Panama Canal Tour: Miraflores Locks and Canal Zone

Panama City , Panama

Panama Canal Tour: Miraflores Locks and Canal Zone

Active

(34 reviews)

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

Explore the Panama Canal in total comfort on an exclusive private tour. Enjoy history, breathtaking views and the freedom to explore at your own pace.

✅ PRIVATE AND EXCLUSIVE EXPERIENCE
No crowds or rush. Just you and your group on a flexible and personalized tour.

✅ LIVE CHANNEL OPERATION
Discover how the locks operate and witness the passage of ships in this engineering marvel.

✅ HIDDEN HISTORY AND LEGACY OF THE CHANNEL
Explore the old Canal Zone and see the key sites where the Torrijos-Carter Treaties were forged.

✅ ICONIC PLACES AND PANORAMIC VIEWS
Visit historic sites, cross the Amador Causeway and admire the imposing Bridge of the Americas.

✅ IMAX AND LIVE TRANSIT
Enjoy the film IMAX narrated by Morgan Freeman and watch the boat crossing in Miraflores.

✅ WHO IS IT FOR?
Families, couples, group of friends, seniors, stopover travelers looking for : clear insights, friendly treatment and comfort.

Book today!

Available options

Home: Panama City

Option for those staying in Panama City. Does not include Amador Cruise Port.<br/>Pickup included

Home : Outside City / Port

Home in: Puerto de Cruises Amador, Playa Bonita, Tocumen Airport, Santa Maria, Costa del Este, Gamboa or Summit.<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

Stop 1

We head to the Miraflores Visitor Center where we will have the opportunity to see the 45-minute documentary about the Panama Canal, narrated by Morgan Freeman at the Imax theater, we will know the history and operation of this important and imposing construction and see the transit of Panamax ships that pass through the locks of Miraflores.

This time includes transfer to the Miraflores Locks.

From the Miraflores Locks we arrive at the Pedro Miguel Locks, this is the smallest lock built and very important as it levels the ships at the level of the snake cut which is the most dangerous and complicated part of the transit of the ships.

Time includes transfer to the locks of Pedro Miguel.

We pass the Centennial Bridge where you will see the start of the famous Corte Culebra and the entrances to the Locks of Pedro Miguel, Miraflores and Cocolí.

We continue to know more about the Panama Canal and arrive at the Panama Canal Administration Building, where we will walk along the Paseo del Prado (which has an interesting history) and the Monument to George Goethals.

Time includes transfer from the locks of Pedro Miguel.

We arrive at the Mirador de las Américas where we have a panoramic view of the Bridge of the Americas and the main ports of the Pacific: Puerto Balboa and Puerto PSA and Cerro Ancón.

Time includes transfer from the Administration Building.

Stop 6

We continue our adventure and finish at the Amador Causeway where we will know the importance of this area when the Panama Canal was inaugurated and enjoy the breathtaking views of Panama City and Panama Bay.

Time includes transfer from the Mirador de las Américas.

What's not included

Lunch

Tips (tips in Panama are a sign of appreciation for the service provided)

Miraflores Visitor Center (Adult)

Miraflores Visitor Center (Child)

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.7

7 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

27 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

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

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Important notes

Please show the reservation to the driver / guide to confirm that it is the correct person.

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