Excursion of the Panama Canal Miraflores Lock, Aguas Claras

Located on a hill within the old Canal Zone, this imposing Italianate Revival-style building was opened on July 15, 1914. Taking advantage of the natural light and elevated environment, it offers a unique architectural experience. Upon entering, you will be impressed by its central dome, high ceilings, dramatic murals, towering columns and marble floor. The main roundabout is the heart of the building, where elegance blends with history. One of the highlights is its pink Tennessee marble staircase, accompanied by a refined mahogany handrail, symbol of the luxury with which it was built. This point forms a key part of the Panama Canal tour, as it represents not only the canal’s engineering, but also the cultural legacy of the time. An unmissable visit for lovers of Panamanian history, architecture and identity.

The Panama Canal has three lock systems, two of which are located on the Pacific side. The Miraflores Locks are the closest to Panama City and represent one of the most emblematic points to observe the operation of the Canal. There is the Miraflores Visitor Center, an interactive space that offers an educational and visual experience. Inside, visitors can appreciate models, mechanical models, historical objects and a series of informative videos that allow to understand the magnitude of this engineering work. From its terraces, you can watch live the transit of large vessels through the gates, while expert guides explain every detail of the process. It is an unmissable stop for those who want to know in depth the history, functioning and impact of the Panama Canal worldwide.

The Aguas Claras Locks are part of the Panama Expanded Canal, also known as the "Next Generation Canal". Located on the Atlantic coast near the city of Colón, these locks were opened in 2016 as part of the expansion project that allows the passage of large ships, known as neo-panamax. The modern Aguas Claras Visitor Center offers breathtaking views from a covered viewpoint, where visitors can watch in real time as these giant vessels transit through the new locks. In addition, it has ecological paths and educational areas that explain the operation of the hydraulic system, the technology used and its environmental impact. This experience allows us to appreciate the magnitude of one of the most important engineering works of the 21st century and perfectly complements the visit to the historical locks of Miraflores.

On the Atlantic coast of Panama is the city of Colón, a vibrant city, rich in history and known for its Caribbean cuisine, its Afro-Antilian roots and its strategic location. Columbus is home to the Columbus Free Zone, one of the most important free zones in Latin America. This first-generation commercial area functions as a great center for importing, storing, packing and re-exporting products from all over the world. In addition to its economic role, the city offers a unique cultural experience with a mix of colonial architecture, local traditions and intense flavors. Its proximity to the locks of Aguas Claras and the Panama Canal makes it an ideal stop to complement any tour of the country.