Canal Expansion Agua Clara, Rainforest Safari & San Lorenzo Fort

Exploring the natural wonders and historical significance of Panama has never been more captivating. This tour offers an unmatched experience, combining a thrilling rainforest safari, a visit to the remarkable Agua Clara section of the Panama Canal, and an immersion in the rich colonial past at the UNESCO-listed San Lorenzo Fort. Prepare to witness engineering marvels, spot diverse wildlife, and uncover the intriguing history that defines this enchanting destination.

Key Points

• The tour includes a visit to the Agua Clara section of the expanded Panama Canal, showcasing its engineering marvels.
• Participants can experience a rainforest safari with opportunities to spot wildlife like sloths, monkeys, and anteaters.
• The UNESCO-listed San Lorenzo Fort is explored, providing insights into Panama’s colonial history and strategic importance.
• The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, refreshments, and air-conditioned transportation.
• The small group size of up to 10 travelers makes for a family-friendly and personalized experience.

Tour Overview

The tour offers a full-day combination excursion from Panama City, with hotel pickup and drop-off, refreshments, and air-conditioned transportation.

It includes wildlife watching in the rainforest, a visit to the UNESCO-listed San Lorenzo Fort, and a tour of the Panama Canal extension.

The tour operates in a small group of up to 10 travelers, making it family-friendly.

Highlights include opportunities to spot sloths, monkeys, and anteaters, exploring the historic San Lorenzo Fort, and a tour of the Agua Clara section of the recently expanded Panama Canal.

Rainforest Safari

Although the rainforest safari portion of the tour is relatively brief, it offers visitors a chance to glimpse the diverse wildlife of Panama’s lush jungle environment.

The guide leads the group through the rainforest, keeping an eye out for:

1. Sloths, who move slowly but provide excellent photo opportunities.

2. Monkeys, which are often spotted swinging through the canopy.

3. Anteaters, whose distinctive snouts and long tongues make them a memorable sight.

While the safari isn’t an extensive hike, it provides a tantalizing taste of the natural wonders that abound in this tropical paradise.

San Lorenzo Fort

Steeped in history, the San Lorenzo Fort stands as a powerful reminder of Panama’s strategic importance. This UNESCO-listed site guarded the Las Cruces Trail, a vital trade route.

Visitors can explore the fort’s walls and learn about its role in defending against pirates. The tour includes approximately 45 minutes to wander the grounds and take in the scenic views of the surrounding rainforest and Caribbean coastline.

While not as extensive as the Panama Canal, the San Lorenzo Fort offers a fascinating glimpse into Panama’s rich colonial past and the country’s integral role in regional trade and defense.

Panama Canal Extension

As part of the tour, visitors have the opportunity to explore the Agua Clara section of the Panama Canal expansion, which was inaugurated in the summer of 2016.

This section of the canal offers a unique insight into the engineering marvel that’s the Panama Canal. Guests can expect to spend approximately 45 minutes exploring the locks and learning about the canal’s history and operations.

The tour includes:

A guided visit to the Agua Clara Visitor Center, observation of the canal’s locks and ships, and photo opportunities of the engineering marvels.

1. A guided visit to the Agua Clara Visitor Center, providing an overview of the canal’s expansion.

2. Observation of the canal’s locks and ships in transit.

3. Opportunities to take photos and ask questions about the engineering feats of the Panama Canal.

Inclusions and Fees

The tour includes several key inclusions and fees.

The price covers transport by air-conditioned minivan or minibus, along with a professional driver and multilingual guide. Beverages like soda, water, and local beer are provided.

Entrance fees to the National Park San Lorenzo and the Canal expansion are included, costing $15 for adults and $10 for children. Lunch is also part of the package.

Pickup and Logistics

Pickup for the tour is scheduled between 10:15 am and 11:00 am from hotels in Panama City.

Clients staying outside the city must arrange their own transportation to the designated pickup points.

The tour operator provides clear instructions and confirmation upon booking, allowing for free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.

The key pickup and logistics details are:

1. Pickup window from 10:15 am to 11:00 am at Panama City hotels.

2. Clients outside the city must arrange their own transportation to the pickup locations.

3. Confirmation and free cancellation policy up to 24 hours prior to the tour.

Customer Feedback

Guests have generally provided positive feedback on this combination tour, rating it 4.5 stars based on 195 reviews. Reviewers praised the knowledgeable guides and engaging experiences.

However, some customers complained about the lack of a rainforest walk and communication issues regarding the tour structure.

Overall, guests appreciated the historical and wildlife elements, with suggestions for improved clarity on itinerary details.

While the majority of feedback was favorable, tour operators may want to address the concerns about the rainforest experience and ensure clear communication of the tour’s activities and schedule.

Exploring the Highlights

Although the tour includes several highlights, the rainforest safari and visit to the San Lorenzo Fort stand out as particularly engaging experiences.

The rainforest safari offers opportunities to spot diverse wildlife, including sloths, monkeys, and anteaters in their natural habitat.

The UNESCO-listed San Lorenzo Fort provides a glimpse into the region’s storied past, guarding the vital Las Cruces Trail from pirate attacks.

Plus, the tour of the Agua Clara section of the newly expanded Panama Canal offers a unique perspective on this engineering marvel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?

There is no formal dress code for this tour. Comfortable, casual clothing and closed-toe walking shoes are recommended to enjoy the outdoor activities comfortably. Bringing sun protection and insect repellent is also advisable.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks?

Guests are welcome to bring their own food and drinks on this tour. However, beverages like soda, water, and local beer are already included in the tour price, so bringing additional drinks may not be necessary.

What Types of Wildlife Are Commonly Spotted?

The tour often includes sightings of sloths, monkeys, and anteaters in the rainforest. Guests can expect to spot a variety of tropical wildlife during the wildlife watching portion of the excursion.

How Long Does the Panama Canal Portion Last?

The Panama Canal portion of the tour lasts approximately 45 minutes, allowing guests to explore the locks before returning to Panama City. This provides a chance to witness this engineering marvel up close.

Are There Any Opportunities for Souvenirs or Shopping?

The tour doesn’t include dedicated time for shopping or souvenirs. However, guests may have the opportunity to purchase items at the San Lorenzo Fort site before returning to Panama City.

The Sum Up

The "Canal Expansion Agua Clara, Rainforest Safari & San Lorenzo Fort" tour provides an immersive experience in Panama, blending natural wonders and historical significance. Visitors can explore the Agua Clara section of the Panama Canal, embark on a thrilling rainforest safari, and discover the UNESCO-listed San Lorenzo Fort, all while learning about the country’s rich heritage. This comprehensive tour offers an unforgettable adventure for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike.