Top 5 Must-Do Things to See and Do on Your Trip to the Panama Canal

The Panama Canal is one of the world’s greatest engineering marvels—but its surrounding region offers so much more than just watching ships pass through locks. From lush rainforest cruises and native village experiences to vibrant colonial neighborhoods and historic train rides, the area around the Panama Canal is filled with unforgettable adventures. If you’re planning your itinerary, here are the top 5 things to do near the Panama Canal that travelers search for most—ideal for history lovers, nature seekers, and culture enthusiasts alike.

1. Ride the Panama Canal Railway – Most Scenic Train Journey in Panama

One of the most memorable ways to experience the Panama Canal is from aboard the Panama Canal Railway—a beautifully restored 19th-century train that runs from Panama City to Colón. This trans-isthmian journey follows a scenic route hugging the canal, crossing over bridges, passing by Gatun Lake, and slicing through the dense, untouched rainforest.

Inside the vintage train cars, large panoramic windows and domed ceilings offer stunning views of the tropical landscape. You’ll pass cargo ships gliding through canal channels, remote jungle rivers, and tropical wildlife, all while learning the rich history of the railway built during the California Gold Rush. Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a unique way to see the Panama Canal, this short one-hour ride is a favorite among travelers of all ages.

2. Wander the Colorful Streets of Colonial Panama City (Casco Viejo)

Step back in time as you wander through Casco Viejo, the charming colonial district of Panama City and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This vibrant old quarter is filled with colorful Spanish colonial buildings, vine-draped balconies, crumbling ruins, and grand cathedrals. By day, explore museums, boutique shops, and local markets. By night, enjoy rooftop bars with views of the Panama City skyline and the Pacific Ocean.

A walking tour through Casco Viejo provides the perfect balance of cultural immersion and historic discovery, with must-see stops like Plaza de la Independencia, Panama Cathedral, and the ruins of the Santo Domingo Convent. History, architecture, cuisine, and culture all converge here—making this neighborhood one of the top places to visit near the Panama Canal.

3. Cruise Gatun Lake & Watch the Panama Canal Locks in Action

If you want to truly appreciate the scale and significance of the canal, a boat cruise on Gatun Lake combined with a visit to the Gatun Locks is a must. You’ll board a small tour boat and cruise across this massive man-made lake, once the largest in the world, which forms a central part of the canal system. Lush rainforest lines the shoreline, and the lake is dotted with tiny islands formed by former hilltops.

The highlight is reaching the Gatun Locks, where your guide explains how massive cargo ships rise or lower over 85 feet as they pass between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Watching this mechanical ballet of gates, chambers, and tugboats up close is fascinating and humbling. This is the best way to experience the Panama Canal operations firsthand—and it’s consistently rated as a top experience by visitors.

4. Monkey and Wildlife Safari Cruise on Gatun Lake

For nature lovers, the Monkey Island and rainforest wildlife cruise offers one of Panama’s most magical experiences. This guided boat tour takes you deep into the remote channels and islands of Gatun Lake, where you’ll encounter a living jungle teeming with wildlife. Glide quietly past the shoreline as monkeys leap between branches, toucans call from above, and sloths lounge lazily in the treetops.

Keep an eye out for capuchins, howler monkeys, tamarins, iguanas, and even crocodiles resting in the sun. Your guide helps you spot and identify each animal while sharing facts about the unique ecosystem surrounding the Panama Canal. This tour is peaceful, educational, and perfect for families or couples looking for a relaxing adventure immersed in nature.

5. Visit the Emberá Village – A Cultural Journey into the Rainforest

Far from city lights and modern distractions lies one of Panama’s most unforgettable experiences: a visit to an authentic Emberá Indigenous village. You’ll travel by traditional dugout canoe along a jungle river to reach the community, where the Emberá people have lived for generations with deep respect for the land and their customs.

Upon arrival, you’re welcomed with music, dance, and a tour of the village. Learn about traditional healing plants, basket weaving, wood carving, and storytelling passed down through generations. Enjoy a freshly cooked lunch—usually fish and plantains—served in a banana leaf, and have the chance to purchase handmade crafts that support the community. This cultural exchange is deeply personal and offers a rare opportunity to connect with one of Panama’s most vibrant Indigenous groups.

Are you ready to book your dream trip to the Panama Canal? Let Rawhide Travel and Tours take care of all the details. Whether you’re looking for a personalized itinerary, expert guidance, or worry-free travel arrangements, we’re here to make your vacation unforgettable. Contact us today at 602-843-5100 or toll-free at 888-222-7594 to start planning your perfect getaway. Your Panama Canal adventure awaits!