You are here: Home » Panama » Guide to Panama » Regions » The Panama Canal
Panama Travel Guide:
Panama Canal
A staggering engineering achievement that has to be seen to be truly appreciated.
Formally handed back to Panama at midnight on 31 December 1999, the Panama Canal’s revenues now benefit the Panamanian economy–these days one of the strongest in Latin America.
Today around 14,000 ships (about 5% of world shipping) pass through the Canal’s 80km each year, with a double lock at Miraflores on the Pacific side, and a single lock at Pedro Miguel, to reach Gatun Lake, the highest point, before the triple Gatun lock that connects to the Caribbean.
Work has begun on locks to accommodate even larger ships.
The story of the Canal is so vivid (see box), and the engineering feat so awesome, that a ‘transit’ through the Canal, or part of it, is a must for anyone.
Around the Canal
Visiting the Panama Canal
tailor-made Panama holidays visiting the Panama Canal:
Expedition cruise visiting the Panama Canal:
› The Panama Canal and the forests of the Pacific Coast
Order a Panama brochure
Order your copy of our in-depth Costa Rica, Panama & Nicaragua travel brochure, packed with inspiration and information on holidays in Panama.
› Order or download a Costa Rica, Panama & Nicaragua brochure
› Flip through a Costa Rica, Panama & Nicaragua brochure now
Contact our Panama specialists
› Phone for advice or drop us an email
Panama Travel Guide
Around Panama:
Panama's beaches and islands:
Panama's Caribbean coast:
Panama's Pacific coast:
Panama factfile:
› How the Panama Canal was built
› Molas
Travel information on Panama:
› Travel Information on Panama
Geodyssey brings you an exclusive selection of thoughtfully designed holidays in amazing locations throughout our destinations in Latin America and the Caribbean. Our holidays focus on what is natural, authentic, comfortable, stylish and affordable, and on what works best in each country. Our tailor-made holidays are individually designed by our experienced team on the basis of in-depth knowledge, a real enthusiasm for our destinations, and a desire to make sure we get it right for each and every customer. All our customers have 100% financial protection. All the land-based holidays on this website are exclusive to Geodyssey. Geodyssey is an independent company managed by its owners, based in London, founded in 1993.
