Private Half-Day Panama City & Canal Tour in Open-Top VW Kombi

Panama City , Panama

Private Half-Day Panama City & Canal Tour in Open-Top VW Kombi

Active

4h - 4h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Forget the crowded, cookie-cutter bus tours — the Panama Canal Experience with Tomi Tours is unlike anything else in Panama City. Ride in style and nostalgia aboard a fully restored 1974 Volkswagen Kombi, complete with a custom open-top roof for panoramic views, cool breezes, and unbeatable photo ops.

This isn’t just another tour — it’s an adventure through history with personality. You’ll visit the iconic Miraflores Locks, see the majestic Canal Administration Building, and cross the legendary Bridge of the Americas in an open-top classic car — a breathtaking moment with the Pacific on one side and the Canal on the other.

Cruise through the former U.S. Canal Zone, once a restricted military area, now a fascinating blend of tropical nature and history. The whole journey is pure eye candy — every stop offers incredible backdrops for photos and videos, and the Kombi itself is a head-turner that steals the spotlight in every shot. Part history lesson, part joyride & 100% unforgettable.

Available options

Private Half-Day Panama City & Canal Tour in Open-Top VW Kombi

Pickup included

What's included

Soda/Pop

Bottled water

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

The Miraflores Visitor Center is one of the best places in Panama City to witness the incredible workings of the Panama Canal up close. Located at the Miraflores Locks, this modern facility offers travelers a front-row seat to see massive cargo ships being lifted and lowered through the lock system—a fascinating feat of engineering that’s been in operation for over a century.

Visitors can watch the lock operations from spacious observation decks, where ships pass just meters away. Timing it right means seeing vessels from all over the world as they navigate the narrow canal chambers. Inside the visitor center, a multi-level museum showcases interactive exhibits on the canal’s history, construction, biodiversity, and global importance.

One of the highlights is a short 3D movie narrated by Morgan Freeman, offering a cinematic overview of the canal’s history and impact. There are also scale models, historical artifacts, and information about both the original locks and canal expansion.

Here we stop at the grand and historic headquarters of the Panama Canal Authority, set atop a hill with panoramic views.

Monument to Dr. Arnulfo Arias – Learn about one of Panama’s most influential and controversial political figures at this striking monument.

Stop 4 Pass by

Cross this engineering feat and take in breathtaking views of the canal’s entrance from the Pacific Ocean.

Capture postcard-worthy photos and enjoy sweeping vistas of Panama City, the Pacific coast, and the canal zone.

Abandoned U.S. Military Bases & Mirador al Puerto de Panamá (Amador) – see the haunting remains of the former U.S. military presence and finish with a spectacular lookout point showcasing the Bridge of the Americas and the bustling canal entrance below

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

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