The Marvel of Engineering: Panama Canal
Experience the breathtaking engineering marvel of the Panama Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing the ingenuity of mankind and nature's beauty.
The Panama Canal is a remarkable feat of engineering that connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, revolutionizing maritime trade. Visitors can explore its history, technology, and breathtaking views, making it a must-see for any traveler.
A brief summary to Panama Canal
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Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and enjoy fewer crowds.
- Consider taking a guided tour for in-depth knowledge about the canal's history and operation.
- Don't forget your camera – the views from the observation points are stunning!
- Check the schedule for passing ships to witness the impressive lock operations.
- Wear comfortable shoes since there's a fair amount of walking involved at the visitor centers.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving, start by heading towards the Pan-American Highway (Interamericana). Take the route towards Panama City. Continue on the highway for approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. Look for signs indicating the Panama Canal once you approach the city. Follow the signs to the Miraflores Locks for a scenic view and visitor center. Upon reaching the locks, you will find ample parking available.
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Public Transportation
To reach the Panama Canal via public transportation, you can take a bus from David or Boquete to Panama City. Buses leave frequently from the main terminals. Once you arrive at the Albrook Bus Terminal in Panama City, transfer to a local bus or taxi that goes to the Miraflores Locks. Make sure to ask the driver to drop you off at 'Miraflores' for the canal visitor center and locks. The journey from Albrook to Miraflores will take about 30 minutes.
Discover more about Panama Canal
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Ivan's Bed & Breakfast
3.6 km
Experience the serene beauty of Gamboa at Ivan's Bed & Breakfast, your cozy retreat for nature adventures and relaxation in Colón Province.
Panama Boat Tours
4.3 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Gamboa's waterways with Panama Boat Tours, your gateway to adventure, wildlife, and unforgettable memories.
Mansión Americana
12.8 km
Explore Mansión Americana, a stunning tourist attraction in Panama, showcasing rich history, captivating architecture, and serene gardens.
Cocolí Locks (Panama Canal Expansion)
22.0 km
Explore the Cocolí Locks, an engineering marvel of the Panama Canal, witnessing giant ships traverse this iconic waterway in stunning natural surroundings.
Panama City Panama Temple
22.9 km
Explore the serene and beautiful Panama City Panama Temple, a spiritual haven and architectural marvel in the heart of Panama City, perfect for all visitors.
Corozal American Cemetery and Memorial
22.9 km
Explore Corozal American Cemetery and Memorial, a serene tribute in Panama City honoring U.S. service members' sacrifices with beautiful landscapes and rich history.
Capilla La Palangana
23.4 km
Explore Capilla La Palangana, a historical landmark in Panama City, where colonial charm meets rich cultural heritage.
Ver Panamá
24.1 km
Explore the heart of Panama at Ver Panamá, your essential tourist information center for unforgettable experiences.
Chinese-Panamanian Friendship Park
24.1 km
Discover the serene beauty and cultural significance of Chinese-Panamanian Friendship Park in the heart of Panama City, a perfect retreat for nature lovers and cultural enthusiasts.
Metropolitan Natural Park
24.8 km
Explore the stunning landscapes of Metropolitan Natural Park in Panama City, a perfect blend of urban adventure and natural beauty.
San Blas Full PTY
24.8 km
Explore the stunning San Blas Islands with San Blas Full PTY, where adventure and cultural experiences await every traveler.
Centro de Visitantes Agua Clara
25.2 km
Explore the marvel of the Panama Canal at Centro de Visitantes Agua Clara, a must-see attraction showcasing engineering brilliance and natural beauty.
Agua Clara Locks Visitor Center
25.2 km
Experience the breathtaking views and engineering wonders at the Agua Clara Locks Visitor Center, a must-visit attraction on your Panama adventure.
Metropolitan Natural Park Visitor Center
25.3 km
Explore the lush landscapes and rich biodiversity at the Metropolitan Natural Park Visitor Center in Panama City, a perfect blend of nature and education.
Chris Panama Experience
25.9 km
Explore the rich culture and vibrant traditions of Panama at the Chris Panama Experience, where unforgettable adventures await in the heart of the city.
Unmissable attractions to see
Panama rainforest
1.7 km
Explore the breathtaking Panama Rainforest in Colón Province, a vibrant sanctuary of wildlife and natural beauty, perfect for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Panama Rainforest Discovery Center
1.7 km
Discover the biodiversity of Panama at the Rainforest Discovery Center, where nature comes alive with vibrant ecosystems and breathtaking views.
Sendero Discovery
1.7 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Sendero Discovery, a lush park in Gamboa, Panama, where nature and adventure await every visitor.
Soberania National Park
1.9 km
Discover the rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes of Soberania National Park, a must-visit national reserve in Panama for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Aerial Tram Gamboa Resort
3.7 km
Discover breathtaking views and wildlife encounters on the Aerial Tram at Gamboa Resort, an unforgettable eco-adventure in Panama.
Faro de Gamboa
3.8 km
Discover the historic Faro de Gamboa, a stunning lighthouse in Colón Province offering breathtaking views and a glimpse of Panama's maritime past.
Gamboa Rainforest Resort Orchids Exibit
4.0 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Gamboa Rainforest Resort Orchids Exhibit, a tropical paradise showcasing stunning orchid varieties in their natural habitat.
Gamboa Rainforest Resort Butterfly Garden and Frog Exibit
4.1 km
Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of butterflies and exotic frogs at the Gamboa Rainforest Resort in Panama.
Pueblo de Gamboa
4.1 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty and vibrant culture of Pueblo de Gamboa, a must-visit tourist attraction in Panama's lush Colón Province.
Sendero La Laguna
4.1 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Sendero La Laguna, a premier hiking destination in Gamboa, where nature's wonders await every adventurer.
Gamboa Sloth Sanctuary
4.1 km
Discover the enchanting Gamboa Sloth Sanctuary, where conservation meets adventure in Panama's lush rainforest.
Gamboa Rainforest Reserve
4.2 km
Discover the breathtaking biodiversity and stunning hiking trails of Gamboa Rainforest Reserve, a perfect escape into nature in Panama.
Puente de Gamboa
4.2 km
Experience the stunning views and natural beauty at Puente de Gamboa, a captivating bridge in the heart of Panama's lush landscapes.
Gamboa Tree Trek
4.2 km
Gamboa Tree Trek: An exhilarating escape into Panama's lush rainforests filled with adventure and breathtaking wildlife encounters.
Monkey Sightseeing
5.2 km
Discover the playful world of monkeys in Gamboa, a tropical paradise teeming with wildlife and natural beauty.
Essential places to dine
Fonda Mary Gaby
3.2 km
Discover authentic Panamanian cuisine at Fonda Mary Gaby, where every dish tells a story amidst stunning tropical landscapes.
Restaurante Encanto de Gamboa
3.3 km
Discover flavorful Panamanian cuisine in a charming setting at Restaurante Encanto de Gamboa - A must-visit culinary destination.
Gas57
3.4 km
Discover Gas57 in Gamboa: A premier gastropub blending local flavors with contemporary flair amidst stunning natural beauty.
Treehouse Pizza Gamboa
3.8 km
Experience delectable gourmet pizzas in a charming treehouse setting surrounded by nature at Treehouse Pizza Gamboa.
Monkey Bar
4.3 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Panama at Monkey Bar in Gamboa - where grilling meets tropical relaxation!
Texas One Ten
4.3 km
Discover Texas One Ten in Gamboa for an unforgettable barbecue experience filled with smoky flavors and local charm.
Don Caimán Restaurant
4.3 km
Experience authentic Panamanian flavors at Don Caimán Restaurant in Gamboa—where nature meets delicious cuisine.
Sabores del Darién
20.8 km
Discover authentic Panamanian cuisine at Sabores del Darién in Nuevo Arraiján – a culinary experience rich in flavor and tradition.
La Taberna Del Canal
21.7 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Panama at La Taberna Del Canal, where culinary tradition meets modern dining in a lively atmosphere.
Maagoo’s Fish Tacos & More
23.1 km
Discover fresh seafood delights at Maagoo's Fish Tacos & More in Panama City – where every bite is a taste of paradise!
Sunly Restaurant
24.9 km
Discover the rich tapestry of Chinese cuisine at Sunly Restaurant in Panama City - where tradition meets flavor in every dish.
Restaurante Canal Bistro
25.9 km
Discover the culinary delights of Restaurante Canal Bistro in Panama City’s Albrook Mall – where local ingredients meet international flavors.
Restaurante Chepes
26.2 km
Experience authentic Panamanian cuisine at Restaurante Chepes in Colón – where every dish tells a story.
Balboa Food Court
26.3 km
Explore diverse flavors at Balboa Food Court in Panama City – where local traditions meet global cuisine in a vibrant setting.
Fonda Darién
26.4 km
Experience authentic Panamanian cuisine at Fonda Darién in San Miguelito - where tradition meets flavor in every dish.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Gamboa store
3.3 km
Discover local flavors and essentials at The Gamboa Store, a must-visit grocery store in the heart of Gamboa, Panama.
Belemental
3.6 km
Explore Belemental in Gamboa, Panama for exquisite fashion accessories that blend local artistry and contemporary style in a unique shopping experience.
Joyars Online
3.7 km
Discover the vibrant world of fashion accessories at Joyars Online in Gamboa, where local craftsmanship meets contemporary style.
Embera Quera
17.5 km
Experience the vibrant culture and stunning landscapes of Embera Quera, a captivating tourist attraction in Panama rich in indigenous heritage.
P.H. CLAYTON MALL
21.8 km
Explore the lively P.H. Clayton Mall in Panama City for shopping, dining, and family-friendly fun in a vibrant atmosphere.
Jumbo | Nuevo Arraijan
21.9 km
Explore the vibrant flavors of Panama at Jumbo Supermarket in Nuevo Arraijan, where convenience meets local culture and quality.
Centro de artesanías Cardenas
22.9 km
Explore the best of Panamanian craftsmanship at Centro de Artesanías Cardenas, your destination for unique gifts and authentic souvenirs.
AltaPlaza Mall
24.0 km
Discover luxury shopping and diverse dining experiences at AltaPlaza Mall, Panama City's premier retail destination for tourists and locals alike.
Plaza Centennial
24.1 km
Explore Plaza Centennial in Panama City - a vibrant shopping mall with diverse stores, delicious dining options, and a lively atmosphere for all visitors.
Canastas Panama
24.4 km
Explore Canastas Panama, the charming gift shop in Panama City offering unique local crafts and souvenirs for an unforgettable shopping experience.
Central Park Hotel Casino & Spa
24.8 km
Experience luxury and excitement at Central Park Hotel Casino & Spa in Panama City, where relaxation meets vibrant entertainment.
Centro Comercial El Dorado
24.9 km
Explore the heart of shopping in Panama City at Centro Comercial El Dorado - a vibrant mall with endless shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
Discovery Center | Condado Del Rey
25.0 km
Explore local culture and a wide range of shopping options at the Discovery Center in Condado Del Rey, Panama City.
Albrook Free Zone
25.1 km
Explore Albrook Free Zone: Your ultimate shopping destination in Panama City with unbeatable deals and a vibrant atmosphere.
Battlezone
25.5 km
Discover Battlezone in Panama City: Your ultimate destination for trading cards and gaming adventures.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Mil Amores
14.7 km
Experience the enchanting melodies and lively atmosphere of Mil Amores, a premier piano bar in the heart of Panama City.
Bar yulisa
16.1 km
Immerse yourself in the lively ambiance of Bar Yulisa, where local culture meets vibrant nightlife in Panamá Province.
The Lounge A&Y
16.4 km
Discover the unique charm of The Lounge A&Y in Panamá, where you can enjoy a delicious meal while your car gets a wash.
Bar Dago
16.5 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and local flavors at Bar Dago, a tropical bar oasis in Rio Duque, Panama.
Bar Jakmont
19.2 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Panama City at Bar Jakmont, offering delightful drinks and a lively atmosphere to unwind and socialize.
Bar La Cabaña
19.6 km
Savor the essence of Panama City at Bar La Cabaña, a grill restaurant serving up vibrant flavors and a lively atmosphere.
Hangar de Peter ciudad bolivar
20.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Hangar de Peter in Panama City, where delicious drinks and lively entertainment await.
La Julitza
21.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Caimitillo at La Julitza, a beloved bar offering local drinks, snacks, and live music in a welcoming atmosphere.
Bar Salto del Mono
22.8 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Panamá at Bar Salto del Mono, where eclectic décor meets friendly locals and live music in a lively atmosphere.
Bar Milla 8
23.5 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Bar Milla 8, a must-visit bar in Panama City offering a wide selection of drinks and a lively atmosphere.
Crazy Spot
26.0 km
Discover Crazy Spot in La Chorrera - a lively bar offering signature cocktails, a vibrant atmosphere, and unforgettable nightlife experiences.
Capital Cervecería
26.5 km
Discover Panama City's thriving nightlife at Capital Cervecería, where local brews and delicious food come together in a vibrant atmosphere.
El Pavo Real
26.9 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at El Pavo Real, a lively bar in Panama City offering eclectic drinks and a welcoming atmosphere.
El Barsa Sports Bar
26.9 km
Experience the thrill of live sports and delicious bites at El Barsa Sports Bar in Panama City - the ultimate spot for sports lovers.
PECADITOS BAR & LOUNGE
26.9 km
Discover the lively nightlife at Pecaditos Bar & Lounge, a premier destination for cocktails, cuisine, and captivating entertainment in Panama City.