Colonial Heritage: Guided Walking Tour Through Historical Panama
5.0
15 Ratings
Panamá
Discover the rich colonial heritage of Panama on a guided walking tour through historical cities. Explore narrow streets, churches, and squares while learning about the city's history and its importance. Experience the authentic culture and vibrant colors of Panama.
Duration: 30 minutes
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • Plaza V Centenario - The meeting point will be in the PLAZA V CENTENARIO.
    This is an important point where many parts of colonial history come together. This was the boundary between the area of the slaves and mestizos and the area of the Spanic elite. For centuries it was also the area of unofficial trade, including the opium during the Californian gold rush; was the beginning of the economy outside the wall.

This place is connected with the Chinatown, the group who arrived for the construction of the first railway that linked the Pacific with the Atlantic;You will learn about chinese odyssey in Panama.

This spot was scene of conflicts, adventures, separations, legends and also witness of how a country became the bridge of the world and the heart of the universe. Is an area full of stories, important to understand our history and culture; it will make you understand everything better, beyond a tourist point of view.

  • Salsipuedes - We will cross the famous street of SALSIPUEDES. This is a historic and famous street from the colonial era that was the commercial emporium outside the walled city. almost prohibited for the elite, but necessary for the expansion of the economy and for the survival of the poor classes (slaves, indigenous, mestizos).

Here you can see how the expansion outside the walls begins, we will see the vestiges of a beautiful architecture that little by little reappears.

  • Santa Ana, Panama City - We will walk through the Santa Ana area and the famous PEDESTRIAN WALK; the first great commercial center of Panama and possibly Central America.  This is a mandatory area for those who want to see and feel the real Panama.

With buildings from the beginning of the century that show us styles like: Greek, Moorish,  and Ardeco styles among others;  with hundreds of stores and vendors that will make you understand why we are a meltin pot.

  • Casco Viejo - Casco Viejo Protection Walls:

Like any elite European city of 1600, San Felipe had a sophisticated system of defenses and protection that separated it from the slums; as we walk and learn you will see and understand part of these fortifications sistem.

  • Plaza de Francia - The mastermind behind the Suez Canal, the great Frenchman, Ferdinand de lesseps, arrived in Panama in 1880 convinced of being able to unite the Pacific with the Atlantic.
    and although he didn’t achieve it, his sacrifice and corage is remembered today in this plaza.

Here you will learn more about the French attempt to build a Canal and at the same time you will admire the beautiful view of the Pacific entrance of the Panama Canal.

  • Plaza de la Catedral - You will see the main Plaza of the city and get inside some of the cathedrals. We will also have time for some photos of the beautiful parks and squares. You will have a couple of minutes for a little stop at the Arts and Crafts Center where you can buy some crafts made by our local people.
  • Plaza Bolivar - We cannot just pass by here without stopping to mention the visionary who knew that Panama would be the bridge to the world and the heart of the universe. We will take a few minutes to admire the majestic monument to Simon Bolivar, liberator of nations amd father of the latin american freedom
What's Included
  • Great, friendly, and relaxed atmosphere
  • Professional Certified Bilingual Guide
  • Specialization in History, Geography, Ecology, Ethnics & Culture
What's Not Included
  • Alcoholic Beverages
  • Lunch
  • Snacks
  • In-vehicle air conditioning
  • Private transportation
  • Bottled water
Additional Information

Embark on an entertaining and enlightening journey through the historied paths of three-in-one cities, exploring narrow lanes, religious establishments, and public squares. Gain insights into the story of Panama’s second gem and the reasons behind the city’s relocation post-pirate invasion. Understand the significance of the trio of cities from an informed perspective.

Experience learning through a unique and enjoyable method with a certified tour guide, who focuses on not just popular tourist spots, but also provides a glimpse into the everyday life of our citizens.

Explore a side of Panama often overlooked by others, an authentic side bursting with the vibrant colors of Panama.

Location
Plaza V Centenario
The meeting point will be at the V Centenario Park or Plaza wich is just in front LA MAYOR night club (two story building). This is outside CASCO VIEJO. You can also look for the red metal arch with Bougainvilleas ( red and pink flowers) that is in the Park or plaza / square.
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
5.0
(15 Ratings)
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Mrsjanicel_b
Aug 28, 2023
Jeorge was very knowledgeable - Jeorge knew his history and was very knowledgeable about the city of Panama. It was a pleasure to explore the history and culture of the city with him. We felt safe at all times and he made us feel welcome
Review provided by Viator
Lindsay
Mar 6, 2023
Fun and informative tour - Jorge was fantastic. He’s so knowledgeable about the history of Panama. The tour gave context to all the places we’d seen walking around in Casco Viejo. He speaks clear English and is very personable.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Tad
Feb 28, 2023
A great historical story - Our guide met us on time at the correct meeting location. He explained to us that our tour would not be the usual ‘tourist highlights’ but, rather a good historical account of how Panama was founded, moved and founded again. We would see all the important places in the story of Panama. It was a great experience! We learned a lot of new information about the history of the country and gained a better understanding of how it has developed until today. The story is fascinating and we are now eager to see other sights, such a Panama Viejo, that will compete the story.
Review provided by Viator
Glassartlover
Feb 1, 2023
Great Tour - Jorge was the best guide. So knowledgeable and amenable. We enjoyed his tour thoroughly. We had already taken the usual tour inside the old city walls. This tour was a whole different perspective.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
653vickiee
Jan 16, 2023
Excellent, knowledgeable tour guide! - Jorge was a fantastic guide through the old city. Very knowledgeable, giving fascinating details. I would highly recommend going on any of several tours with Jorge!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
J_rgie
Sep 16, 2022
Thanks for the advice Jorge! - Jorge was great, he is a connoiseur, knows a lot about this amazing oldtown, Jorge always gave the extra mile by answering all questions, it was a fun experience. By the way thanks for the advice Jorge Best regards Genghis Khan.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Pam_w
Aug 24, 2022
Great walking tour - Jorge was so knowledgeable and took us to places we would not have found on our own. Thoroughly enjoyed our time with him!
Review provided by Viator
Meklett
Feb 6, 2022
A font of knowledge and enthusiasm - Jorge loves Panama City and it shows. His knowledge of the city, of it’s history is top notch. I would highly recommend anyone visiting Panama City to contact Jorge.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Kokosnuss-tanja
Jan 15, 2022
Getting to know Panamá - The tour with Jorge was one of the best walking tours I ever did - and I went on a lot. Jorge is a very friendly and professional guide with an incredible knowledge in history and architecture. I learnt a lot about the history and development of San Felipe and would recommend this tour anytime. Jorge is a great guide interested in creating an unforgettable experience for his clients taking your interests into account.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Monicapeer
Dec 21, 2021
Great experience with Jorge! - Did the walking tour with Jorge on Monday morning, basically had a personalized tour as there was no one else on it only me and my boyfriend. The experience was great, he explained the history and showed us areas that regular walking tours avoid as they’re not as “picture perfect” it was great to see the contrast of the surrounding areas of Casco Antiguo. 10/10 would recommend this tour to anyone visiting Ciudad de Panama
Review provided by Tripadvisor
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