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Gamboa Rainforest Reserve

3.5 star property
Travelers can answer adventure's call at this tropical retreat, kayaking or motorboating before relaxing poolside or exploring the nearby Culebra Cut

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Photo gallery for Gamboa Rainforest Reserve

Poolside bar - Gamboa Rainforest Reserve (Colon)
Lobby sitting area - Gamboa Rainforest Reserve (Colon)
Lobby - Gamboa Rainforest Reserve (Colon)
Aerial view - Gamboa Rainforest Reserve (Colon)
Lobby - Gamboa Rainforest Reserve (Colon)
Gamboa Rainforest Reserve offers a family-friendly escape near Soberania National Park. Guests enjoy two restaurants serving meals all day, plus cycling, fishing, and ziplining. Parents unwind at the swim-up bar while kids splash in their dedicated pool area.

Reviews

8.0 out of 10
Very good

Popular amenities

  • Pet friendly
  • Parking included
  • Free WiFi
  • Restaurant
  • Air conditioning

Room options

Available filters for rooms
Showing 7 of 7 rooms

View all photos for Suite, 1 Bedroom

Suite, 1 Bedroom | Egyptian cotton sheets, premium bedding, in-room safe, desk

Suite, 1 Bedroom

8.0 out of 10
Very good
(4 reviews)
  • River view
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed
  • Free WiFi

View all photos for Standard Room, 2 Queen Beds, Garden View

Standard Room, 2 Queen Beds, Garden View | Egyptian cotton sheets, premium bedding, in-room safe, desk

Standard Room, 2 Queen Beds, Garden View

8.0 out of 10
Very good
(5 reviews)
  • Garden view
  • 25 sq m
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds
  • Free WiFi

View all photos for Deluxe Double Room, River View

Deluxe Double Room, River View | Egyptian cotton sheets, premium bedding, in-room safe, desk

Deluxe Double Room, River View

8.4 out of 10
Very good
(16 reviews)
  • River view
  • 25 sq m
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds
  • Free WiFi

View all photos for Standard Double Room, River View

Standard Double Room, River View | Egyptian cotton sheets, premium bedding, in-room safe, desk

Standard Double Room, River View

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(2 reviews)
  • River view
  • 30 sq m
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Twin Beds
  • Free WiFi

View all photos for Deluxe Room, 1 King Bed, River View

Deluxe Room, 1 King Bed, River View | Egyptian cotton sheets, premium bedding, in-room safe, desk

Deluxe Room, 1 King Bed, River View

8.4 out of 10
Very good
(12 reviews)
  • River view
  • 25 sq m
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 King Bed
  • Free WiFi

View all photos for Standard Room, 1 Queen Bed, Garden View

Egyptian cotton sheets, premium bedding, in-room safe, desk

Standard Room, 1 Queen Bed, Garden View

  • Garden view
  • 25 sq m
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed
  • Free WiFi

View all photos for Family Loft, 1 Bedroom, Lake View

Family Loft, 1 Bedroom, Lake View | Egyptian cotton sheets, premium bedding, in-room safe, desk

Family Loft, 1 Bedroom, Lake View

  • Lake view
  • 45 sq m
  • 2 bedrooms
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 King Bed and 2 Twin Beds
  • Free WiFi

About the neighborhood

Located in Colon, Gamboa Rainforest Reserve is in a national park and on a river. Shoppers can check out Albrook Shopping Mall, while everyone can enjoy the natural beauty of Chagres River and Chagres National Park. Traveling with kids? Don't miss Summit Botanical Gardens & Zoo. Explore all the area has to offer with ecotours and hiking/biking trails. Visit our Colon travel guide
Map
Corregimiento de Cristobal, IA 5, Colon, Colon

What's nearby

  • Panama City night skyline
    Avenida Balboa
    46 min drive - 22.1 miles
  • Multiplaza Pacific Mall
    Multiplaza Pacific Mall
    50 min drive - 26.9 miles
  • Gamboa Rainforest Resort
    3 min walk - 0.2 miles
  • Chagres River
    13 min walk - 0.7 miles
  • Albrook Shopping Mall
    42 min drive - 20.8 miles

Getting around

  • Panama City Passenger Station
    28 min drive
  • Panama City (PAC-Marcos A. Gelabert Intl.)
    29 min drive

Restaurants

  • Monkey Bar
    16 min walk
  • Restaurante Encanto De Gamboa
    16 min walk
  • Gamboa Restaurant
    16 min walk
  • Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute
    3 min drive
  • Bar La Campiña
    25 min drive

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Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi and wired internet
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Roundtrip airport shuttle (surcharge)
  • Free extended parking on site
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking and van parking available

Food and drink

  • Daily buffet breakfast available 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM for a fee: PAB 18 for adults and PAB 9 for children
  • 2 restaurants
  • A bar/lounge
  • A poolside bar
  • A swim-up bar
  • Snack bar/deli

Things to do

  • Bicycle rentals
  • Boat tours
  • Children's pool
  • Fishing
  • Hiking/biking trails
  • Kayaking
  • Library
  • Motor boating
  • Outdoor pool
  • Playground
  • Ziplining

Family friendly

  • Children's pool
  • In-room babysitting (surcharge)
  • Laundry facilities
  • Outdoor pool
  • Playground
  • Snack bar/deli

Conveniences

  • ATM
  • Gift shop/newsstand
  • Laundry facilities
  • Limited-hour front desk
  • Luggage storage
  • Safe at front desk

Guest services

  • Concierge services
  • Dry cleaning/laundry service
  • Housekeeping (daily)
  • Multilingual staff
  • Porter/bellhop
  • Tour and ticket assistance
  • Turndown service
  • Wedding services

Business services

  • 2,756 square feet of conference space
  • Business center
  • Computer station
  • Meeting rooms

Outdoors

  • Garden
  • In a national park
  • Marina
  • On a lake
  • Picnic area
  • Pool loungers
  • Pool umbrellas
  • Terrace

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • 3 accessible parking spaces
  • Elevator (50 inch wide door)
  • Front entrance ramp
  • Handrails in stairways (31 inches high)
  • Visual alarms in hallways
  • Well-lit path to entrance
  • Wheelchair accessible (may have limitations)
  • Wheelchair-accessible business center
  • Wheelchair-accessible concierge desk
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking
  • Wheelchair-accessible path to elevator
  • Wheelchair-accessible pool
  • Wheelchair-accessible restaurant
  • Wheelchair-accessible van parking

More

  • 3 buildings
  • 7 floors
  • Ballroom
  • Banquet hall
  • Built in 1999
  • Designated smoking areas (fines apply)

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Blackout drapes
  • Egyptian cotton sheets

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries
  • Hair dryer
  • Shower
  • Towels provided

Entertainment

  • LCD TV with premium cable channels

Food and drink

  • Coffee/tea maker

More

  • Access via exterior corridors
  • Air conditioning
  • Connecting rooms available
  • Desk
  • Desk chair
  • Iron/ironing board
  • Phone
  • Safe
  • Separate sitting area
  • Window screens

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 3:00 PM; Check-in end time: 11:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before noon
Contactless check-out available

Special check-in instructions

The front desk is open daily from 7:00 AM - 11:00 PM
Front desk staffed during limited hours
This property doesn't offer after-hours check-in
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Access methods

Front desk (limited hours)

Pets

Pets allowed for an extra charge of PAB 45 per pet, per stay
Service animals are welcome, and are exempt from fees
Welcoming dogs only
1 total (up to 26 lbs per pet)
Pets cannot be left unattended
Restrictions apply; for more information contact the property at the number on the booking confirmation

Children and extra beds

Children are welcome
2 children, up to the age of 12 years, can stay for free if using existing beds when occupying the parent or guardian's room
Rollaway/extra beds are not available

Property payment types

Important information

Fees

You'll be asked to pay the following charges at the property. Fees may include applicable taxes:

  • Deposit: PAB 100 per stay

We have included all charges provided to us by the property.

Optional extras

  • Fee for buffet breakfast: approximately PAB 18 for adults and PAB 9 for children
  • Pet fee: PAB 45 per pet, per stay
  • Service animals are exempt from fees

The above list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits may not include tax and are subject to change.

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
This property accepts credit cards and cash
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a security system, and a first aid kit
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room

We should mention

The property has connecting/adjoining rooms, which are subject to availability and can be requested by contacting the property using the number on the booking confirmation

Frequently asked questions

Does Gamboa Rainforest Reserve have a pool?

Yes, this property has an outdoor pool and a children's pool.

Is Gamboa Rainforest Reserve pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 1 total) with a maximum weight of up to 26 lbs per pet. There's a fee of PAB 45 per pet, per stay. Service animals are exempt from fees. Some restrictions may apply, so please contact the property for more details.

How much is parking?

Self parking and extended parking are free at this property.

What time is check-in at Gamboa Rainforest Reserve?

Check-in start time: 3:00 PM; Check-in end time: 11:00 PM. After-hours check-in is not available.

What time is check-out at Gamboa Rainforest Reserve?

Check-out is at noon.

Does Gamboa Rainforest Reserve provide a shuttle to the airport?

Yes, there's an airport shuttle.

Where is Gamboa Rainforest Reserve located?

This family-friendly Colon hotel is located on a river, 0.8 mi (1.4 km) from Chagres River, and within 12 mi (20 km) of Summit Botanical Gardens & Zoo and Pedro Miguel Locks. Culebra Cut and Chagres National Park are also within 20 mi (32 km).

Can I cancel my reservation for free and receive a full refund?

Yes, this property offers free cancellation on select room rates, because flexibility matters! Please refer to the property cancellation policy on our site for more details about any exclusions or requirements.

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Reviews

Gamboa Rainforest Reserve Reviews

8.0

Very Good

8.2

Cleanliness

8.4

Location

7.8

Staff & service

7.6

Property conditions & facilities
Rating 10 - Excellent. 293 out of 774 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 268 out of 774 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 129 out of 774 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 47 out of 774 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 37 out of 774 reviews

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Erica

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Fantastic location in the jungle with incredible views of Lake Gatun from the room balcony. The night safari was really fun for the kids. We enjoyed our stay.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sophie

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Beautiful resort - we enjoyed the gorgeous pool and the surrounding park.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Suzanne

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
This was my second time staying here. I really love this place! The views are fantastic. I shot this bird from my balcony! There's great birding along the property's trails and in surrounding areas such as Las Chungas, just down the road. And of course, Pipeline Rd., one of the best birding locations in the world, is only 5 minutes away. The large room was very clean and attended to, and most comfortable.
Stayed 5 nights in May 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Shayne

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Gamboa Rainforest Reserve was an excellent place to stay and experience the wonders of the rainforest in Panama. Rooms were very clean and had all amenities as advertised. Pool was an excellent oasis after walks or fishing on the lake. Meals and customer service were also very good and many options were available.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Hendrika

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Everything was good, very humid so need to keep up with emptying water from dehumidifier provided in room
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ellen NATALIE

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Beautiful location in hear of rainforest overlooking the Gatun Lake and river system. Very happy that I paid for a room with a "river view." Lovely staff ready to help make your stay wonderful. Delicious buffet on the terrace overlooking the lake. Met people from all over the world. I highly recommend Gamboa Rainforest Resort.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ana

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Attentive staff and awesome dining facility. Beautiful quiet place.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kevin

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Unique property with beautiful nature surrounding it. Staff are attentive and friendly and the Hotel has access to a lot of very unique activities. Good food as well.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

John

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Beautiful rooms and grounds. Love ❤️ the nature around the resort.
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Christie

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Fabulous location. Timely service.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2026
Verified

8/10 Good

theresa

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
I enjoyed the facility but was disappointed to learn that the spa was closed. The staff though friendly was not as attentive at times Overall it was a very good stay.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Very comfortable, excellent food and views. Don’t miss the beautiful Biblioteca (library) above the lobby. It’s a cool place to escape from heat and sun, hang out to read or play cards, and take in the really interesting history and photos of early Gamboa and canal construction. I also really appreciated the efforts the hotel makes to go green.
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2026
Verified

8/10 Good

janine

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
I spent 5 days here recently. Rooms are spacious, clean. Hardly any mosquitos during my visit. There was a problem with hallway lighting being out which wasn't addressed during my stay, though the front desk was aware. Pool and Monkey Bar staff were very nice. I had a few issues though. I took 4 tours while there, and only 1 was a good value for money, in my view. There are 2 restaurants at the hotel which include the Monkey Bar and another one level down, plus another one which is open on weekends but is a little walk from the hotel. The Monkey Bar had burgers/nachos/cake. The restaurant downstairs had only a buffet for lunch and dinner, and very few signs to describe contents. I have some minor allergies, and there was no way to know what was on offer, so I lived on burgers and chicken tenders for the duration. For breakfast there was an a la carte option, the a la carte American Breakfast was very good, ample servings. The grounds are interesting, lots of birds and a few monkeys. The area felt very safe.
Stayed 5 nights in May 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Gerard

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
it is located in an incredible location. I had a balcony with a river view. I could sit in the afternoon and watch a parade of birds, including toucans. Be aware that the location is not within a town, so you are only at this property for meals and snacks. Also, the property does not offer much assistance for transportation to and from the location. The nature is amazing though, and made my stay worthwhile!
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mary

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Staff are amazing.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

8/10 Good

Dan

Liked: Staff & service, amenities
Beautiful place to stay for one night. A little over priced for Panama but the service and the food were excellent.
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025
Verified

8/10 Good

Constance

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Nice room with wonderful view and relaxing hammock. Clean and comfortable. The pool is large and beautifully landscaped, but the music playing was inappropriate, the bar closed at 5pm, and the waiters rounds were infrequent. Monkey island/rain forest/tram tours were good, be sure to read the fine print and show up 30 minutes early.
The big pool
Monkey island tour
Tram Tour through Rain Forest - viewing tower at the top
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
We stayed at this resort about 9 years ago and enjoyed it. It has actually improved since then! It is a true birder's paradise. The rooms are spacious and comfortable with balconies that overlook the stunning grounds with all sort of trees and plants that attract birds. The staff is welcoming and accomodating. The waitresses at the Monkey Bar were patient with our bad Spanish (they all speak much better English). The free night time tour was very fun and there are so many cool hikes that you can walk to. In addition to birds we saw Geoffroy's tamarin (a small monkey), agouti, coati, and a lot of neat lizards.
Yellow-throated Toucan, photographed from pool area!
Thick-billed Euphonia, seen from our balcony.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2026
Verified

6/10 Okay

Christina

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
The resort is older but quite nice. We did enjoy the tours but the food in the bar was terrible and there was a power outage for most of the night, which made it hard with young kids.
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sheila

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Gamboa is very nice resort and the staff make you feel right at home
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Souha

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Gorgeous panoramic views. Sweetest staff
Stayed 6 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

6/10 Okay

Tracy

The room was large, nice hammock on the balcony. Cocktails watered down. Grounds beautiful. The hotel has buses of tourists that arrive daily. It would be a fun place for kids because of the large pool.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

William

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
I loved being here in the midst of the rainforest. The resort itself was spacious and attractive with appealing decor. The pool area and grounds were awesome.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Marie

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
There was a wide variety of food to choose from. We ate while viewing toucans flying through the forest. Amazing!
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

6/10 Okay

Deja

Liked: Staff & service, amenities
Staff was very nice and helpful. The night tour was also fun. The rooms and facility are dated outside of the lobby. It does have a nice pool and garden area, but facilities need some updating.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2025