Watch colossal ships ascend and descend as two eras of canal engineering come into view. This private Two Oceans tour pairs the 1914 Miraflores locks with the 2016 expansion for a full-picture look at the Panama Canal’s global role.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You arrive at a concrete overlook as a container ship crawls into the lock chamber, water roaring and metal grinding—a living machine moving oceans. The guide points out the control towers, tugs, and the steady choreography that lifts and lowers hulls between sea level and Gatun Lake.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
6–7 hours
Fitness Level
Light activity; suitable for most fitness levels with some standing and short walks between viewpoints
Wildlife
History
Built between 1904–1914 under U.S. administration and expanded in 2016, the canal transformed global shipping and Panama’s economy.
Conservation
Canal operations depend on freshwater from the Chagres River and Gatun Lake; ballast water controls and watershed protection are ongoing priorities to preserve water levels and biodiversity.
Reserve your spot on the Exploring the Two Oceans Old and New Canal Locks Private Tour today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Time your visit with ship traffic
Ask the guide for expected ship transit times—seeing a lock operation in full takes 30–60 minutes and makes the visit far more dramatic.
Sun protection is a must
Bring a wide-brim hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen—viewing platforms offer limited shade and Panama is tropical year-round.
Bring binoculars or a telephoto lens
Ships and lock machinery are impressive up close but binoculars reveal deck activity, bridge signals, and hull details.
Plan for transit time
Expect about 1h15m each way from central Panama City; factor this into your schedule to avoid rushed viewing windows.
Sunscreen and sunglasses
Tropical sun is strong year‑round and viewing areas are exposed.
summer
Binoculars or telephoto lens
Helps pick out ship details and distant lock operations.
Comfortable walking shoes
Non‑technical but firm footing is useful on viewing platforms and causeway paths.
Light rain jacket
Short tropical showers are common—packable protection keeps you comfortable.
spring