Panama Canal

The Marvel of Engineering: Exploring the Panama Canal

The Panama Canal is one of the most impressive feats of engineering in the world, connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans across the Isthmus of Panama. As a tourist, you’ll want to experience the canal’s grandeur up close, learn about its rich history, and enjoy the vibrant culture of Panama City. Here’s your ultimate guide to visiting the Panama Canal:

Where to Visit

  • Miraflores Locks Visitor Center: This is the most popular visitor center, offering stunning views of the canal and a museum that showcases its history.
  • Gatun Lake: Take a boat tour of the lake, which forms part of the canal, and spot monkeys, sloths, and exotic birds.
  • Casco Viejo: Explore the charming old town of Panama City, with its colorful colonial architecture, lively nightlife, and rich history.

What to Eat

  • Try the famous Panamanian dish, Sancocho: A hearty stew made with meat, vegetables, and root vegetables like yuca and plantains.
  • Fresh seafood: Being a coastal city, Panama City offers an abundance of fresh seafood, including lobster, shrimp, and fish.
  • Local fruits: Be sure to try the exotic fruits like mangoes, pineapples, and passionfruit.

Where to Stay

  • The Westin Playa Bonita Panama: This luxurious hotel is located on the Pacific coast, offering stunning views of the ocean and easy access to the canal.
  • Hotel El Panama: A historic hotel in the heart of Panama City, with comfortable rooms and a rooftop pool.
  • Airbnb options: Consider staying in a local’s home in Casco Viejo or near the canal for a more authentic experience.

Activities and Tips

  • Take a canal transit tour: Spend a day on a boat, watching ships navigate the locks and learning about the canal’s operations.
  • Explore the Panama Canal Museum: Located at the Miraflores Locks Visitor Center, this museum offers interactive exhibits and stunning views of the canal.
  • Go hiking or birdwatching: The surrounding rainforests offer many trails for hiking and spotting exotic birds.
  • Bargain at the local markets: Visit the Mercado de Abastos or the Panama City Market to try local foods and buy souvenirs.

Other Things of Interest

  • The Panama Viejo ruins: Explore the remains of the original Panama City, destroyed by Henry Morgan in 1671.
  • The Amador Causeway: A scenic road that connects four islands in the Pacific Ocean, offering stunning views of the city skyline and the canal.
  • Festival celebrations: Panama City loves to celebrate, with festivals like the Panama Jazz Festival and the Feria de las Flores y del Café.

Insider’s Tip

  • Visit during the dry season (December to April): The weather is more pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city.
  • Learn some basic Spanish: While many locals speak English, learning a few phrases will go a long way in enhancing your experience.

The Panama Canal is an awe-inspiring feat of engineering that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and adventure. With this guide, you’re ready to plan your trip and experience the best of what Panama City has to offer!