Panama Canal & Jungle Wildlife Cruise: 5-Hour Tour

Panama City , Panama

Panama Canal & Jungle Wildlife Cruise: 5-Hour Tour

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About this experience

Visit the engineering marvel of the Panama Canal and explore the lush wilderness of Gatun Lake on this 5-hour guided tour. Begin at the Miraflores Visitor Center, where you can marvel at ships transiting the locks and delve into fascinating exhibits. Following this, embark on a scenic boat cruise through the verdant rainforest, where you may spot diverse wildlife including monkeys, sloths, and toucans in their natural habitat. Perfect for families and nature enthusiasts, this tour combines education with adventure, making it a memorable experience for all ages.

- 5-hour guided tour with hotel pick-up included
- Visit Miraflores Visitor Center and see ships in transit
- 2-hour jungle cruise on Gatun Lake with wildlife spotting
- Comfortable air-conditioned transport provided

Available options

Panama Canal & Jungle Wildlife Cruise: 5-Hour Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Scenic wildlife boat cruise on Gatun Lake

Hotel pick-up and drop-off in Panama City

Bottled water

Bilingual guide (English/Spanish)

Guided visit to the Miraflores Visitor Center (without admission)

Detailed itinerary

Your adventure begins with convenient pick-up from your hotel in Panama City. Relax and enjoy the ride as we head out to explore some of the most iconic and breathtaking sites in the region. Please be ready in your hotel lobby at the scheduled time to ensure a smooth and timely departure.

Stop 2

Get a front-row view of one of the world’s greatest engineering marvels at the Miraflores Visitor Center. Watch massive ships transit the Panama Canal from the observation decks while learning about its history and operation through engaging exhibits and a short film.
Please note: Admission to the Visitor Center is not included in the tour price and must be purchased separately upon arrival (approx. $17.22 per person).

Experience Panama’s wild side on a scenic boat ride through Gatun Lake, a vital part of the Panama Canal. Glide past lush rainforest islands and spot exotic wildlife like monkeys, toucans, and crocodiles in their natural habitat. This relaxing cruise offers both nature and adventure, perfect for travelers looking to connect with the jungle from the water.

At the end of your tour, we’ll take you back to your hotel in Panama City. After a day full of exploration and unforgettable moments, enjoy a comfortable and safe return to your accommodation.

What's not included

Lunch

Entrance fee to Miraflores Visitor Center

This is not a transit tour; we do not travel through the canal locks

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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