Palacio de las Garzas Panama City
Historic 1673 presidential palace, home to graceful African herons, offering a glimpse into Panama's executive power.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photo ops
Palacio de las Garzas Panama City
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photo ops
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic 1673 presidential palace, home to graceful African herons, offering a glimpse into Panama's executive power.
"Beautiful structural architecture and the unique charm of its resident African herons."
Check Access Beforehand
Streets can be blocked for security. Verify current access rules to avoid disappointment.
Look for the Herons
Keep an eye out for the resident African herons; they're a highlight and give the palace its name!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
African Herons
Palace Grounds
Graceful African herons roam the palace grounds, a unique and charming sight that inspired the palace's name.
1673 Architecture
Exterior
Admire the structural beauty of this historic building, constructed after the 1673 pirate attack on Panama City.
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Planning Your Visit
Security & Access
Best Viewing Spots
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Advice on visiting the Panama Canal – Tickets and nearby places to see?
Check Access Beforehand
Streets can be blocked for security. Verify current access rules to avoid disappointment.
Look for the Herons
Keep an eye out for the resident African herons; they're a highlight and give the palace its name!
Respect Security
Be patient with security personnel. They are there to ensure safety around the presidential residence.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Access Beforehand
Streets can be blocked for security. Verify current access rules to avoid disappointment.
Look for the Herons
Keep an eye out for the resident African herons; they're a highlight and give the palace its name!
Respect Security
Be patient with security personnel. They are there to ensure safety around the presidential residence.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Palacio de las Garzas for its beautiful structural architecture and the unique charm of its resident African herons. However, many note that direct access to the building is often restricted due to its function as the presidential office, requiring visitors to admire it from the exterior.
"Bella arquitectura estructural. Very beautiful structural architecture."
panama507ify
"Adding to what I wrote earlier, Google may wish to consult its Panamanian colleagues and revise this post on its map -- the walking directions do not apply. The streets closest to the Palacio are cordoned off to the public, as it is not only the historic, but also still the current residence of the president. 4 different police/security guards confirmed this to me and kindly directed me to pedestrian detours.
It's your turn now to verify, Google. Best of luck."
JW D
"It is a building constructed in 1673 after the attack of the captain Henry Morgan that has had different uses until being chosen to lodge the offices of the presidency of the republic.
Before it was the house of the presidents but the latter have chosen to have their own residences and only use it as offices.
The name was adopted when the poet Ricardo Miró gave two herons to President Belisario Porras in 1922.
It has a patio, very beautiful, where you can see the herons with a slow movement."
Ariel Blanco
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Palacio de las Garzas is located in the Casco Viejo historic district. Taxis or ride-sharing services are convenient. Be aware that streets immediately surrounding the palace are often closed to public access due to its function as the presidential office, so walking directions might be unreliable.
Parking directly near the palace is highly unlikely due to security measures. It's best to park in a public garage in Casco Viejo and walk, or use a taxi/ride-share.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, public access to the interior of Palacio de las Garzas is restricted as it's the active presidential office. You can typically view the exterior and grounds from surrounding areas.
As it's a working presidential office, there are no set public visiting hours for the interior. Exterior viewing is possible during daylight hours, but access to surrounding streets can vary due to security.
Tours of the interior are not typically available to the public as it serves as the active presidential office and residence. Visitors usually admire its architecture from the outside.
📸 📸 Photography
The best photo opportunities are from the streets and plazas surrounding the palace, particularly where you can capture the architecture and the resident herons. Be mindful of security personnel and any restricted areas.
While general exterior photography is usually permitted, always be respectful of security personnel and avoid photographing sensitive areas or individuals if asked.
🎫 🌿 Wildlife
The palace is famous for its resident African herons, which roam the grounds. These elegant birds are a unique feature and inspired the palace's name.
Feeding the wildlife is generally discouraged in protected areas to maintain their natural behavior and health. Observe them respectfully from a distance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be prepared for potential street closures and security. It's best to approach the palace with a flexible mindset, focusing on spotting the herons and admiring the historic architecture from the perimeter. Pack snacks and water, as you might be doing some walking to find the best viewing spots.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Experiment with different vantage points around Casco Viejo to find unique perspectives. Early morning light can be particularly flattering for architectural shots. Remember to be respectful of security and any no-photography zones, focusing on capturing the essence of the palace and its unique inhabitants.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History and Function
The name 'Palace of the Herons' is a charming tribute to the African herons that have made the palace grounds their home. This unique feature was further popularized in 1922 when poet Ricardo Miró gifted two herons to President Belisario Porras, cementing their place in the palace's identity. Visitors often find the sight of these graceful birds a highlight of their experience.
Navigating Access and Security
Travelers have reported encountering police and security guards who kindly redirect visitors. It's advisable to confirm the latest access information closer to your visit and to be prepared for potential detours. While you may not be able to enter the building, observing its impressive exterior and the unique heron inhabitants from designated viewpoints is still a worthwhile experience.
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