History and Nature of the Emblematic Panama Canal

HIGHLIGHTS
THE PANAMA CANAL ADMINISTRATION BUILDING, GATUN LAKE, PANAMA CANAL, MIRAFLORES VISITOR CENTER AT THE PANAMA CANAL

1. The Panama Canal Administration Building:
The Panama Canal Administration Building was inaugurated on July 15, 1914 as a landmark for Panamanian history. This veritable legacy from the past is an important part of the Panama Canal history. 
Chief Engineer George W. Goethals set his sights on the construction of a permanent building to physically centralize administrative activities in 1912. The Panamanian nation cherishes the Administration Building as an enduring symbol of their pride, commitment and history; it is beautiful structure worth visiting during your stay in Panama.

2. Panama Canal and Gatun Lake Expedition: 
Embark on a boat journey across Gatun Lake, a key part of the Panama Canal route, and navigate alongside massive ships. As you cruise through the waterway, you'll experience the excitement of being just meters away from these giant vessels. Surrounded by the lush rainforest, the lake offers breathtaking views and a chance to spot exotic wildlife, such as monkeys, tropical birds, and crocodiles. The sounds of the jungle create a perfect soundtrack as you explore hidden islands and witness the Panama Canal’s daily operations up close, all while surrounded by natural beauty.

3. Lunch at Gamboa Rainforest Resort.

4. Miraflores Visitor Center at the Panama Canal:
Your guide will take you on a private tour of the Miraflores Visitor Center. Here you will learn about the history, biodiversity, the operation of the canal and its importance for international commerce.

*Museum exhibitions are currently not available.

The Panama Canal is one of the two most strategic waterways in the world, the other being the Suez Canal. Constructed in 1914, it joined two oceans changing international trade forever. The 50-mile long pathway shortens the voyage between the Pacific and the Caribbean Sea about 8,000 nautical miles (15,000 km).   Between 13,000 and 14,000 ships use the Panama Canal every year from more than 1,700 port towns in over 160 countries.
 

HIGHLIGHTS

THE PANAMA CANAL ADMINISTRATION BUILDING, GATUN LAKE, PANAMA CANAL, MIRAFLORES VISITOR CENTER AT THE PANAMA CANAL

1. The Panama Canal Administration Building:
The Panama Canal Administration Building was inaugurated on July 15, 1914 as a landmark for Panamanian history. This veritable legacy from the past is an important part of the Panama Canal history. 
Chief Engineer George W. Goethals set his sights on the construction of a permanent building to physically centralize administrative activities in 1912. The Panamanian nation cherishes the Administration Building as an enduring symbol of their pride, commitment and history; it is beautiful structure worth visiting during your stay in Panama.

2. Gatun Lake and Panama Canal Expedition: 
Surrounded by the exuberant rain forest, the Gatun Lake was at some point the largest artificial lake of the world.  Fed by the Chagres River this 415 sq. kilometer lake, makes the Panama Canal operation possible.  While navigating the lake, the upper part of chopped and petrified trees can still be seen in the water. The scenery is amazing, the contrast between the water, the rainforest, and the fauna: tropical birds, monkeys, crocodiles, and a vast number of exotic animals.  The jungle sounds will be your orchestra while traversing the Gatun Lake through the Panama Canal, to hidden islands where, should conditions be favorable, you will see families of capuchin, howler and white-face monkeys.

3. Lunch at Gamboa Rainforest Resort.

4. Miraflores Visitor Center at the Panama Canal:
Your guide will take you on a private tour of the Miraflores Visitor Center. Here you will learn about the history, biodiversity, the operation of the canal and its importance for international commerce. *Museum exhibitions are currently not available.