NATURAL SURROUNDINGS: The aerial tram is located in 100 hectares of rain forest licensed to Gamboa Rainforest Resort. Here one finds an exuberant flora and fauna typical of Panama's neo-tropical forests. Flora includes species such as the Guarumo (Trumpet tree), Manglillo, Mangavé, Higo de Montaña, Espavé (Wild Cashew), Balsa, and others.

This impressive plant diversity is the food source for all kinds of indigenous animals including these mammals: Coatimundi, Peccary, Howler Monkey, Squirrels, Capybara, and Sloth. Beautiful birds such as Toucans, Trogons, Parrots, and Motmots are also plentiful. Reptiles and amphibians found in the Panamanian forests include: Caimans, Iguanas, and dozens of species of frogs. At the bottom of the evolutionary scale is the world of the insects, many of which are beautifully colored such as butterflies, dragonflies, cicadas, and others.

ROUTE: The aerial tram travels 1.2 kms. through the canopy of the forest in 72 minutes, not including time spent at the lookout. It's speed is no greater than 1 m/s. so you can enjoy the most.

PRICE: Special introduction rate USD$ 35.00

CAPACITY: There are 18 gondolas with a total capacity for 86 passengers, including interpretative guides. Two of these gondolas hold 3 passengers + the guide, with space for a wheelchair. The other gondolas hold five persons + the guide.

CONSTRUCTION: The route for the aerial tram was chosen in March 1999, and in June the environmental impact studies were completed. Construction began near the end of August, 1999. Because of Gamboa Resorts conservationist philosophy and goal to offer a unique nature tour to its clients, most of the trees along the trams route were preserved. The majority of the work was done using manpower to transport enormous structural pieces, thus minimizing the use of heavy construction equipment such as cranes, which would have altered the surroundings. Each of the seven towers was mounted in its place, piece by piece.

LOOKOUT: This is a square, steel and wood structure with a concrete base. The tower is 30 mts. high and 9 mts. wide, including an access ramp that spirals around the tower. The lookout is located at the top of the tower and offers a 360-degree, panoramic view of the Panama Canal, the Chagres River, and the surrounding tropical rain forest.

DIFFICULTY: This is a tour anyone can do if you eliminate the climb to the observation tower. It only becomes moderately difficult if you choose to climb the 100 foot tower.

WHAT TO BRING: Binoculars, hat, -- shorts are OK on this tour.

NOTE: This tour is not recommended for pregnant women who are more than 4 months into their pregnancy or people who are afraid of heights as the tram is sometimes at 70 feet above the forest floor.