Panama City , Panama

Panama Canal Tour

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(24 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

This tour features visits to the Bridge of the Americas, the Amador Causeway, the Goethal's Monument and the Panama Canal Miraflores Locks Visitor Center.

We will cross the Bridge of the Americas, one of the bridges over The Panama Canal, and we will stop at the viewpoint.

Later, we will visit the Amador Causeway, a road that connects four small islands on the Pacific, and offers stunning views of Panama City skyline and the entrance of the Canal.

Then, we will stop at the Goethals Monument, a beautiful white Vermont marble structure built to honor George Washington Goethals for his achievements during the Canal construction. Behind the Goethals Monument, you will see the Panama Canal Administration Building.

Our next stop is at the Panama Canal Miraflores Locks Visitor Center, where you may see the ships while they pass through the Canal.

At the Panama Canal IMAX Theater, we will watch the 45-minute 3D movie "Panama Canal, a Land Divided, a World United".

Available options

Panama Canal Tour

Pickup included

Panama Canal Tour (Private)

Private Tour<br/>Pickup included

Panama Canal Tour (Private AM)

Private Morning Tour<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Bottled water

Snacks

Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Meet your tour guide at one of our designated pick-up locations in Panama City.
The tour starts with a panoramic drive, with great views of the city skyline and Casco Antiguo, the old town.

Stop 2

The Bridge of the Americas is one of the bridges to cross over the Panama Canal. After crossing the bridge, we will stop at the viewpoint.

Stop 3

The Amador Causeway is a road that connects four small islands on the Pacific entrance of the Canal, and was made with excavated materials from the Canal construction. It offers stunning views of Panama City skyline and the entrance of the Canal.

We will stop at the Goethals Monument, a beautiful white Vermont marble structure built to honor George Washington Goethals for his achievement during the Panama Canal construction

We will watch the 45-minute 3D movie "Panama Canal, a Land Divided, a World United". The movie, narrated by Morgan Freeman, is about the history of the Canal and its recent expansion.

Stop 6

At the Panama Canal Miraflores Locks Visitor Center, you may see the ships while they pass through the Canal. You will learn about its history, operation and recent expansion.

*Please note that ship sighting in the locks is not guaranteed. It is based on the Canal schedule, which is updated daily.

You will be transferred back to the meeting points in Panama City.

Please note that the tour might be affected by heavy traffic.

What's not included

Miraflores Locks Visitor Center at the Panama Canal

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

21 reviews

5★

4★

3★

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1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Casco Viejo: Tiempos Coffee, located at the American Trade Hotel on Central Avenue. You may find it on Waze or Google Maps as “Tiempos Coffee @ American Trade Hotel”.

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