The Gamboa Rainforest - A Quick Getaway From the City

Gamboa Rainforest and hotel.

This place is about 25 mins (or less) away from Panama City.  We got lost on our way there, but I'll take full responsibility for that.  We stayed one night at the hotel because we got a good low season deal.

Word to the wise: get exact directions BEFORE going to Gamboa.  Its easy to get lost.  Thank God we had a GPS.

My review:

-->Pool was very nice, but a little cold.

-->Free canoe trip was very low key and casual.  Not a whole lot of canoeing or adventure.  Apparently crocodiles were in the water, but we didn't see any.   Our guide didn't seem to be worried, since she dangled her leg in the water for quite some time!

-->Hotel was good.  Facilities were very nice.

-->Room was quite comfortable.  

-->The spa was okay.  The men and women's spas our seperate, so my lady and I were in the hot tubs alone.  :(  They also have a (seperate) sauna and steam room.  I liked the steam room, but it took a WHILE to get it to work.  My gf could NOT get her steam room to work.  The hot tub jets were terrible.

-->Massage at the spa.  According to my gf, it was not impressive and NOT worth the price.

-->Tours: Free ones: Canoe, Bike, and Night Truck Ride.  Pay ones: Monkey, Bird Watching, and others.   Can't comment, didn't go on any except the canoe tour.  HEADS UP, sign up for the tours early, because once they are full, you are outta luck.

-->Hotel restaurants were good.  We might have got sick from the food, it was hard to tell cuz it happened when we got back home.  The restaurant by the lake is the ONLY place we saw any crocodiles.  I was told they just hang out there because people toss them food from the balcony.

My recommendation:

1. This place is a nice break from the hustle and bustle of the city and its very close.
   
2. Come here if you want an easy, quick getaway from the city.
3. Come during off season and try to get a good rate.
   
4. Get there early.  It seems like the best part of the place is enjoying the scenery during the day.  Give yourself enough time to explore the area.
   
5. Venture out and explore the area...its pretty big.
   
6. Skip the massage.
   
7. Keep in mind that couples can not enjoy the hot tub, sauna and steam room together.