Panama City and Panama Canal Miraflores Locks Half-Day Tour

Panama City , Panama

Panama City and Panama Canal Miraflores Locks Half-Day Tour

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(9 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Join us on this 5-hour Panama City tour where you will visit the highlights of Panama including the awe inspiring Panama Canal, the glitzy Avenida Balboa, Old Town (Casco Viejo) and Artisan Market and Amador Causeway.

Your friendly, English speaking driver and tour guide will meet you at your Panama City lodging from where you will continue on towards Avenida Balboa and the beautiful Cinta Costera, with its breathtaking Panama City skyline sights and the famous Panama sign. As we reach Panama's old town, Casco Viejo, we will start walking along the many romantic alleyways and visit the four plazas, discovering historic buildings, cafes, unique boutiques, restaurants, bars and entertainment options. We continue to the Miraflores Visitor center, gazing at the huge ships traversing the Panama canal

Our tour is the ideal way to discover Panama City in just one day and a good way to start your Panama vacation before you journey to the other areas.

Available options

Pickup from Panama City

Duration: 5 hours Well maintained car with AC Pickup from Panama City Pickup included

Pickup from Playa Bonita

Duration: 5 hours Well maintained car with AC Pickup from Playa Bonita Pickup included

Pickup from Costa del Este

CostaDelEste-SantaMaria PickUp: With Pick up in Costa del Este or Santa Maria area Pickup included

What's included

English speaking guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Observe the exciting activity of the Miraflores locks where you can marvel at the gigantic container ships making their approach into the locks lifting them above sea level. Stroll around the Miraflores visitor center and learn about the colorful history of the canal and its arduous construction. The visitor center also has a new IMAX theater, featuring a 40-minute documentary about the Panama Canal (optional for an extra cost of $17.22)

Stop 2

Walk along the many romantic alleyways of Casco Viejo (Old Town) and visit the four plazas (nominated UNESCO World Heritage Sites) with their spectacular architecture and rich history. Take your time admiring the historic buildings, cafes, unique boutiques, restaurants, bars and entertainment options.

We drive along Avenida Balboa and the beautiful Cinta Costera, with its breathtaking Panama City skyline sights and the famous Panama sign

Stop 4

We will visit the famous Amador Causeway, built from the soil excavated from the Panama Canal project. Take spectacular photos of the amazing Panama City skyline views. Enjoy the fresh ocean breeze and many photo opportunities.

What's not included

Entrance Fee to Miraflores Visitor Center

Optional IMAX movie fee - $17.22

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

7 reviews

5★

4★

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1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

THERE IS A SURCHARGE FOR PICK UP AND DROP OFF AT HOTELS OUTSIDE OF PANAMA CITY, SUCH AS TOCUMEN, COSTA DEL ESTE, PLAYA BONITA AND OTHERS. Please select the relevant booking option or kindly send us a message.

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

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