Black History: Shadows & Lights- Afro Panama heritage experience
Overview
Available languages
Mobile ticket
Step back more than 500 years and explore the rich — and often overlooked — history of African ancestry in Panama. This walking journey unfolds through two defining chapters: the colonial era, marked by the harsh realities of slavery and powerful acts of resistance, and the West Indian migrations — a period of labor, resilience, and cultural legacy that helped shape Panama’s identity.
• Our walk begins in Casco Antiguo, moving beyond the former walls that once divided the elite from the working-class community of Santa Ana.
• We continue along Central Avenue, a vibrant area filled with stories and local life.
• Then we visit the Afro-Antillean Museum to explore the lives and contributions of West Indian migrants who helped build the nation.
Optional: Lunch at San Felipe Neri Market for local comfort food and a refreshing natural juice. Book the Walking Experience + Lunch option.
This experience invites you to discover the shadows and lights that shape Afro-Panamanian heritage.
Additional Info
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Not suitable for travelers with walking difficulties
What To Expect
Plaza Herrera
At our meeting point, we'll explore Panama's colonial history, understanding its roots and foundations.
Here we’ll enjoy a traditional Afro-Panamanian snack while closing the chapter on the Afro-colonial period and beginning the transition toward the West Indian influence.
Options
Walking Experience Only
Step into history: Afro-Panamanian heritage walking experience with stops along the way (1.5km/ 0.9 miles) Meeting point: Plaza Herrera, Casco Antiguo Not included: Transportation and lunch Duration: 2.5- 3 hrs
Walking Experience + Lunch
Lunch at local market : Hearty Panamanian comfort food from a nearby market eatery with natural juice. Meeting Point: Plaza Herrera, Casco Antiguo Not included: Transportation Duration: 3.5 - 4 hours
What‘s Included
Bottled water
Afro panamanian guide
Afro panamanian snack
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
176 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
This is a MUST in Panama City!
Fatu D,Jun 2, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00This was hands down one of the best tours I have ever been on. From learning about the history of Panama, to dancing in the city center, to eat authentic Panamanian food. This is tour that you have to complete during your visit! 10/10!
Excellent tour! Fun and educational!
samuelsC3416GS,May 29, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Meli was extremely knowledgeable and engaging. My wife and I have come to Panama before, but we knew that something was missing, especially regarding the Afro-descendant experience. You get more than your money's worth. Be prepared for lots of walking. The time went quickly. Snacks and water were provided. We opted for the extra market and lunch option. You got fresh juice and a delicious meal. In all, you really learned about the past and continuing struggles and resilience of the Afro-descendant people of Panama. I cannot recommend this tour highly enough!
Proud Afrolatina!
Yessi D,May 28, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Thank you to Meli for creating such an enriching experience! As a fellow Afro Panamanian, it was amazing to find something like this, where we explored our roots in Panama! Meli is super knowledgeable and really cares about the community. From taking us to through Avenida central to the fondas for lunch, she made sure to give the group an authentic experience. Gracias Meli! ❤️
The best part of my trip ✨
jackievR9831OK,May 28, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This was absolutely the best part of my trip! Meli brought so much passion and insight into the tour. I loved that we learned by getting out there and experiencing and seeing the history in real time. As someone who loves history and learning about the diaspora, she made so many connections to our shared history. When I come back with my family, I plan to bring them so my daughter can have this important and fun experience.
Great experience
Brian M,May 27, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Very informative 3 hour walking tour through the streets of Panamá. I was a great experience. Must do.
Great Tour! You won’t regret it.
ias731,May 27, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This was a great experience led by Meli and Esau! Although I have visited Panama many times it was wonderful to experience Panama through the lens of this group. Thank you
Wonderful Tour!
Ingrid S,May 27, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Great tour led by Meli and Esau! While a longtime visitor to Panama, it was a worthwhile tour to experience Panama through the lens of this group.
A Powerful, Personal Journey Through Afro-Panamanian History in Casco Viejo With Meli!
Sharon D,May 25, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Travelers interested in gaining an understanding of Panama beyond the canal and skyline should not miss this Casco Viejo experience "With Meli". She is an exceptional guide—warm, knowledgeable, and deeply passionate about sharing the history, culture, and lasting contributions of Afro-Panamanians. What made this tour stand out was how personal and meaningful it felt, and Meli's passion for the topic. Walking through Casco Viejo, I gained a deeper perspective on Panama’s identity, including the often-overlooked stories of Afro-Antillean communities and their influence on the country’s music, food, traditions, and even the building of the canal. Meli connected history to present-day life in a way that was engaging, thoughtful, and easy to follow. This is not just a sightseeing tour—it’s a cultural and educational experience that adds real depth to a visit to Panama City. I especially appreciated the opportunity to ask questions, have genuine conversations, and experience some of Meli's little treats and surprises along the way! Highly recommended for curious travelers who want something authentic, eye-opening, and memorable.
Interesting Look into Afro-Panamanian Life
azured2015,May 24, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This tour was really enlightening and I learned a ton about Afro-Panamanian history and culture. Meli and Isa were wonderful tour guides clearly passionate about their culture and sharing it. Thanks for a lovely experience!
Book it!
Adrienne B,May 24, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00I learned so much on this tour and Meli made it fun. It was interactive and the walking was not bad. I had surgery the week prior and was still able to manage. If you are thinking about it, go ahead and book it! You will not regret it. So much rich history that you will not find in a book or tv show.
Related Experiences
Operated by The Afro Panama Experience