Canal Expansion Agua Clara, Rainforest Safari & San Lorenzo Fort

The Canal Expansion Agua Clara, Rainforest Safari & San Lorenzo Fort tour combines engineering, nature, and history for an unforgettable adventure. Guests explore the impressive Agua Clara locks, designed for the New Panamax ships, and enjoy the lush rainforest teeming with wildlife. But the real treasure lies in uncovering the captivating past of the San Lorenzo Fort, where tales of piracy and intrigue await to be discovered.

Key Points

• Explore the Agua Clara section of the Panama Canal expansion, which accommodates New Panamax ships, as part of this full-day combination tour.
• Observe diverse wildlife, including sloths, monkeys, and anteaters, during the rainforest safari portion of the tour.
• Visit the UNESCO-listed San Lorenzo Fort, which has historical significance related to the notorious pirate Henry Morgan.
• The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, a professional driver, a multilingual guide, and a provided lunch with beverages.
• Guests should be ready at the designated pickup location during the specified timeframe, as punctuality is essential due to the tight schedule.

Tour Overview and Highlights

This full-day combination tour from Panama City allows visitors to explore the Panama Canal, tour the UNESCO-listed San Lorenzo Fort, and embark on a rainforest safari to spot diverse wildlife.

Highlights include a scenic trip through the rainforest with sightings of sloths, monkeys, and anteaters, as well as a visit to the Agua Clara section of the Panama Canal expansion, which can accommodate New Panamax ships.

The tour also includes a stop at the historical San Lorenzo Fort, known for its connection to the infamous pirate Henry Morgan.

Inclusions and Logistics

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation by air-conditioned minivan or minibus, and a professional driver and multi-lingual guide.

Enjoy comfortable transportation and knowledgeable guidance with hotel pickup and drop-off on this tour.

Beverages, such as soda, water, and local beer, as well as lunch, are provided.

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

Clients from hotels outside Panama City must arrange their own transport to designated pickup points.

The tour concludes with drop-off at the hotel, and any complaints about missed pickups or cancellations due to minimum passenger limits have been noted.

Pickup and Timing

The pickup time for the tour is scheduled between 10:15 am and 11:00 am.

Clients staying at hotels outside Panama City must arrange their own transport to the designated pickup points.

The tour concludes with drop-off at the client’s hotel.

Punctuality is crucial, as the tour operates on a tight schedule to accommodate the Canal expansion and rainforest activities.

Guests are advised to be ready at their pickup location during the specified timeframe to ensure a smooth start to their day of exploration and discovery.

Guest Experiences and Feedback

How do guests generally rate and describe their experiences on this combination tour? The tour receives high ratings, with a 4.5-star average from 194 reviews.

This combination tour receives high ratings, with a 4.5-star average from 194 reviews, according to guest experiences.

Guests praise the knowledgeable and engaging guides, who provide educational insights into the region’s history and ecology. The wildlife sightings, including sloths, monkeys, and anteaters, are a highlight for many.

However, some guests note discrepancies between the promised rainforest walking experience and the actual itinerary. Plus, a few complaints mention missed pickups or tour cancellations due to minimum passenger requirements.

Still, the majority of feedback emphasizes the tour’s comprehensive approach to showcasing Panama’s natural and historical attractions.

Recommendations and Tips

To make the most of the combination tour, guests are advised to bring binoculars for enhanced wildlife viewing.

Prepare for the heat by bringing an umbrella for shade.

Communicating specific interests, such as wildlife or historical sites, with the guide can ensure a personalized experience.

Visitors should enjoy the educational aspects of the tour, particularly the insights into Panama’s history and ecology.

Panama Canal Expansion at Agua Clara

Although the Agua Clara section of the Panama Canal expansion project is a lesser-known aspect of the tour, it offers visitors a unique opportunity to witness the impressive engineering feats behind accommodating the new generation of larger "New Panamax" ships.

This US$15 (adults) or US$10 (children) entry fee allows guests to observe the canal’s infrastructure, such as the wider and deeper locks, that enable the passage of these colossal vessels.

The Agua Clara segment provides a fascinating glimpse into the technological advancements that have revolutionized global maritime trade through the iconic Panama Canal.

Exploring the Rainforest Wildlife

After traversing the iconic Panama Canal, the tour takes guests on an immersive journey through the lush rainforests surrounding the canal.

Keen eyes may spot sloths, monkeys, and anteaters leisurely moving through the verdant canopy. The guide points out the diverse flora and fauna, sharing insights into the rainforest’s delicate ecosystem.

Guests may even catch a glimpse of rare bird species darting between the towering trees. The serene atmosphere and abundance of wildlife create a truly captivating experience, allowing visitors to appreciate the natural wonder of Panama’s tropical forests.

Discovering the San Lorenzo Fort

The tour then moves on to the UNESCO-listed San Lorenzo Fort, a historical site with deep ties to Panama’s past.

This impressive fortress, built in the 17th century, played a crucial role in defending against pirate attacks, most notably from the notorious Henry Morgan.

Visitors can explore the fort’s well-preserved walls and ramparts, imagining the battles that once raged here.

The guide provides insights into the fort’s strategic location and the significance of its role in Panama’s colonial history.

Guests are captivated by the fort’s striking architecture and the stunning coastal vistas that surround it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Suitable for People With Mobility Issues?

The tour may not be fully suitable for people with mobility issues. While hotel pickup and drop-off are included, the tour involves walking in a rainforest setting and visiting a historical fort, which could be challenging for those with limited mobility.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Guests can bring their own snacks and drinks on the tour. However, the tour includes beverages, lunch, and entrance fees, so bringing your own may not be necessary. Check with the tour provider for any specific policies or recommendations.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have any age restrictions or requirements. Children of all ages are welcome to participate. However, discounted rates are offered for children under 10 years old.

What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy for This Tour?

The tour has a flexible cancellation policy – full refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. Last-minute cancellations may incur fees. Customers should check the operator’s policies when booking.

Can We Customize the Itinerary or Activities During the Tour?

Yes, the tour can be customized to some extent. Guests can communicate their specific interests, such as focusing more on wildlife viewing or historical sites, with the guide who will try to accommodate their preferences during the tour.

The Sum Up

The Canal Expansion Agua Clara, Rainforest Safari & San Lorenzo Fort tour offers an immersive experience that blends the engineering marvel of the Panama Canal’s expansion, the vibrant biodiversity of the surrounding rainforest, and the captivating history of the San Lorenzo Fort. Guests can expect an enriching adventure that showcases the diverse wonders of Panama.