Meet the Embera indians of Gatun river

The riverine Emberá indigenous communities originally hailed from the remote Darien region of Colombia and Eastern Panama. They only started settling in villages in 1950. Partly owing to the presence of guerrillas and drug traffickers in the vicinity, in 1975 a number of families moved to a more accessible location in the province of Colón. Here they have maintained their traditional way of life and are famed for their basket weaving.  

Ease of access these days means you are privileged to be able to visit them, travelling upriver in a dugout canoe. The region is heaven for birdwatchers with over 500 species of bird, some of which may be spotted on the journey including toucans and ospreys. On arrival at the village, you'll be greeted by dancing and music and have the opportunity to savour the Embera indians' simple way of life.