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Probably the most famous attraction in Panama is the Panama Canal, one of the 7 Wonders of the Modern World. This engineering marvel is a must see for anyone travelling through the country. Built to dramatically reduce the travel time for ships between the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, the Canal has seen over 900,000 ships pass through and counting. Once thought impossible to build, today you can see for yourself. Whether you’re a history buff, an engineering enthusiast or simply want to witness a wonder of the modern world—why not book a excursion to the Panama Canal while you’re there?
The Panama Canal is not only a feat of engineering, but also a vibrant hub of global maritime activity. Did you know that the canal uses a system of locks to lift ships 85 feet to the level of the canal? Or that it takes 8-10 hours for each ship to transit the canal?
For travellers visiting Panama, a trip to the Panama Canal is a must-do experience that offers a unique blend of history, technology and breathtaking sights.
Overview of Panama’s Giant Canal
Ferdinand de Lesseps, the French visionary who successfully completed the Suez Canal, set about building the Panama Canal in the 1880s to save sailors from the arduous Cape Horn passage. Despite his ambitious efforts, the project proved too difficult and his company went bankrupt in 1889, despite Gustave Eiffel’s innovative design for the lock system.
Undeterred by previous failures, the Americans took over the project and signed a concession that eventually led to the successful completion of the canal. In 1999, control of the Panama Canal was returned to the local government. The Panama Canal, a marvel of engineering, celebrated its centenary on 15 August 2014 and stands as a testament to human ingenuity and perseverance.
How to visit the Panama Canal
The Panama Canal remains a monumental example of human ingenuity and the transformation of nature. A visit to its locks is a must on any trip to this Central American country. Stretching 77 kilometres across the isthmus, the canal connects the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans via the Gulf of Panama and the Caribbean Sea, offering numerous vantage points from which to appreciate its grandeur.
Miraflores Visitor Centre
The Miraflores Visitor Centre is the main tourist attraction for experiencing the canal up close.
Here you can watch captains skilfully manoeuvre their vessels through the 1.7 kilometres of locks, just a few dozen metres from the viewing platform. The constant activity of the mulas, tiny locomotives that guide the huge ships on either side of the locks, is fascinating. After viewing the locks, explore the dynamic museum packed with information about the Panama Canal, including the immense human effort and sacrifices made during its construction due to illness and accidents. This colossal undertaking, often considered almost impossible, is brought to life through the exhibits.
The visitor centre also features an IMAX documentary on the history of the canal, narrated by Morgan Freeman.
Should you wish to drive, the Miraflores Visitor Centre is just a 15-minute drive from downtown Panama City.
Best viewing times
With around 40 ships passing through the canal each day, your chances of spotting a ship are high, especially in the morning and late afternoon. The recent expansion project to accommodate larger vessels such as the Post-Panamax has increased the frequency of crossings, making the experience even more impressive.
Immersive experiences
For a more immersive experience, several service providers offer travellers the opportunity to experience a full or partial crossing aboard a yacht, including an excursion into the surrounding jungle. In addition, the video simulation at the Miraflores Museum provides an exciting depiction of the epic journey through the canal.
A visit to the Panama Canal is a journey through history and engineering, offering a profound appreciation of this incredible feat of human achievement.
Booking an excursion to the Panama Canal
The ideal mix of experiences! Marvel at the impressive engineering of the Panama Canal, built in the early 20th century, and watch large cargo ships move swiftly through the Miraflores Locks (timing subject to the Panama Canal Authority’s schedule). Afterwards, explore one of Central America’s largest shopping malls, with a wide variety of shops and merchandise for the whole family, as well as special discounts for visitors.
All photo credits: Jennifer Doré Dallas
