Panama History Tour (Shore Excursion)
Starting from $117/pers$149/pers
Experience this captivating journey through Panama City's rich history as you explore its storied streets and iconic landmarks
Panama City is one of the few capitals in the world where you can stand in a UNESCO-listed colonial quarter, look out over a modern skyline, and watch ships transit an ocean-crossing canal, all in the same afternoon. This full-day tour takes you through the layers of that history, from the first Spanish settlement on the Pacific to the vibrant streets of Casco Viejo.
What you’ll see
The remains of the first Spanish city founded on the Pacific coast and former capital of the country. An exceptional site to appreciate the original structures built by the Spanish conquistadors — now a UNESCO World Heritage site.
A living open-air museum that showcases the customs, traditions and history of Panama in one place. Step inside a typical Afro-Caribbean, peasant, and Indigenous house — each one faithfully recreated to reflect the main characteristics of these distinct cultures.
The crown jewel of this stop is inside the grand rotunda — a breathtaking series of murals painted by American artist William B. Van Ingen, commissioned for the Canal’s opening in 1914. The four large-scale paintings depict the most dramatic moments of the Canal’s construction: the Culebra Cut, the Gatun Dam, the Miraflores Locks, and the construction of the Pedro Miguel Locks. They are considered among the finest murals in the Americas.
The building itself, perched on Ancon Hill and overlooking the Canal, has served as the seat of Canal operations for over a century. The surrounding grounds offer sweeping views of the waterway and the city below.
Panama City’s UNESCO-listed historic quarter. Cobblestone streets, colorful colonial buildings, centuries-old landmarks, art galleries, chic restaurants, and vibrant street life — a captivating mix of history and contemporary flair.
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Days available
Tuesday to Sunday
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Pickup time and Duration
Pickup times:
Vary based on ship arrival and disembarkment
Duration: 7.5h
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Included
- Pick-up from Fuerte Amador / Panama City Cruise Port
- Transportation
- Guide
- Bottled water
- Port tax
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Not included
- Entrance fees to Mi Pueblito and Panama Viejo
(tickets available for purchase during checkout) - Lunch (we will stop at a local restaurant)
- Pick-up from Colon 2000 Cruise Port (available for purchase during checkout)
- Gratuities
- Entrance fees to Mi Pueblito and Panama Viejo
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What to bring
- Passports of all passengers (mandatory)
- Hat / Cap / Sunglasses
- Comfortable shoes
- Light & comfortable clothes
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Difficulty
- Level: Easy-Moderate
- Details: Some walking (2-3 hours), lots of stairs to reach a viewpoint.
- Suggested age: All ages
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Panama Viejo Tower
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Street in Casco Viejo
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Panama History Private Tour (Mi Pueblito)
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Panama History Private Tour
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Street in Casco Viejo
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Panama History Private Tour
Reservation
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Notes
- Our semi-private tour offers an exclusive small group (max. 12 guests) experience with personalized attention, while allowing for some interaction with other like-minded travelers.
- Our private tour provides a fully personalized and exclusive travel experience tailored to the individual or group’s specific interests and preferences, with a dedicated guide and no other participants.
- This tour must be booked at least 2 days in advance of the tour date.
- Kids 0-5yo are always free
- Cancellation terms and conditions
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Teh best History tour of Panama. The tour guide had so much knowledge and gave as an outsider a new perspective on panamanian history. The views were amazing and we got to see interesting historical places around both of the old cities. I can warmly recommend the history tour if you want to know more about panama than just sights.
Nadia P.
Date of experience: April 2024 | From: Tripadvisor
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Good experience, we had a great guide. Right on time. Very knowledgeable. Flexible. Personable. Has a few contacts in town to make things go smoothly. Has been doing this for a few years so knows all the shortcuts, secret doors and hidden displays. Recommended for those interested in history and culture.
Dan F.
Date of experience: March 2024 | From: Tripadvisor
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Full day Panama History tour is the way to go! We were a party of 9 friends- seniors - on a stop in Panama prior to boarding a cruise. Our guide was most informative, thorough, considerate of our needs, and went the extra mile to accommodate our needs. We all came away feeling the tour represented Panama, its history, culture and people. Thank you.
Shoba M.
Date of experience: December 2023 | From: Tripadvisor
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Our guide was a fantastic guide who gave us an excellent tour. He anticipated our needs and his enthusiasm for all things Panamanian was wonderful. Highly recommend Panama Your Way and this tour.
Jennifer W.
Date of experience: February 2024 | From: Tripadvisor
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Frequent questions about this tour
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Q: How far do we walk, and is the terrain easy?
A:You’ll walk approximately 1.5 to 2 kilometers throughout the tour, mostly on flat or gently sloped paths. Casco Antiguo has cobblestone streets, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended. The pace is relaxed with frequent stops.
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Q: Can I take photos everywhere we go?
A:Yes, photography is welcome at most outdoor sites and monuments. However, some museums and churches may have specific restrictions—your guide will advise where photos are allowed.
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Q: Will there be time to shop for souvenirs?
A:Yes, the tour includes free time in Casco Antiguo where you can browse artisan shops, galleries, and local boutiques. It’s a great spot for handmade crafts, Panama hats, and local artwork.