringing appropriate clothing, footwear, and personal items. A suggested packing list is provided below:

Item	Recommendation
Clothing	Quick-dry, moisture-wicking fabrics; long pants, t-shirt, light jacket
Footwear	Closed-toe shoes or water shoes with good traction
Personal Items	Hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, insect repellent, camera, small backpack

In addition, participants should be in moderate physical condition and notify the tour operator of any medical concerns prior to the adventure. Proper preparation will help ensure a safe and memorable Chagres Challenge experience.

Sum Up

The Chagres Challenge offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in the lush wonders of Panama’s Chagres National Park. From the exhilarating 4×4 ride to the thrilling river rafting, this full-day expedition promises an unforgettable adventure amidst a vibrant ecosystem teeming with native wildlife. Whether seeking an adrenaline-fueled journey or a chance to connect with nature, the Chagres Challenge delivers an unforgettable experience.