Top Panama Day Trips

First-time visitors to Panama City who want an interesting overview will enjoy this day tour. Check out the beautiful colonial-era architecture of the old town, see how the incredible locks of the Panama Canal work, and drive along the Amador Causeway for great city and sea views. Hotel pickup is included for added convenience. As the tour lasts about five hours, you’ll have time to freshen up and enjoy the evening after.

from $83

City Tour guiado en Panamá con Canal y Casco Antiguo

(105)

5 hoursFree Cancellation

from $35

Join our Zapatilla Island Tour and experience the best of Bocas del Toro in one unforgettable day. Glide across turquoise waters as playful dolphins guide you toward Bahia Honda, where sloths rest lazily in the mangroves. Stop at Hollywood Cove to spot colorful starfish, then snorkel among vibrant coral gardens at Cayo Coral, surrounded by hundreds of tropical fish. Continue to the pristine Zapatilla Cays—two uninhabited islands of powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters. Wander the lush walking trail through tropical forest, relax beneath palm trees, or swim in the calm lagoon. From March to September, you may even spot sea turtles nesting on the beach. Enjoy a freshly prepared Caribbean lunch at a waterfront restaurant before returning via the famous Starfish “Hollywood” Pool. This Zapatilla Island Tour is the perfect combination of relaxation, adventure, and natural beauty—an essential Bocas del Toro experience.

Bocas del Toro Island Hopping Day Tour in Zapatilla Beach

(71)

Take a break from Panama City and head to the Caribbean coast of Panama, to the beautiful San Blas Islands. Traveling by boat, check out a shipwreck and natural swimming pool, and enjoy the tropical scenery and atmosphere. Your tour includes activities—kayaking, paddle boarding, snorkeling, and more—and round-trip road and boat transport, with hotel pickup and drop-off. Refuel with a tasty included lunch, too, such as fresh fish and rice.

from $51

Day Tour in San Blas Islands All Included Visiting 4 Islands

(1,542)

Make the most of your time in Panama City on a tour that combines 3 experiences in one excursion. Keep your eyes peeled for monkeys, sloths, and more on a motorboat ride through the Panama Canal. Walk through the jungle and hang from the vines like Tarzan. You'll also get to sample traditional snacks, including empanadas and fresh pineapple. The tour operates in all weather conditions, with ponchos provided if it rains.

from $149

Monkey and Sloth Jungle Habitat Panama Tour

(1,546)

5 hoursFree Cancellation

from $60

Escape Panama City on the newest and largest catamaran for a day of boating, swimming and dancing. During this 6-hour tour, you will swim on a beautiful virgin bay, visit the beach and the Island Village. Onboard the catamaran, enjoy sundecks, shaded areas, music, animation, morning snacks, lunch, and an open bar. This 6-hour tour is the perfect choice to avoid the afternoon tropical weather and have enough time for night plans.

All Inclusive Taboga Island Catamaran Tour from Panama City

(1,483)

6 hoursFree Cancellation

from $99

Special Offer

Tour to a waterfall and Embera village with lunch included

(1,044)

from

$41

$45

The tour to the Emberá indigenous community begins with hotel pick-up, followed by a scenic drive to Chagres National Park. Upon arrival, guests board a traditional canoe and travel along the river, surrounded by lush rainforest and native wildlife, following the same route the Emberá people have used for generations. In the Emberá Tusipono village, visitors are warmly welcomed and learn about the community’s history, traditions, daily life, and handcrafted art. A traditional lunch prepared by the community is served in the village. The experience also includes a visit to a beautiful jungle waterfall, where you can enjoy a refreshing swim in its clear waters and relax in nature. Important – What to Bring: *Change of clothes *Towel *Water shoes *Biodegradable insect repellent *Hat for sun protection These items will help ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience throughout the day.

Special Offer

Tour Embera Indigenous Village and waterfall with lunch

(78)

6 to 7 hoursFree Cancellation

from

$48

$50

Travelers short on time in Panama can experience the highlights of the beautiful San Blas Islands on an easy day trip from Panama City. Start early to reach the islands in good time. Travel by boat out to tropical islands with white-sand beaches and warm waters. Swim and snorkel in the ocean and in the shallow natural swimming pools offshore. Refuel with a freshly cooked lunch of fish or chicken.

San Blas Islands Full-Day Tour + Transport from Panama City

4.3

(56)

from $143

Half day of Panama city and canal tour: shared and private

(854)

5 to 6 hoursFree Cancellation

from $67

Travel between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans during this full-day tour of the Panama Canal. With your local guide, explore the canal by sea and on foot, viewing the ships passing through the locks and the variety of plant and animal life on the canal's shores. Explore Gatun Lake, home to howlers, capuchins, tamarins, and many more animals. Stop at the Agua Clara Locks Visitor Center to get an overview of the canal's history through informative displays and exhibits. Explore San Lorenzo National Park and Fort San Lorenzo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and enjoy a picnic lunch. All activities, entrance fees, lunch, and round-trip transportation from Panama City hotels are included.

Ocean to Ocean Combo: Canal Boat Ride, Locks, Fort San Lorenzo

(1,728)

8 hoursFree Cancellation

from $135

Taboga Island is the best option to go to the beach from Panama City. Take advantage of the super pleasant navigation of a maxi catamaran, lying on the nets or sitting protected from the sun, with a musical atmosphere and a cool drink. Enjoy the sea and the beach of Taboga Island. Visit a typical Panamanian fishing village. You just have to bring your towel and personal effects, everything else is included!

All-inclusive 8-hour catamaran tour to Isla Taboga from Panama City

(390)

8 hours 15 minutesFree Cancellation

from $99

The Caribbean side of Panama was frequented by pirates and Spanish conquistadors alike. Now, the history and natural beauty of this part of the country make it a compelling destination for curious travelers. On this full-day tour from Panama City, visit the port town of Portobelo (part of a region protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site) which was built by the Spanish in 1597 and played an important role in their extraction of silver and gold from the Americas. From the dock, take a speedboat to a waiting catamaran to tour the Caribbean coast including Blue Veins Island and Drake Beach. Experience the calm clear water while snorkeling, swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding to appreciate mangroves, coral reefs, and reef fish.

Full-Day Caribbean Catamaran Cruise: Beaches, Snorkeling & Lunch

(129)

6 to 9 hoursFree Cancellation

from $139

Discover Panama's hidden Caribbean treasures on this small-group catamaran tour, crafted with over 20 years of sailing experience. Begin with hotel pickup and a scenic journey to historic Portobelo, then sail to the turquoise mangrove lagoon of Venas Azules and vibrant coral reefs of Playa Drake for swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and more. Enjoy a delicious onboard meal and exclusive access to off-the-beaten-path spots for an unforgettable escape.

Caribbean Catamaran Day Cruise: Beaches, Snorkeling & Lunch

4.5

(35)

6 to 9 hoursFree Cancellation

from $139

Travel southbound through the Panama Canal during this 6-hour tour from Panama City. With your local guide, board a bus for a 45-minute journey to Gamboa, home of the Panama Canal Dredging Division. Meet your vessel, the Pacific Queen, for a trip through the Gailard cut, the Pedro Miguel Locks and the Miraflores Locks. Admire scenic views of the Centennial Bridge, the Chagres River, and the Bridge of the Americas. Eat a complimentary lunch on board during your journey. Disembark at the Flamenco Marina in Panama City. Please Note: The exact check-in will be confirmed the day before your tour via email. Please make sure you check your inbox.

Panama Canal Partial Tour - Southbound Direction

4.6

(561)

6 hoursFree Cancellation

from $165

Gatun Lake: Monkeys & Exotic Wildlife by the Canal

(2,202)

4 hoursFree Cancellation

from $40

Embark on an unforgettable adventure to explore three stunning islands in San Blas, including exclusive access to Isla Misdup. Visit Isla Yansa, one of the most beautiful inhabited islands in San Blas, with palm-fringed beaches, calm waters, and the chance to meet the friendly Kuna people. Rent a SUP board for added adventure or simply relax and enjoy the tropical paradise. After a fresh fish or chicken lunch, continue to the Natural Pool, a sunken island where you can stand waist-deep in crystal-clear waters, marveling at sea stars and vibrant marine life. Lastly, head to Isla Misdup, a secluded, uninhabited island with wild, pristine beaches. Enjoy the vast submerged sandbank and find your own private spot to relax. Depart Isla Misdup between 3:00–3:30 PM and return to Panama City, arriving by 7:00 PM. ✅ Shared transportation pick-up from Panama City (5:00–5:45 AM) ✅ Fresh lunch ✅ Shared mask & snorkel *Times and itinerary may vary depending on weather and ocean conditions.

San Blas Island Hopping Tour with New Exclusive Paradise Island

(15)

Embark on an extraordinary journey to Colón, the enchanting hidden gem of Panama’s Caribbean coast! This captivating city tour invites you to dive deep into Colón’s rich tapestry of history, where a vibrant blend of cultures comes alive under the influence of the Caribbean. Delight your palate with mouthwatering cuisine and experience the warm hospitality of its friendly residents. As a bustling maritime city, Colón boasts stunning landmarks that tell the story of this remarkable place—the first city built entirely by the United States. Prepare to be charmed and inspired by every moment of your visit!

from $140

Colon City tour: Exploring Caribbean roots, food and Afro culture

(56)

5 to 6 hoursFree Cancellation

from $105

Onlookers watch as a ship cruises down the narrow Panama Canal.

4.1

(475)

Panama Canal Partial Transit

from $150

Panama Canal with entrance included and Gatun Lake Boat Tour

(447)

5 hoursFree Cancellation

from $110

Panama’s location connecting Central and South America makes it a wonderful place for unique wildlife viewing. Spend a day outside of Panama City and explore the country’s natural landscape with this day trip. Your bi-lingual guide will take you to the Gamboa rainforest region where you’ll get up close and personal with wildlife. You’ll also pay a visit to a sloth sanctuary to learn about these rescued animals.

Gamboa Wildlife and Sloth Sanctuary Tour with Pickup

(126)

6 hoursFree Cancellation

from $152

Likely to Sell Out

The Trip will start at 7:30 AM departing from Flamenco Marina in Causeway de Amador and our destination is the Las Perlas Archipelago, a paradise of virgin islands located in the Pacific just an hour from the city and 3 await you islands such as: Chapera Island️ Pacheca Island️ Mogo-Mogo Island or Bartholomew Island️ (depending on the weather and tide). We will stay approximately 2h On each island, where you can enjoy the different beaches, crystal clear waters, a delicious lunch, paddleboarding and snorkling equipment It is the perfect getaway for those who seek a natural paradise without leaving the capital!!

Full day in the Pearl Archipelago

(19)

8 hoursFree Cancellation

from $150

Nature and wildlife-loving travelers will enjoy this full-day small-group tour on Gatun Lake with a nature walk in the Soberania National Park. You’ll cruise along the Panama Canal to Gatun Lake, learning about the local biodiversity from your naturalist guide. Look out for monkeys, crocodiles, sloths, and more. Enter the national park on foot and encounter more diverse species along the way.

7 Hours Monkey Island and Nature Walk at Soberania National Park

(59)

from $120

Tourists watching a boat pass through the Panama Canal in the locks of Miraflores

Private or Small Group Panama Canal & City Half-Day Tour

(598)

5 to 6 hoursFree Cancellation

from $67

Panama Canal with entrance included and Gatun Lake Boat Tour

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Top Attractions in Panama

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Attractions

What are people saying about Panama

Gary_H, Apr 2026

Amazing Panama

Danielle (Danni) was absolutely delightful. She was incredibly knowledgeable, extremely friendly and 100% engaging. She alone was worth the rice of the tour. The monkeys were wonderful to see. And then there is the Canal! What can I say about the canal that hasn’t already been said? Completely amazing. A trip to Panama is not complete without this tour

Bocas del Toro Island Hopping Day Tour in Zapatilla Beach

Anna_B, Apr 2026

Bring cash!

Bring at least $25 in cash!! You can pay for the $10 zapatilla entry fee online in advance or day of with cash or struggle to connect to their wifi and fill out the online form on the spot. Lunch is ordered day of, around $15, the restaraunt does not take card. Full boat, full day. Loved having so many different activities.

City Tour guiado en Panamá con Canal y Casco Antiguo

JoAnna_L, Apr 2026

Definitely Go. Guide Eduardo is fantastic!

It was great. Our guide, Eduardo, was excellent. Spoke fluent English and Spanish and gave info in both. Knew about history and areas, answered all questions, made us feel safe, was patient, gave tips on other things to do and places to go and how to get there without being a salesman. Just helpful. Super nice young man. Lots of smiles and laughs while seeing and learning about Panama. On request they also picked us up from Playa Bonita at our resort. Only a little bit extra and did not ask for anything more. Our driver, whose name I am sorry to say I forgot, was amazing. Quiet and focussed on the road which was great cuz the roads are super busy with everyone going every which way. He did it expertly and fast. I would highly recommend booking with them. Also, if you want to be dropped off at a spot along the way and go from there on your own - that’s ok too. Some people on the bus did that. Ooh - DO see the movie at Mileflores lock. May sound boring but it wasn’t at all. Thanks again. JO & Pat from BC

Panama Canal Partial Tour - Northbound direction

James_W, Apr 2026

Easiest and most comfortable way to see the canal.

This is an easy, comfortable way to experiece the canal for family members of all ages. We spent all of our time on the upper deck where viewing was best, but the airconditioned areas on the lower decks also offered good viewing. Breakfast and lunch were basic but both were quite good and made with fresh ingredients. Our tour guide was very knowledable about all aspects of the canals history and current operations. On the whole, an excellent experience.

Tour to a waterfall and Embera village with lunch included

Tricia_S, Mar 2026

The absolute best!!

This was one of the most genuine and funnest excursions I’ve been on out of every country I’ve visited thus far. We visited a local Indian village and spent the day in the life of an Indian. Their hospitality was top notch, the people were VERY respectful, and the memories were captured. They cooked for me, took me on a hike, went swimming at the waterfall, kayaked down the river, gave me a tattoo, and danced until I was tired.

Cruiseline Excursion Colon: Panama City tour and Miraflores Locks

Adriana_C, Mar 2026

Great tour and tour guide/driver

We absolutely loved this tour. They were on time, friendly and very knowledgeable. Our driver was Ivan; he was careful throughout all day long. Our tour guide was Arsenio; he was prompted to answer any and all questions we had. He was extremely nice and my family and I had a great time with him. They also offered us a variety of cold beverages throughout the excursion. I would definitely recommend them to anyone. Panama Canal was amazing and all the places we visited. Thank you guys!

Panama Canal Partial Tour - Southbound Direction

Peter_A, Mar 2026

Great experience on the Panama Canal

We absolutely loved this experience! What a unique experience and we are able to cross this off of our bucket list! It was interesting, educational and a once in a lifetime opportunity! Be prepared for a long day and bring sunscreen and a rain jacket. The narrator explained the trip as we went and we were able to move all around the boat to watch all areas. We were served a lunch which was simple but plentiful and good. There is a bar where you can purchase drinks and additional snacks if you need. Overall, we recommend this opportunity.

Panama City Bike Tour

Marcus_L, Mar 2026

Bike Tour Experience in Panama City

I had an incredible time doing a bike tour in Panama City—definitely one of the highlights of my trip. The route was perfect—riding along the Cinta Costera with views of the ocean and skyline was unreal, and going through Casco Viejo gave a great mix of history and culture. The pace was comfortable, so you can enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed. The guide was knowledgeable, friendly, and made the whole experience feel personal. I learned a lot about the city while still having fun and staying active. The bikes were in great condition, and everything felt safe and well-organized. Whether you’re into fitness, sightseeing, or just want a unique way to explore the city, this is 100% worth it. If you’re visiting Panama City, I highly recommend adding a bike tour to your itinerary—you’ll see way more than you would on foot.

Private Tour Layover in Panama

Wanda_L, Mar 2026

This tour is an excellent...

This tour is an excellent way to spend a long layover in Panama City or to even plan a long layover to experience. My tour guide, Javier, was extremely professional, knowledgeable and kind. As a solo female traveler, safety is always top of mind, and I felt very safe the entire tour. I would highly recommend this service to anyone.

Day Tour at Panama Canal from Ocean to Ocean

Theresa_R, Feb 2026

Full day tour of the Panama Canal from Atlantic to Pacific

Very informative tour of Panama Canal from Pacific to Atlantic. We got to see the impressive lock system and ships passing through the various parts of the canal. We also did a boat tour in the canal and Lake Gatun. We saw various monkeys, sloths and native species

Discover Panama: History of the City and the Canal

DrAngie_B, Feb 2026

A wonderful private tour

Our tour with Dennis was very nice. He arrived on time, the car was very comfortable with AC ( very important for hot Panama City weather). We were able to see the important sites in Panama City. Along the tour, he explained the history of the city and the canal. We even got to see a few sloths very close, an added bonus and made our day. All in all, we had a wonderful time.

Private or Small Group Panama Canal & City Half-Day Tour

Kimberla_f, Feb 2026

Perfect panama canal tour

Our guide, Jennifer was the best.! She was not only very informative and was able to answer all of our questions, which there were many, but she was enthusiastic and a lot of fun. We even heard some people that were on a cruise ship excursion comment that they wish they had Jennifer as their guide. This was a private tour with eight friends, and this is hands-down, so much better than any Panama excursion that the cruise ship offered.