Panama Canal and City Tour Experience
Active
5h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Get a complete overview of Panama city with the Panama Canal and city tour experience with an experienced panamenian bilingual tour guide. This could last up to 6 hours and will cover the Miraflores locks at the panamá canal (Pacífic side) , the magical Streets of old town, the bridge of the Americas, first bridge over the Panamá canal and the Amador coastway (Naos, Perico and Flamenco islands) .
Available options
Ocean to Ocean private tour
Private<br/>Duration: 8 hours<br/>Panama Canal locks: We will visit 3 set of locks
Miraflores, Pedro Miguel and Aguas claras locks (expanded version in the Atlantic side. <br/>Suv, minivan<br/>Pickup included
City Private tour or Layover
Lunch time included: Besides the tour hired you will also get time for lunch since you hired a private tour. <br/>Private<br/>Duration: 6 hours<br/>Bottled water included<br/>Minivan or suv<br/>Pickup included
City Group tour
Group tour<br/>Duration: 5 hours<br/>Bottled water<br/>car, Minivan or Bus<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Transport by air-conditioned suv, minivan or bus
Bottled water
Driver/guide
Group Tour
Hotel pickup and drop-off in downtown Panama city
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Miraflores locks operation interaction and Panama canal documentary with Morgan Freeman (45 minutes)
2
Stop 2
We will drive thru and stop to see the first bridge over the canal back in 1962. Visit will be only available during morning hours due to traffic.
3
Stop 3
We will drive thru a set of 3 Islands joint to the city with dirt and rocks from the Panamá canal.
4
Walk around enjoying the incredible architecture and history of our cathedral and Minor Basilica Santa Maria La Antigua. First Diocese of the mainland in America and the one that was visited by Pope Francis in January 2019.
5
Old Church, Chapel and convent of Santo Domingo that preserves the remains of the most emblematic architectural piece of the Old Town at the end of 18th Century, Mainly considered during the Panama Canal construction .
6
A Tribute to the King Of Spain Carlos V. This character is credited with the title of being the first to envision a Transoceanic route through Panama to unite the two largest oceans in the world. The pacific Ocean and the atlantic Ocean. This a wondurful Pplace to buy Molas at the best prices from indigenous artisan women who take advantage of the Plaza to offer this wonders of their ancesters.
7
Here we come to the Final part of this fascinating journey through the history of Panama. Enjoy the refreshing Paccific ocean Breeze, the spectacular view of the southern entrance of the Panama Canal and the opportunity to shop and interact with local artisans.
8
Stop 8
Pass by
Plaza that honors French Canal iniciators, Pablo Arosemena, 5th president of the republic of Panama (1901-1912), and a fighter for our constitutional laws of the new Republic.
What's not included
Food and drinks
Extra roundtrip transportation Fee if you are staying outside downtown Panama (Westin, Dreams)
Panama Canal Miraflores locks Entrance Fee
Aguas Claras and Gatun Locks entrance fees (ocean to ocean tour option)
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.9
235 reviews
5★
221
4★
10
3★
2
2★
0
1★
2
Tripadvisor
4.9
69 reviews
5★
63
4★
4
3★
1
2★
1
1★
0
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Important notes
Hotel pickups starts approximately 7am to 745am, exact pickup time will be advised thru whatsapp or viator message between 6pm to 9pm the day before the tour.
About Panama City
Panama City, the capital and largest city of Panama, is a vibrant metropolis where modern skyscrapers meet historic colonial architecture. Situated at the Pacific entrance of the Panama Canal, it offers a unique blend of urban sophistication and tropical charm, making it a compelling destination for travelers.
Top Attractions
Panama Canal
One of the most significant engineering feats in history, the Panama Canal connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.
Historical
Half-day to full day
Free to visit locks, tours vary
Casco Viejo
The historic district of Panama City, Casco Viejo is a UNESCO World Heritage site with colonial architecture, vibrant nightlife, and cultural landmarks.
Historical
Half-day to full day
Free to explore, entry fees for museums
Biomuseo
Designed by Frank Gehry, the Biomuseo explores the biodiversity and natural history of Panama.
Museum
2-3 hours
Moderate
Ancon Hill
A popular hiking spot offering panoramic views of the city and the Panama Canal.
Nature
1-2 hours
Free
Panama Viejo
The ruins of the original Panama City, founded in 1519, offering a glimpse into the city's colonial past.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free to explore, entry fee for museum
Must-Try Local Dishes
Sancocho
A hearty chicken and root vegetable soup, often served with rice and corn.
Soup
Contains meat, can be made vegetarian
Ceviche
Fresh raw fish marinated in lime juice, mixed with onions, peppers, and cilantro.
Appetizer
Contains seafood, can be made with various types of fish
Ropa Vieja
Shredded beef stew with vegetables, served with rice and beans.
Main Course
Contains meat
Hojaldres
Fried dough pastries, often served with cheese or jam.
Snack
Vegetarian
Popular Activities
Hiking in Soberanía National Park
Kayaking in the San Blas Islands
Beach day at Playa Blanca
Spa day in a luxury hotel
Exploring Casco Viejo
Visiting the Biomuseo
Snorkeling in the San Blas Islands
Boat tours through the Panama Canal
Best Time to Visit
December to April
This is the dry season with sunny days and minimal rainfall, ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
24°C to 32°C
75°F to 90°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Panamanian Balboa (PAB)
Time Zone
GMT-5
Electricity
110VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Panama City is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas. Exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Use official taxis or ride-sharing apps
- • Be cautious in crowded areas
Getting there
By air
- Tocumen International Airport • 24 km (15 miles) from city center
By bus
Albrook Terminal, Panama Viejo Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Modern, efficient, and air-conditioned. A convenient way to travel within the city.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Didi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Casco Viejo
El Cangrejo
Bella Vista
San Francisco
Day trips
San Blas Islands
300 km (186 miles) from Panama City • Full day to overnight
A group of islands known for their pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and Guna Yala culture.
El Valle de Antón
80 km (50 miles) from Panama City • Full day
A picturesque mountain town surrounded by lush forests and waterfalls.
Soberanía National Park
30 km (19 miles) from Panama City • Half day to full day
A lush rainforest offering a variety of wildlife and hiking trails.
Festivals
Panama Carnival • February (4 days before Ash Wednesday)
Panama Jazz Festival • January
Festival de las Mil Polleras • July
Pro tips
- Visit the Panama Canal early in the morning to see ships pass through the locks
- Explore Casco Viejo on foot to discover its hidden gems and vibrant street life
- Try local street food for an authentic culinary experience
- Use the metro for efficient and affordable travel within the city
- Book tours and activities in advance to secure your spot and avoid disappointment
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
