The Marvel of the Panama Canal: A Gateway Between Two Oceans
Explore the Panama Canal, an engineering wonder connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, showcasing stunning views and rich history.
The Panama Canal is an engineering marvel that connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, offering a unique experience for tourists. Visitors can explore its rich history, witness the intricate operations of the locks, and appreciate its stunning views, making it a must-visit destination in Panama.
A brief summary to Panama Canal
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Local tips
- Visit the Miraflores Locks early in the morning to avoid crowds and get the best views of the ships transiting.
- Consider booking a guided boat tour for a unique perspective of the canal and its surroundings.
- Don’t forget to bring your camera; the views of the canal and wildlife are spectacular.
- Check the schedule for ship transits at the locks to plan your visit accordingly.
- Wear comfortable shoes if you plan to walk around the visitor center and the surrounding areas.
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car from the Pacific Region of Colombia, start by heading towards the border with Panama. From cities like Buenaventura, take Route 40 towards Cali, then continue on Route 25 until you reach the Pan-American Highway (Route 1). Follow the Pan-American Highway south until you reach the border crossing at Sixaola. After crossing into Panama, continue driving along the highway until you reach the Panama Canal area in Balboa. Make sure to have your passport and any necessary documentation for crossing the border.
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Bus
For those using public transportation, take a bus from the Pacific Region to Panama City. You can find buses departing from cities like Buenaventura or Cali to Panama. The journey usually takes around 10 to 12 hours, so be prepared for a long trip. Once you arrive in Panama City, you can take a local bus or taxi to reach the Panama Canal area in Balboa. Note that you will need to pay for the bus fare, which can range from $20 to $40 depending on the service.
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Taxi or Rideshare
After arriving in Panama City, you can take a taxi or use a rideshare service to reach the Panama Canal. The distance from the city center to the canal is approximately 5 miles (8 kilometers), and the fare should be around $5 to $15 depending on the traffic and time of day. Make sure to confirm the fare before starting your ride.
Discover more about Panama Canal
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Ivan's Bed & Breakfast
3.6 km
Experience comfort and tranquility at Ivan's Bed & Breakfast, a cozy retreat surrounded by nature in the heart of Gamboa, Panama.
Panama Boat Tours
4.3 km
Experience Panama's stunning waterways with unforgettable boat tours, wildlife encounters, and vibrant rainforest explorations in Gamboa.
Mansión Americana
12.8 km
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Cocolí Locks (Panama Canal Expansion)
22.0 km
Experience the breathtaking passage of ships at Cocolí Locks, a stunning feat of engineering within the Panama Canal Expansion.
Panama City Panama Temple
22.9 km
Explore the serene beauty of Panama City Panama Temple, a spiritual oasis and architectural marvel in the heart of Panama City.
Corozal American Cemetery and Memorial
22.9 km
Explore the tranquil Corozal American Cemetery and Memorial in Panama City, a significant site honoring the bravery of American military personnel.
Capilla La Palangana
23.4 km
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Ver Panamá
24.1 km
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Chinese-Panamanian Friendship Park
24.1 km
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Metropolitan Natural Park
24.8 km
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San Blas Full PTY
24.8 km
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Centro de Visitantes Agua Clara
25.2 km
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Agua Clara Locks Visitor Center
25.2 km
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Metropolitan Natural Park Visitor Center
25.3 km
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Chris Panama Experience
25.9 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Panama rainforest
1.7 km
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Panama Rainforest Discovery Center
1.7 km
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Sendero Discovery
1.7 km
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Soberania National Park
1.9 km
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Aerial Tram Gamboa Resort
3.7 km
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Faro de Gamboa
3.8 km
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Gamboa Rainforest Resort Orchids Exibit
4.0 km
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Gamboa Rainforest Resort Butterfly Garden and Frog Exibit
4.1 km
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Pueblo de Gamboa
4.1 km
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Sendero La Laguna
4.1 km
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Gamboa Sloth Sanctuary
4.1 km
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Gamboa Rainforest Reserve
4.2 km
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Puente de Gamboa
4.2 km
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Gamboa Tree Trek
4.2 km
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Monkey Sightseeing
5.2 km
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Essential places to dine
Fonda Mary Gaby
3.2 km
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Restaurante Encanto de Gamboa
3.3 km
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Gas57
3.4 km
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Treehouse Pizza Gamboa
3.8 km
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Monkey Bar
4.3 km
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Texas One Ten
4.3 km
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Don Caimán Restaurant
4.3 km
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Sabores del Darién
20.8 km
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La Taberna Del Canal
21.7 km
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Maagoo’s Fish Tacos & More
23.1 km
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Sunly Restaurant
24.9 km
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Restaurante Canal Bistro
25.9 km
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Restaurante Chepes
26.2 km
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Balboa Food Court
26.3 km
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Fonda Darién
26.4 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Gamboa store
3.3 km
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Belemental
3.6 km
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Joyars Online
3.7 km
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Embera Quera
17.5 km
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P.H. CLAYTON MALL
21.8 km
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Jumbo | Nuevo Arraijan
21.9 km
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Centro de artesanías Cardenas
22.9 km
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AltaPlaza Mall
24.0 km
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Plaza Centennial
24.1 km
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Canastas Panama
24.4 km
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Central Park Hotel Casino & Spa
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Centro Comercial El Dorado
24.9 km
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Discovery Center | Condado Del Rey
25.0 km
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Albrook Free Zone
25.1 km
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Battlezone
25.5 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Mil Amores
14.7 km
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Bar yulisa
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The Lounge A&Y
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Bar Dago
16.5 km
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Bar Jakmont
19.2 km
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Bar La Cabaña
19.6 km
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Hangar de Peter ciudad bolivar
20.3 km
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La Julitza
21.5 km
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Bar Salto del Mono
22.8 km
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Bar Milla 8
23.5 km
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Crazy Spot
26.0 km
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Capital Cervecería
26.5 km
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El Pavo Real
26.9 km
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El Barsa Sports Bar
26.9 km
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PECADITOS BAR & LOUNGE
26.9 km
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