Connecting With The indigenous Peoples of Panama

Meeting directly with the indigenous peoples of Panama is a unique and compelling way of learning about this country’s incredible history. In fact, Panama is home to numerous distinct tribes that comprise the country’s indigenous cultures. These people continue to live in harmony with modern Panama culture, even welcoming international tourists through the numerous tours and travel groups available.

While the country maintains a reputation for its engineering marvels and exceptional outdoor adventure, there are unique and inspiring ways of learning about the ways of life that help mold Panama into what it is today. The indigenous tribes of Panama are both unique and charming, offering a looking glass into a way of life that was once free from outside influence. Many tribes still embrace their old way of life throughout the country, welcoming people from across the world to share in their heritage.

Many visitors report that visiting these tribes is a highlight of their trip, taking home unique crafts while feeling good about supporting ancient tribes that need your support! Use this guide to learn more about the ancient traditions of Panama and how you can make this experience a reality!

How To Connect With The Indigenous Tribes of Panama

Many licensed tour groups and operators offer visitors a chance to experience the way of life of one of the many indigenous tribes found in Panama. These tours can be booked in advance or directly within Panama City, but we encourage you to plan ahead for the best possible experience.

Upon arrival, you can learn about their cultural traditions in the preserved rainforests found within the country. These tribes welcome international tourists, showcasing their dedication to song and dance, and even their own forms of local government. In these tribes, their local heritage is carefully preserved, showcasing their own song and dance that celebrates their heritage and beliefs.

As you take part in their traditional way of life, you can also support these communities directly by purchasing their goods. Many indigenous people of Panama are incredibly skilled, offering crafts, clothing, and trinkets carved out of wood or other natural materials. Their offerings are truly one-of-a-kind, affording you the opportunity to take home a souvenir that is unique to you.

Visiting these tribes is a great way to support the indigenous cultures of the country, but also to help you make your next vacation to Panama one that you will remember for a lifetime.

The Indigenous Tribes of Panama

Panama is home to eight different indigenous cultures, each with their own unique set of traditions and beliefs. They include the

• The Ngäbe: One of the largest indigenous groups of people in Panama, known for their incredible craftsmanship that includes bags and traditional dresses.

• The Buglé: Known for their close connection with nature and vibrant textile arts, these people continue to maintain their way of life in Panama’s rainforests with sustainable farming practices.

• The Guna: A South American tribe found in both Colombia and Panama, this group of indigenous people is known for the strong roles women play in leadership and maintaining their cultural heritage.

• The Emberá: Living along the Chagres River, not too far from Panama City, these tribes remain accessible by canoe, where their culture remains on full display. Visitors will be dazzled by their unique body art made from black dye that celebrates their cultural heritage, but also acts as a natural insect repellent.

• The Wounaan: An indigenous tribe found within the Darién rainforest, these tribespeople remain close to nature, weaving beautiful baskets from palm fibers with beautiful designs inspired by wildlife and nature.

• The Naso Tjër Di: Living along the Teribe River of Panama, this tribe has lived off the land of Panama deep in the country’s rainforests through sustainable farming, traditional hunting, and fishing practices.

• The Bribri: An ancient tribe living in Northern Panama, this indigenous group maintains its own language (Chibchan) and welcomes visitors for the sake of selling their handmade crafts and clothes.

• The Bokota: Found in Bocas del Toro, these people have co-existed with modern Panama lifestyles, welcoming visitors, selling their hand-woven baskets, and welcoming visitors to support their local economy.

Where Outdoor Travel and Cultural Heritage Meet

Many of these tribal people live deep in Panama’s rainforests, requiring visitors to traverse alongside a guide into these areas to meet with them directly. Further, they live closely in harmony with nature, living directly off the land using ancient medicines, farming techniques, and traditional hunting techniques to maintain their way of life. They even maintain independent governance, living in hand-made houses, and maintaining their ancient cultural practices handed down over the years.

They continue to welcome respectful tourists to share in their cultural traditions, including song, dance, language, and of course, food. Consider booking a tour with a licensed tour guide or travel company who can help you get up close and personal with indigenous communities who wish to share their way of life with visitors. Some tribes remain in remote parts of Panama and require special accommodations and transportation. Consider visiting the Travel Panama Official Government website to learn more about your options.

Find Answers To Questions About Visiting Indigenous Tribes of Panama

Visiting these tribes is an incredible experience, blending tradition and outdoor adventure travel into one experience. Learn more about visiting these tribes for yourself with these frequently asked questions.

Which Indigenous Tribe of Panama is The Easiest To Visit?

There are many options for tourists to consider when they visit an indigenous tribe in Panama. Some trips require canoe rides, boat tours, or hikes into the rainforest.

Visiting the Emberá tribe is likely the simplest option for travelers, as their tribes are accessible from the Chagres River. Many tour groups will transport visitors to the tribe, where they will learn about their heritage, see tribal dances, and eat locally sourced food.

Is Visiting an Indigenous Tribe in Panama Accessible?

Many visits require travelers to have the ability to take part in a rainforest hike. Some trips require travelers to partake in canoe or boat travel, and are not always appropriate for people with limited mobility. Always consult with your travel guide should you be unsure about whether this sort of activity is right for you or your family members.

Is It Safe To Visit Indigenous Tribes Found in Panama?

Yes, of course! Tourists should always collaborate with a licensed tour company or guide to plan and pre-book their trip. Many indigenous tribes benefit from tourists visiting their tribe. Your support helps their economy and supports their way of life.

Can You Visit an Indigenous Tribe of Panama Alone?

It is not recommended that you visit these tribes alone or unannounced. Always partner with a travel company that maintains close ties with these indigenous peoples.

Look To Caravan To Lead The Way Throughout Panama

Fully guided tours are likely the best way to experience the wonders of Panama. Between outdoor travel, historical tours, and meeting indigenous cultures, Caravan has you covered for your next trip to Panama. Our all-inclusive tours are unique in that they include a stop to meet a native Embera tribe living deep in the jungle. Let Caravan handle the travel logistics of visiting an indigenous tribe and focus on the enjoyment of your trip.

Never worry about details, and look to the travel professionals from Caravan to help plan an itinerary that includes the very best travel experiences in Panama. Learn more about our tour of Panama and leave the stress of planning such a trip to the experts.

We are proud to facilitate an all-inclusive travel experience across South America. Our group travel offerings offer immersive travel experiences that include outdoor adventure, wildlife viewing, and meetings with an indigenous tribe.

Call Caravan directly at 1 (312)-321-9800 and speak with one of our travel agents who are happy to give more details about our guided offerings in Panama. Consider booking as soon as possible, as spaces tend to fill up quickly. Have more questions? Reach out directly and inquire about every detail of our offerings.

Call now and book the vacation of a lifetime!