The Panama Canal is a 50-mile ship canal in Panama, Central America, linking the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. It is also known as the Canal de Panamรก. For visitors, it is one of the clearest places to see how a single waterway can change the way the world moves goods by sea.
What to expect
The canal is a working landmark as well as a historic one. Ships of many kinds pass through it, so a visit is often about watching the traffic and the locks at work, and about understanding the scale of what was built. The description of the canal as one of the greatest engineering achievements in history is a fair reason to come and look closely.
- Type of visit: a landmark and an engineering site, suited to those interested in maritime trade and construction.
- Location: the canal runs across Panama, between the Atlantic and Pacific sides.
- Connections: the waterway's role in global shipping makes it a natural stop for anyone travelling through the country.
Planning your trip
The canal is listed under the address Panama Canal, Panama. For current information on visiting, you can call +507 272-1111 before you go. Because this guide does not list opening times or fees, check these directly so that your plans match the day you choose to come.
Allow time to explore the area around the canal, and to consider what else the country has to offer while you are there. A visit pairs well with a wider look at Panama's cities and coasts.