09 Mar 2022
We came into Colon, Panama on our cruise ship. We had booked a private tour for 12 to go to the canal expansion then monkey island. Mario was very easy to communicate with and we selected him over a few other tour operators because he was very detailed on his trip details, what to expect and confirmation. When we exited the cruise area, he was there with a sign with our name on it. The van was very clean, spacious and it fit all 12 comfortably. The driver navigated the streets as Mario told us the history about the area and the canal facts. He was very funny and animated. We arrived at the canal expansion and he stayed with us as we watched the canal and boats. He answered questions and offered more details. He allowed us a lot of time to hopefully see a boat go through although after about an hour 1/2 we left as the boat stalled prior to canal for some reason.
-We then headed over the bridge for a better look at the locks with the driver slowing down for great picture taking.
-He offered beer and waters in a cooler and then we drove to the other side of the isthmus towards panama city. Again, he educated us with entertaining stories about the sites and "Balboa". We saw the pacific side of Panama and then headed to a pineapple area where they sell fruits to the stores and hotels. Sampling the "very best" pineapple any of us had ever tasted was a treat. We then headed a short distance to Monkey Island which is actually on Gatun Lake where the ships are going from one side to the other. It was a beautiful area where we boarded an open air boat for 14 to see the monkeys. Three different kinds are there and Mario and the boat operator made sure we saw them all. The ride was nice and refreshing. we got to feed the monkeys and they literally climbed on us and onto the boat and took the food wight out of our hands. We passed some of the large freighters and the scenery is beautiful. After our exciting boat ride we headed back to the ship. I'd say we were gone almost 5-6 hours but everything was fantastic. He was a wonderful host to our group. Friendly and safe driving.
-I highly recommend booking any trips with Mario. He made our stop very memorable in Panama.