The Shaping of Panama
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Port
Gatun Lake, Panama
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Activity Level
Moderate
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Excursion Type
Local Sightseeing,All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At
$109.95
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 7 Hours
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Meals Included
Meals included
Traverse the Trans-Isthmus Highway from the Atlantic to the Pacific -- the same route once used by the Spanish Conquistadors and the Forty-Niners seeking a shortcut from the east to the gold fields in California.
Panama is a country whose name is utterly inseparable from the image of the canal that changed the world -- considered by many to be the Eighth Wonder of the World. Yet, the "other" Panama is just as interesting, with an amazing history of glory and tragedy that has shaped this country that was once known as the Pearl of the Pacific.
A 90-minute drive from Gatún brings you to Fort Amador, where you will have some free time to shop for items from all over Panama.
Head through the streets of the old French Quarter of Panama City, founded in 1673 by French Colónists.
Hear tales of the extraordinary gallantry and shocking piracy that kept the inhabitants in a state of constant high alert in Colonial Panama, known as Casco Antiguo. On a leisurely 45-minute guided walk, appreciate the unique architecture influenced by a wonderful blend of French, Spanish and Italian styles.
After a buffet lunch, reboard your motorcoach for the drive to Old Panama, which was founded in 1519 and destroyed by the infamous Welsh Captain Henry Morgan in 1671.
Take photos of the National Theatre, the cathedral and the Church of the Golden Altar (left intact by Morgan when he sacked Panama City) from the coach. See the ruins of the churches and convents, colonial palaces, bridges and military buildings that attest to the glorious past of this country.
Notes:
Total driving time is approximately four hours. Tour requires walking approximately a half-mile. There may be a delay waiting for the coach at the end of the visit to the French Plaza. This excursion departs from Gatún Lake and ends in Colón, where you will rejoin the ship. Tour departure times may vary due to local authority clearance and will be announced on board the ship. The Panama Canal Authority assigns specific time slots for the transit of each vessel transiting the locks; the arrival of the ship in Colón may be delayed. Be prepared for such a delay by bringing any needed medication or essential items on tour. Facilities are available at the terminal in Colón while you are waiting for the ship's arrival.