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Exclusive Canal Experience: Agua Clara & Gatun Canal Locks
This tour is perfect for cruise passengers arriving in Colón who want a safe and private experience. In just five memorable hours, explore the impressive Agua Clara and Gatún Locks, discovering Panama’s remarkable engineering, history, and its vital role in global trade.
Your private guide will meet you outside Colon Home Port, holding a sign with your name. From there, your journey begins to explore one of the world’s most remarkable engineering achievements.
The tour starts at the Agua Clara Locks, part of the expanded Panama Canal designed to accommodate the massive New Panamax ships. Here, you will witness the impressive scale of the locks, which are over 1,400 feet long and 160 feet wide. Your guide will explain how millions of gallons of water are used to lift and lower vessels, along with detailed insights into the canal’s modern design, operation, and engineering innovations. This stop also offers excellent photo opportunities of these impressive structures.
Next, you will visit the historic Gatun Locks, completed in 1914, to appreciate the original canal engineering and its historical importance. Experiencing both the modern and historic locks provides a clear understanding of the Panama Canal’s evolution and its vital role in global trade.
After the visits, enjoy a comfortable return drive to Colon Home Port, concluding this concise yet enriching 5-hour experience. You will leave with a strong appreciation of Panama’s history, culture, and world-class engineering.
This tour is easy to moderate difficulty: it includes light walking and some stairs, but most travellers can participate comfortably.
What is included?
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Private A/C transportation – Round-trip transfers from the port in a comfortable vehicle.
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Expert guide – A professional and knowledgeable guide to ensure an enriching and enjoyable experience.
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Tolls – All tolls along the route are covered.
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No hidden charges
What is not included?
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Panama Canal entrance fees - $10 per person in cash or payable online.
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Tips – Not mandatory, but greatly appreciated by our staff and the service industry.
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Lunch – Our guide will recommend an excellent restaurant where you can enjoy authentic Panamanian flavors.
How to book?
Click the “Book Now” button and complete the reservation form. Once submitted, you’ll receive a confirmation email with instructions to make your deposit and secure your spot. Payments are processed through PayPal, allowing you to safely use any major credit card on one of the world’s most trusted and secure payment platforms.
Price per adult:
$85 USD (4 to 5 people)
$70 USD (6 to 9 people)
$65 USD (9 or more people)
★ Discounts available for large groups
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Price per Child (2–11 años):
$50 USD
Frequently asked questions
Is a minimum number of participants required?
This activity requires a minimum of 4 participants.
Should I bring US cash, or can I pay using a credit card?
You can use a credit card to pay for the Panama Canal entrance fee, and many restaurants accept cards as well. You can also conveniently buy canal tickets online in advance using a card. However, some souvenir shops and smaller vendors prefer cash, so it’s a good idea to carry some U.S. dollars in cash for those purchases.
How long is this tour?
This activity is approximately 5.5 hours.
Where do I meet the guide?
Near the entrance of Colon Home Port. At the PanaPhoto Store near the main gate inside the port.
Free cancellation
Free cancellation up to 7 days before the activity starts. Any cancellations after this time or no-shows on the day will not be refunded.