Colonial Panama & Miraflores
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Port
Gatun Lake, Panama
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Activity Level
Moderate
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At
$119.95
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 6¾ Hours
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Meals Included
Meals included
You'll travel by coach and on foot to see the UNESCO World Heritage Site historic district of Panama City (El Casco Antiguo) and the Panama Canal.
Air-conditioned transportation takes you 90 minutes across the Panamanian isthmus to the colonial area of Panama City. Founded in 1519, Panamá Viejo is a historic treasure in Panama, where evocative ruins of the original Spanish settlement reflect the early days of European colonization in the Americas. It is the oldest European settlement on the Pacific coast of the Americas and was abandoned in the mid-17th century and replaced by El Casco Antiguo.
Head up the coastline to El Casco Antiguo and learn about the piracy that was rampant here in the old days and forms an integral part of this area's history. On a leisurely 45-minute walk, appreciate the distinctive architecture here, influenced by an interesting blend of French, Spanish and Italian styles. See the Presidential Palace, the National Theater and Plaza Bolívar. An extra 30 minutes of free time allows you to explore on your own in Casco Antiguo.
Continue to the Miraflores Locks -- part of the engineering marvel that makes up the Panama Canal. The Miraflores Locks Observation Center offers a close-up view of ships passing through the locks and a documentary on their history with insight into this engineering marvel's operation and history. A captivating vantage point gives visitors the chance to witness the fascinating spectacle of ships transitioning the Panama Canal. By the time you leave, you will have a good understanding of the functioning of the locks.
Head back to the ship with a stop for arts and crafts shopping at Fort Amador.
Notes:
Depending on canal scheduling, you may or may not actually see vessels in the lock chambers.
Terrain includes cobblestones and uneven surfaces. Some wait time should be expected. Tour sequence may vary. A light snack is provided. 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.