Panama Canal Tour in Columbus: Clear Water Locks and Gatun
Active
5h - 6h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
✅ PRIVATE AND EXCLUSIVE EXPERIENCE
No crowds or rushes – just you and your group, at your own pace, with bilingual guidance and stops for photos, water and questions.
✅ TWO ERAS OF THE CHANNEL IN ONE DAY
Take a close look at the expansion in Agua Clara and compare it to the new viewpoint of the historic locks of Gatun to understand how transits and Neopanamax vessels operate.
✅ DAM AND LAKE GATUN
Meet the Dam that gave birth to Lake Gatun, a key piece for the daily operation and one of the largest artificial lakes in the region.
✅ ATLANTIC BRIDGE AND SCENIC VIEWS
Cross the Atlantic Bridge and enjoy unique perspectives of the Channel and the Caribbean coast.
✅ COMFORT FROM START TO FINISH
Private transportation with A/C, bottled water and bilingual guide (ES/EN). A flexible and personalized tour.
✅ LOCAL TASTE IN COLÓN
If you wish, we stop for lunch or snack at a recommended place.
Ideal for : families, couples, friends, seniors and travelers in stopover.
Book today!
Available options
Home: Out of the City
Option for those who start the tour from: Bonita Beach, Tocumen Airport, Santa Maria, East Coast, Gamboa or Summit.<br/>Pickup included
Home: Panama City
Option for those who start the tour in Panama City.<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Pick-up and drop-off service to place of stay included
Air-conditioned vehicle
Bottled water
Private transportation
Personal tour guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Arrival time to the province of Colón.
2
We passed through the Atlantic Bridge, which is the third bridge built over the Panama Canal.
This bridge holds a world record as the four-lane concrete cable-stayed bridge with the longest span (530 meters).
3
After passing through the immense Atlantic Bridge, we make our first stop in the Gatun Locks to see the process of the Original Locks opened in 1914.
4
We arrived at the Gatún Dam, this construction was essential to create Gatún Lake, which is where ships sail when entering the Panama Canal.
5
We go from the Gatún Dam to the Agua Clara Visitor Center, where we will be observing the operation of the new locks of the Panama Canal inaugurated in 2016.
Includes transfer time from the Gatún Dam to the Agua Clara Visitor Center.
6
And finally, we left the Agua Clara Visitor Center towards Panama City.
Thank you for choosing us as your guides.
The time includes the transfer to Panama City.
What's not included
Lunch
Tips
Clara Water Visitor Center (Adult)
Agua Clara Visitor Center (Child)
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
2 reviews
5★
2
4★
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Tripadvisor
5.0
2 reviews
5★
2
4★
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Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
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
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
