panama city panama private tours

Experience the best of Panama City with Withlocals

Find the perfect private tour

Select one of our local experts

Enjoy Panama City like a local

Let our local experts guide you through a handpicked selection of things to do on a private tour. Think hidden gems, insider stories, and all the local vibes. Ready to find your private tour of Panama City? Your adventure-packed day is just one click away!

Top 3 tours in Panama City

Make your stay in Panama City complete with these things to do

1 City Kickstart Tour: the Old Quarter of Panama City

2 Treasures of Panama City: the Panama Canal & the Locks Tour

3 The 10 Tastings of Panama's Old Quarter

Why you should book a withlocals tour, 100% customizable.

Let your local host tailor the tour completely to your wishes.

Private guided tours

No strangers on your tour. It’s just you and your local host.

Responsible

Our tours are designed with people, places & the planet in mind

Private tours with locals in Panama City

Our locals will give you the best experiences that Panama City has to offer

City Kickstart Tour: the Old Quarter of Panama City

Treasures of panama city: the panama canal & the locks tour, the 10 tastings of panama's old quarter, the beauty of panama city by bike tour, from locks to lanes: panama's dynamic heritage tour, explore panama city with our incredible locals.

Learn about their personal stories and find out how you can explore Panama City with locals

Travelers love our locals

What other guests say about our tours and locals

Daly is the best

"Daly was a wealth of knowledge and experience. Her vibrant personality gave us a delightful day. Thank your for sharing your time with us."

Fernando went above and beyond

"We really enjoyed our visit to the Panama Canal and especially the services of our guides. They did a great job and were extremely helpful even after the tour!"

Panama Canal with an expert

"Fernando is friendly and professional. We were very comfortable and enjoyed our experience. He is flexible and knowledgeable. He took the time to ensure our timing at the canal was an unforgettable experience."

Fun day with food and culture

"Enjoyed our food tour with Daly. She loves Panama, history, culture, and food. She helped us understand the history and the food of this diverse area. We had lots of fun walking, tasting and discussing the different areas of town. Highly recommend Daly!"

Great Tour of Panama’s Casco Viejo

"Daly gave us a wonderful and unique perspective on the history and people of Panamá. We covered all the main sights as well as behind scenes that you won’t get from the guide books or big group tours. We have been lucky with guides from WithLocals and Daly ranks at the top. "

Awesome tour expeirnce!!!

"We had an amazing tour experience with Daly at the Panama Canal. She was a a joy to be with and spoke perfect English and Spanish. Her knowledge of Panama and the canal was incredible and made for a great time together . She customized the tour for us and I cannot say enough good things about the time we spent touring "

Daly is the Best of the Best!

"I have traveled throughout the world, using Withlocals and other apps, and Daly without question is one of the very best, she knows the history, politics, where to eat, and a lot of insight on Panama. If in Panama City and you’re using Withlocals and need a rock-solid private tour, Daly is the one! Mick Webber USA "

So instructive and relevant

"We really spent two fantastic hours with Daly. She allowed us not only to walk through the major points of interest of the old City but also through Panama’s political and sociocultural history. She gave us a lot of information and along with her honesty, sense of humour and sometimes a bit of emotivity she succeeded so well to share with us her love and attachment to her beautiful country. That’s exactly what one would expect from a local guide. Thanks a lot, Daly Suzanne and Michel"

Ok but want more food experience

"Daly was beyond wonderful. She was fun, knowledgeable and spent more than the 3 hours with us. We felt however, that we did not get enough food experience. We actually left a bit hungry and went out to eat after. It was wonderful to be with her but the “value for money” was unfortunately missing."

Spectacular day with Daly!

"Daly went above and beyond for our tour of Panama. Took us to her favorite spots, filled with food and history of the city. We absolutely loved her passion for Panama ❤️. She made our day so very memorable!"

Enjoy the Best of the Panama City Like a Local

Private & personalized tours in panama city with a local.

When you hit the road and land in a new city like Panama City, there's an exciting way to dive into its soul: personalized local tours. Forget the typical touristy routes – these tours are like having a local friend show you around all the cool spots.

Imagine having someone who lives and breathes Panama City spill its secrets. That's what local guides bring to the table. They know the hidden alleys, the best bites, and stories that never made it to the guidebooks. Whether you're into munching through food tours, wandering the city's streets, or going off the beaten path, a local guide hooks you up with a private tour that's authentically Panama City.

The best part? These tours are all about you. No herding in big groups or rushing through places you're not interested in. With private tours, you're the boss. Whether it's snapping pics at iconic landmarks, diving into history, or checking out the art scene, the tour is tuned to your vibes at your tempo.

But it doesn't stop at city limits. Day trips let you escape the urban jungle and explore nearby wonders. And if you're just setting foot in Panama City, kickstart tours give you a taste of everything. Think of it as a crash course in Panama City awesomeness, guided by a local who knows the city like the back of their hand.

So, next time you're in Panama City, ditch the ordinary. Grab a local tour and unlock the city's real magic – the stories, flavors, and places that make it uniquely Panama City. Get ready to explore like a local!

Related Panama City pages

You might be interested in these

• Guides in Panama City
• City Highlight Tours in Panama City
• Food Tours in Panama City
• Walking Tours in Panama City
• Motor Tours in Panama City
• Short Tours in Panama City
• Half day Tours in Panama City
• Cheap Tours in Panama City
• Luxury Tours in Panama City
• Things To Do Tomorrow in Panama City
• Panama City
• Tours in Panama City

Panama City Sightseeing & Canal Private Full Day Tour

Starting from $99/pers $119/pers

The perfect introduction to Panama City and to the famous Panama Canal

Along this captivating full-day journey through the heart of Panama City, you will visit the following sights:

The Panama Canal (Miraflores Locks Visitors Center + IMAX 3D) $ Located right in front of the Miraflores locks on the Pacific side of Panama, this is where you can see up-close the operations of the canal and the transiting ships through one of the original locks. $ Tickets can be purchased during the booking process or onsite.

Cerro Ancon A small nature sanctuary surrounded by the urban jungle of Panama City, Ancon hill stands tall in its 650-foot height. The highest peak in Panama City that offers breathtaking views of the city, the port and the Panama Canal. Even though it is located in the middle of the city, Ancon Hill has managed to retain a bit of wilderness and is home to sloths, tamarins, coatis and armadillos.

Amador Causeway This gorgeous 6-kilometer road extension connects Panama City to several islands known as the Causeway Islands. It was initially built as a break water for the canal entrance from the rocks extracted during the excavation of the Panama Canal and now serves as an entertainment boardwalk and a popular social destination. It’s the ideal place for photo enthusiasts as you can capture a beautiful panoramic of the city’s skyline or a romantic sunset plunging into the ocean.

Casco Viejo also called Casco Antiguo (the Old Town) Located in Panama City, is a historic district renowned for its vibrant blend of colonial architecture and contemporary flair. With its cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and charming plazas, Casco Viejo offers a captivating atmosphere where visitors can explore centuries-old landmarks, trendy art galleries, chic restaurants, and lively nightlife.

You will also be able to see La Cinta Costera, Avenida Balboa, Las Americas Bridge and the Fish Market (Mercado de Mariscos).

Days available

• Private transportation
• Private guide
• Bottled water

Not Included

• Entrance fees to Panama Canal Visitors Center
• Lunch / Meals

What to bring

• Passports of all passengers (mandatory)
• Hat / Cap / Sunglasses
• Comfortable shoes
• Light & comfortable clothes
• Level: Easy Details: Light walking (1-2h), some stairs
• Suggested age: All ages

Street in Casco Viajo

Miraflores Visitors Center

Reservation

• Please note that currently the Miraflores visitors center is undergoing a major renovation. Because of that, the museum and the top floor observation deck are currently closed. A smaller mezzanine on a lower floor is open during the renovations for viewing purposes.
• This tour must be booked at least 2 days in advance of the tour date.
• Kids 0-5yo are always free
• Cancellation terms and conditions

Questions about this tour?

• Secure payments
• Satisfaction guaranteed
• Worry-Free cancellation
• Tailor-made
• Safe and secure
• Certified guides
• Fully insured for your peace of mind

GET AN EXCLUSIVE ACCESS TO THE PANAMA'S HIDDEN GEMS, BEST RESTAURANTS, MOST FAMOUS SPOTS...

Make every minute count and live your Panama's trip like no one else by singing up below to recieve our offers!

" * " indicates required fields

Explore the world with tourHQ

• Destinations
• I am a Guide
• I am a Traveller
• Online Experiences
• Currency (USD)

Panama City

Between the colorful colonial edifices of Casco Viejo and Panama City’s steel-clad business heart of ex-pats and suited internationals, this city has oodles to explore. Get a tourHQ guide to make the most of your trip.

Search Cities in Panama

Panama City Tour Guides

Vincent Scott

Hi, I'm Vincent and I was born in the City of Colon, Republic of Panama. I consider myself a ...

Richard DePass

Bilingual person proud to show you the treasures of our precious country of Panama. Anything you ...

Alcy AGUILAR

Panamanian tour guide working 24x7 in providing tours and transportation services in Panama City ...

GUSTAVO RUIDIAZ

Desde joven me ha encantado la naturaleza que rodea nuestro Pais, la historia que envuelve ...

Juan Calvache

Naturalist tour guide, focused on customer service with considerable experience in  eco ...

Jorge Mayorga

Hello and welcome to my beautiful Panamá. My name is Jorge and I have 18 years guiding, this ...

Martin Davila Rocha

I worked on cruise ships for more than 4 years and traveled more than 66 countries and 200 ports ...

Gilberto Atencio

Guia Turistico en idioma Español e Ingles, Ofrezco los Servicios de City Tour, Rainforest, Extreme ...

Tommy Cisneros

Hello my name is Tommy Cisneros and the objective of your trip is to make you feel special. ...

Malek Almaini Mall

Hi, my name is Malek Almaini Mall. I am a Travel Consultant and a Licenced Tourist Guide in ...

Luis Melendez

 Hello!!If you are interested in visiting Panama, you just have to contact me and let me know ...

NICOLAS MAHAUT

Immersed in Panama Culture and Lifestyle for over 25 years,  it's, as Sommelier, by ...

Cesar R Castillo

There's always something new to learn,  cause if you love what you do will never work a single ...

Kevin OBrien

I worked as a guide for 5 years in N.America and the 5 more in ALL the Americas and another in ...

I am a family man who is honest, respectful, positive, very sociable and informative. If you hire ...

Edwin Ortega

hello my name is edwin, I belong to Embera one of the seven indigenous population of Panamà. ...

Who wouldn’t want to go to Panama City? Visitors can enjoy the nearby beach culture of two different but equally breath-taking coastlines, climb mountains, explore a rainforest and enjoy the thriving metropolis of the city itself The Panama City of today is a sophisticated urban centre replete with skyscrapers, an impressive arts scene and globally recognised dining.  A city tour includes a day spend at the Panama Canal; the Miraflores locks has a very interesting visitor centre, museum and a restaurant too. While there are a large number of ex-pat Americans living in Panama City, many of Panamas indigenous tribes are still thriving and living in the traditional way of their ancestors. No trip to Panama City would be complete without a visit to the two historic sectors within this city; the ruins of the 16th century Panama “ Viejo” and the colourful historic Spanish colonial area“ Casco Viejo”, the latter a UNESCO World Heritage site. A Spanish speaking Panama tour guide would be helpful in exploring these areas, be it for a walking tour around Caso Viejo’s French and Spanish architecture, shopping for indigenous handicrafts, or blending in the lively nightlife best found at Amador Causeway.

Tell us your destination, date, and group size.

Our team of travel experts and guides will design a tailored itinerary just for you., enjoy your trip with peace of mind knowing everything is taken care of..

Say Goodbye to Travel Stress

Choose Currency Close modal

• USD US, dollar
• GBP British Pounds

Cookie icon We use cookies!

We, and third parties, use cookies for technical and analytical purposes, for marketing purposes and for integration with social media. For more information, refer to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Consent.

By clicking on 'I agree', you consent to the use of these cookies.

THE 10 BEST Panama Private Tours

Private tours in panama.

• Sightseeing Tours
• Ports of Call Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Private Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers

• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Panama Canal Tour and Gatun Lake Ecotour

2. The 'Real' Panamanian Private Food Tour

3. Private Tour of the Historic Center of Panama and Canal

4. Half-day Private City Tour and Panama Canal

5. Full Day Panama History Tour with Private Guide

6. The Pacific Coast: Trails & Shores Tour

7. 6-Hour Culture and Nature Tour in Embera Tribe

8. Private Panama City and Canal Tour Like No Other

9. Agua Clara Locks Tour Fort San Lorenzo Third Bridge Panama

10. Private and Personalized Half Day Panama Canal and City Tour

11. Private 6 Hours Tour - Discovering Panama

12. Schumann's BOTANICAL PARK TOUR

13. Half day city tour :Explore the Best of Panama City

14. Panamá Boat Tour and wildlife in the Panama Canal

15. Private Tour to Two Canal Locks and the Colonial Town

16. Layover Tour Panama Canal & City Private

17. Private Full-Day Bird Watch Workshop

18. From Atlantic to Pacific Ocean Private Panama Canal & Jungle Tour

19. Mountain hiking inside an inhabited volcano, El Valle de Antón

20. Private Panama City Tour

21. Private Tour Layover in Panama

22. Day Trip to San Blas on Airplane

23. Panoramic Guided Helicopter Tour over Panama

24. Discover Panama Secrets (Best City tour ever!)

25. Private VIP Luxury Tour of Panama City

26. Full day Private Tour to Taboga Island departing from Panama City

27. Private & Fun Panama Canal... 3 different perspectives

28. The 3 Panama's in 8 hrs, Private tour

29. Zipline and Sloth Sanctuary Private Tour

30. Full Day Fishing and Island Hopping at the Pearl Islands from Panama City

What travelers are saying.

• 1/2 Day, ‘Monkey Island’ Tour
• City, Beach & Jungle
• Kuna Yala & San Blas Islands
• Best Of Boquete
• Bocas del Toro
• One Week Tour of Panama
• Urban Adventures – Taste of Panama City
• Fishing Tour
• Golf Vacation Package
• Corporate & Group Packages
• Airport Service
• Build Your Own Panama Tour
• Additional Tour Options
• VIP Private Relocation Tours
• Where Will You Stay?
• What Will You Do?
• Travel Blog
• Getting Here  
• Travel Advice
• Travel Visas
• What to Bring
• Panama Canal Facts
• Testimonials & Reviews
• Community & Partners

Relax, and let us show you

Tours in the old town, Casco Viejo.

The Panama Canal.

The San Blas archipelago, it's a paradise.

A historic Spanish fort on the Caribbean coast.

Visit an Indian village.

See the tropical wildlife.

Monkey Island.

A boat ride through the heart of the

Adventure activities including

Corporate packages and golf tours.

Welcome to "Barefoot" Panama

At Barefoot Panama Tours, we encourage you to embrace the natural beauty of Panama and immerse yourself in the extraordinary. Our Panama Tours and Panama Vacation Packages bring you face-to-face with incredible culture, awe-inspiring wildlife, and unforgettable adventures.

View Tour Pages View Tour Photos

Kevin's handpicked team is dedicated to helping people make the most of their Panama experience. They are all intelligent, friendly, fun, customer focused — and nobody knows Panama better! They'll work hard to make sure that you have the best time possible in Panama.

About Us Page

My Barefoot Panama – 12 Years of Tourism

Panama’s hidden treasures, the san blas vs. pearl islands, independence month.

• Enter the number of adults and children in your group. Children are ages 12 and below. Every tour participant, regardless of age, must be included in the reservation.
• Click update after entering the number of people who will be joining the tour.
• Click "Continue".
• Enter your personal information.
• Review the policies and procedures, and click "Continue".
• After the reservation request is reviewed you will receive booking information.  

Please note that your tour reservation is not guaranteed until at least a 50% deposit is given. Once payment is received your tour confirmation will be emailed to you. Immediate payment is not required at the time of completing the tour booking form. After receiving your reservation request a representative will contact you to confirm you tour selection, availability, schedule a pickup time and review any special considerations, as well as provide payment details. If you have any questions please contact us

• Panama Tours Home
• Bocas Del Toro
• Boquete, Chiriqui Highlands
• Panama City
• San Blas Islands
• Overnight Tours & Week Packages

Transportation

• Panama City Tours
• Top 5 Panama City Tours

Land Tours and Activities

Panama city bike tours.

• ** All Panama City Bike Tours
• Amador Causeway Bike Tour
• Casco Viejo City Bike Tour

Panama Mountain Biking Tours

• ** All Panama Mountain Biking Tours
• Cocoa Plantation Mountain Bike Tour

Panama Canal Tours

• ** All Panama Canal Tours
• Monkey Island + Sloth Sanctuary Panama
• Panama City & Canal Tour
• Jungle Land Floating Lodge Panama Canal Tour
• Miraflores Locks Express Tour
• Fort Sherman, San Lorenzo, and Canal Historical Tour
• Panama Canal Partial Transit
• Panama Canal Full Transit

Nature & Eco Tours

• ** All Nature & Eco Tours
• Monkey Island Tour
• Monkey Island & Indian Village Combo Tour
• Metro Park & Punta Culebra Discovery Eco-Tour
• Hiking Metropolitan Natural Park Nature Trails
• Bird Watching Metropolitan Natural Park
• El Valle de Anton Explorer
• Kayaking Lake Gatun, Panama Canal & Monkey Island

Shore Excursions

Public panama shore excursions departing panama city.

• ** All Public Panama Shore Excursions Departing Panama City
• Hop On Hop Off Panama City Sightseeing Tour
• Taboga Island One Day Tour

Express Panama Shore Excursions For Limited Times in Port

• ** All Express Panama Shore Excursions For Limited Times in Port
• Casco Viejo Panama Express Tour
• Panama City Past to Present Combo Tour
• Indian Village Tour
• Private Guided Shore Excursions - Panama City
• Private Guided Shore Excursions - Colon

Private Boat Charters in Panama City

• ** All Private Boat Charters in Panama City
• Panama City Boat Rentals - 27' Proline

Sightseeing Tours

• ** All Sightseeing Tours
• San Blas Islands One Day Explorer
• Panama La Vieja Express Tour
• Customized Private Sightseeing Tours

Water Tours and Activities

Taboga island & pearl island boat tours.

• ** All Taboga Island & Pearl Island Boat Tours
• Panama Catamaran Tour to Taboga Island
• Sonny Island Resort Day Pass in the Pearl Islands
• Pearl Islands Sunday Funday Catamaran Cruise & Beach Break

Panama Canal & Lake Gatun Boat Tours

• ** All Panama Canal & Lake Gatun Boat Tours
• Lake Gatun Kayaking & Horseback Riding Combo

Boat Trips to the San Blas Islands

• ** All Boat Trips to the San Blas Islands
• San Blas Islands Overnight Tour

Private Boat Rentals in Panama

• ** All Private Boat Rentals in Panama
• Pagot 56´ Private Catamaran Charter

Pearl Islands

Taboga & pearl islands beach hopping tours.

• ** All Taboga & Pearl Islands Beach Hopping Tours

Pearl Islands Whale Watching Tours

• ** All Pearl Islands Whale Watching Tours
• Whale Watching Pearl Islands & Isla Bolaños Beach Break
• Pearl Islands Whale Watching & Chapera Island Beach Break

Private Taboga & Pearl Island Excursions

• ** All Private Taboga & Pearl Island Excursions

Scuba Diving & Snorkeling Tours

• ** All Scuba Diving & Snorkeling Tours
• Snorkel and Zip-line Caribbean Adventure
• Caribbean Snorkel & Private Island
• Caribbean Scuba & Private Island
• Caribbean 2 Tank Scuba
• Discover Scuba Resort Course

Whale Watching Tours

• ** All Whale Watching Tours
• Pearl Islands Whale Watching & Contadora Beach Break
• Whale Watching Tour from Contadora Island
• Panama Whale Watching Private Charters

Airport Transportion

• COMING SOON

Ground Transportation

Domestic flights.

• Bocas del Toro to San Jose Costa Rica Shuttle
• Bocas del Toro to Puerto Viejo Costa Rica Shuttle

Panama City Tours, Panama Canal Tours & Panama Shore Excursions and Panama Cruise Ports

The activities specialists..

Know before you go! Check out the latest news & travel tips on our Blog

The Panama Tour Site

TOLL FREE +1-866 217-8950

WITHIN PANAMA 836-6036

WORLD WIDE +1-210-858-6353

Email: [email protected]

The Real Deal Offers Great Discounts on All Panama Tours. Featured deals are hand-picked by our Activities Specialists as the Best Value in Panama City, Panama & the Panama Canal.

Choose your favorite activity... Your adventure is just a click away!

From the concrete jungle to the actual jungle, one of the eco-friendliest ways to discover all that Panama City has to offer is with our incredible Panama Bike Tours!

Wildlife safaris by boat, island hopping the San Blas archipelago, kayaking on Lake Gatun; whatever floats your boat, we have a boat tour in Panama perfect for you and the best deals in town too!

Explore Panama's wildlife on one of our top-notch Nature Tours and discover the country's natural beauty and biodiversity by signing up for one of our exciting eco-adventures.

Discover the fascinating history behind the construction of the Panama Canal and witness its impressive operation first-hand by booking one of our many Panama Canal shore excursions!

Whether sailing the archipelago, taking a fast ferry to Taboga, whale watching around Contadora Island or snorkeling the rocky outcrops, visiting the Pearl Islands & Taboga Island in the Gulf of Panama are not to be missed.

Take the plunge and explore Panama's Pacific coast and extensive coral reefs on a snorkeling tour in Central Panama and Panama City.

Book your shore excursions in Panama Central and Panama Canal with us! Worry-free booking and top-notch excursions at discount prices guarantee BIG savings and LOTS of fun!

Explore Panama City and the Panama Canal. Experience this country's amazing culture first-hand on one of our Cultural Tours and understand what makes Panama so unique.

Panama whale watching tours to Isla Bolaños and Contadora Island departing right from Panama City! Discover the beautiful Humpback Whales in the Pearl Islands!

Shared Shuttles, Private Transfers, Car Rentals and more!! Select the transportation option in Panama that best suits your travel style.

Panama City Tours, Panama

(panama city sightseeing, panama canal tours & panama shore excursions).

Looking for amazing activities & fun things to do in Panama on vacation? You have come to the right place! The Real Deal Tours offers the best tours in Panama! There are several things to explore in and around Panama City. Better yet, they are all just a hop, skip, and a jump away from the city center and the cruise ship ports in Panama City and Colon. There are tons of one day excursions departing daily and we have compiled a list of the best excursions in Panama for you to choose from. So get out your Panama bucket list and start checking off all the cool experiences you can have on your Panama vacation!

Panama Canal Tours Obviously the Panama Canal and the Miraflores Locks might be the most popular attraction in this region. Hey, rightfully so. The Panama Canal is only one of the world's most astonishing engineering marvels after all. And now with the Panama Canal Expansion & Agua Clara Visitor Center, there is even more points of interest on the Panama Canal to explore. Our variety of Panama Canal Tours will ensure you do not leave Panama without really truly appreciating the history behind the Panama Canal from past to present. Panama City Sightseeing & Cultural Tours Aside from the Panama Canal, the variety of sightseeing tours in Panama City are incredible. If it is your fist time visiting Panama, the Panama City & Panama Canal tour is your best bet. You can explore some of Panama's most famous attractions all in one day! Aside from the skyscraper lined city center, Panama is also chock full of historical sites. You can visit for forts occupied by both the Spanish and the United States. True history buffs will want to check out the original ruins site of Panama La Vieja, then make their way to Panama's current historical district of Casco Viejo. And museums! Panama is full of great museums! For those who prefer active tours, our Panama City bike tours are a great way to explore Panama City & the Amador Causeway. Nature & Eco Tours in Panama Perhaps courtesy of the importance of the Panama Canal watershed, Panama City is surrounded by an abundance of nature. Both inside and just of the city you can discover the beauty and nature of the Metropolitano, Soberania, and Chagres national parks which are home to some of the 900 species of birds and 300 mammals that rest in its protected 1st and 2nd generation tropical rainforests. In fact, our top selling Panama nature tours are a visit to Monkey Island , and Jungle Land Panama which both are located in along the Panama Canal. Birders will love the fact that their is ample bird watching opportunities right on the edge of the city at Metropolitan National Park . And if you want to get out of town, a visit to the Valle de Anton is a lush garden green oasis that is the top weekend destination for locals. Panama Boat Tours Ready to head out on the water? We have both public and private boat tours that can take you places such as the Pearl Islands , Taboga Island and even through the Panama Canal ! When is the best time for a boat tour in Panama? Whale watching season! Whale watching in Panama is phenomenal!! You will also need a boat to visit 2 of Panama's unique indigenous cultures of the Embera Wounaan & Guna Yala in San Blas . Panama Shore Excursions Coming in on a cruise ship? Most all of our Panama City tours can be customized to fit your cruise schedule. Our Panama shore excursions depart from both Colon & Panama City. Even better, we offer customized private shore excursions in Panama . Do what you want, when you want with an expert local guide just for you!

Needless to say, there are a wealth of activities and things to do in Panama. Can't decide which Panama tours to add to your bucket list? Get in the most Panama tours possible in just 10 days. Our cross country trip lets you experience all best highlights of Panama both in Panama City and throughout the country. So what are you still reading this for? Choose your favorite category and start exploring all the amazing activities in Panama departing from Panama City & Panama cruise ship ports. Your adventure in Panama is just a click away!!

The Panama Tours Site

We are here to assist you!!! Our team visits these countries often to be sure that we bring you the most current and updated information on accommodations, activities, restaurants and more.

• TERMS & CONDITIONS

www.ThePanamaTourSite.com

The Real Deal Tours

All Rights Reserved, 2011-2024 | Website by Creative Concepts

14 Dazzling Things to do in Panama City, Panama

M y recent trip to Panama City, Panama absolutely blew me away. This Central American city is a dazzling international hot spot, where delicious gastronomy, historic ruins, unique architecture, massive skyscrapers and dense rainforest come together. As such, there are so many things to do in Panama City, Panama!

Panama is warm year-round and fairly inexpensive to visit. It is the only capital city in the world that has a tropical rainforest within city limits. The city also borders the famous Panama Canal , which revolutionized global shipping by creating a passage between the Atlantic Ocean and the Pacific Ocean.

So, if you’re craving a warm tropical getaway, inexpensive luxury, or first-hand views of an incredible man-made wonder, it’s time to check out Panama City. To help you plan your next trip to Central America, here are the top things to do in Panama City, Panama.

SheBuysTravel tip: In Panama, you can pay in either USD or in the local currency, balboas, which has the exact same value as the US dollar. Avoid ATM fees by withdrawing money in the US before your trip.

1. Explore Casco Viejo

Panama City’s old town has several names, including Casco Antiguo and San Felipe, but it’s most commonly referred to as Casco Viejo. Panamanians moved here in 1671 after pirates destroyed their original capital, Panama Viejo. Although Casco Viejo deteriorated over time, significant efforts have been made to restore the area after it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2003.

Now, Casco Viejo is a charming neighborhood featuring restored 16th & 17th Century Spanish Colonial Architecture, cobblestone streets, ornate churches, lively plazas and historic ruins. Here, visitors will find boutique hotels, cute cafes, rooftop bars and lots of delicious restaurants with cuisine from all over the world.

To appreciate the area’s history and architecture, travelers can take a guided tour, or explore the area independently. Some must-see sites include the Plaza de la Cathedral, Plaza Francia, the Metropolitan Cathedral, Church of the Society of Jesus and the Fish Market.

SheBuysTravel tip: Uber is very inexpensive in Panama City, and drivers arrive within minutes, so make sure you have the app downloaded and ready to go before your trip.

2. Visit the Panama Canal

Visit one of the most impressive man-made industrial feats. Completed in 1914, the Panama Canal continues to have a profound effect on the shipping industry.

The best way to see this canal is from the Miraflores Visitor Center, located 20 minutes from Panama City in a small city called Clayton. This center overlooks the Miraflores Locks, one of the three locks that make up the Panama Canal . From here, visitors can watch boats pass through the canal while learning about the mechanics of these locks.

There is also an IMAX movie theater that plays a 45-minute IMAX documentary about the canal’s history narrated by Morgan Freeman. The visitor center features a gift shop, a snack shop and a restaurant.

3. Explore Panama Viejo

The ruins of Panama Viejo , the original city destroyed by pirates, are also a Panama City must-see. Founded in 1519, the city was the first European settlement on the Pacific Ocean.

This archeological site spans 57 acres and includes more than a dozen ruins. For great views of the city, climb up the old bell tower. There is also a fantastic museum (truly one of my favorite museums in Central America) that traces Panamanian history from before the arrival of the Spanish, to the pirate attack and beyond. I recommend visiting the museum first before exploring the ruins.

4. Bike along Cinta Costera

Cinta Costera is a waterfront boulevard that meanders through the city. The path stretches for 4.3 miles and includes a walking and a biking path. Cinta Costera is divided into three sections, starting in the upscale neighborhood of Paitilla, skirting Panama Bay and ending near Casco Viejo. Much of the trail is lined with palm trees, parks and street vendors while running parallel to Avenida Balboa, the large downtown highway.

During my visit, I stayed in Casco Viejo and spent one afternoon cycling the path’s third section, aptly named Cinta Costera 3. This is a coastal beltway that forms a wide ark around Casco Viejo, boasting beautiful views of the city. There are several concrete decks along the way where I could stop and take pictures.

5. Visit the San Blas islands

The San Blas islands are the picture of paradise. Although not exactly in Panama City, travelers can see the islands on a day trip or weekend excursion. These well-protected Caribbean islands are home to crystal clear waters, palm-fringed beaches and rich indigenous culture. With no internet, visitors will find themselves completely immersed in island life.

The islands are governed by the Guna, a Panamanian indigenous group. While visiting the islands, you’ll get to experience Guna culture. Sample the local cuisine, get to know the locals and shop for unique handmade goods. The Guna are most famous for creating Molas, stunning woven textiles that make a one-of-a-kind gift.

There are a variety of accommodation options on the islands, including beach bungalows and cabins. Those hoping to see several islands can book an overnight boat tour and live on a sailboat while going island-hopping.

6. Take a boat tour to Monkey Island

Monkey Island is a cluster of islands located in the man-made Gatun Lake. Aptly named, the islands are home to a variety of monkey species, including white-faced capuchin monkeys and howler monkeys.

Monkey Island boat tours include a pick-up from most hotels before guests are taken on a scenic drive through Soberanía National Park. At Gatun Lake, the tour continues via boat. Keep an eye out for monkeys but also toucans, sloths, iguanas and crocodiles, all of which dwell on the island. You may even get the chance to feed the monkeys.

Some tours also include a visit to a sloth sanctuary. Most of the tours are half-day, like this one , although there are some full-day tours available that include a tour of an indigenous village.

7. Drink cocktails on a rooftop bar

Panama City has a flourishing nightlife scene, and one of the best ways to experience is at one of Casco Viejo’s many rooftop bars.

An unofficial rooftop bar connoisseur, I visited a new rooftop bar nearly every night of my trip. My favorite was the Selina, which has live music and salsa dancing every Wednesday night. Sama Sky Lounge , the tallest rooftop in Casco Viejo, was a close second. It is disco-themed and boasts a beautiful skyline view. CasaCasco is great for a romantic date night and Tantalo is the best rooftop for late-night dancing.

To drink a cocktail among the skyscrapers, visit the Panaviera which is on the 66th floor of the Ocean Sun Casino, part of the JW Marriott Hotel .

8. Enjoy panoramic views from Ancon Hill

Ancon Hill is a popular viewpoint that overlooks Panama City. Reaching the top of Ancon Hill takes 30 minutes and is considered a moderate hike. You’ll be walking up a mainly paved road that cuts through the jungle. I recommend doing this hike early in the morning when it’s not quite as hot.

Ancon Hill is also a great place to see wildlife. When I did the hike, I spotted an adorable sleeping sloth in the trees above the path and a coati running into the jungle. Other hikers have reported seeing armadillos, tamarins and deer.

9. Zoom down the Amador Causeway

I had an absolute blast speeding down the Amador Causeway on a rented E-scooter. This strip of land connects the mainland to three islands, Naos, Perico, and Flamenco. It was constructed using rocks excavated during the building of the Panama Canal. The Causeway, as it is often called, has a wide bike line and there are lots of bike rentals in the area.

My family and I rented E-scooters from a rental shop near the Biomuseo. The scooters went surprisingly fast (yay, adrenaline!) and we were able to soak up beautiful skyline views. There are also regular bike, double bike and regular scooter rentals available.

Once you reach the islands, there are lots of shops, restaurants and bars, perfect for a biking break. For an education stop, explore the Punta Culebra Nature Center, an open-air museum operated by the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute.

10. Shop at Albrook Mall

Albrook Mall is a huge (I’ll repeat, huge) mall in the city. The length of the mall is equivalent to seven football fields, making it the largest mall in Central America.

There are several food courts and more than 700 stores selling inexpensive clothing, perfume, toys, jewelry, shoes and just about anything else. The mall is open from 10 am to 8 pm, with many restaurants staying open until 9 pm. So if you’re looking to shop and get some exercise, spend a day exploring Albrook Mall. Just don’t forget to wear a good pair of walking shoes!

11. Tour the Canal Museum

Before heading to Miraflores and seeing the Panama Canal in action, spend some time in the Canal Museum, located in Casco Viejo. This museum has a wealth of information, photographs, and artifacts that trace the history of the canal and its impact on Panama.

12. See Gamboa Rainforest

If you’ve come to Panama City, chances are you’d like to experience the unspoiled nature that surrounds the capital city. The Gamboa Rainforest is the best place for that. Located 30 minutes from Panama City, this rainforest sits at the intersection of the Chagres River and the Panama Canal.

To experience this dense rainforest, visitors can go zip lining, take an aerial tram over the treetops, visit a sloth sanctuary, go on a bird-watching tour, learn about the Embera indigenous group, go on a night safari or go kayaking in the Chagres River. For more activities in Gamboa, check this link .

13. Visit the Biomuseo

Learn about Panama’s natural history at the Biomuseo , located on the Amador Causeway. This museum was designed by world-renowned architect Frank Gehry and is an architectural marvel in itself. Colorful panels cut into odd shapes make up the building’s exterior.

The interior is full of exhibits that describe the migration that occurred when Panama connected North and South America. There are also two aquariums and a projection space that highlights Panama’s biodiversity. My favorite exhibit showed 3D models of animals that crossed the isthmus of Panama three million years ago.

14. Sample fish at the Mercado de Mariscos

Visit an authentic fish market in the heart of Panama City. The Mercado de Mariscos is a bustling market, within walking distance from Casco Viejo. It is packed with local Panamanians selling fresh fish, which includes anything from octopus to lobster to white snapper. If you can handle the strong smell of raw fish, this market is certainly worth a visit.

One section of the market sells raw fish, while the other sells dishes. Be sure to try some ceviche, the local specialty. Salsa and merengue music booms from speakers and there are plenty of places to sit.