Panama City & Panama Canal: Miraflores Locks Half-Day Tour

Panama City , Panama

Panama City & Panama Canal: Miraflores Locks Half-Day Tour

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(9 reviews)

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

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Experience the highlights of Panama City on this 5-hour, expertly guided tour. Visit the Panama Canal at Miraflores Locks to witness massive ships navigate this engineering marvel. Stroll the historic streets and plazas of Casco Viejo (Old Town), exploring colonial architecture, cafes, boutiques, and vibrant local life. Drive along the glitzy Avenida Balboa and scenic Cinta Costera, with breathtaking skyline views, and capture photos at the famous Panama sign. Finish at the Amador Causeway, enjoying fresh ocean breezes and stunning city vistas.

With a friendly English-speaking guide, this tour offers a perfect mix of culture, history, and iconic landmarks—ideal for first-time visitors or travelers short on time. Perfect for a half-day Panama City tour, Panama Canal visit, or Casco Viejo walking experience.

Available options

Pickup from Playa Bonita

Duration: 5 hours Well maintained car with AC Pickup from Playa Bonita Pickup included

Pickup from Panama City

Duration: 5 hours Well maintained car with AC Pickup from Panama City Pickup included

Pickup from Costa del Este

CostaDelEste-SantaMaria PickUp: With Pick up in Costa del Este or Santa Maria area Pickup included

What's included

English speaking guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Begin your tour at the Miraflores Locks, where you can watch massive container ships navigate the locks and be lifted above sea level—a truly impressive sight! Explore the Miraflores Visitor Center, where you’ll learn about the colorful history and incredible engineering of the Panama Canal.

The center also features a new IMAX theater, showing a 40-minute documentary about the Panama Canal (optional, additional cost: $17.22).

Stop 2

Stroll through the charming alleyways of Casco Viejo, Panama City’s historic district, and explore its four picturesque plazas, recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Admire the spectacular colonial architecture, browse unique boutiques and artisan shops, and enjoy the lively atmosphere of cafés, restaurants, bars, and local entertainment.

Enjoy a scenic drive along Avenida Balboa and the Cinta Costera, taking in breathtaking views of Panama City’s skyline. Snap photos at the iconic Panama sign and admire the city’s modern architecture juxtaposed with the sparkling coastline.

Stop 4

Next, we’ll visit the famous Amador Causeway, constructed from the soil excavated during the Panama Canal project. Enjoy stunning views of the Panama City skyline, feel the refreshing ocean breeze, and capture numerous photo opportunities along this scenic stretch.

What's not included

Entrance Fee to Miraflores Visitor Center

Optional IMAX movie fee - $17.22

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

7 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

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

THERE IS A SURCHARGE FOR PICK UP AND DROP OFF AT HOTELS OUTSIDE OF PANAMA CITY, SUCH AS TOCUMEN, COSTA DEL ESTE, PLAYA BONITA AND OTHERS. Please select the relevant booking option or kindly send us a message.

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