
Watch boats from around the world navigate the locks of the engineering marvel known as the “Eighth Wonder of the World.”
One of the greatest engineering feats of all time runs 50 miles across Panama, linking the Atlantic and Pacific oceans and serving 160 countries around the world. After a tumultuous history—the French tried and failed to build the canal in the 1880s; the U.S. succeeded, but tragically lost 20,000 workers in the process—the canal came under Panamanian control in 1999. The terrace at Miraflores Visitor Center is a good place to watch the ships come in. Show up after 2 p.m., when a higher number of ships pass through the locks.
If You Go
Gatun Lake
Panama City, Panama
Central America
+507 272-3165
Hours:
Miraflores Visitor Center hours: Daily, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Public Transportation:
Panama Metro and Panama bus serve the Panama Canal
Recommended time to spend:
At least three hours
Where to stay
Radisson Hotel Panama Canal
Catch a glimpse of passing boats, or watch the sunset over the Bridge of the Americas from the comfort of your spacious hotel room or suite.
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