Gamboa

Things to do in Gamboa

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Top 10 attractions in Gamboa

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Panama Canal
No. 1 of Best Things to Do in Panama

Panama Canal

7.9
4.7/5
127 reviews
The Panama Canal is located in Panama, Central America, and spans the Isthmus of Panama. It is 82 km long and up to 304m wide, making it one of the world's greatest engineering feats. The Panama Canal provides a shortcut for ships traveling from the Atlantic to the Pacific, allowing them to avoid sailing around South America and shortening the voyage by over 10,000 nautical miles. The canal features 3 sets of locks used to raise or lower water levels, allowing ships to move from one water level to another. Visitors can view the canal from three locations: theMiraflores Lockson the Pacific side, the Gatun Locks, and the on the Atlantic side. From the observation deck, you can watch the entire process of ships slowly passing through, including the lowering of water levels, the opening of gates, towing by locomotives, sailors and passengers on the ships waving, the closing of gates, and the raising of water levels.Corregimiento de Cristobal · 3.5 km from Gamboa
Soberania National Park
No. 2 of Best Things to Do in Ancon

Soberania National Park

4.2
4.7/5
5 reviews
Soberania National Park is rich in flora and fauna. You can go deep into the jungle and visit the natural habitats of monkeys, armadillos, sloths, birds, and along the plantation trail to find cash crops such as cocoa, rubber and coffee plants, all the way along to see the spectacular Great view of waterfalls. It's a great place to relax and a great choice for campers.Ancon · 6.5 km from Gamboa
San Felipe
No. 1 of Night Attractions in Panama

San Felipe

7
4.8/5
59 reviews
San Felipe is the historic core of Panama City. In 1671, when the pirate Henry Morgan attacked, the original Panama City was nearly destroyed by fire. Survivors subsequently built a new walled city on a peninsula extending into the bay. The current layout of the neighborhood was established then, and it was inscribed on the World Heritage List in 1997 as the Historic District of Panama. The charm of this neighborhood lies in the juxtaposition of the old and the new. Beside renovated colorful houses, cafes, and craft shops, there are still mottled, unrestored old buildings. On one side are colonial-era batteries, while on the other, the skyscrapers of Panama City stand in full view.Panama City · 25.6 km from Gamboa
Old Panama
No. 3 of Best Things to Do in Panama

Old Panama

6.9
4.5/5
29 reviews
Old Panama is the predecessor of Panama City. It was founded in 1519 by Spanish colonizer Pedrarias Dávila and subsequently became the gateway for the Spanish to establish a foothold on the Pacific coast of the Americas. In 1671, Welsh pirate Henry Morgan led a team across the jungle from the Caribbean coast to attack. The old city was reduced to ruins during the looting and fire, and survivors built a new city a few km to the west, leaving these ruins as they were to this day. Today, it has been turned into an open-air archaeological site park, surrounded by modern neighborhoods. The cathedral tower is the landmark of the entire site. Climbing the stairs to the top of the tower, you can see the ruins and the Bay of Panama on one side, and a cluster of modern skyscrapers on the other, creating a striking contrast between the old and new cities.Parque Lefevre · 26.6 km from Gamboa
Miraflores Locks

Miraflores Locks

4.9
5.0/5
1 reviews
is one of the locks on the Panama Canal, and its spectacular ship lifting process attracts visitors from all over the world. At the observation deck, visitors can observe the entire process of ships passing through the locks up close, experience the wonderful combination of engineering and nature, and feel the grandeur and ingenuity of this century-old project. In addition, interactive exhibits and films provide a detailed introduction to the history, construction process, and operating principles of the Panama Canal, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding of the role ofMiraflores Locksin global trade and its impact on the world economy.Miraflores Locksis not only a paradise for engineering enthusiasts but also a must-visit destination for all travelers interested in human ingenuity and natural wonders. Whether you are here for a short stop or an in-depth exploration, it will bring you an unforgettable experience.Ancon · 17.9 km from Gamboa
Bridge of the Americas
No. 4 of Best Things to Do in Panama

Bridge of the Americas

5.9
4.0/5
12 reviews
Bridge of the Americas is an important landmark in Panama City, spanning the Panama Canal. The bridge is a steel arch structure that opened to traffic in 1962. It is over 1.6 km long, with its arch suspended high above the sea, forming a striking arc visible from afar in the Gulf of Panama. The Pan-American Highway connects the North and South American continents right here, and the bridge is thus considered a testament to the history of the Panama Canal and the development of modern transportation. Ocean-going cargo ships and cruise ships traversing the canal must slowly pass under the bridge. Watching the massive ships line up and pass through one by one under the bridge is a sight rarely seen elsewhere.Veracruz · 24.3 km from Gamboa
Plaza de Francia
No. 5 of Best Things to Do in Panama

Plaza de Francia

5.8
4.5/5
35 reviews
Plaza de Francia is a public space steeped in history and culture, named to commemorate France's contribution to the construction of the Panama Canal, and surrounded by colonial-era architecture that showcases a unique French flair. In the center of the square stands a towering granite obelisk, topped with a bronze Gallic rooster, a traditional symbol of France. The sides of the monument feature busts of individuals such as de Lesseps, who led the Suez Canal project, while the surrounding stone plaques and bronze panels commemorate the tens of thousands of workers and engineers who perished from malaria and yellow fever. It is also a venue for various cultural events and festivals, where visitors have the opportunity to experience local music, dance, and art performances.Panama City · 26.2 km from Gamboa
Summit Municipal Park

Summit Municipal Park

3.4
Ancon · 8.5 km from Gamboa
Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of Santa Maria the Ancient
No. 6 of Best Things to Do in Panama

Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of Santa Maria the Ancient

5.6
4.6/5
6 reviews
Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of Santa Maria the Ancient is the cathedral of the Archdiocese of Panama and a landmark in the old town. Construction of the cathedral began in the late 17th century and took over a hundred years to complete; its design was created by military engineer Nicolás Rodríguez. The gray-white stone facade is primarily characterized by Renaissance-style classical ornamentation, with hints of Baroque flair; the white bell towers on both sides of the main facade are particularly striking, with mother-of-pearl from the Pearl Islands embedded in the towers, shimmering with iridescent light in the sun. Inside, the cathedral's vaulted ceiling is supported by dozens of cruciform stone columns, with the white columns contrasting sharply with the dark wooden ceiling. The main altar, crafted by French artisans in the late 19th century, and the Art Deco-style stained-glass windows are worth a close look. During the day, light streams through the glass into the hall, creating a quiet and solemn atmosphere.Panama City · 25.7 km from Gamboa
Panama Canal Museum
No. 1 of Family-friendly Attractions in Panama

Panama Canal Museum

4.8
4.7/5
31 reviews
The Panama Canal Museum is an important window into the Panama Canal, the Bridge of the World. Established in 1997, the museum uses 10 exhibition halls to detail the historical evolution of the canal, from the planning by France and construction by the United States to the management system of Panama. The building itself is also rich in architectural character. Inside, there is also a 3D film that vividly introduces the construction process and principles of the canal, along with many hands-on experiences for visitors. It is well worth a visit.Panama City · 25.8 km from Gamboa

Experiences you can't miss in Gamboa

Featured Day tours in Gamboa

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Monkey Tour Adventure with Gamboa Rainforest Nature Walk
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5.0/5
· 22 reviews
Duration: 6 hrs
Free cancellation
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22 consecutive positive reviews
FromQAR 437.40
Panama: Guided Northbound Panama Canal Cruise
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4.8/5
· 63 reviews
Duration: 6 hrs
Free cancellation
93.7% of travelers recommend
5% off
Limited-time sale
FromQAR 570.75QAR 600.79
Gamboa Rainforest Tour: Tram, Monkeys, Sloths & Buffet
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5% off
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FromQAR 726.37QAR 764.6
Panama City: Canopy, a 10-line adventure circuit, Gamboa
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5.0/5
· 2 reviews
Duration: 2 hrs
Free cancellation
5% off
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FromQAR 207.50QAR 218.43
Panama City: Chagres primeval rainforest indigenous tribe park 1-day tour (from 1 person)
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FromQAR 321.70
Panama City old town and Panama Canal 1-day tour (join-in tour/private tour)
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5.0/5
· 1 review
Duration: 2.6 hrs
English
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FromQAR 365.95

Featured Cultural experiences in Gamboa

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Bike tour in Old City and Cinta costera with local markets
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4.9/5
· 16 reviews
Duration: 2–3 hrs
English
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FromQAR 127.58
Legends of Casco Viejo Tour: Uncover Hidden Gems
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4.9/5
· 1.1k reviews
Duration: 2–3 hrs
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97.6% of travelers recommend
FromQAR 134.87
Panama City: Legends and Hidden Gems of Casco Viejo Tour
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4.9/5
· 409 reviews
Duration: 2.5–3 hrs
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54 consecutive positive reviews
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FromQAR 134.89QAR 141.99
“Bike Tour in Casco Viejo, panama city with local markets"
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Duration: 3 hrs
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FromQAR 138.33QAR 145.62
Panamá City: One Night in Rooftops and Nightclubs of Panama
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4.8/5
· 20 reviews
Duration: 4.5 hrs
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FromQAR 74.17QAR 78.08

Featured Outdoor experiences in Gamboa

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Panama City: POIN Panama City Climb Experience
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Duration: 1 hr
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FromQAR 111.02QAR 116.87
Snorkeling on The Caribbean side of Panama
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4.8/5
· 39 reviews
Duration: 8 hrs
English
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97.4% of travelers recommend
FromQAR 473.85
Panama City Visit an Indian town Embera and waterfall with lunch
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4.9/5
· 60 reviews· 30 booked
Duration: 7 hrs
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47 consecutive positive reviews
FromQAR 178.61
Embera Village Day Tour, Chagres River & Waterfalls + Lunch, Fruits & Water
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4.9/5
· 85 reviews
Duration: 6 hrs
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54 consecutive positive reviews
FromQAR 473.81
Tour to a waterfall and Embera village with lunch included
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4.9/5
· 403 reviews
Duration: 7 hrs
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70 consecutive positive reviews
FromQAR 189.54

Free things to do in Gamboa

What travelers say about Gamboa

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JQKABBQApril 21, 2022
5.0
Panama City can be divided into old city, ancient city, new city, and the most famous Browse area of ​​the Panama Canal Let’s talk about the old city first. Panama was once a Spanish colony, so it is very Many architectural styles still retain the Baroque style, so casual photos will look great. There is no piece of wood! There are many small commodity shops in the old city, some of which are also owned by Indians. Yes, there are small coffee shops and taverns. Walking around Lao Chen at dusk, watching the sunset Take a picture from the street corner, and it also feels like wood. The camera position is shown in Figure 2. Make people look slim 4 Next is the Panama Canal. Since the author has some official duties, not only I visited the canal and also visited the control room of the canal (but I can’t post it for the time being) come up), but stand on the steps of the canal and feel for yourself what it would be like without the bus How long does the Nama Canal need to go from the Pacific Ocean to the Caribbean Sea? A lap is also a super exciting thing The port of New Town and Panama, the symbol of Panama, are must-visit locations. One, I had two drinks at the Western restaurant next to the port at night, and went to the panama restaurant Making a funny and cute gesture next to your chest is also a romantic gesture.

Panama Canal

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M25***40March 30, 2021
4.0
The pickup for the day went very smoothly. Our guide for the day was Miguel Ibarra, who was very knowledgeable about the local flora and fauna. With his help, we saw many beautiful birds, frogs, monkeys, sloths, etc. The tour started with a pickup from the hotel, but it was definitely worth it!

Soberania National Park

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WB2021May 29, 2021
5.0
Obviously a must visit if you're in the city. This is the older part of the city and its historical center. It features old colonial houses, albeit many are being restored, so there is a slight gentrification aspect to the district. Nevertheless, walking through the streets lined with pastel colored houses is gorgeous. You could easily spend a morning or afternoon strolling through the districts various streets, while resting in the many open spaces when you're tired. Also a nice place to grab a bit to eat!

San Felipe

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中西南北东October 26, 2025
4.0
Plaza Francia, also known as the French Square, is a scenic spot in Panama City's Old Town. Resembling a former castle, it stands on a high point, offering panoramic views of Panama Bay and the city skyline. Looking down, you can spot pelicans resting on the rocks, and to the north, the Bridge of the Americas. Locals also choose this spot for wedding photos. The square also boasts a towering obelisk, commemorating the French workers who built the canal. Atop it stands a bronze sculpture of the Gallic rooster, a symbol of France (more on this in previous notes and reviews). It seems the cost of the early construction of the Panama Canal was immense.

Old Panama

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利吉迪斯冠婴February 13, 2026
5.0
The Mirafloras Locks, the largest locks on the Panama Canal and one of the greatest engineering feats of mankind, have stood here for over a century, connecting the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, and remain an important transit point for international freighters.

Miraflores Locks

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sculptorMay 12, 2020
4.0
The Bridge of the Americas was the first land bridge to connect North and South America. It spans the Pacific Ocean to the entrance of the Panama Canal. There are now two other bridges over the Panama Canal: the Atlantic Bridge at the Gatun Locks and the Centennial Bridge.

Bridge of the Americas

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GenliApril 12, 2025
5.0
Plaza de Francia is a historic square in Panama City, located in the old part of the city (Casco Viejo), facing the entrance to the Pacific Ocean. It was built to commemorate the contribution of the French to the Panama Canal project. There is a marble monument in the square with the inscription "The French people commend the courage and perseverance shown in its work on the Panama Canal project". There are also some historical sites in the square, such as the original walls of Panama City, the Church of Santo Domingo, etc.

Plaza de Francia

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M32***23May 21, 2020
5.0
There happened to be a free choir performance on the day we visited the cathedral. The acoustics were wonderful. Very soulful and charming. And there was that big moving indicator hanging high up in the dome pointing to a white page on the floor. This showed that earthquake movement was visible. The architecture and icons were beautiful. It was easy to feel the peace here. It's a beautiful building.

Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of Santa Maria the Ancient

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_FB***83October 31, 2019
5.0
After the canal tour, we went to museum. Learning about Panama.

Panama Canal Museum

Frequently asked questions

What are the must-do things in Gamboa?

Don't miss these attractions in Gamboa: Panama Canal, Soberania National Park, and San Felipe. If you like Day tours, try Gatun Lake and Gamboa rainforest wildlife observation 1-day tour in Panama (excluding boat fee). If you enjoy Cultural experiences, try Bike tour in Old City and Cinta costera with local markets.

When choosing a tour, start with how much time you have and the kind of experience you're looking for. Trending options right now include Gatun Lake and Gamboa rainforest wildlife observation 1-day tour in Panama (excluding boat fee), Monkey Tour Adventure with Gamboa Rainforest Nature Walk, and Panama: Guided Northbound Panama Canal Cruise. Check the real-time availability and itinerary before you book.

As of October 26, 2026, the reference price for day tours and activities in Gamboa is around QAR 207.5 – QAR 2,020.32. Rates vary by duration, group size, transportation, tickets, meals, and any special admission requirements. Before you book, please confirm the billing currency and whether the price is quoted per person or per group.

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