11 Mar Visiting the Miraflores Locks in Panama City
By Natalie Warner
Visiting the Panama Canal is often considered a “must see” by visitors. The Canal is an icon of Panama. Completed in 1914, the Panama Canal is one of the greatest engineering achievements in modern time. The Miraflores Locks are located on the Pacific Ocean side of Panama, and the closest to Playa Coronado. The Miraflores Locks is the only set of locks that includes both a visitor’s center to view the ships and a museum.
During your visit you can access the observation decks to view passing ships. Visiting in the morning when the Miraflores Visitor Center first opens will ensure the likelihood of seeing multiple ships go through the Canal. Another optimal time to see ships is after 3pm, when they are transiting from the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific Ocean.
There are three observation decks: the primary observation deck is located on the 4th floor. This observation deck allows for the best views of the entire ship, however, it is also the most crowded. Other observation decks are located on the second floor and on the primary level. These observation decks offer varying views of the ship, but are often less crowded than the primary observation deck. Elevators are available for those unable to climb stairs. If an elevator is needed, expect a line, as it is frequently used.
Seeing the ships transit through the Miraflores Locks, is not the only thing to do at the Visitors Center. You can watch a short film, available in English or Spanish, about the Canal. Exhibition halls allow you to further explore the Canal’s history, gain further knowledge of Canal operations and the biodiversity in Panama.
A few fun facts:
- Because of the tide difference between the oceans (20 feet on the Pacific Ocean and 3 feet with the Atlantic ocean), the Canal uses gravity to raise and lower ships in order to transit between both oceans.
- The average toll for the Canal is roughly $150,000, although larger ships typically pay approximately $450,000.
- The cheapest toll was $0.36 set by a person swimming the canal. The most expensive toll was $829,468.
- Each door for the Miraflores Locks weighs 750 tons.
- The Canal shortens transit times by nearly 14 days, for ships traveling between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.
There are two gastronomy options at the Visitors Center. One is Café Duran, located on the primary level of the center. Here, you can see ships in transit while enjoying a pastry and a cup of coffee. The other dining option is Atlantic and Pacific Restaurant. This restaurant offers seating on a terrace, enabling guests to enjoy a meal while seeing the Canal. Atlantic and Pacific Restaurant offers a variety of Panamanian cuisine; the prices may not be for those looking for a budget friendly meal as many dishes average $20/plate.
Ideal for children and adults alike, visiting the Miraflores Locks can be a fun and exciting opportunity to see operations in action. Hours for the Miraflores Locks Entrance. Hours for the exhibition halls are from 9:00am-5:00pm daily. Box office hours are from 9:00am-4:15pm. Fees are shown in the picture below.
Transportation from Coronado to the Miraflores Locks is available. Plan a day trip and explore different areas around the City. Consider Coronado Concierge Panama to explore and enjoy a Panama City and Miraflores Day Tour, visit the newly expanded Agua Clara Locks, or a customized trip to suit your interests. Contact us for more information!