Old Canal zone tour (Miraflores Locks, former bases, and Museum)
Active
4h - 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
The former Canal Zone tour starts from your hotel and takes you to the Miraflores Locks, where we will spend an hour. You can visit the exhibition room between the observation decks to learn about the history and see the boats pass through the second-largest locks in the Panama Canal. After that, we will head to the former base of Clayton, which dates back to 1919 and housed more than 20,000 people, including civilians and soldiers. Then, we will drive to Corozal, an old town in the Canal Zone, where we can visit the American military cemetery and the train station, which was the first transoceanic railway in the world. After that, we will travel to the first American airfield in Albrook, where we will learn more about the history of the place. Finally, we will visit the old town of Balboa, where we can see the Panama Canal Administration Building, and end the tour at the Amador Causeway.
Available options
Former Panama Canal zone tour (military bases, museums and more)
Pickup included
Private and exclusive Combo
Private : An exclusive and customize experience<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Private transportation
Bottled water
Air-conditioned vehicle
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
We begin this tour by traveling through time going through everything that happened in the canal from the French to the conclusion of the canal by the Americans and all the nations that gave their contribution to this work that changed the maritime world since then.
2
Stop 2
The former base of Clayton date from 1919 and housed more than 20 thousand people, civilians, and soldiers, after we drive to Corozal an old town in the canal zone where we find the American military cemetery following the train station the first interoceanic railway in the world after traveling to the first American air force station in Panama Albrook where we will remember much of the history of the area and finally the old town of balboa where we find the Panama canal administration building and finally the Amador causeway
3
Stop 3
The Miraflores locks where we will be for an hour where you can see the exhibition rooms after ascending to the fourth floor to see the boats passing through the second largest locks in the Panama canal.
4
let's honor the fallen soldiers
5
the Zone's administrative capital, as well as the location of the harbor and the main high school on the Pacific side
6
The Panama Canal Administration Building was inaugurated on July 15, 1914 as a landmark for Panamanian history. This veritable legacy from the past is an important part of Canal history.
7
Stop 7
Fort Amador and Fort Grant ( current Amador Causeway) were former United States Army bases constructed to safeguard the southern end of the Panama Canal at Panama Bay in the Pacific. Amador was the main on-land site, located below the Bridge of the Americas. Grant comprised a series of islands situated just offshore.
What's not included
Miraflores Visitor Center entry to be paid on site to the canal staff
Canal Museum to be paid on site to the canal Museum staff
Available languages
Guide guide
PT
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
1 reviews
5★
1
4★
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3★
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2★
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1★
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Tripadvisor
5.0
6 reviews
5★
6
4★
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3★
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Miraflores Visitor Center entry 17.22 dollars per person Must be paid to the on-site to the staff
Canal Museum 15 dollars entry Must be paid on site to the staff
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
