San Lorenzo Fort and Agua Clara-Gatun Locks Panama Canal Tour in Panama City, Panama
Panama City, Panama

San Lorenzo Fort and Agua Clara-Gatun Locks Panama Canal Tour

Outty Ranking 56 4.8 · 5 traveler reviews6 hoursFrom $200
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Outty Ranking

56/100

Worth a Look. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

4.8/5

Based on 5 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is San Lorenzo Fort and Agua Clara-Gatun Locks Panama Canal Tour worth booking?

San Lorenzo Fort and Agua Clara-Gatun Locks Panama Canal Tour is a 6-hour experience in Panama City, Panama, from $200 per person. It scores 56 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look”, based on a 4.8/5 rating across 5 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
56 / 100
Rating
4.8/5 (5)
Duration
6 hours
From
$200 per person

Join us on a 7-hour tour of the less-visited Fort San Lorenzo and the Agua Clara Locks of the Panama Canal. Your English-speaking guide will pick you up at 7:00 a.m. from your accommodation in Panama City. Travel across the impressive Third Bridge over the Panama Canal to the Caribbean side. Our first stop is the Agua Clara Locks, where you can watch enormous ships pass by, explore the visitor center, and learn how engineers expanded the canal for the new Panamax vessels. Afterward, we'll head to the new Gatun Locks Observation Deck for panoramic views of the canal in operation. Around 10:00 a.m., we'll continue to Fort San Lorenzo, arriving at 11:00 a.m. Discover the ruins and rich history of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. At noon, we'll begin the return trip to Panama City, arriving at your hotel around 2:00 p.m.

What you get

    About this experience

    Join us on a 7-hour tour of the less-visited Fort San Lorenzo and the Agua Clara Locks of the Panama Canal. Your English-speaking guide will pick you up at 7:00 a.m. from your accommodation in Panama City. Travel across the impressive Third Bridge over the Panama Canal to the Caribbean side. Our first stop is the Agua Clara Locks, where you can watch enormous ships pass by, explore the visitor center, and learn how engineers expanded the canal for the new Panamax vessels. Afterward, we'll head to the new Gatun Locks Observation Deck for panoramic views of the canal in operation. Around 10:00 a.m., we'll continue to Fort San Lorenzo, arriving at 11:00 a.m. Discover the ruins and rich history of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. At noon, we'll begin the return trip to Panama City, arriving at your hotel around 2:00 p.m.

    What's included

    Included

    • Certified guide
    • Bottled water

    Not included

    • Lunch
    • Alcoholic beverages
    • Tea and coffee
    • Entrance to San Lorenzo
    • Entrance fees to the Agua Clara Locks

    What you'll see and do

    1. Panama City

      Start this adventure with the pick up at your hotel where we will travel by car along the Panama-Colon highway where the adventure of this great tour begins (the train will not be available for a good period due to traffic issues, that is why we decided to do the tour by car).

      60 minutes here

    2. Fort San Lorenzo

      The Fort of San Lorenzo, located at the entrance of the Chagres River in the province of Colón, Panama. It was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1980 under the name of the Fortifications of the Caribbean coast of Panama, with the fortifications of the city of Portobelo. They formed the defensive system for the transatlantic trade of the Crown of Spain and are a magnificent example of the military architecture of the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries. This place has a cost of 5 per person.

      180 minutes here · Admission not included

    3. Colon

      Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1980, the Fort of San Lorenzo is located at the mouth of the Chagres River on a promontory west of the Panama Canal. Despite its violent history, much of the original San Lorenzo fort is well preserved, including its moat, cannons and vaulted chambers. The fort also commands impressive views of the river and bay far below, which was one of the strategic reasons the Spanish chose to settle here.

      120 minutes here

    Where it starts and ends

    Hotel pickup

    Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 30 minutes before departure.

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    en, es
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Every day
    Group size
    Up to 15 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    RD TOUR PTY

    Know before you go

    • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
    • Service animals allowed
    • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

    Photos

    San Lorenzo fortress, San Lorenzo Fort and Agua Clara-Gatun Locks Panama Canal Tour in Panama CityBóvedas San Lorenzo, San Lorenzo Fort and Agua Clara-Gatun Locks Panama Canal Tour in Panama CitySan Lorenzo Fort and Agua Clara-Gatun Locks Panama Canal Tour in Panama City, photo 4San Lorenzo Fort and Agua Clara-Gatun Locks Panama Canal Tour in Panama City, photo 5San Lorenzo Fort and Agua Clara-Gatun Locks Panama Canal Tour in Panama City, photo 6San Lorenzo Fort and Agua Clara-Gatun Locks Panama Canal Tour in Panama City, photo 7

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 5 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    The guide

    3 mentions

    Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Knowledge and storytelling

    2 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    Photo opportunities

    1 mention

    The views and photo stops come up again and again.

    Food and drink

    1 mention

    The tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.

    Good for families

    1 mention

    Reviewers traveling with kids report it landed well with their group.

    Pace and timing

    1 mention

    Several reviewers comment on how the schedule is paced.

    Traveler reviews

    5 verified traveler reviews for San Lorenzo Fort and Agua Clara-Gatun Locks Panama Canal Tour. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    4
    4 star
    1
    3 star
    0
    2 star
    0
    1 star
    0
    Sort
    mcpreston · February 2020

    Caribbean history

    Superb tour with the two guides Gustavo and Joseph just for us. They took every care of us, were knowledgeable and advised us of the sights with accuracy and humour. The train ride was very good and enjoyable experience; we decided to move out of the crowded do e car to enjoy a comfortable ride in the wood-panelled carriages with viewing platforms that allowed easier photography. The Fuerte San Lorenzo was very worthwhile and à key piece of Panamanian history. From there the journey along the Caribbean coast was a beautiful ride through authentic townships to the antique ‚pearl‘ of Portobelo: unchanged and unspoilt, it was a true glimpse into Panama‘s history in a stunning setting. The trip finished with a swimming opportunity on one of the coast‘s most charming beaches: no foreign tourists apart from we two. Superb. Wonderful guides, great fun and an excellent tour fir history buffs. No hesitation in recommending it, or even doing it again. Thanks Gustavo and Joseph !

    Response from the operator: Dear Mark We are honored with your five-star rating and your excellent recommendation. The main mission and promisor of our company is to provide a unique experience. We will use your comments to make sure we are constantly working to get better experiences. We will tell Gustavo and Josehp your good recommendations. Thank you for choosing us

    via Viator

    williamtoddlaw · February 2020

    Fun personal guided tour

    Private guided tour with two wonderful tour guides (Gustavo and Joseph) who spoke English. Saw wild monkeys. Took us to a restaurant to get empanadas and coffee. Had a wonderful Latin lunch at a roadside cafe. The forts were great. Fun train ride. Good tour!!

    Response from the operator: Dear William We are honored with your five-star rating and your excellent recommendation. The main mission and promisor of our company is to provide a unique experience. We will use your comments to make sure we are constantly working to get better experiences. We will tell Gustavo and Josehp your good recommendations. Thank you for choosing us

    via Viator

    alejq · November 2019

    Comfort and liberation

    It is a truly beautiful adventure, whenever I can I try to give myself a break and this has been one of the best

    Response from the operator: Gracias nos sentimos honrados por su calificación y su brillante recomendación a nuestra compañía y futuros viajeros. La misión principal de nuestra compañía es brindar una experiencia de calidad, segura y confortable a nuestros viajeros. Agradecemos sinceramente sus comentarios. Gracias por preferirnos

    via Tripadvisor (translated)

    Patrick_D · October 2019

    Excellent Experience in Panama!

    This was an excellent tour starting with a ride on the Panama Canal Railway. The trip through the rain forest was excellent, the rail car was very comfortable and the snacks were welcome. What I liked about this tour was that it went to both San Lorenzo and Portobelo. Most tours I have found only go to Portobelo. To get to San Lorenzo we had to pass through a military check point, and then drive along a very poorly maintained road. The driver we had was great (Francisco) and navigated the craters with ease, keeping me, my wife and two young children safe. Once in San Lorenzo, the fort was an awesome experience for me and my children. They loved climbing on the canons. Our guide was Gustavo was very knowledgeable and was amazing with my very active children (5 and 3 year old). The next stop was Portobelo, and this was a very different experience given that it is right in the middle of the town. We went to a church first to see the Black Christ, then next door was San Jeronimo fort. This seemed more run down than San Lorenzo, I can see why UNESCO has placed these forts on the sites in danger list. A slight disappointment was the Custom's House museum beside the fort was closed, but otherwise this tour was fantastic. I cannot say enough good things about Gustavo and Francisco as guide and driver. They stopped when we needed it, they didn't rush things, they let us decide what we wanted to do and how much time we needed at each stop. They got us back to our hotel before the rush hour chaos of Panama City also which was a huge plus.

    Response from the operator: Thank you, we are honored by your five star rating and your brilliant recommendation to our company and future travelers. The main mission of our company is to provide a quality, safe and comfortable experience to our travelers. We'll let Gustavo and francisco know about his valuable recommendation. We sincerely appreciate your feedback. Thank you for preferring us

    via Viator

    Good to know

    Duration
    6 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Every day
    Hotel pickup
    Included for all travelers
    Booked in 30 days
    2
    Verdict
    Worth a Look

    Why this scores 56

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)78
    Review evidence (18% weight)26
    Booking momentum (14% weight)19
    Value for money (12% weight)39
    Listing quality (10% weight)85
    Local standing (8% weight)53
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    San Lorenzo Fort and Agua Clara-Gatun Locks Panama Canal Tour: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Panama City.

    How much does San Lorenzo Fort and Agua Clara-Gatun Locks Panama Canal Tour cost?

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    Prices start at $200 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Panama City usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does San Lorenzo Fort and Agua Clara-Gatun Locks Panama Canal Tour take?

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    Plan for about 6 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Panama City is not rushed.

    Is San Lorenzo Fort and Agua Clara-Gatun Locks Panama Canal Tour worth it?

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    It holds an Outty Ranking of 56 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.8/5 across 5 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Panama City, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule San Lorenzo Fort and Agua Clara-Gatun Locks Panama Canal Tour?

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    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is San Lorenzo Fort and Agua Clara-Gatun Locks Panama Canal Tour suitable for kids and families?

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    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 6-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book San Lorenzo Fort and Agua Clara-Gatun Locks Panama Canal Tour?

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    Around 2 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Panama City can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

    +

    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Panama City and add a light layer if any part of the 6-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does San Lorenzo Fort and Agua Clara-Gatun Locks Panama Canal Tour start and how do I get there?

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    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Panama City within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Panama City?

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    On Outty we rank every Panama City experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Tour to a waterfall and Embera village with lunch included, Ocean to Ocean Combo: Canal Boat Safari, Agua Clara & Gatun Locks, Half day of Panama city and canal tour: shared and private. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Panama City?

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    Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Panama City?

    +

    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

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    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

    What is included in San Lorenzo Fort and Agua Clara-Gatun Locks Panama Canal Tour?

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    Included: Certified guide; and Bottled water. Not included: Lunch; Alcoholic beverages; Tea and coffee; and Entrance to San Lorenzo. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Does San Lorenzo Fort and Agua Clara-Gatun Locks Panama Canal Tour include hotel pickup?

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    Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 12 listed pickup locations in and around Panama City. Be ready about 30 minutes before the start time. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.

    What languages is San Lorenzo Fort and Agua Clara-Gatun Locks Panama Canal Tour offered in?

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    It is offered in English and Spanish. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.

    Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for San Lorenzo Fort and Agua Clara-Gatun Locks Panama Canal Tour?

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    Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.

    Is San Lorenzo Fort and Agua Clara-Gatun Locks Panama Canal Tour wheelchair or stroller accessible?

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    The operator notes: Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; and Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to San Lorenzo Fort and Agua Clara-Gatun Locks Panama Canal Tour if the weather is bad?

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    This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.

    What do travelers say about San Lorenzo Fort and Agua Clara-Gatun Locks Panama Canal Tour?

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    Across 5 reviews averaging 4.8 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, photo opportunities. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works. One thing to know: Several reviewers comment on how the schedule is paced.

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