Panama Viejo and Casco Antiguo Tour

The Panama Viejo and Casco Antiguo Tour offers a unique opportunity to uncover the rich history and architectural wonders of Panama’s past. Spanning 4-5 hours, this guided excursion explores the remnants of the first city founded on the Pacific side and the vibrant streets of a 17th-century settlement. Participants will discover the significant battles that took place between Sir Henry Morgan and General Guzman, all while enjoying a personalized experience in a small group setting. With transportation and amenities included, this tour promises to transport visitors back in time and leave them eager to…

Key Points

• A guided tour that explores the historical sites of Panama Viejo, the first Pacific city, and Casco Antiguo, the 17th-century colonial capital.
• Highlights the battles between Sir Henry Morgan and General Juan Perez de Guzman, and the architectural styles from the 16th and 17th centuries.
• Offers a personalized experience for up to 10 participants, with transportation, bottled water, and all fees included.
• Covers the vibrant cultural heritage reflected in the diverse architectural landscape of Casco Antiguo’s cobblestone streets.
• Features flexible scheduling, free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and accessibility for wheelchair and stroller users.

Tour Overview

The Panama Viejo and Casco Antiguo Tour is a comprehensive excursion that takes visitors on a journey through the rich history and architectural wonders of Panama City.

With a 5.0 average rating from 7 reviews, this 4-5 hour tour immerses travelers in the past, exploring the archaeological ruins of Old Panama and the 17th-century buildings of Casco Viejo.

Priced from $115, the tour accommodates up to 10 participants and includes transportation, bottled water, and all necessary fees.

Pickup and drop-off are available at hotels in the city center and Casco Viejo, as well as specific resorts.

This tour offers an accessible, informative, and memorable experience for those seeking to uncover the fascinating stories and landmarks that define Panama’s vibrant past.

Highlights of Panama Viejo

Visitors to the Panama Viejo and Casco Antiguo Tour can’t help but be transported back in time as they explore the archaeological ruins of Old Panama.

These ruins represent the first city on the Pacific side, which was founded in 1519 and later attacked and destroyed by the infamous English privateer Sir Henry Morgan in 1671.

Guests can wander through the remnants of churches, homes, and fortifications, imagining the bustling colonial city that once stood here.

Learning about the battles between Morgan and General Guzman provides valuable historical context, while the opportunity to appreciate the 16th and 17th-century architectural styles offers a unique cultural experience.

Exploring Casco Antiguo

After exploring the captivating ruins of Panama Viejo, visitors embark on a journey to the charming Casco Antiguo, the second town founded on the Pacific side.

This 17th-century neighborhood captivates with its mix of architectural styles, from colonial to neoclassical. Visitors wander through the cobblestone streets, admiring the colorful buildings that house trendy shops, cafes, and restaurants.

The area’s historical significance is palpable, as it was once a strategic location during the battles between Sir Henry Morgan and General Guzman.

Today, Casco Antiguo offers a glimpse into Panama’s rich history and a vibrant cultural experience for all who visit.

Historical Battles and Figures

What were the key historical battles and figures that shaped the region explored during this tour?

The Panama Viejo and Casco Antiguo tour provides an in-depth look into the tumultuous history of the area. Visitors learn about the battles between the infamous English privateer Sir Henry Morgan and General Juan Perez de Guzman, the Spanish governor.

Morgan’s attack on Old Panama in 1671 destroyed the city, leading to the hotel of Casco Antiguo as the new capital.

The tour highlights how these historical figures and events transformed the landscape and left an indelible mark on Panamanian history, shaping the architecture and culture visitors experience today.

Architectural Wonders

Amidst the historical battles and figures that shaped this region, the architectural wonders of Panama Viejo and Casco Antiguo captivate visitors.

In Panama Viejo, the archaeological ruins showcase the remnants of the first city on the Pacific side, including 16th-century structures.

Exploring Casco Antiguo reveals a wealth of 17th-century architecture, from ornate churches to colonial-era buildings now housing shops, restaurants, and galleries.

Visitors can appreciate the blend of architectural styles, from Spanish colonial to French neoclassical, that reflect the city’s diverse cultural heritage.

This guided tour provides an opportunity to take in the architectural gems that have endured through the centuries, offering a glimpse into Panama’s captivating past.

Inclusions and Pickup Details

The tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water, and all necessary landing and facility fees. Gratuities are also covered, making it a hassle-free experience.

The tour provides convenient pickup and drop-off options, with free service available at all hotels in the Panama City center and Casco Viejo/Antiguo areas, as well as the Dreams and The Westing Playa Bonita Hotels. Airbnb customers will receive the meeting point via email.

The tour starts promptly at 8:30 AM. Accessibility is also considered, as the tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, though infants must sit on laps.

Accessibility and Additional Info

Though the tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, infants must sit on laps. Most travelers can participate in this experience, which is operated by LIVE FOLKS.

The tour covers the historical sites of Panama Viejo and Casco Antiguo, allowing visitors to explore the architectural wonders of 16th and 17th-century buildings.

With a maximum of 10 travelers, the tour provides a personalized experience.

Pickup and drop-off are available at select hotels in Panama City center, Casco Viejo/Antiguo, Dreams, and The Westin Playa Bonita.

Airbnb customers receive the meeting point via email. Confirmation is provided upon booking, and cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the start of the experience.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

How does the booking and cancellation policy work for this Panama Viejo and Casco Antiguo Tour?

Travelers can confirm their booking upon payment. Plus, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts. This provides flexibility for guests’ plans.

The tour accommodates a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.

Here are 4 key points about the booking and cancellation policy:

1. Confirmation received at booking
2. Free cancellation up to 24 hours prior
3. Maximum of 10 participants
4. Flexible for guests’ schedules

Frequently Asked Questions

What Type of Clothing and Shoes Should I Wear?

For this tour, comfortable walking shoes and light, breathable clothing are recommended. The tour involves exploring historical sites, so dressing appropriately for the weather and terrain is advised.

Can I Purchase Additional Items During the Tour?

Yes, visitors can purchase additional items during the tour. The tour provides ample opportunities to explore local shops and markets in Casco Antiguo, allowing travelers to pick up souvenirs or other items that catch their eye.

Is There an Option for a Private Tour or Smaller Group?

Yes, the tour offers a private option or smaller group size for an additional fee. Customers can inquire about these options when booking the tour to accommodate their preferences and group size needs.

Are Children/Families Welcome on This Tour?

Children and families are welcome on this tour. The tour accommodates infants, with them sitting on laps. Strollers are also permitted, making it accessible for families. Most travelers, including children, can participate in this experience.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Special Accommodations?

The tour does not mention any dietary restrictions, but it is wheelchair and stroller accessible. Infants must sit on laps. Most travelers can participate, so the tour accommodates a variety of visitors.

Recap

The Panama Viejo and Casco Antiguo Tour offers an immersive exploration of Panama’s captivating history and architectural marvels. Spanning 4-5 hours, the guided tour provides a personalized experience, delving into the remnants of the first Pacific city and the vibrant streets of the 17th-century Casco Antiguo. With transportation and amenities included, this tour promises an unforgettable journey through Panama’s rich cultural heritage.