Panama Canal Locks and Casco Viejo Tour
About this experience
Experience the best of Panama City on this comprehensive tour combining the world-famous Panama Canal with the UNESCO World Heritage Casco Viejo district. Watch massive ships navigate the Miraflores Locks and then step back in time as you explore centuries of colonial history. Your guide brings a decade of experience crafting unforgettable experiences, sharing authentic stories that bring Panama's history to life. Every journey becomes a true discovery as you learn about the engineering marvel of the canal and the rich cultural heritage of the Old Town. Begin at the Miraflores Visitor Center where you'll watch ships sail through the locks from the observation deck. Experience the canal's incredible engineering in the 3D IMAX theater, understanding how this waterway changed global trade forever. Then drive along scenic Balboa Avenue, taking in the stunning contrast between the historic causeway and the modern city skyline. The second half explores Casco Viejo, Panama's historic Old Town. Stroll through colonial plazas, admire the mix of architectural styles from Spanish colonial to Art Deco, and discover hidden gems in this vibrant neighborhood. End with breathtaking views of the Panama City skyline from the waterfront promenade. Note: Miraflores Visitor Center entry tickets ($17.22 per adult) are not included and paid separately. Solo travelers: $25 additional fee applies.
What you'll do
239 reviews
Nawan
A great time-optimized way to see the highlight of Panama Canal and the old town. Our host - Charlie was flexible and adjusted the pace to our need. Visiting the Panama Canal with the guide added more insights and perspectives to what otherwise be an accessible tourist landmark. The IMAX movie was insightful. Special thanks to the host Charlie for giving us a ride back to our hotel.
Deborah
The pick up was late. The viewing of the canal was wonderful, but it was rushed as the host wanted to get onto the second half of the tour. We then spent over an hour in traffic and due to other commitments later in the day we changed course and never got to have the second part of our tour. I don’t think you really need to have an Airbnb experience in order to enjoy the canal and learn about it.
Jacky
Austin, TX
We had Heavenly as our tour guide and she made us feel so welcomed and special! She is extremely knowledgeable about Panamanian history and was super considerate as a guide. She showed us the beauty of Panama! Can’t wait to come back
Avi
Austin, TX
This tour was a highlight of our trip! Our tour guide, Heavenly, is so friendly and knowledgeable; it felt like we were being shown around my a good friend. 10/10
Eric
Nairobi, Kenya
Quite happy with the experience - accommodation of our requests to fit within itinerary. Would recommend this.
Nawan
A great time-optimized way to see the highlight of Panama Canal and the old town. Our host - Charlie was flexible and adjusted the pace to our need. Visiting the Panama Canal with the guide added more insights and perspectives to what otherwise be an accessible tourist landmark. The IMAX movie was insightful. Special thanks to the host Charlie for giving us a ride back to our hotel.
Deborah
The pick up was late. The viewing of the canal was wonderful, but it was rushed as the host wanted to get onto the second half of the tour. We then spent over an hour in traffic and due to other commitments later in the day we changed course and never got to have the second part of our tour. I don’t think you really need to have an Airbnb experience in order to enjoy the canal and learn about it.
Jacky
Austin, TX
We had Heavenly as our tour guide and she made us feel so welcomed and special! She is extremely knowledgeable about Panamanian history and was super considerate as a guide. She showed us the beauty of Panama! Can’t wait to come back
Avi
Austin, TX
This tour was a highlight of our trip! Our tour guide, Heavenly, is so friendly and knowledgeable; it felt like we were being shown around my a good friend. 10/10
Eric
Nairobi, Kenya
Quite happy with the experience - accommodation of our requests to fit within itinerary. Would recommend this.
Jennifer
Andover, MN
Maylin is AMAZING!! 1000% recommend. Her passion for the history, culture and human connection was evident, a true gem!
Meet your host
Carlos
Local Guide
Reviews
Rating
I'm a biologist and Certified Nature Specialist accredited by the Panama Tourism Authority. Living near Panama City, I've spent 10+ years studying the biodiversity of Soberania National Park. Join me to spot monkeys, birds, crocodiles, and unique plants around Gatun Lake. My passion is sharing Panama's incredible wildlife with visitors from around the world.
To protect your payment, never transfer money or communicate outside of the Bandits website or app.
About your guide
To protect your payment, never transfer money or communicate outside of the Bandits website or app.
I'm a biologist and Certified Nature Specialist accredited by the Panama Tourism Authority. Living near Panama City, I've spent 10+ years studying the biodiversity of Soberania National Park. Join me to spot monkeys, birds, crocodiles, and unique plants around Gatun Lake. My passion is sharing Panama's incredible wildlife with visitors from around the world.
Where you'll be
Panama City, Panama Province, Panama
Meet at Plaza Herrera in Casco Viejo. Exact pickup location and time sent after booking confirmation.
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Vetted for quality
Every experience on Bandits is reviewed by our team to ensure it meets our quality standards. Learn more