Panama, a country most famously known for the iconic Panama Canal, is a hidden gem that offers an incredible mix of culture, history, adventure, and natural beauty. If you're looking to explore the wonders of this vibrant city, there’s no better way to do it than with GetYourGuide. With exclusive discounts, zero cancellation charges up to 24 hours before your trip, and the ability to book your tours in advance and pay later in installments, GetYourGuide offers the most flexible and affordable way to experience Panama City and beyond.
From the bustling urban life to the lush tropical wildlife, from the rich history of Casco Viejo to the engineering marvels of the Panama Canal, GetYourGuide ensures that your visit to Panama is one you will never forget. With professional guides, carefully crafted itineraries, and options to personalize your adventure, GetYourGuide is the ultimate travel partner for your trip to Panama City.
Why Choose GetYourGuide for Your Panama City Adventure?
GetYourGuide isn’t just about booking a tour—it’s about crafting an experience tailored to your interests and schedule. With their comprehensive service offerings, you can enjoy:
- Exclusive Discounts: Save money on the best activities and tours in Panama City.
- Flexible Payment Options: Book your tours in advance and pay in easy installments, making it even easier to plan and budget your trip.
- Zero Cancellation Charges: Need to change plans? No worries! You can cancel your tours for free up to 24 hours before departure.
- Expert Guided Tours: Knowledgeable, friendly, and professional guides will make your experience informative and enjoyable.
- A Variety of Adventures: Whether you’re looking for a relaxed sightseeing tour, an adrenaline-packed adventure, or a cultural immersion, GetYourGuide has it all.
Now, let’s dive into the top experiences you’ll enjoy with GetYourGuide on your Panama City trip.
1. Panama Canal & Miraflores Locks: Engineering Marvels and History
No trip to Panama City is complete without visiting the Panama Canal, one of the most significant engineering achievements of the 20th century. With GetYourGuide, you can embark on an informative and engaging tour of the Miraflores Locks, where you’ll see massive ships passing through the locks and learn about the fascinating history and construction of the canal.
The Miraflores Visitor Center offers stunning views of the locks in action, with interactive exhibits and a museum that delves deep into the history of the canal. Your expert guide will provide insights into how this monumental project transformed global trade and how Panama became a vital link between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. You’ll have the chance to watch the ships as they navigate through the locks and explore the educational exhibits that explain the complex system behind this engineering wonder.
Whether you’re a history buff or simply curious about how the Panama Canal functions, this tour is a must-do for every traveler visiting the city.
2. Monkey Island & Canal Eco-Tour: A Wild Adventure in the Jungle
Panama is home to an incredible diversity of wildlife, and a visit to Monkey Island in Gatun Lake is an exciting way to witness it up close. During this guided eco-tour, you’ll board a boat and journey into the heart of the jungle, where you’ll encounter the playful monkeys that inhabit the area. Various species of monkeys, including howler monkeys, capuchin monkeys, and tamarins, live on the island, and you might even see them swinging from tree to tree or coming close to your boat!
Aside from the monkeys, the eco-tour will give you the chance to learn about the tropical ecosystem surrounding Gatun Lake. Your knowledgeable guide will explain the region's flora and fauna, pointing out exotic birds, reptiles, and other wildlife that call the jungle home. You’ll also learn about the history of the area and its connection to the Panama Canal, as the lake was created as part of the canal’s construction process.
For animal lovers and nature enthusiasts, the Monkey Island and Canal Eco-Tour is one of the best ways to experience Panama’s wildlife in a unique, hands-on way.
3. City Tour: Panama’s Modern & Historic Sides
Panama City is a perfect blend of the old and the new. Whether you’re exploring the modern skyscrapers of the financial district or the cobbled streets of Casco Viejo (the historic district), there’s something for every type of traveler in this dynamic city.
Your Panama City tour with GetYourGuide will give you a comprehensive overview of the city’s best attractions. Your guide will take you to Casco Viejo, a UNESCO World Heritage site that features charming colonial-era buildings, vibrant plazas, and picturesque churches. The area is home to some of the oldest structures in Panama City and has been beautifully preserved to showcase its rich history.
As you stroll through the cobblestone streets, you’ll pass colorful houses, art galleries, and cafes, and perhaps stop at one of the many excellent restaurants to enjoy a local dish, such as ceviche or sancocho (a traditional Panamanian soup).
Next, you’ll explore Panama’s modern side, including the Amador Causeway, which offers panoramic views of the city skyline and the Pacific Ocean, and the Cinta Costera, a scenic coastal beltway perfect for a relaxed walk or bike ride. This tour is perfect for those who want to see the best of both worlds—the rich history and the bustling, modern heart of Panama City.
4. Casco Viejo & Panama Viejo: A Glimpse Into Panama’s Past
For history enthusiasts, GetYourGuide offers an in-depth Casco Viejo & Panama Viejo tour that explores Panama’s roots, both as a colonial city and as the heart of Panama’s national identity. Panama Viejo, the original Panama City, was founded in 1519 and destroyed by pirates in the late 1600s. Today, the ruins are a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you can walk through ancient stone structures, explore the archaeological site, and visit the Panama Viejo Museum.
Afterward, your guide will take you to Casco Viejo, the charming old town, where you can wander through its narrow streets, admire colonial architecture, and visit sites like the Panama Canal Museum and Plaza de Francia. As you explore this fascinating district, you’ll learn about Panama’s history, including its colonial past, the building of the Panama Canal, and its evolution into a modern nation.
5. Bike Tour: A Fun Way to Explore the City
For those looking for a more active way to see the sights, GetYourGuide offers a bike tour of Panama City that’s both fun and informative. This guided ride takes you through the city’s scenic streets, exploring the best of Panama’s urban culture, parks, and historical landmarks.
You’ll ride through the Cinta Costera, a waterfront promenade with stunning views of the skyline and ocean, as well as Avenida Balboa, one of the city’s most iconic streets. Your guide will provide insights into the city’s history, culture, and the ongoing development that has transformed Panama into one of Latin America’s most thriving capitals.
The bike tour is a great way to explore the city at a relaxed pace while getting some exercise and learning about Panama’s rich history and modern progress.
6. Day Trips from Panama City: Exploring the Surrounding Region
Panama City is ideally located for exploring some of the country’s most beautiful natural landscapes. With GetYourGuide, you can book day trips to nearby destinations, including:
- San Blas Islands: A tropical paradise with crystal-clear waters, white-sand beaches, and indigenous Guna Yala culture.
- Portobelo: A charming coastal town known for its historical forts and beautiful beaches.
- Panama Rainforest: Take a short trip to the rainforest and hike through lush jungles to discover unique wildlife and hidden waterfalls.
These day trips provide the perfect balance to your city exploration, allowing you to experience Panama’s diverse landscapes and cultures.
Why Panama? Why Now?
Panama City offers a fascinating blend of old-world charm and modern energy, set against the backdrop of a tropical paradise. Whether you're captivated by the awe-inspiring Panama Canal, enchanted by the wildlife of Monkey Island, or intrigued by the rich history of Casco Viejo, Panama City is a destination that delivers on all fronts.
GetYourGuide is your go-to platform for planning an unforgettable adventure in Panama City, offering flexibility, value, and personalized experiences. Book your Panama City trip today, and start exploring all the wonders this amazing destination has to offer!