This full-day tour visits the highlights of Panama City.  First thing, we head to the Mercado de Mariscos. The earlier we go, the more action there is to see.  The rest of the day will be organized around what time we are guaranteed to see the big ships in the locks of Miraflores. Time permitting; we will visit the Artisan Market for some shopping.

Mercado de Mariscos - The waters off the Pacific coast of Panama are rich in marine life. The fishermen who work in these waters use this marketplace to sell their catches to restaurants, resellers, and the general public. Each kiosk is typically owned and operated by one family. A visit to this market is a slice of life that almost every Panamanian knows, but not too many tourists.

Miraflores Visitors Center - The Miraflores Visitors Center (MVC) is an expression of the permanent commitment to strengthen the public’s knowledge of the Canal. Located on the east side of the Miraflores Locks, the MVC allows visitors to observe transiting vessels from a distance of few meters and learn firsthand about the operations of the Panama Canal, its history, participation in world markets, and the importance of its watershed.  From the observation platform, you’ll watch in awe as ocean-going ships are tendered through huge locks with only inches to spare.

Panama Viejo - Founded in 1519 by the conquistador Pedrarías Dávila, Panamá Viejo is the oldest non-native settlement on the Pacific coast of the Americas. The city was laid out on a rectilinear grid, marking the first transference the European of idea of urban planning.  In 1671 the city was sacked and burned by the Welsh privateer, Henry Morgan.  Today, the remaining ruins are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Casco Antiguo - This historic center of Panama City is also one of the country’s UNESCO sites. It is a quiet, charming district of narrow streets overlooked by the flower bedecked balconies of two and three-story houses. At its tip lies French Park, a monument to the French builders who began the Panama Canal, and the lovely French Embassy. As we meander through the area we will see the remaining ruins of the convents and seminaries, the famous Flat Arch, and the beautiful Cathedral with its mother of pearl covered spires.  

Artisan Market - The Artisan Market in Panama City is a warren of wonderful little stalls and stores where it is possible to find under one roof local arts and crafts. you may find that souvenir you can’t leave Panama without!

Includes:
Certified Interpretive Guide, Transportation, Lunch UNESCO Site Fees,

Duration: 8 Hours
Departure from Hotel: 8:30AM