Top Panama Day Trips

Monkey and Sloth Jungle Habitat Panama Tour

5 hoursFree Cancellation

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

7 hoursFree Cancellation

Visit San Blas Paradise: Day Tour to 4 Islands with Lunch & Drink

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.

Day Tour in San Blas Islands All Included Visiting 4 Islands

Tour to a waterfall and Embera village with lunch included

7 hoursFree Cancellation

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.

All-inclusive catamaran 7.5h Isla Taboga from Panama City

All-inclusive catamaran 7.5h Isla Taboga from Panama City

7 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

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.

Panama Canal With Entry Ticket & City Tour: Old Town & City Views

5 hoursFree Cancellation

The tour begins with pickup from your hotel, Airbnb or Playa Bonita in Panama City. We’ll drive for about one hour to the Atlantic, 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. This tour operates year-round, including during Panama's rainy season. Agua Clara and Gatun Visitor Centers remain open after the earthquake.

Panama Canal Tour: New Locks Agua Clara, Gatun & Atlantic Bridge

Panama Canal Tour: New Locks Agua Clara, Gatun & Atlantic Bridge

6 hoursFree Cancellation

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.

Panama Canal Full Transit Tour - Official Operator

Panama Canal Full Transit Tour - Official Operator

12 hoursFree Cancellation

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

6 hoursFree Cancellation

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

5 to 6 hoursFree Cancellation

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.

Monkey Tour Adventure with Gamboa Rainforest Nature Walk

Monkey Tour Adventure with Gamboa Rainforest Nature Walk

6 hoursFree Cancellation

Full Rainforest Experience: Kayaks, Waterfall and Embera village

7 hoursFree Cancellation

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

Caribbean Catamaran Day Cruise: Beaches, Snorkeling & Lunch

6 to 9 hoursFree Cancellation

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.

Embera Indigenous Village & Waterfall Tour with Lunch

6 to 7 hoursFree Cancellation

Make the most of a short stay in Panama with an all-inclusive day trip to the stunning San Blas Islands from Panama City. Transfers (overland and by boat), meals, and activities are all included, as well as the entrance fees to Guna Yala Territory. Swim or snorkel in the shallow natural swimming pools, relax on the white-sand beaches, and visit quiet destinations that aren’t full of tour groups.

All-Inclusive San Blas Islands Day Tour from Panama City

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.

Colon City Tour Exploring Caribbean Roots Food and Afro Culture

5 to 6 hoursFree Cancellation

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

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.

Embera Village Excursion plus Waterfalls experience private Tour

4 to 5 hoursFree Cancellation

Private Layover Panama Canal & City Tour

6 to 7 hoursFree Cancellation

Experience Panama’s Taboga Island on this customized private charter. This all-day adventure includes a personalized itinerary with an expert crew aboard a Proline 27 speed boat with 150 horse power engines. Explore Taboga’s pretty historic streets and cruise to the beautiful surrounding islands while enjoying access to complimentary surf boards, high-quality fishing gear, and snorkeling equipment.

Private Fishing & Scenic Cruise – 27ft Proline | Taboga Island

Private Fishing & Scenic Cruise – 27ft Proline | Taboga Island

4 to 8 hoursFree Cancellation

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 Safari, Agua Clara & Gatun Locks

8 hoursFree Cancellation

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

5 to 6 hoursFree Cancellation

Full day Panama City Sightseeing & Canal Tour with Private Guide

7 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

Bocas del Toro Island Hopping Day Tour in Zapatilla Beach

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Must-Dos in Panama

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What are people saying about Panama

Gail_R, Oct 2026

More than just the Zapatillas

We had an excellent day out with our informative guide Randall and boat captain Dave. The boat had padded seats and a cover but be prepared to get a bit wet if it rains. We were lucky and the dolphins, sloths and monkeys all made an appearance. We were the only boat in the snorkeling spot and could see colourful coral, fish, starfish, urchins etc. The lunch stop food was nice (we only had spaghetti, so can't comment on the seafood), the batidos were tasty and the toilets were clean. We then had a couple of hours to enjoy Isla Zapatilla 2, where you can swim and hike around, with a treat at the end. Overall, the pacing if the tour was good - there was long enough to enjoy each spot but not too long. We really enjoyed the day and would recommend the tour.

Panama City Bike Tour

Elizabeth_K, Oct 2026

Great way to see Panama City

Stephan was a great guide. We biked through many parts of the city and he explained various landmarks. There was time to take photos. We biked across the bridge into Panama City using the awesome bike path. My only complaint was it was a bit difficult to find. There is a small sign outside the entrance but our reservation didn’t match the name. Also we got there early and the shop was closed so it would be helpful if the shop posted hours.

Panama Canal with entrance included and Gatun Lake Boat Tour

Linda_Y, Sep 2026

Feeding monkeys and cruising with the big ships

This tour provided us with a clear understanding of how the Panama Canal was built and how the locks work. Our visit to the Miraflores Visitor Center allowed us to see a large ship traversing the locks, guided by locomotives on each side. The lake is very large and our boat traveled alongside the large ships transiting the canal. The lake is full of islands, and our guide knew them well. He stopped to purchase fresh fruit and actually called the monkeys to come down to the boat. We hand-fed Howlers, Capuchins and Tamarinds, which was a truly unique experience. We even saw two crocodiles. We highly recommend this tour and thank our excellent guide, Dan Taylor.

Tour to a waterfall and Embera village with lunch included

Annette_B, Sep 2026

Extraordinary adventure!

It is exciting. Leaving the city, Dan, our guide, gave an extensive review of the places we passed and their history. The canoe ride was nice, clear water; but the trek up and down the hillside is not for the faint-hearted. Mud from the rains made it tricky in some parts. I'd do it again if I were 20 years younger but I'm really glad I did this time!!!

Caribbean Catamaran Day Cruise: Beaches, Snorkeling & Lunch

Faith_O, Aug 2026

Do it !

Execellent experience - from the guys on the boat, the driver, and all the communication leading up to the outing. My mom and I were the only ones on the boat on a Monday, and we hooked up to the speaker and laid out on the net for the ride. They provided a delicious lunch, kayaks and paddle boards, and were gracious hosts. The island was beautiful. Definitely recommend.

Ancon Hill Walking Tour: Sloths, Wildlife & Panama City Views

Na_D, Jul 2026

Surreal experience! Highly recommended!

It was a fantastic experience! Raf was my guide and he was very thorough with the information for the day the night before with whatsapp messages so I had a good feeling already. I did the early one 6:10am and surprised it was a private tour to me as no one else booked it. But Raf still treat it very very professionally even it’s just me, he was very knowledgeable and super friendly. I told him I want to see sloth and he was very honest that it’s nature he cannot control but he will try his best. And surely he did and we were very lucky to spot 5 sloths along the way along with 4 gefferoy’s tamarins, several toucans, and along other wild lives . It was more than I expected and because Raf was very patient in explaining how these animals behave and I was able to spot the toucan and 2 sloths by myself! Overall just 12 out of 10 experiences and I cannot ask for more. The hill is very a moderate walk and offers a great panoramic view of the city and the canal. Highly recommended!

Discover Panama: History of the City and the Canal

Melissa_C, Jun 2026

Mr. Fernando was the best!

This experience was amazing! Fernando gave us all of the history that we asked for and timed the canal perfectly. He swapped out a stop for us to see more of what we really wanted and we were very grateful. His car was nice and air conditioned and he made sure to get us some waters for our journey. This was such a memorable time and he was an outstanding photographer. I was so happy to have photos of my husband and myself. We only had one day to spend in Panama City after being in Bocas and it was easily our favorite day of our entire trip. Book this one! We had great communication from the time of booking on.

Private Layover Panama Canal & City Tour

Kristen_P, Apr 2026

Best layover ever!

Pick up and drop off from the airport was easy! Our guide spoke perfect English and Spanish and was very knowledgable about the history, culture and sites of Panama. He was willing to tailor our experience for our family. We even found a sloth! I really felt like we got to visit Panama City!

Panama City Tour, Panama Canal & Casco Viejo

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 Full Transit Tour - Official Operator

Wil_M, Mar 2026

A fabulous way to spend a day

This trip was amazing. Yes, we were on the boat for 12 hours with about 200 of our newest best friends. But everything worked well for the entire day. Check-in was organized and orderly. We read before the trip that one review compared the meals to airplane food, but if that's true we'd like to know what airline the reviewer was talking about; while the meals aren't 5-star, they were certainly fresh and enjoyable. The entire crew was helpful and friendly, and seemed genuinely happy to serve us. Special kudos goes to the guide who spent hours telling us about the canal and answering questions throughout the entire trip. The guide and the rest of the crew also managed to keep everything in order without being heavy-handed; passengers were told the do's and don't's of travel on the boat and it worked as everyone seemed to comply. even the return trip on buses was well organized and timely. And finally, about the canal, if you've ever thought about going, you should.

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

Zipline Adventure In The Rainforest

Danna_C, Feb 2026

When I booked this, I...

When I booked this, I thought it was a group tour, but to my surprise it was just the two of us. Our guide, Juan picked us up at our hotel and took us to the zip line. He was very cordial and friendly gave us some history along the way. He did the zip line with us and returned us back to our next hotel stay I highly recommend this tour. The Zipline staff where friendly and helpful.