Miraflores Visitor's Center Culture & history

Experience the very best of Panama City in just five hours! This unforgettable half-day adventure is perfect for travelers who want to dive into Panama’s rich history, engineering marvels, and stunning natural beauty—without spending the whole day on a tour. Your journey begins at the world-famous Panama Canal, one of the greatest feats of engineering in human history. Spend approximately 105 minutes at the Miraflores Visitor Center, where you’ll enjoy exclusive access to the observation decks overlooking the locks. Watch in awe as massive cargo ships pass through the Canal, and a 3D IMAX Movie narrated by none other than Morgan Freeman (included with ticket upgrade). From there, enjoy a scenic panoramic drive along former US military bases that offers sweeping views and fascinating stories from Panama’s strategic role during both World Wars. Next, we’ll stop at the colorful and architecturally iconic BioMuseo, designed by world-renowned architect Frank Gehry. While entry to the museum itself is not included, you’ll enjoy a leisurely walk through the surrounding Biodiversity Park, a free outdoor exhibit that celebrates Panama’s unique ecosystems. Take incredible photos, browse the gift shop, enjoy the coffee stand, refill your water bottle, or simply take in the breathtaking views of the Amador Causeway and Panama Bay. Finally, we step back in time with a guided walking tour through the Old Town (Casco Antiguo), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stroll the charming cobblestone streets and discover colonial-era architecture, including the Cathedral Basilica Santa María la Antigua. As we weave through historic plazas and alleyways, you’ll hear stories of pirates, conquerors, revolutions, and resilience. The walk concludes at the scenic Plaza de Francia, where centuries-old stone walls once protected the city from foreign invasion. Whether this is your first time in Panama or you’re returning for more, this half-day experience offers a perfect balance of history, culture, nature, and panoramic views—all led by a passionate, certified local guide. Why travelers love this tour: * Perfect for short stays or layovers * Bilingual guides (English & Spanish) * Comfortable air-conditioned transportation * Bottled water and light snacks included * Small groups for a more personal experience Don’t miss this enriching experience that brings together the very best of Panama in one exciting morning or afternoon. Book now and let us show you the heart of Panama like never before!

Embark on an unforgettable half-day journey through Panama City’s most iconic highlights, blending cutting-edge engineering, colonial charm, and breathtaking views—all with the comfort of hotel pickup and expert guidance in English or Spanish. ✅ Panama Canal – A Modern Wonder The adventure begins at the world-renowned Panama Canal, a marvel of modern engineering that connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Here, you’ll witness enormous ships navigating the locks right before your eyes—an awe-inspiring sight. The visitor center offers interactive exhibits that explain the canal’s construction and operation. One of the highlights is a captivating short film narrated by Morgan Freeman, which immerses you in the canal's dramatic history, human impact, and global importance. It's an experience that brings this engineering masterpiece vividly to life. ✅ Casco Viejo – Step into History Next, travel back in time as you stroll through Casco Antiguo, the historic heart of Panama City and a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. With its narrow cobblestone streets, colorful colonial buildings, and charming balconies, Casco Viejo feels like stepping into a different era. Your guide will take you through key landmarks such as Independence Square and the Metropolitan Cathedral, sharing stories of pirates, revolution, and cultural transformation. You'll also discover hidden gems—quiet plazas, artisan shops, and lively cafés that capture the spirit of Panama's colonial legacy. ✅ Amador Causeway – Where the City Meets the Sea Your final stop is the picturesque Amador Causeway, a scenic roadway built from rocks excavated during the construction of the canal. Stretching into the Pacific and connecting four small islands, the Causeway offers some of the most breathtaking panoramic views in the city. From here, you’ll see the majestic Bridge of the Americas, the sparkling bay, and the impressive modern skyline of Panama City. It's the perfect place to relax, breathe in the ocean air, and snap photos at the iconic “Panama” sign—a must-have souvenir shot for every traveler. At the end of the tour, you’ll return to your hotel with a deeper appreciation of Panama’s past, present, and future—all captured in a single unforgettable experience.

Spend half a day exploring the Panama Canal while learning about its history and creation. See the famed Miraflores Locks in action and take a scenic boat ride in the Panama Canal. Get picked up at your hotel or other location in Panama City, and journey to the Panama Canal Visitors Center for a detailed explanation about how the canal and famous Miraflores Locks work. Visit the museum to learn more about this important water passage between the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. Drive by Miraflores Lake and the Pedro Miguel Locks as you make your way to the Chagres River. Climb aboard for a scenic boat trip across artificial Gatun Lake. Marvel at the surrounding landscape of the biggest and most important lake in the Panama Canal. Watch as large ships pass through the canal to get a sense of the magnitude of this masterpiece of engineering. Arrive at a group of islands to see different species of animals and monkeys. Return to Panama City and get dropped off at your hotel.

✅ PRIVATE AND EXCLUSIVE EXPERIENCE A private tour designed just for you and your group. We accept reservations for 1 person or more. ✅ EXPERIENCE THE CANAL IN ACTION Discover how the locks operate and visit strategic points where ships pass through one of the most important trade routes in the world. ✅ HIDDEN HISTORY AND LEGACY OF THE CANAL Delve into the old Canal Zone, learn its secrets, and discover the key sites where the Torrijos-Carter Treaties were forged. ✅ VISIT ICONIC CANAL SITES We will share unique details about the Canal Administration Building, the George Goethals Monument, and the historic Paseo del Prado. ✅ PANORAMIC VIEWS AND THE BRIDGE OF THE AMERICAS Cross the Amador Causeway, enjoy spectacular views of the city and Panama Bay, until you reach the great Bridge of the Americas, the first major continental link. ✅ IMAX AND THE PANAMA CANAL IN OPERATION LIVE Watch the movie in the IMAX theater narrated by Morgan Freeman and see the Panama Canal in operation live at the Miraflores Locks. Book today and explore the Canal in the most comfortable way. An experience designed for you to enjoy every moment. The ticket to enter the Miraflores Visitor Center is not included. This tour lasts approximately 5 hours. Those who wish to purchase tickets, please contact us directly.

Embark on a mesmerizing journey to the Canal Zone, accessing the Miraflores Visitor Center. Witness the grandeur of the Panama Canal from three panoramic platforms, where passing ships are just meters away. Immerse yourself in a 40-minute 3D exploration of the canal's rich history, narrated by Morgan Freeman on the world's second-largest screen. As you step into the Old Town, marvel at the captivating mix of architectural styles spanning colonial and independence eras. Wander through picturesque squares and vibrant streets adorned with old baroque facades and homes in pastel tones, boasting wrought iron balconies. Explore the historic center, where some chapels and convents stand as poignant ruins, while others, like the Metropolitan Cathedral, exude elegant majesty. Your journey continues with a gaze upon impeccably restored official buildings, including the Presidency and the Ministry of Justice, each resonating with the charm of Panama's Old Town. Fall in love with the captivating blend of history and architecture, creating memories that linger long after the adventure concludes.

✅ Panama Canal Locks – Witness Engineering in Action During the Panama Canal tour, prepare to be amazed as you observe up close the impressive locks that enable massive vessels to navigate this critical waterway connecting two oceans. Learn about the fascinating history behind its construction, the groundbreaking engineering feats that made it possible, and the enormous impact the canal has had on global trade and transportation. This is more than a canal—it's a gateway that transformed the world. ✅ Gatun Lake Boat Tour – Explore a Natural Wonderland Step aboard for a scenic boat tour across Gatun Lake, a vast freshwater reservoir created during the canal’s construction. As you glide through tranquil waters surrounded by lush rainforest, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife in their natural habitat. Listen to the calls of howler monkeys and capuchin monkeys playing energetically in the treetops, creating a lively soundtrack to your adventure. ✅ Wildlife Encounters – Connect with Panama’s Biodiversity During your boat ride, you’ll have the unique opportunity to spot crocodiles sunbathing on the lake’s shores and turtles swimming peacefully in the calm waters. These close encounters with native animals highlight the incredible biodiversity of the region and provide a rare chance to experience nature’s harmony up close, making your visit truly unforgettable.

Using your flight number and airline name, a driver will track your flight until it lands. After landing, the driver will be waiting for you outside Customs at Terminal 2 with a sign highlighting your name. The driver will assist you to the car with your carry-on luggage. Once in the car, the driver will head to the Miraflores Visitors Center at the Panama Canal, where you will see the ships going through the Miraflores Locks on their way from one ocean to the other. The tour will be designed for you to visit the Panama Canal during the busiest time of the day, so you can watch the process from a terrace. After leaving the Panama Canal, the guide will take you to the Amador Causeway, a road that connects 3 islands, where you will have the opportunity to see the Biodiversity Museum designed by Frank Gehry. The following destination will be the Old Town (Casco Viejo) of Panama, where you can appreciate the beauty of colonial buildings and handcrafts shops while walking the quaint, narrow roads. After the Old Town, see the modern downtown of Panama City on your way back to the airport.

Discover the highlights of Panama City and the incredible Panama Canal on a morning or afternoon tour with a guide. Start with pickup from your accommodation by comfortable car, and then visit the Panama Canal Visitors Center at Miraflores to learn more about how it works. Watch the ships pass through the locks at the busiest time of day followed by a IMAX 3D movie. Alternatively, we could see the transit of ships from an observation area next to Pedro Miguel Locks. Then we will go through Balboa and Canal Zone, former USA territory in Panama, in our way to be marvel by the Amador Causeway road that connects 3 islands at the Pacific Ocean entrance to the Panama Canal. See the Biodiversity Museum designed by Frank Gehry and take a memorable picture at the Panama sign. Enjoy a walking tour as you explore the historical buildings and monuments, charming and narrow streets full of history and beautiful architecture in Casco Viejo, the Old Town of Panama City, appreciate the beauty of the colonial buildings and browse the handcrafts stores.

Live an enriching experience at each stop: Heading to the hotel and picking you up at 7:30am, we start the tour visiting: -Miraflores Visitors Center ( The Panama canal) you will watch the vessels doing its lockage and how the Panama Canal works its operation. Also, you will whatch the movie in IMAX technology narrated by the famous actro Morgan Freeman. -Administration Building (The Monument of George Washington Goethal Built in 1914.) -Casco Antiguo (The Colonial City of Panamá) You will visit Tomas Herrera Square, Independence Square, French Square, Simon Bolivar Square and some church such as: Mercy Church, San José Church, The Metropolitan Cathedral among others. -Amador Causeway A beautiful place located in the pacific side of Panama, comprised of three Islands, you will stop by at Flamengo's Islands where you be able to take picture with the famous Panamá sign. Also you will visit the duty free store. - America's Bridge You will see the mouth of the entrance to the Panamá Canal, also the beautiful view of the harbours Once you have enjoyed all the places I will drive you back to the hotel. I can provide you cortesy time to Lunch at the Fish Market (Optional)

1 Panama Canal We offer guided tours in the Miraflores Visitor Center in the Panama canal locks where you can visit the Panama Canal Museum and see the boats passing through the game of exclusives. 1 hour • Admission Ticket Not Included 2 Amador Causeway (calzada de Amador) calzada de Amador are four small islands by the Pacific entrance to the Panama Canal. They are linked to the mainland via a causeway, made from rock extracted during the excavations from the Panama canal.We appreciate the espectacular view to the bay and the Panama City 1 hour • Admission Ticket Included 3 Casco Viejo Casco Antiguo, also known as Casco Viejo, or the ‘old quarter,” is Panama City’s historic district. Considered a UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Site, the district dates back to 1673, and features vibrant plazas and picturesque brick-paved streets surrounded by colorful buildings. 1 hour 30 minutes • Admission Ticket Included 4 Ancon Hill ***OPTIONAL*** Ancon Hill is a 199 metres (653 ft) high hill that overlooks Panama City .We will walk 35 minutes until we reach the top of the hill, where we will see the best view of the city from three different points along the way we will be able to appreciate the native flora and fauna of the region