Brief History
One of the greatest engineering feats of the modern era is the excavation of the Panama Canal. Excavating the canal was equivalent to digging a trench 10 feet deep by 55 feet wide from California to New York. 152.9 million cubic meters of dirt were removed. Enough to fill railroad flatcars that, placed end-to-end, would circle the globe four times.
Six immense locks were constructed to raise vessels 85 feet above sea level to Gatun Lake and then back down to sea level again. The Canal is literally a bridge of water that provides passage for 14,000 ocean-going vessels a year. It takes approximately nine hours to transit the 50-mile canal – shaving some 9,000 miles from the trip around Cape Horn.
When to Go
Panama has two distinct seasons. The dry season lasts from mid-December to mid-April while the rainy season goes from mid-April to December. On the Caribbean side of Panama, it rains all year round. However, it tends to rain less in February, March, September and October than it does the rest of the year. Transiting the canal is best from October to March.
Currency
The official currency is the Balboa.
Passport/Visa Requirements
A passport valid six months or longer after return and visa are required for US citizens.
Ready to Go?
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Itinerary 1 – Panama Adventure
The Panama Canal, transporting 12,000 ships a year between the two great oceans, is undoubtedly one of the world's greatest engineering feats. More than just the location of the world-famous canal, Panama is an adventure destination waiting to be discovered. Raft and kayak past untouched jungle and unspoiled reefs. Discover Panama's solitary Caribbean islands and crystal clear rivers. Two days in Panama City discovering the fascinating history of this city, as well as the canal. Then spend six days Mamoni River rafting, San Blas Islands kayaking, snorkeling, hiking, and swimming. 9 nights $2,584. Book it! |
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Itinerary 2 – Panama Canal Cruise
There is really no way you can fathom this engineering masterpiece than to pass thru it. Jungle, islands, wildlife, history can be experienced in addition to the fabulous onboard experience of a great Panama Canal Cruise. Explore the Panama Canal, The Caribbean, Central America and Mexico. Ft. Lauderdale to Los Angeles. 15 nights, starting at $2,049. Book it! |
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Itinerary 3 – Customize It!
OK. We’ve given you a couple of ideas. Not quite what you are looking for? Whether you are a solo traveler or a group of 1000, like to rough it or prefer being pampered, we’ll create your dream vacation. We can tweak one of these, or start from scratch. Call today and we’ll get right on it. Book it! |
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