Panama City’s most worthwhile tours zero in on three key experiences: the historic old quarter, the mighty Panama Canal, and surrounding natural areas. Each offers distinctly memorable ways to understand this fascinating crossroads of the Americas.
The colonial-era walking tours through Casco Viejo hit all the architectural highlights while weaving in fascinating stories of pirates and prosperity. For engineering buffs, private Panama Canal tours provide up-close views of massive ships traversing the locks – a true bucket-list sight. Nature lovers should hop aboard the Gatun Lake excursions to spot monkeys and tropical birds in their natural habitat.
Pro tip: The evening food tours showcase the city’s melting-pot cuisine and buzzing nightlife scene, while quick half-day options work perfectly for cruise passengers and layovers.
Let’s explore the most essential tours that showcase Panama City at its best:
Key Points
- Classic car tours like The City Safari offer a unique and highly-rated experience for exploring Panama City.
- Private city tours provide customizable itineraries and in-depth insights into Panama’s history and landmarks.
- Layover tours such as the Private Layover Panama Canal & City Tour are efficient options for travelers with limited time.
- Nature and wildlife tours like the Gatun Lake Wildlife Tour allow visitors to see diverse fauna in a personalized setting.
- Cultural and night tours, including the City Tour and Canal, combine sightseeing with culinary and nightlife experiences.
The City Safari – A Classic Car Tour of Panama City
For a truly unique and memorable experience, visitors to Panama City shouldn’t miss The City Safari – A Classic Car Tour.
Operated by TOMI TOURS, this 5-star rated tour allows guests to explore the city’s highlights in a classic green VW Thing. With free bottled water, colas, and lemonades, the private tour offers personalized attention and insights from knowledgeable guides.
Guests can capture photos at popular sites like Casco Viejo and the Panama Sign while learning about the city’s history and culture. Reviewers praise the tour’s accommodating nature, friendly guides, and overall exceptional experience.
Boasting a 100% recommendation rate, this classic car tour is an absolute must for visitors seeking an unforgettable adventure in Panama City.
Read our full review: The City Safari – A Classic Car Tour of Panama City Review
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Layover Tour Panama Canal & City Private
Frequently, travelers with a layover in Panama City opt for the amazing Private Layover Panama Canal & City Tour.
This highly-rated 5.0 star experience is recommended by 100% of visitors, offering a comprehensive look at the city and the iconic Panama Canal. For $79 per person, guests enjoy a private tour with a bilingual guide, transportation, and admission to the Miraflores Visitor Center.
The flexible itinerary includes highlights like the Flamenco Marina and historic old town. Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides, personalized attention, and efficient return to the airport.
Suitable for all travelers, this layover tour is an excellent way to make the most of limited time in Panama City.
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Gatun Lake Wildlife Tour From Panama City
The Gatun Lake Wildlife Tour from Panama City offers travelers a unique opportunity to observe a diverse array of wildlife in their natural habitat.
Featuring 1,139 reviews and a Badge of Excellence, this 2-hour boat tour on Gatun Lake promises sightings of white-faced monkeys, howler monkeys, and Geoffrey’s tamarins.
With a maximum of 16 travelers per tour, guests can expect personalized attention from knowledgeable guides.
Pickup and dropoff services are available from multiple Panama City hotels, though additional fees may apply for locations outside the downtown area.
Rated 94% by previous travelers, this tour provides an immersive wildlife experience at a reasonable price of $54 per person.
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Panama City and Canal Private Tour
Providing a rundown of Panama City’s rich heritage and the engineering marvel of the Panama Canal, the Panama City and Canal Private Tour offers an immersive exploration for discerning travelers.
Boasting a remarkable 4.8 rating from 273 reviews, the tour is recommended by 95% of travelers and features a Badge of Excellence.
During the half-day experience, guests will visit key locations like Casco Viejo, the Panama Canal, and the Calzada del Amador, accompanied by private transportation, WiFi, bottled water, and an entrance ticket to the Miraflores Visitor Center.
With customizable itineraries and knowledgeable guides, this tour provides exceptional value and an unforgettable insight into Panama’s history and landmarks.
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Private or Small Group Tour of the City and Panama Canal
Amid the bustling streets of Panama City, travelers can embark on a comprehensive exploration of the city’s captivating history and the engineering marvel of the Panama Canal through a Private or Small Group Tour.
This highly-rated tour, with a badge of excellence, offers an immersive experience led by knowledgeable guides like Jennifer and José. Guests can witness the impressive Miraflores Locks, learn about the country’s ecology and culture, and enjoy personalized attention.
The tour includes transportation, water, and a Panama Canal ticket, ensuring a seamless and memorable experience. With a 95% recommendation rate and positive reviews, this tour is an excellent choice for those seeking an in-depth look at the heart of Panama.
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Panama City Bike Tour
Visitors to Panama City can embark on an exhilarating bike tour through the historic Casco Viejo neighborhood.
The highly-rated Panama City Bike Tour offers an engaging experience, earning a 5.0-star rating from over 600 reviews. For $35 per person, travelers can explore the city’s highlights, learning about its history from knowledgeable guides like Mib and Paola.
The tour, suitable for most participants, includes the use of bicycles, bottled water, and snacks. While not accessible for those with certain health conditions, the smooth biking route provides an ideal way to see Panama City’s beautiful architecture and vibrant culture.
Nearly all travelers recommend this tour, especially for solo adventurers and those seeking a quick city overview.
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Half Day of Panama City and Canal Tour
The Half Day of Panama City and Canal Tour offers visitors a comprehensive and engaging exploration of the city’s highlights. Rated 4.9 out of 5 by 661 travelers, this tour includes hotel pickup, professional guides, and access to the iconic Panama Canal.
Participants can witness the canal’s operations at the Miraflores Locks and enjoy a 3D documentary narrated by Morgan Freeman. The tour also visits Casco Viejo, Calzada Amador, and the Bridge of the Americas.
Travelers praise the tour’s informative nature, friendly guides, and stress-free organization. With a maximum group size of 30, the tour provides a personalized experience.
Offered at a starting price of $66.67 per person, the Half Day of Panama City and Canal Tour is a must-do for visitors to Panama City.
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Half-Day City and Panama Canal Tour
Set out on a comprehensive half-day expedition that showcases the iconic Panama Canal and the vibrant city of Panama.
This 5-hour tour, recommended by 97% of travelers, takes you through key locations, including the Panama Canal, Old Town, and the Amador Causeway.
Enjoy professional, bilingual guides, comfortable air-conditioned transportation, and complimentary snacks and bottled water.
Highlights include watching ships pass through the canal locks and exploring the historical Casco Viejo neighborhood.
With flexible pickup options and a generous cancellation policy, this tour provides an educational and enjoyable experience for visitors to Panama City.
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Private Panama City and Canal Tour Like No Other
For the ultimate private tour experience in Panama City, look no further than this comprehensive sightseeing adventure.
This flexible tour allows you to explore the city’s key landmarks, including the historic Casco Antiguo, the iconic Causeway of Amador, and the awe-inspiring Panama Canal.
With a knowledgeable private guide, you’ll gain invaluable insights into Panama’s rich history and culture. Highlights include witnessing the impressive ships navigating the canal locks.
Traveling in a private, air-conditioned vehicle, you’ll enjoy hassle-free transfers and a personalized experience.
With a 99% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, this tour is a must-do for those seeking an unforgettable exploration of Panama City.
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Panama Canal and City Tour Experience
A comprehensive Panama Canal and city sightseeing tour provides travelers with an immersive experience, offering a captivating glimpse into the nation’s iconic waterway and the vibrant capital city.
Boasting a stellar 4.8 rating from 140 reviews, the tour earns a 97% recommendation rate from visitors. At $65 per person, the experience includes hotel pickup, air-conditioned transportation, and knowledgeable guides who skillfully navigate the tour in both English and Spanish.
Highlights include witnessing the Panama Canal’s engineering marvels and exploring the historic Casco Viejo district.
Travelers consistently praise the tour’s professionalism, flexibility, and ability to engage participants, making it an exceptional way to discover the wonders of Panama City.
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Full-Day Gatun Lake and Indian Village Tour From Panama City
Travelers seeking a deeper immersion into Panama’s natural wonders and indigenous culture will find the Full-Day Gatun Lake and Indian Village Tour from Panama City an exceptional choice.
The tour, with a 93% traveler recommendation, provides a unique blend of activities, including a boat ride on the iconic Gatun Lake and a visit to Soberania National Park and an indigenous Emberá-Wounaan village.
With a small group size, travelers can expect personalized attention from knowledgeable guides like Gonzo and Karim, who are praised for their expertise and ability to engage participants.
While some found the village visit less authentic, the overall experience offers a compelling glimpse into Panama’s rich natural and cultural heritage.
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All Inclusive Taboga Island Catamaran Tour From Panama City
The All Inclusive Taboga Island Catamaran Tour from Panama City offers travelers a delightful day of relaxation and exploration.
This 6-hour excursion takes guests boating, swimming, and dancing while visiting the picturesque Isla Taboga. With an impressive 959 reviews and a 94% recommendation rate, the tour earns a Badge of Excellence.
Amenities include an open bar, a tasty lunch, and on-board entertainment. Though some found the food bland, the majority praised the friendly staff and beautiful scenery.
At $100 per person, this all-inclusive experience provides good value for those seeking a fun day trip from Panama City.
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All-Inclusive 8-Hour Catamaran Tour to Isla Taboga From Panama City
Exploring the picturesque Isla Taboga from Panama City has never been easier with the All-Inclusive 8-Hour Catamaran Tour.
This highly-rated experience boasts a 95% traveler recommendation, with 272 reviews across 5 stars. At just $99 per person, the tour includes an open bar, lunch, snacks, and round-trip hotel transfers.
The 56-passenger catamaran departs at 8:45 am, providing ample time to swim, dance, and sightsee around the island. The friendly crew, delicious food, and stunning scenery make this tour a must-do for visitors to Panama City.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours before, it’s a convenient and enjoyable way to discover Taboga Island.
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BLISS in San Blas Islands Panama Includes Tour & Transport From Panama City
Whisking visitors away from the bustle of Panama City, the BLISS in San Blas Islands tour offers an immersive cultural experience.
The tour includes transport from your hotel, with an early pickup between 5-5:45 am, followed by a shared roundtrip transfer in an air-conditioned vehicle to the Port of Carti.
The boat ride to the islands takes 25-30 minutes and may be bumpy with sea spray.
Once there, guests can enjoy snorkeling, a local lunch, and one beverage.
While the amenities are basic, with no air conditioning or Wi-Fi, the tour provides an opportunity to experience the indigenous Guna people and their traditions firsthand.
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City Tour and Panama Canal
Immersing visitors in the rich history and architectural wonders of Panama City, the City Tour and Panama Canal experience offers a comprehensive exploration of the country’s vibrant capital.
Rated 4.5 stars from 53 reviews, this 5-hour tour takes guests through the colonial-era Casco Viejo, the captivating Panama Canal, and scenic Amador Causeway.
Travelers can observe the canal’s locks in action, browse a craft market, and watch an IMAX 3D movie about the canal’s history.
Accessible to strollers but not wheelchairs, the tour features air-conditioned transportation and knowledgeable, engaging guides who provide valuable insights into Panama’s culture and heritage.
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Bike Tour Panamá City and the Old Town
For those seeking a more active and intimate exploration of Panama City, the Bike Tour Panamá City and the Old Town offers an exhilarating alternative to the City Tour and Panama Canal.
Covering an 18 km route, this highly-rated tour (4.9 out of 5 stars) takes participants through coastal views, the historic Old Town, and local markets.
Equipped with excellent mountain bikes, travelers can expect a moderate to fast-paced experience, making it suitable for those in reasonable shape.
With a knowledgeable guide providing cultural insights, the tour’s highlights include scenic routes, photo opportunities, and a stop for seafood refreshments.
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Tour of Panama City and the Panama Canal
The Tour of Panama City and the Panama Canal offers travelers an in-depth exploration of the country’s iconic landmarks.
With 88 reviews and a 99% recommendation rate, this tour has earned a Badge of Excellence. Priced from $65 per person, it accommodates up to 40 travelers and includes air-conditioned transportation, a knowledgeable guide, lunch, and canal center tickets.
Pickup and drop-off services are available for those staying outside the city. Travelers praise the guides’ expertise, flexibility, and ability to provide personalized experiences, highlighting the informative presentations and opportunities to witness ship navigation through the canal locks.
With consistently high ratings and positive customer feedback, this tour delivers a memorable and engaging Panama City experience.
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Panama City Night Tour
Travelers can enjoy the vibrant nightlife of Panama City through the comprehensive Panama City Night Tour. For $100 per person, this 4.5-star rated tour takes visitors on a journey through the city’s key landmarks and cultural experiences.
Highlights include sightseeing, savoring local cuisine, and visiting rooftop bars. The tour’s air-conditioned transportation and knowledgeable guides, such as Neville, Argenis, and Orlando, are praised for enhancing the experience.
However, some reviewers have noted issues with tour organization and communication. The Panama City Night Tour remains an excellent way to discover the city’s nightlife and culinary delights.
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The Panama Canal Visitors Center and City Tour
Exploring the Panama Canal Visitors Center and the vibrant city of Panama City, this comprehensive tour provides an immersive experience for visitors. Rated 4.8 out of 62 reviews, the tour is recommended by 95% of travelers and has a Badge of Excellence.
Priced at $57.75 per person, the tour includes professional guides, hotel pick-up and drop-off, bottled water, lunch, and entry fees. Accessible for wheelchairs and strollers, the tour accommodates a maximum of 40 travelers.
Highlights include visits to the Panama Canal, Casco Viejo, Amador Causeway, and cultural sites. Guides receive praise for their knowledge and flexibility, though some travelers report unexpected additional charges for hotel pick-up.
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Panama City Tour Private
For those seeking a personalized introduction to Panama City, the Panama City Tour Private offers a comprehensive exploration of the city’s highlights. Priced from $240 for up to 3 people, this highly-rated 5-star tour provides private transportation, knowledgeable English-speaking guides, and the flexibility to customize the experience based on your interests.
Highlights include the iconic Panama Canal, the vibrant City Center, the scenic Amador Causeway, and local markets. With bottled water, air-conditioning, and gratuities included, this tour makes it easy to discover the best of Panama City.
Traveler reviews praise the guides’ expertise and friendliness, as well as the tour’s adaptability to accommodate layovers and specific requests.
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The Sum Up
Panama City offers a range of engaging tour options for visitors. From classic car tours to private canal and city excursions, there’s something to suit every interest. Whether you’re seeking wildlife encounters, canal views, or a nighttime exploration of the city, these tours provide an immersive experience of Panama’s vibrant capital. With so many choices, travelers can easily find the perfect way to discover the city’s highlights.