OUR SHORE EXCURSIONS

Panama Tours & Scuba SA is a travel company in Panama that offers various shore excursions. These excursions include visits to Gamboa, Casco Viejo, the Embera Indians, the Panama Canal, the Miraflores and Agua Clara Locks.

These excursions give you the opportunity to discover the beauty and culture of Panama.

The pickup time varies depending on the cruise ship.

We offer: group tours by Bus, small groups of up to 11 people and VIP tours with up to 7 people

As Director of Panama Tours & Scuba S.A. I can guarantee you that you will experience really great and exciting moments on our hand-picked shore excursions. Our excursions are specifically designed for small groups of a maximum of 11 people to ensure a personalized experience. We also guarantee you a fixed price with no hidden additional costs. We want to make sure you enjoy your time with us to the fullest.

INFORMATION ABOUT TOURS 1 TO 6
NEW : Tour 7 Super MAX Tour

Embera Village

EMBERA GAMBOA NATIONALPARK

EMBERA QUERA INDIAN

Your adventure begins on the shores of Lake Alajuela, where you will meet the Emberá people with their homemade canoes.

You will take a 30 - 60 minute boat ride (time depends on river water level). You will hike through pristine rainforest and see many birds such as herons, ospreys, perhaps toucans and parrots. You may also come across turtles, a caiman and, if you're lucky, a sloth, otter or monkey. If the water level is high enough, you can take a quick swim in a waterfall on the way to the village.

Upon arrival in the village, you will be greeted with traditional music and given a fascinating presentation of Emberá history, culture and life in a typical communal hut. After the presentation, you will be served a delicious lunch of fresh fish, fried plantains and local fruits.

After lunch, you have the opportunity to take a 20 - 30 minute hike with one of the village elders to learn more about their medicinal plants. You will also have time to view or buy the exquisite hand-woven baskets, plates or masks made of palm fiber, cocobolo (rosewood) or tagua nut wood, get a temporary tattoo, swim in the river, play with the Emberá children, etc to interact with the villagers or take photos.

Tour itinerary and overview of the highlights - Departure from Colon around 08h00 - Drive to Embera Quera village in Colon +/- 1 hour depending on traffic conditions - Transfer to the village by Indian boat, about 40 minutes drive - Dances, visit to the herb garden, explanations from the village elder about Embera culture, their activities and much more. Handmade souvenirs available (cheaper than Old Town) - Departure at around 12:30 to the Agua Clara locks - Arrival around 1:00 p.m. Visit to the new locks, approx. 1 hour - Departure at 2 p.m. to Colon 2000 - Arrival at Colon 2000 port around 2:45 p.m

Agua Clara Locks

AGUA CLARA LOCKS

The Agua Clara Locks are one of the Panama Canal lock complexes and are located near Colón, Panama. They opened in 2016 and are part of the canal's expansion that allows larger ships, the so-called Neopanamax, to pass through the canal. The Agua Clara locks are technologically advanced and feature state-of-the-art equipment to carry out the lock process efficiently and safely. They are equipped with cameras and sensors to monitor ship traffic and control the lock process. Visitors have the opportunity to tour the Agua Clara Locks from a visitor center. From there you have an impressive view of the locks and can experience the locking process up close. There are also informative exhibitions and films that explain more about how the canal works and the significance of the expansion. The Agua Clara Locks are an important part of the Panama Canal, a technological masterpiece and an impressive example of engineering excellence. If you are interested in the Panama Canal, a visit to the Agua Clara Locks is definitely recommended.

MIRAFLORES LOCKS

Starting from October 4, 2023, we unfortunately have to remove the excursion to the Miraflores Locks from our program.

Since the Panama Canal is not carrying enough water and the number of transits has been significantly reduced, it is possible that you will NOT be able to observe any ships in the locks.

Guests who have already booked can change, free of charge, to another tour, for example, Tour 3 - Gamboa and Casco Viejo.

Press

CASCO VIEJO - OLD TOWN

CASCO VIEJO

Casco Viejo, also known as Casco Antiguo, is the historic district of Panama City that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's a fascinating neighborhood with a rich history and a mix of colonial and neoclassical architecture. Casco Viejo is known for its charming cobblestone streets, colorful buildings and historic squares.

There are many attractions in Casco Viejo, including the Cathedral of Panama, Plaza de la Independencia and the Teatro Nacional. There are also a variety of restaurants, bars, cafes, art galleries and boutiques, making the area a popular destination for locals and tourists.

It's interesting to note that Casco Viejo has experienced a renaissance in recent years, becoming a hip neighborhood with a vibrant cultural scene. There are regular events, festivals and markets that bring the district to life.

If you visit Casco Viejo, I recommend you stroll through the narrow streets, admire the historic buildings and try the local cuisine. It is definitely a place not to be missed when visiting Panama City

Tour itinerary and overview of the highlights - Departure from Colon around 06:30 - Drive to the Chagres River in GATUN +/- 1.20 hours depending on traffic conditions - We board a Llancha and head into the Panama Canal. After about 40 minutes of driving, we turn into an arm of the canal and can observe the exotic flora and fauna here. You have the opportunity to see capuchins and howlers, iguanas, sloths and crocodiles. - Departure around +/- 10h00 to Panama City - We will make a stop in Amador, from where you can admire the skyline of Panama City; - Walk through the historic old town of Panama City (Casco Viejo) * Free time to explore the old town individually - Departure to Colon around 2 p.m - Arrival at the Colon 2000 port area around 3 p.m - Small group guarantee: maximum 11 participants per tour

GAMBOA

GAMBOA - MONKEY ISLAND - PANAMA CANAL

Gamboa is a small town in Panama, located about 30 kilometers from Panama City. It is located on the banks of the Panama Canal and is surrounded by lush rainforest. Known for its natural beauty, Gamboa is a popular destination for nature lovers and adventurers.

One of the main attractions in Gamboa is the Soberanía National Park, which is located in the immediate vicinity. The park offers numerous hiking trails where you can discover the local flora and fauna. Bird watching is particularly popular as the park is home to a wide variety of bird species, including the famous harpy eagle.

Another highlight in Gamboa is the opportunity to take a boat tour on the Panama Canal. One can watch the ships sailing through the canal and learn more about the history and functioning of the canal.

Gamboa offers various activities such as kayaking, ziplining and boat trips on Lake Gatun. There is also a tropical ecology research center that educates visitors about the region's unique flora and fauna.

Overall, Gamboa is a great place to experience nature and the beauty of Panama. It is a quiet retreat away from the hustle and bustle of the city and offers a variety of activities for the adventurous.

CASCO VIEJO - OLD TOWN

CASCO VIEJO

AGUA CLARA LOCKS

Tour itinerary and overview of the highlights - Departure from Colon around 06:30 - Drive to Panama City, approximately 1.20 hours depending on traffic - Stop in Amador, where you can admire the Panama City skyline - Drive over the famous LAS AMERICAS bridge - Photo stop at the Mirador with a view of the port of Miraflores - Walking tour of the historic old town of Panama City * Free time to explore the old town individually - Departure around 12:30 to the Agua Clara locks, visit about 1 hour - Return to the port around 2:15 p.m - Arrival at the Colon 2000 port area around 3 p.m - Small group guarantee: maximum 11 participants per tour

AGUA CLARA LOCKS

The Agua Clara Locks are one of the Panama Canal lock complexes and are located near Colón, Panama. They opened in 2016 and are part of the canal's expansion, allowing larger ships to pass through the canal.

The Agua Clara locks are technologically advanced and feature state-of-the-art equipment to carry out the lock process efficiently and safely. They are equipped with cameras and sensors to monitor ship traffic and control the lock process.

Visitors have the opportunity to tour the Agua Clara Locks from a visitor center. From there you have an impressive view of the locks and can experience the locking process up close. There are also informative exhibitions and films that explain more about how the canal works and the significance of the expansion.
The Agua Clara Locks are an important part of the Panama Canal, a technological masterpiece and an impressive example of engineering excellence. If you are interested in the Panama Canal, a visit to the Agua Clara Locks is definitely recommended.

CASCO VIEJO - OLD TOWN

CASCO VIEJO

Description of the tour and highlights

PORTOBELO - BEACH

Portobelo is a small coastal town in Panama known for its rich history and cultural heritage. Located on the Caribbean coast, it was once an important port for trade with Spain during the colonial period.

Portobelo is famous for its fortresses and fortifications built to protect the port from pirate attacks. The most famous of these fortresses is Fort San Felipe, which now serves as a museum and offers an insight into the history of the region.

Another highlight of Portobelo is the Iglesia de San Felipe, an impressive church built in the 17th century. It is known for its religious processions and celebrations, particularly the festivities in honor of the Black Christ of Portobelo, an important religious figure.

Portobelo is also known for its colorful carnival celebrations, which take place every November. During this time the city is transformed into a lively festival with music, dancing and traditional costumes.

Aside from its rich history, Portobelo offers beautiful beaches and opportunities for snorkeling and diving in the surrounding waters.

If you visit Portobelo, I recommend exploring the historic site, taking part in the festivities and enjoying the natural beauty of the surrounding area. It is a place full of culture and history that is worth exploring.

Original Schauplatz Dreharbeiten Pirates of The Caribbean.
Wir machen einen Stopp in dem Restaurant El Castillo.

Agua Clara Schleusen

Die Agua Clara-Schleusen sind eine der Schleusenanlagen des Panamakanals und befinden sich in der Nähe von Colón, Panama. Sie wurden im Jahr 2016 eröffnet und sind Teil der Erweiterung des Kanals, die es größeren Schiffen, den sogenannten Neopanamax, ermöglicht, den Kanal zu passieren. Die Agua Clara-Schleusen sind technologisch fortschrittlich und verfügen über modernste Ausrüstung, um den Schleusenvorgang effizient und sicher durchzuführen. Sie sind mit Kameras und Sensoren ausgestattet, um den Schiffsverkehr zu überwachen und den Schleusenvorgang zu steuern. Besucher haben die Möglichkeit, die Agua Clara-Schleusen von einem Besucherzentrum aus zu besichtigen. Von dort aus hat man einen beeindruckenden Blick auf die Schleusen und kann den Schleusenvorgang hautnah miterleben. Es gibt auch informative Ausstellungen und Filme, die mehr über die Funktionsweise des Kanals und die Bedeutung der Erweiterung erklären. Die Agua Clara-Schleusen sind ein wichtiger Teil des Panamakanals, ein technologisches Meisterwerk und ein beeindruckendes Beispiel für die Ingenieurskunst. Wenn Sie Interesse am Panamakanal haben, ist ein Besuch der Agua Clara-Schleusen definitiv empfehlenswert.

Embera Indians

EMBERA QUERA INDIAN

Your adventure begins on the shores of Lake Alajuela, where you will meet the Emberá people with their homemade canoes.

You will take a 30 - 60 minute boat ride (time depends on river water level). You will hike through pristine rainforest and see many birds such as herons, ospreys, perhaps toucans and parrots. You may also come across turtles, a caiman and, if you're lucky, a sloth, otter or monkey. If the water level is high enough, you can take a quick swim in a waterfall on the way to the village.

Upon arrival in the village, you will be greeted with traditional music and given a fascinating presentation of Emberá history, culture and life in a typical communal hut. After the presentation, you will be served a delicious lunch of fresh fish, fried plantains and local fruits.

After lunch, you have the opportunity to take a 20 - 30 minute hike with one of the village elders to learn more about their medicinal plants. You will also have time to view or buy the exquisite hand-woven baskets, plates or masks made of palm fiber, cocobolo (rosewood) or tagua nut wood, get a temporary tattoo, swim in the river, play with the Emberá children, etc to interact with the villagers or take photos.

Embera Dorf Gamboa Nationalpark

Tour itinerary and overview of the highlights - Departure from Colon between 06h00 and 06h30 - Drive to the Chagres River in GATUN +/- 1.20 hours depending on traffic conditions - We board a Llancha and head into the Panama Canal. After about 40 minutes of driving, we turn into an arm of the canal and can observe the exotic flora and fauna here. You have the opportunity to see capuchin and howler monkeys, iguanas, sloths and crocodiles. - Departure around 09:30 to Emberá village. Approximately 1 hour journey depending on traffic conditions - Explanations about the life of the Emberas by the village elder. Taste the delicious food of the Emberás and visit the herb garden and the souvenir cabanna - Departure around 12h00 to the Agua Clara locks. Visit approximately 1 hour - Return to the port around 2 p.m - Arrival at the port of Colon 2000 around 2:45 p.m Number of participants is limited to 7. Target group: See a lot in a short time

GAMBOA

GAMBOA - PANAMA CANAL

One of the main attractions in Gamboa is the Soberanía National Park, which is located in the immediate vicinity. The park offers numerous hiking trails where you can discover the local flora and fauna. Bird watching is particularly popular as the park is home to a wide variety of bird species, including the famous harpy eagle.

Another highlight in Gamboa is the opportunity to take a boat tour on the Panama Canal. One can watch the ships sailing through the canal and learn more about the history and functioning of the canal.

Gamboa offers various activities such as kayaking, ziplining and boat trips on Lake Gatun. There is also a tropical ecology research center that educates visitors about the region's unique flora and fauna.

Overall, Gamboa is a great place to experience nature and the beauty of Panama. It is a quiet retreat away from the hustle and bustle of the city and offers a variety of activities for the adventurous.

Agua Clara Locks

The Agua Clara Locks are part of the expanded Panama Canal, which opened in 2016. They were designed to carry larger ships through the canal and to facilitate shipping traffic. The Agua Clara locks are equipped with the latest technology to make the lock process more efficient and safer. They are an impressive example of engineering and advances in shipping.

Booking request

Directly from the source - What our participants report:
This tour is only suitable for guests who want to see a lot in a short time.

Gamboa -Affeninseln

Gamboa ist ein kleiner Ort in Panama, der etwa 30 Kilometer von Panama City entfernt liegt. Es befindet sich am Ufer des Panamakanals und ist von üppigem Regenwald umgeben. Gamboa ist bekannt für seine natürliche Schönheit und ist ein beliebtes Ziel für Naturliebhaber und Abenteurer.

Eine der Hauptattraktionen in Gamboa ist der Soberanía-Nationalpark, der sich in unmittelbarer Nähe befindet. Der Park bietet zahlreiche Wanderwege, auf denen man die einheimische Tier- und Pflanzenwelt entdecken kann. Vogelbeobachtung ist besonders beliebt, da der Park eine große Vielfalt an Vogelarten beherbergt, darunter den berühmten Harpyie.

Ein weiteres Highlight in Gamboa ist die Möglichkeit, eine Bootstour auf dem Panamakanal zu unternehmen. Man kann die Schiffe beobachten, die durch den Kanal fahren und mehr über die Geschichte und Funktionsweise des Kanals erfahren.

Gamboa bietet verschiedene Aktivitäten wie Kajakfahren, Ziplining und Bootsfahrten auf dem Gatún-See. Es gibt auch ein Forschungszentrum für tropische Ökologie, das Besucher über die einzigartige Flora und Fauna der Region informiert.

Insgesamt ist Gamboa ein großartiger Ort, um die Natur und die Schönheit Panamas zu erleben. Es ist ein ruhiger Rückzugsort abseits des Trubels der Stadt und bietet eine Vielzahl von Aktivitäten für Abenteuerlustige.

Tourablauf:

Wir fahren zirka 40 Minuten vom Hafen in Colon nach Gamboa. Hier steigen wir in eine lokale Llancha um und fahren durch den Chagres Fluss, welcher u.a. vom Gatun See gespeist wird, zirka 40 Minuten durch den Panamakanal und wir werden hier an den grössten Schiffen der Welt vorbeifahren. Anschliesend biegen wir in einen Seitenarm des Panamakanals ein und fahren mehrere Inseln an wo sich u-a Kapuzineraffen, Seidenaffen, Brüllaffen sich gute Nacht sagen. Wennwir Glück haben begegnen wir weitere interessante Tierarten wie Krokodile, Schildkröten udgl. Man kann eine sehr reiche Vogelwelt bestaunen und man wird diesen magischen kurzen Tripp in den Regenurwald gerne in Erinnerung behalten.