The Panama Canal is one of the most iconic man-made wonders in the world. Spanning nearly 50 miles, the canal connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, allowing ships to travel between the two without having to circumnavigate the entire continent of South America. It is a feat of engineering that has been around since 1914 and continues to be an important part of international trade.
The canal is also a popular tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors every year. Whether you’re looking to explore the history and engineering of the canal, experience the unique wildlife, or simply have a relaxing vacation, there are plenty of things to do in the Panama Canal. Here are 10 of the best:
1. Take a Boat Tour of the Panama Canal: A boat tour of the Panama Canal is the best way to experience the full length of the canal and its many locks. You’ll get a unique perspective on the engineering of the canal and see the locks up close. There are several tour companies that offer boat tours of the canal, ranging from half-day trips to full-day excursions.
2. Visit the Miraflores Locks: The Miraflores Locks are the closest locks to Panama City, and they are the most popular locks to visit. Here, you can watch ships pass through the locks and learn about the engineering of the canal. There is also a museum and observation deck where you can get a great view of the locks.
3. Explore the Rainforest: The Panama Canal is surrounded by a lush rainforest, full of unique plants and animals. There are several national parks and nature reserves in the area, such as the Soberania National Park and the Chagres National Park. You can explore the rainforest on foot, or take a boat tour to get a better view of the wildlife.
4. Visit the Embera Village: The Embera are an indigenous tribe that lives along the Chagres River. You can visit their village and learn about their culture and way of life. The Embera are known for their traditional crafts, such as basket weaving and wood carving.
5. Take a Hike: There are many hiking trails in the area, ranging from easy walks to challenging treks. The most popular trails are the Pipeline Road and the Camino de Cruces. The Pipeline Road is a former railroad line that runs along the canal, while the Camino de Cruces is a historic trail used by the Spanish conquistadors.
6. Visit the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute: The Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute is located on Barro Colorado Island, a former island in the Panama Canal. Here, you can explore the island’s unique flora and fauna, as well as learn about the research being done by the institute.
7. Go Bird Watching: The Panama Canal is a great place for bird watching, especially during the dry season. You can spot many species of birds, such as toucans, parrots, and ospreys. There are several bird-watching tours available in the area.
8. Go Fishing: The Panama Canal is home to many species of fish, including snapper, grouper, and tarpon. You can charter a fishing boat to take you out on the canal, or you can take a guided tour.
9. Visit the Panama Canal Museum: The Panama Canal Museum is located in the city of Colon and is dedicated to the history of the canal. Here, you can learn about the construction of the canal and its importance to world trade.
10. Relax on the Beach: The Panama Canal is surrounded by several beaches, such as Playa Blanca and Playa Farallon. Here, you can relax on the sand and take a dip in the ocean.
Whether you’re looking to explore the engineering of the Panama Canal or just relax on the beach, there are plenty of things to do in the area. With its unique wildlife, historical sites, and stunning beaches, the Panama Canal is a great destination for any type of traveler.