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Are you ready to book your Panama City Tour in Panama? When we explored the captivating capital city of Panama, we immersed ourselves in its rich history and vibrant culture.
Some of our favourite activities included visiting the famous Panama Canal, of course, and strolling through the charming streets of Casco Viejo. We also visited the nature parks, where we tried to spot sloths. For us, every moment in Panama was filled with awe and excitement!
We loved our Panama trip, but we also struggled to decide on what to do with our limited time and budget! So, we understand that planning the perfect Panama City tour can be overwhelming since there are so many options to choose from. That’s why we’ve personally hand-picked a selection of extraordinary tours for you.
Top 3 Best Panama City Tours In Panama
Are you ready to explore the best options and book your tour? Let’s dive into the best 3 Panama City tour packages in Panama. These are:
🏆 BEST OVERALL TOUR
EDITORS PICK. Panama City Tour in Panama: Ocean to Ocean Panama Canal and Jungle Tour
🏆 BEST FULL-DAY TOUR
EDITORS PICK: Panama City full-day tour: Panama City Day Tour
🏆 BEST HALF-DAY TOUR
EDITORS PICK. Panama City half-day tour: 5hr Combo-Panama Canal Boat Ride w/Monkey Safari & Rainforest Walk
11 Best Panama City Tour Packages In Panama
This article is all about the BEST tours in Panama City, Panama. We’ve handpicked all of these activities for you to help make your Panama City adventure one for the books!
Panama City is a blend of old and new. It’s a bustling hub of energy and nature and is a fun place to spend a few days. You’ll be able to mix city sightseeing with nature hikes to sailing adventures, and island trips to paradise!
One of our fav tours is the Panama City Day Tour, where you can learn all about the city’s rich history.
1. Panama City: Ocean to Ocean Panama Canal and Jungle Tour
⭐RATING: 5/5 | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 8 HOURS |🧍 GROUP SIZE: MAX 18 | 🏛️ BOOK NOW
In a hurry? These are the highlights:
- A full-day Panama group tour
- Panama Canal
- Gutan Lake
- Agua Clara Visitor Center
- San Lorenzo National Park
- Lunch is included
- Transport is included
Overview
Get ready for an adventure-packed day exploring the wonders of Panama! This is one of the best-rated tours in Panama City, and I think it sounds amazing.
Your first stop is the iconic Panama Canal, where you’ll ride alongside the waterway. Next up is Gatun Lake, where you’ll cruise around islands that were created during the canal’s construction. Prepare to be amazed by the abundant wildlife thriving in the lake’s surroundings.
Did you know? Lake Gatun is the second-largest artificial lake on the continent, surrounded by rainforests!
Next, you’ll visit the Agua Clara Visitor Center, where you can witness the new expansion locks and San Lorenzo National Park, where you’ll explore a remote rainforest teeming with flora and fauna.
There, you’ll get a freshly made picnic lunch before embarking on a tour of Fort San Lorenzo. The fort, along with the fortifications of the city of Portobello, was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1980!
Ticket Options
Included in the ticket is a 90-minute Panama Canal boat ride. Bottled water is provided to keep you refreshed throughout the tour, and lunch is included to ensure a satisfying culinary experience.
A professional guide will accompany you, providing insightful commentary along the way. Hotel pickup and drop-off are available for select hotels, and transportation is provided in an air-conditioned minibus.
Entrance fees are also included in the ticket price.
- Option 1: Outside Panama City Areas
- Option 2: Hotels in Central Panama area
✅ LIKELY TO SELL OUT! Book your tour today and get ready for a day of adventure and discovery in beautiful Panama!
2. Panama City Day Tour
⭐RATING: 4.7/5 | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 8 HOURS |🧍 GROUP SIZE: GROUP | 🏛️ BOOK NOW
In a hurry? These are the highlights:
- A full-day Panama City group tour
- Panama Canal
- Art & Craft Market
- Amador Causeway
- Punta Culebra Museum
- A walking tour of Casco Viejo
- Transport is included
Overview
Get ready for an unforgettable day exploring the centre of this cosmopolitan gem and its world-famous canal.
First up is a visit to the Panama Canal. Afterwards, immerse yourself in the local culture with a visit to an artisan market, where you’ll find the best Panamanian-made souvenirs. Then, head to the picturesque Amador for a delightful lunch (not included) and enjoy breathtaking views.
Saving the best for last, embark on a walking tour of Casco Viejo, an enchanting old town. Marvel at the stunning architecture while delving into the rich history of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
⭐ Previous travellers were thrilled with the outstanding knowledge and communication skills of the tour guide!
Ticket Options
Included in the ticket is the Miraflores complete package, which grants access to the viewing points, museum, and video entry, allowing you to fully explore and appreciate the Panama Canal.
Additionally, the ticket includes pick-up services from most hotels in Panama City. Entrance to Punta Culebra, a popular tourist attraction, is also included, providing the opportunity to enjoy the nature and wildlife of the area.
Please note that lunch is not included in the ticket price, and you will have the freedom to choose and arrange your own meal.
- Panama City Day Tour: 8 hours, Guide: English, Starting time: 7:30 am
✅ Book your tour with Get Your Guide and embark on an adventure you won’t soon forget.
3. 5hr Combo-Panama Canal Boat Ride w/Monkey Safari & Rainforest Walk
⭐RATING: 5/5 | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 5 HOURS |🧍 GROUP SIZE: PRIVATE/MAX 18 | 🏛️ BOOK NOW
In a hurry? These are the highlights:
- A 5 hour Panama day tour
- Panama Canal
- Gamboa and Soberania National Park
- Chagres River boat ride
- Monkey Island
- Gatun Lake
- Breakfast is included
- Transport included
Overview
Embark on a fascinating journey through the Panama Canal Zone and explore the natural wonders of Gamboa and Soberania National Park.
Your first destination is the charming town of Gamboa, situated along the Panama Canal. Board a covered boat and cruise the Panama Canal. Enjoy the scenic journey and witness the impressive engineering marvel of the canal.
Along the way, you’ll also pass through Gatun Lake. The pristine rainforest surrounding the lake. After the boat ride, take a break in Gamboa before indulging in a delicious Panamanian breakfast. Energised and ready for adventure, venture into Soberania National Park.
As you continue your journey, you’ll drive over the Centennial Bridge, offering scenic views of the Gaillard Cut and the New and Old Locks. Take in the breathtaking sights before returning to Panama City.
Ticket Options
Included in the ticket is a 90-minute boat ride on the Panama Canal. Bottled water is provided. Breakfast is included to start your day off right, and a rainforest walk allows you to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature.
Please note this tour does not include any locks visitors centre.
- Option 1: Private Tour Flexible Schedule: 7:00 AM / 1:00 PM
- Option 2: Shared Tour 7:00 AM
✅ LIKELY TO SELL OUT! Book now and embark on a memorable journey that combines history, engineering, and the rich biodiversity of Panama’s rainforest.
4. Tour the Chagres Rainforest and Embera Indigenous Village
⭐RATING: 5/5 | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 7 HOURS |🧍 GROUP SIZE: PRIVATE | 🏛️ BOOK NOW
In a hurry? These are the highlights:
- A full-day Panama private tour
- Chagres National Park
- Indigenous Embera communities
- Lunch is included
- Transport is included
Overview
⭐ This tour is also hugely popular and a great option if you want to visit Panama’s indigenous community.
Get ready for a personalised and immersive experience as you explore the wonders of Chagres National Park and encounter the traditional Embera communities. This private tour allows you to set your own pace and enjoy the journey at your leisure.
The day begins with a transfer from your hotel in Panama City to Chagres National Park. As you arrive, a traditional canoe awaits to take you along the picturesque Chagres River.
Afterwards, embark on a 20-minute hike through the real jungle, navigating to a pristine waterfall.
As you venture deeper into the park, you’ll visit the Embera indigenous community. Experience their warm welcome as they invite you to share in their culture, traditions and lunch.
Ticket Options
Included in the ticket is bottled water to keep you refreshed. Snacks are provided to keep you energized, and a delicious lunch is included to satisfy your hunger. Pick-up & drop-off from accommodations in downtown Panama City.
- Option 1: Private Experience in English
- Option 2: Small group in English
- Option 3: Private Experience in Spanish
- Option 4: Small group in Spanish
5. From Panama City: Panama Canal and Monkey Island Tour
⭐RATING: 4.8/5 | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 5 HOURS |🧍 GROUP SIZE: PRIVATE/GROUP | 🏛️ BOOK NOW
In a hurry? These are the highlights:
- A half-day Panama tour: private or group
- Panama Canal
- Chagres River & Gatun Lake boat ride
- Monkey Islands
- Transport is included
Overview
Get ready for an unforgettable half-day adventure exploring the world-famous Panama Canal and Jungle!
Your journey begins at the Panama Canal Visitors Center, where you’ll receive a detailed explanation of the canal’s history and operation, with a special focus on the renowned Miraflores Locks.
Your next destination is the Chagres River, where you’ll embark on a scenic boat ride across Gatun Lake.
The journey takes you to a group of islands, where you’ll have the incredible opportunity to encounter different species of animals, including playful monkeys in their natural environment.
Ticket Options
Pickup and drop-off services from accommodations located in downtown Panama City are included. A boat tour around Gatun Lake. Entrance tickets for the Panama Canal Visitors Center at Miraflores Locks.
- Private Tour in English: 5 hours, Guide: English, starting time 7:30 AM / 1:30 PM
- Shared Tour in English: 5 hours, Guide: English, starting time 7:30 AM / 1:30 PM
6. The ‘Real’ Panamanian City Private Food Tour
⭐RATING: 5/5| ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 4.5 HOURS |🧍 GROUP SIZE: PRIVATE | 🏛️ BOOK NOW
In a hurry? These are the highlights:
- A half-day Panama “foodie” private tour
- A local guide
- 5 x food tasting
- Fruits
- Beverages & water
- Transport
Overview
Calling all food lovers! Get ready for a mouthwatering private excursion that will take you to the best mom-and-pop food destinations in Panama City!
Prepare your taste buds for a journey through Panama City’s authentic flavours. Indulge in dishes like sancocho (a traditional soup) and carimañolas (yucca fritters), chicheme (a sweet corn-based drink) and tamales, and savour the flavours of local beer and coffee.
This half-day guided adventure will take you off the beaten path, allowing you to explore beloved food destinations known by the locals. With a local insider as your guide, you’ll discover hidden gems and gain insights into the city’s rich food culture.
Ticket Options
Included in the ticket are bottled water and beverages to keep you hydrated throughout the tour. Hotel pickup and drop-off services are provided for your convenience. The ticket also includes food-tasting items and fresh fruits.
Please note that gratuities are not included in the ticket price and are at your discretion.
- The ‘Real’ Panamanian Private Food Tour
7. Panamá City Barcrawl – Old Town Casco Viejo
⭐RATING: 5/5 | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 4.5 HOURS |🧍 GROUP SIZE: MAX 40 | 🏛️ BOOK NOW
In a hurry? These are the highlights:
- An evening Panama City tour
- Casco Viejo
- Bar Crawl
- 5 x alcoholic drinks
Overview
If you’re looking for a fun night out this party experience in the vibrant Casco Viejo, could be for you! The Panama Barcrawl is your chance to dance the night away alongside locals and fellow travellers.
You’ll get taken on a thrilling adventure to the best bars and clubs, where you’ll indulge in five delicious alcoholic drinks. Plus, you’ll have the company of professional hosts who are dedicated to ensuring you have the time of your life!
With each stop on the bar crawl, you’ll discover five incredible bars, each with its own unique vibe and offerings. This is the perfect opportunity to mingle with both travellers and locals, creating a vibrant atmosphere and fostering connections with people from all walks of life.
Ticket Options
Included in the ticket are five alcoholic beverages. You will be accompanied by one to three hosts throughout the experience, ensuring a personalised and enjoyable outing.
Please note that food is not included in the ticket price. Additionally, gratuities for your tour guides are not included and are at your discretion. The ticket does not offer an open bar or unlimited drinks.
- Panama Barcrawl: Duration: 4 hours
✅ Get ready to dance, drink, and have the time of your life! Book your spot now and let’s kick off this epic party in Panama City’s Casco Viejo.
8. Caribbean Adventure: Snorkel & Zip Line Tour in Panama
⭐RATING: 4.8 | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 11 HOURS |🧍 GROUP SIZE: MAX 9 | 🏛️ BOOK NOW
In a hurry? These are the highlights:
- A full-day Panama adventure tour
- Portobelo guided tour
- Activities: Ziplining & Snorkelling
- Breakfast is included (Lunch is not)
- Transport is included
Overview
This full-day excursion combines snorkelling with a visit to the historic site of Portobelo, followed by an exhilarating zip-line canopy tour. It’s a great option for those of you who want to include some adventure into your trip!
The day begins with an early departure as you head to the Caribbean seaside near Portobelo, where you can enjoy a fresh breakfast while soaking in the beautiful coastal scenery.
After a snorkelling adventure, return to the mainland for a delicious lunch. Then, embark on an hour-long historic tour of Portobelo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Next, venture into the jungle for the highlight of the day—a thrilling zip line canopy tour!
Ticket Options
Hotel pick-up and drop-off services are provided from Panama City hotels, with a surcharge applicable for resorts and the airport area. The ticket covers taxes, tolls, and fees associated with the tour.
Please note that diving and river tubing are not included in the ticket price but are available for purchase if you wish to participate. Gratuities for the tour guides are not included and are at your discretion.
Additionally, lunch is not included in the ticket, and you will have the opportunity to purchase your own meal during the tour.
- Caribbean Adventure: Snorkel & Zip Line Tour in Panama, 11 hours, Guide: English, Starting time 7:00 AM
✅ LIKELY TO SELL OUT! Book now and get ready for an unforgettable day of snorkelling, exploring Portobelo’s history, and soaring through the jungle on a thrilling zip-line canopy tour.
9. Panama: Day Tour in San Blas Islands All Included Visiting 4 Islands
⭐RATING: 4.5/5 | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 14 HOURS |🧍 GROUP SIZE: MAX 20 | 🏛️ BOOK NOW
In a hurry? These are the highlights:
- A full-day San Blas Island, Panama tour
- Islands: Island Perro Grande, Isla Pelicano, Island Perro Chico
- Snorkelling, sunken boat & natural swimming pools
- A chance to interact with the local community
- Welcome snacks and 1 beverage included
- Lunch is included
- Transport is included
👉 If you’re searching for San Blas Island tours but fancy something different from this one, we’ve written a whole guide for the best San Blas Island Tours in Panama. Check it out here to book your perfect trip!
Overview
Embark on an early morning adventure to the stunning San Blas Islands, starting with a shared 4×4 pickup from your hotel at 5:20 am – the journey is 3 hours.
Spend an hours on picturesque islands, where you can soak up the beauty of the beach, snap a selfie in a hammock, or enjoy a refreshing drink at the bar.
Visit Isla Pelicano, a small island adorned with palm trees. Capture a memorable selfie or simply relax in one of the hammocks on the beach. Enjoy a delicious lunch on the famous Island Perro Chico.
After lunch, explore the vibrant underwater world, including a sunken boat transformed into a vibrant reef teeming with colourful fish. Join the locals for a game of beach volleyball and soak up the lively atmosphere. The final stop is the natural swimming pool, a sandbank in the middle of the ocean!
Ticket Options
The ticket covers tours to Perro Grande, Perro Chico, Diablo, and the Natural Swimming Pool, allowing you to discover the beauty of these four islands. A welcome snack of fruits is provided upon arrival, followed by a traditional lunch of fresh fish with salad and rice. One drink (beer, bottled water, or soda) is included. Shared transportation is provided from Panama City to the port and back.
- Day Tour in San Blas Islands: All Included (exclude entrance and port fees)
✅ LIKELY TO SELL OUT! Book now and prepare for an extraordinary journey to a tropical paradise.
10. All-Inclusive Full-Day Taboga Island Catamaran Tour from Panamá City, Panama
⭐RATING: 5/5 | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 6 HOURS |🧍 GROUP SIZE: LARGE GROUP | 🏛️ BOOK NOW
In a hurry? These are the highlights:
- An all-inclusive full-day Panama sailing trip
- Toboga Island
- Boating, swimming, dancing, and relaxation
- Morning snacks and drinks from the open bar
- Beach time
- A guided tour (optional add-on)
- Lunch is included
- Transport is included
Overview
Get ready to escape the hustle and bustle of Panama City on a fantastic catamaran excursion to Taboga Island.
As you set sail, take in the breathtaking views of Panama City from the water. Marvel at the new Cruise ship port, Amador Causeway, Cinta Costera, ships waiting to cross the Panama Canal, and the city’s impressive skyscrapers.
Indulge in morning snacks and drinks from the open bar while enjoying the pleasant music playing in the background. After your beach and town visit, it’s time to board the catamaran again for a tasty and satisfying lunch.
Ticket Options
Included in the ticket is a delicious lunch. Morning snacks include assorted cookies, cake, a bread basket, and seasonal fruits. An open bar is provided with a selection of vodka, rum, Seco Herrerano (a local spirit), local beer, soft drinks, mixers, and cocktails.
Please note that gratuities are not included in the ticket price and are at your discretion. Hotel pickup and drop-off services are not included. Additionally, towels are not provided, so you will need to bring your own.
- All-Inclusive Full-Day Taboga Island Catamaran Tour from Panama City, Panama 9:00 AM
✅ Book now and escape to the tranquillity of Taboga Island on this unforgettable catamaran tour.
11. Legends of Casco Viejo Tour: Uncover Hidden Gems
⭐RATING: 5/5| ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 2-3 HOURS |🧍 GROUP SIZE: MAX 15 | 🏛️ BOOK NOW
In a hurry? These are the highlights:
- A half-day Panama Old Town group tour
- Cultural tour of Casco Viejo
- Stops include Plaza Tomas Herrera, Salsipuedes market, Iglesia de la Merced, Church of Saint Joseph, Basilica of Santa Maria, Palacio de las Garzas, Independence Square, Plaza Bolivar, France Square & more
Overview
A captivating journey through Panama City’s old town, filled with surprises and historical wonders! Begin your exploration in Casco Viejo, the historic district.
You’ll make numerous stops, including Plaza Tomas Herrera, the departure point for your adventure and the vibrant Salsipuedes market. Marvel at the majestic Iglesia de la Merced, visit the legendary Church of Saint Joseph, and the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of Santa Maria the Ancient.
You’ll get to stroll along the Paseo de Las Bovedas, visit the Palacio de las Garzas, the presidential palace; and the Independence Square, the main public space in the Old Town, featuring the Cathedral, Municipal Palace, and Panama Canal Museum.
Finally, visit Plaza Bolivar, a charming square surrounded by old buildings, restaurants, and bars, with a sculpture honouring Simón Bolívar, before concluding your tour at France Square.
Ticket Options
The ticket options for this package include a fascinating 2-3 hours Hidden Alleyways & Passages Guided Tour of Casco Viejo.
- Option 1: From Hotel or Accommodation
- Option 2: From the Starting Point
✅ Get ready to be immersed in the history and culture. Book your tour today and get ready for an adventure like no other!
Panama City, Panama Tours FAQs
How Many Days Is Enough For Panama City?
If you’re wondering how many days are enough to explore Panama City, it’s between 2-3 days. However, if you want to take part in daily excursions such as visits to indigenous communities, you’ll need additional time, such as one day per tour.
Panama City itself can be explored in a few days but the surrounding environment will require more time. In total, a 7-10 day holiday to Panama City is ideal to take in the sights and explore the surrounding area.
Can You Walk Around Panama City Panama?
Panama City is relatively walkable in certain areas, particularly in the Casco Viejo (Old Town) district. This area is a popular tourist destination and offers picturesque streets, historical buildings, and various shops and restaurants.
Another area which is popular and easy to walk is Cinta Costera, it’s a coastal walkway which stretched from Paitailla to El Chorrilo, finishing at the Amador Causeway.
However, for exploring other parts of the city, such as the modern business district or reaching more distant attractions, it’s recommended to use taxis, Uber, or public transportation.
What Is The Best Way To Tour The Panama Canal?
To tour the Panama Canal, one of the best ways is to take a guided tour from Panama City, a boat tour or a partial transit tour. These tours allow you to experience the canal up close and witness ships passing through the locks.
You can also visit the Miraflores Visitor Center, which offers an informative museum and observation decks to view the canal in operation.
What Is The Best Month To Go To Panama City?
The best month to visit Panama City is said to be early December or late April/May. However, it largely depends on your preferences. The dry season in Panama typically runs from mid-December to mid-April and is considered the high tourist season.
If you prefer to avoid crowds and don’t mind occasional showers, the shoulder months of November and May can still offer pleasant weather and lower prices.
It’s important to note that Panama City experiences a tropical climate, so be prepared for high temperatures and humidity throughout the year!
The Ultimate 11 Panama City Tours, Panama
If you’ve made it all the way through this Panama City tour guide, you’ve done well! I know there is lots of information in this guide, but each tour offers something unique. I hope you have been able to find your perfect tour to embark on a thrilling adventure through the vibrant streets and iconic landmarks of Panama City.
Whether you prefer snorkelling in the crystal-clear waters of San Blas Islands or venturing into the lush jungles of Chagres National Park, these tours offer the perfect blend of excitement and exploration.
I highly recommend witnessing the awe-inspiring Panama Canal in action and exploring the historic gems of Casco Viejo. Plus, a trip to the San Blas Islands is unforgettable!
Book your Panama City tour now and create unforgettable memories! Adios.
👉 Read Next: If you’re thinking of visiting the San Blas Islands, I’ve written a whole article on my experience: Is Sailing To The San Blas Islands Of Panama In 2023 Worth It?
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