Panama Canal Tour Miraflores Locks & IMAX Movie
Active
4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
On this afternoon tour, your guide will share fascinating historical facts as you head to the Miraflores Visitor Center (entrance fees not included). In the afternoon we guarantee you’ll see ships inside the canal locks as they lower through the chambers—watching 700-ton gates open and close, locomotives pulling the cables, and the ship’s captain coordinating every movement.
You’ll also enjoy the exclusive IMAX movie, not available on YouTube or Netflix, which explains the incredible engineering behind this world-renowned marvel.
After spending about two hours at the center, we’ll drive you back safely to your city hotel with a deeper, unforgettable understanding of the canal and its impact on your everyday life.
Available options
From Dreams Playa Bonita
Only from Westin or Dreams: Please be 10 minutes before your pickup time not to miss your bus<br/>Pickup included
From City Hotel/ Hostal or Air
Pickup included
What's included
Professional Guide (English or Spanish)
Round trip air-conditioned transportation
Bottled water
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
The Miraflores Locks and the Panama Canal IMAX movie offer a rich and dynamic look at one of the world’s most iconic engineering achievements. From the observation terraces, visitors watch ships of all sizes rise and fall inside the towering lock chambers as tugboats guide them with remarkable precision. Inside the theater, the IMAX film enhances the experience with sweeping aerial views, detailed historical footage, and vivid explanations of the challenges faced during the canal’s construction and later expansion. Narrated with clarity and depth, the movie highlights the global impact of the canal and the vision that made it possible. Together, the real-time view of the locks and the powerful visual storytelling of the IMAX film deliver an engaging, educational experience that connects visitors to the history, science, and scale of this extraordinary waterway.
2
Stop 2
Pass by
The former Canal Zone in Panama was a U.S.-administered area that supported the operation and defense of the Panama Canal for much of the 20th century. Places like Albrook Air Force Base once housed military personnel, aviation facilities, and entire communities built around canal operations. Today, these areas have been transformed into vibrant Panamanian neighborhoods filled with parks, schools, museums, and modern developments, while still preserving traces of their unique American-era history.
What's not included
Panama Canal Entrance fees (Adult $17.22 / Kids $7.22 )
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
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Important information
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
On this tour you will be with other people as it is a shared 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
