Why We Don’t Feed Wildlife on Our Monkey Island Tours

(And Why That Matters)

At Panama Day Trips – Canal Eco Tours, we specialize in ethical wildlife tours to Monkey Island in the Panama Canal. Unlike many other tour operators, we do not feed or touch the monkeys — and we want to explain why.

Most Tour Operators Get It Wrong — and It’s Often Not Even Legal

Unfortunately, many tour companies in Panama continue to feed and handle wild monkeys, often to please tourists or offer quick photo opportunities. What many travelers don’t realize is:

  • Feeding and touching wild monkeys is discouraged by Panama’s environmental authorities
  • In protected areas, such interactions can be illegal under conservation laws
  • These practices put both animals and humans at risk — and can lead to fines or penalties

By choosing a tour that avoids these harmful practices, you’re not just being responsible — you’re also staying on the right side of the law.

The Harm of Feeding Wildlife

Feeding and touching monkeys may seem harmless or fun, but it causes long-term damage:

1. It Harms Their Health

Monkeys need a natural diet. Feeding them fruit, snacks, or other human food causes digestive problems, malnutrition, and disease.

2. It Creates Dependency and Aggression

Monkeys that are fed by humans lose their ability to forage naturally. They can become aggressive or overly bold, leading to dangerous encounters.

3. It Disrupts Natural Behavior

These interactions change how animals breed, travel, and survive. It can even harm their social structure and survival instincts.

Our Philosophy: Respect Nature

At Panama Day Trips – Canal Eco Tours, we choose to observe, not interfere. We believe eco-tourism should protect the environment, not exploit it.

Our Monkey Island tours offer:

  • A peaceful boat ride on Lake Gatun
  • Unforgettable sightings of monkeys in the wild — without baiting or tricks
  • A chance to support wildlife conservation
  • Expert local guides who share real knowledge about the ecosystem

Why Choose Us?

  • We follow sustainable tourism practices
  • We do not bait, feed, or touch wildlife
  • We educate guests about why this matters
  • We respect local regulations and conservation ethics

Experience Monkey Island the Right Way

Booking with Panama Day Trips means choosing a tour company that puts wildlife and conservation first. Come see Panama’s famous monkeys — the right way.

Book Your Eco-Friendly Monkey Island Tour Now
Panama Day Trips – Canal Eco Tours | Experience the Wild, Responsibly