Top Panama Day Trips

The tour begins with pickup from your hotel, hostel, or Airbnb in Panama City. We’ll drive for about one hour to the Atlantic, on the Atlantic side, to visit the impressive Agua Clara Locks — part of the Panama Canal’s expansion and the only place where you can see Neo-Panamax ships crossing. With 100% certainty of seeing ships in transit, either at Agua Clara or Gatun Locks, this tour guarantees an unforgettable Canal experience. We will continue to the Atlantic Bridge, the largest and tallest bridge in Panama, offering stunning views of the Canal and surrounding landscape. Along the way, we’ll stop to see the remains of the unfinished French Canal, an abandoned 19th-century project that paved the way for today’s canal. Our final stop is the historic Gatun Locks, in operation since 1914, where you can watch ships pass just a few meters away. After this enriching 6-hour experience, we’ll return to Panama City. This tour operates year-round, including during Panama's rainy season.

Many tours visit the beautiful San Blas Islands but few give you the chance to swim and snorkel at several places in one day. On this small-group day tour you’re taken to some peaceful beaches, away from the crowds. Visit four different islands to make the most of the archipelago's variety. All snorkeling gear is provided so don’t worry about bringing your own.

Combine a highlights tour of Panama City with a visit to the Miraflores Locks on this guided excursion. With a guide to provide transportation and insightful commentary, make stops at Casco Viejo, Miraflores Locks, Amador Causeway and Bridge of the Americas. Opt for a small group tour limited to nine other travelers or upgrade for undivided attention on a private tour.

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.

Panama City is a lively place but it lacks its own beaches—the nearest sandy escape from the capital is the beautiful Isla Toboga. Enjoy a leisurely day at the beach and in the water with this group tour by catamaran to the island. Take advantage of the vessel’s facilities, including nets suspended over the water and chilled drinks from the open bar, and lounge on the beach at the island.

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.

Discover one of Panama’s most authentic experiences on this Embera Indigenous Village & Waterfall Tour in Chagres National Park. Meet the Embera community and learn about their traditions, culture, music, and way of life in the heart of the rainforest. After hotel pickup, travel to the park and board a traditional Embera canoe for a scenic river ride through the jungle. Follow ancient waterways used by the Embera people for generations. Arrive at the Embera Tusipono Village, where you’ll be warmly welcomed and enjoy cultural demonstrations, handmade crafts, and a traditional Embera lunch prepared by the community. Continue to a hidden rainforest waterfall, where you can swim, relax, and enjoy the natural beauty of Chagres National Park. This shared cultural and nature tour is ideal for travelers seeking an authentic Panama experience combining indigenous culture, jungle scenery, and a refreshing waterfall adventure.

Cruise the entirety of the Panamá Canal, from the Pacific to the Atlantic Ocean, during this full-day tour in Panamá City. Board a small vessel to travel through all three sets of locks that make up the canal. Voyage on Gatun Lake and the Chagres River. Learn about the history and construction of the canal from your guide while you travel. Disembark in Colón and board a shuttle for the return trip to Panamá City. Breakfast, lunch, snacks and beverages are provided on board. Please Note: The exact check-in time will be confirmed the day before your tour via email. Please make sure you check your inbox.

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.

If you’re a first-time visitor to Panama City, you’ll want to see the must-visit highlights. This five-hour Private or Share group tour, takes you to the atmospheric old town, the engineering marvel of the Panama Canal, and the sweeping Amador Causeway, with its great views of the city. If you’re short on time or on a quick shore excursion, this convenient tour makes the most of your time.

Discover the wonders of the Panama Canal and learn about its operation on this private tour. Delve into the fascinating history and operations of this engineering marvel at the Miraflores Visitor Center. Then, venture to Gatun Lake for a boat tour, where you'll witness ships navigating the canal's locks and encounter diverse wildlife amidst the lush rainforest of Soberania National Park.

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.

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.

Want to experience the real Panama beyond the typical tourist trail? This is your invitation to discover the Caribbean soul of Colón through the eyes of a local. Explore Afro-Panamanian heritage, vibrant Caribbean culture, historic neighborhoods, waterfront landmarks, iconic churches, local markets, and hidden corners most visitors never see. Hear the powerful stories of the Caribbean communities, railroad, maritime trade, and Panama Canal that shaped Colón’s unique identity. More than sightseeing, this unique experience connects you with local history, people, flavors, and everyday life through authentic stories and community perspectives. You’ll also have the opportunity to enjoy delicious Caribbean Panamanian cuisine at a favorite local restaurant. Don’t just visit Panama—experience the Panama most travelers never meet. Book your private Caribbean Gems adventure today and make Colón an unforgettable part of your journey.

Explore Boquete’s rugged terrain by dirt bike on this half-day, private adventure tour. A private guide can lead the way to rivers, mud, rocks, and mountain landscapes, with the option to drive to Caldera Hot Springs for a relaxing soak. Since the tour is designed for you it can be as challenging or easy as you want, without the fixed itinerary of a group outing.

Improve your chances of seeing Panama's wildlife in its natural habitat on this group boat tour of Lake Gatun. Cruise through this immersive setting with a guide, who helps point out monkeys, sloths, anteaters, crocodiles, capybaras, manatees, and a variety of exotic birds. Well-suited for travelers who want to take in the area's nature without risking sore feet on nature treks.

Your adventure begins with a hassle-free hotel pickup. After a comprehensive safety briefing, embark on an unforgettable journey with our Panama City ATV Jungle Adventure Tour, where thrilling off-road rides meet breathtaking natural beauty. You will be driving fully automatic ATVs following our Professional Bi-Lingual Guides into the the lush jungles of Panama, you will be navigating unpaved dirt trails, crossing rivers, and immersing yourself in the local vibrant wildlife. Seasonal Fruit Picking from the Trees in the Jungle. The highlight of your tour is a visit to a hidden waterfall, where you can take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear volcanic spring waters. For the thrill-seekers, there’s the option to cliff jump into the cool waters below. This tour is perfect for families, couples, and group travel adventure enthusiasts. Book your Panama City ATV Jungle Adventure Tour today and prepare for an exhilarating blend of adrenaline and excitement in the heart of the jungle!

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.

Embark on an enchanting tour that promises a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure in the heart of the jungle. Immerse yourself in the rich culture of the indigenous Embera people, gaining insight into their captivating lifestyle. As you glide through the verdant landscape in a canoe, you'll be mesmerized by the breathtaking views surrounding you. Wander through the vibrant rainforest, navigate the shimmering Chagres River, and indulge in the refreshing experience of swimming or hiking to a stunning, hidden waterfall cherished by locals. To top it all off, treat your palate to the delightful flavors of authentic local cuisine. This is more than just a tour; it’s an unforgettable journey into nature and culture.

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.

Encountering traditional Embera communities in Chagres National Park is a memorable part of exploring Panama, but visiting the park on your own can be tricky. On this day tour you cruise a jungle river, hike to a waterfall, and see a performance of traditional song and dance, with a traditional lunch and round-trip hotel transport from Panama City included.

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.

Make the most of the cool morning air with this group walking tour to Ancon Hill. Enjoy exploring this area before the afternoon heat hits, as you take in the local wildlife, including sloths, toucans, and monkeys, and catch the sunrise. Well-suited for travelers who like the benefits of a group tour without the pressure to keep up with a large group.