Cruising the Panama Canal: Best Routes and Sights to See in 2023 !

• Panama Canal Transit: Start your Panama Canal experience with a full Panama Canal transit. Taking an 8 to 10 day cruise from the Pacific side to the Atlantic side (or the other way around) is the best route to see all of the stunning scenery, historic engineering feats, and abundant wildlife that the Panama Canal has to offer.
• Panama City: After transiting the canal, spend some time exploring the exciting city of Panama. Take a guided tour of the Old City to learn about the history of the city and country, visit the Panama Canal Museum to get insight into the canal’s construction and engineering, and take a bike ride to explore the vibrant city along the canal.
• San Blas Islands: Relax in the Caribbean tropical paradise of San Blas Islands. Take a boat tour of the archipelago, visit the Kuna Yala village to learn about the locals and their culture, and explore the vibrant coral reefs with snorkeling or diving.
• Isla Coiba National Park: Explore the wildlife paradise of Isla Coiba National Park. Drive to the island or take a boat tour to see plenty of native wildlife, lush rainforests, stunning waterfalls, and untouched beaches.
• Colon: Finish your journey in the vibrant city of Colon. Learn about the Panama Canal’s construction and rich history at the Colon 2000 Museum and explore the historic city center.
• Pacific Beaches: Explore the stunning Pacific coast beaches. Visit La Playita Beach for tranquil waters, Playa Coronado for black sand beaches and excellent surfing, or Playa Boca Chica for pristine white sands and vibrant nightlife.

Since the route is very popular in the winter months, it is best to book a cruise during the summer to enjoy an uncrowded and less expensive journey.

The water temperatures remain warm and pleasant, the rates are lower, and the number of visitors diminishes giving you the opportunity to really take in the beauty of the landscape, wildlife and culture in a relaxed, stress-free way.

• First: make sure you are familiar with the climate of the canal and the region. The area’s tropical climate can be extremely humid and hot, and can feature heavy rainfall and occasional storms. Temperatures tend to stay between 75°F and 95°F year-round, but be prepared for any and all weather conditions!
• Second: research the geographical features of the region. The Panama Canal region is known for its mountainous terrain, which can be difficult and dangerous to traverse. You may want to consider wearing hiking boots, or at least bring a good pair of slip-on sandals, to make the trek a bit easier.
• Third: research the local hospitality and suitable methods of tipping. Though the Panama Canal region is known for its friendly people, it’s best to be aware of the preferred customs if you want to show your appreciation!
• Finally: familiarize yourself with the history of the Panama Canal region. This area has seen many wars, revolutions, and uprisings since it was first settled. Knowing this history will help you appreciate the region and respect its people.

• Miraflores Visitor Center and Locks: Get up close and personal with how the Panama Canal works from this visitor center. You can get a coveted view of the enormous cargo ships passing through the canal on their own journey.
• Panama Viejo: Take a step back in time as you explore the ruins of Panama Viejo the original city of Panama founded by the Spanish in the 1500s.
• Casco Viejo: Casco Viejo is the old district of Panama city. This neighborhood is a World Heritage Site, full of well-preserved historic colonial architecture.
• Metropolitan Natural Park: Go for a hike (or a bike ride) in this lush tropical park within the city. Look out for some of the local birdlife and make sure to check out the Panama Canal Museum while you’re there.
• Free Trade Area of Colon: The largest free trade zone in the world, Colon is home to many duty-free shops and factories. Get a glimpse of the country’s rich commercial heritage and go for some discount shopping.
• Cinta Costera: This long stretch of waterfront is Panama City’s answer to the beach boardwalk. Enjoy the stunning views of the ocean or grab some seafood from one of the many street food stalls.
• Panama Canal History Museum: Get to know the storied history of the Panama Canal through this interactive museum. Make sure to check out the restored locomotive and other artifacts from the original Panama Railway.