Initially known as the Snyder Canal, this artificial waterway runs parallel to the Caribbean shore and extends form the Rio Changuinola to the western edge of Bahia de Almirante. Initiated in 1897 by the Snyder Banana Co., the canal was completed in 1903 and permitted shipment of bananas by barge in calm waters protected from the sea. It was abandoned following construction of a railroad.

The canal is still a liquid highway of commerce used by public water taxis and slower dugout cayucos ferrying bananas and other agricultural produce. Cut through tropical rain forest and wetland, the 39 metres wide channel has been severely deforested in recent years, and cattle graze in clearing cut from the grasslands and sedge.

Still, it is a thrilling journey as your boatman runs your craft with the throttle wide open. Freshwater turtles and small caimans sunning themselves on logs will plop into the waters as you putter past. Egrets and other stilt-legged waders stalk the grassy banks in search of tasty tidbits. Kingfishers skim like low-level jet fighters. Jacanas strut across water hyacinths munched on by manatees. Early morning and late afternoon are best for viewing wildlife.