Panama Canal Tour - Miraflores Locks & City Highlights
About this experience
This half day Panama Canal tour is designed for travelers who want a complete first visit with clear storytelling, efficient routing, and the most important photo stops on the Pacific side of the canal. Start in central Panama City and travel toward the canal with a local licensed guide who explains how the canal shaped Panama City, global trade, and the neighborhoods you pass. You will cross the Bridge of the Americas for panoramic views of the Pacific entrance and canal corridor, then continue to the Amador Causeway area for skyline viewpoints and waterfront scenery. Next, visit key Balboa area landmarks such as the Goethals Monument viewpoint zone and the historic Canal Administration Building area for context and photos. The tour finishes at the Miraflores Visitor Center where you can watch ships transit the locks from the observation decks and explore museum exhibits. Your guide shares practical tips on the best viewing times and what to look for as ships enter and exit the chambers. Important note about tickets. Entrance to the Miraflores Visitor Center is not included in the tour price. Non resident ticket pricing is 17.22 for adults and 7.22 for children ages 6 to 12, and the ticket includes the Panama Canal IMAX movie. Children under 6 are free. Tickets are purchased at the venue. The guide will assist with timing and entry. This experience is ideal for first time visitors, families, couples, cruise stop travelers, and anyone who wants a high value overview without spending a full day. The tour features small group size for smoother stops and better photos, a balanced mix of canal history and city viewpoints, clear logistics with an efficient half day schedule, and bilingual guiding in English and Spanish.
What you'll do
599 reviews
Sarah T.
Incredible experience! Our guide explained everything about the canal's history and we got to see two huge ships pass through the locks. The viewpoints along the way were stunning.
Marcus W.
Perfect half-day tour. Well organized, great photo stops, and the guide was knowledgeable about both the canal engineering and Panama's history. Highly recommend!
Jennifer & Mike
We did this on our first day in Panama and it was the perfect introduction to the city. The Amador Causeway views were beautiful and watching ships at Miraflores was fascinating.
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 Marbella Office Plaza on Calle Aquilino de la Guardia in central Panama City. Look for your guide near the main entrance.
Things to know
Guest requirements
Suitable for ages 2 and up. Children must be supervised. Guests must be able to enter and exit a vehicle and walk short distances.
Activity level
Easy. Short walks at viewpoints and inside Miraflores. Sidewalks may be uneven.
What to bring
Sunscreen, hat, water, closed toe shoes, and a card or cash for Miraflores admission tickets.
Accessibility
Not wheelchair accessible by default due to stairs and uneven walkways at some stops. Contact us with specific needs to confirm options.
Cancellation policy
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start time.
Things to know
Guest requirements
Suitable for ages 2 and up. Children must be supervised. Guests must be able to enter and exit a vehicle and walk short distances.
Activity level
Easy. Short walks at viewpoints and inside Miraflores. Sidewalks may be uneven.
What to bring
Sunscreen, hat, water, closed toe shoes, and a card or cash for Miraflores admission tickets.
Accessibility
Not wheelchair accessible by default due to stairs and uneven walkways at some stops. Contact us with specific needs to confirm options.
Cancellation policy
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start time.
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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