colon panama day tours

Top Tours in Colon, Panama

Colon tours.

• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Ocean to Ocean Panama Canal and Jungle Tour

2. Tour at the Chagres Rainforest and Embera Indigenous Village

3. Ocean to Ocean Panama Canal Miraflores, Agua Clara & Pedro Miguel

4. Cruiseline Excursion Colon: Panama City tour and Miraflores Locks

5. Cruiseline Excursion Colon: Rainforest, San Lorenzo Fort and Canal Expansion

6. Embera Village Day Tour, Chagres River & Waterfalls + Lunch, Fruits & Water

7. Embera Indigenous Tribe & River Tour with Lunch included

8. Day Tour at Panama Canal from Ocean to Ocean

9. Tour to the New and Expanded Panama Canal: Agua Clara Locks

10. Canal expansion Agua Clara, Rainforest safari & San Lorenzo Fort

11. From Atlantic to Pacific Ocean Private Panama Canal & Jungle Tour

12. Private VIP Ocean to Ocean Panama Canal and Lake Discovery Tour

13. Private & Fun Panama Canal... 3 different perspectives

14. Snorkeling on The Caribbean side of Panama

15. Embera Village Tour from Panama City

16. Top Tour Pueblo Indígena Embera y Cascada

17. Embera Indigenous Culture Tour

18. Tour to the Caribbean Coast: 3 Islands: Grande, Mamey and Monkey plus "Love Tunnel", Including Historic Portobelo Fort

19. Panama Canal, Aguas Claras and Miraflores

20. Full-Day Fort San Lorenzo and Panama Canal Guided Tour

21. Embera Indigenous Village and visit a Waterfall in the rainforest

22. Panama Canal (Caribbean Locks) & San Lorenzo Fortress

23. The Chagres Challenge - a full day jungle expedition from sunrise to sunset

24. Catamaran Day Tour to Caribbean Beaches with Lunch and Snorkeling

25. Traditional Ecotour Community embera

26. Full Day - Panama Canal Coast to Coast - by Land

27. Embera tribe Experience

28. Embera Tribe - Native Panamanians

29. San Lorenzo Castillo Portobelo ruins & the Panama canal expansion

30. Chagres River Kayak Expedition From Panama City

What travellers are saying.

• Tour at the Chagres Rainforest and Embera Indigenous Village
• Ocean to Ocean Panama Canal and Jungle Tour
• Cruiseline Excursion Colon: Panama City tour and Miraflores Locks
• Cruiseline Excursion Colon: Rainforest, San Lorenzo Fort and Canal Expansion
• Embera Indigenous Tribe & River Tour with Lunch included
• Panama Tours & Scuba
• Black Expats in Panama Cultural Caribbean Day Trip w/ Lunch
• Panama Can al Railway. Agua Clara Lock San Lorenzo Tour
• Embera Quera
• Wow A Tour: Colon

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Excursions & Tours

Aerial Tram and Gamboa Rainforest Reserve

Embera Indians Village and Gamboa Rainforest Reserve

Colón panama excursions.

Colón is a port on the Caribbean coast of Panama. The city lies near the entrance to the Panama Canal. The city was originally located entirely on Manzanillo Island. Since the disestablishment of the Canal Zone, the city's limits have been redefined to include the former Canal Zone towns as well as the former U.S. Army base of Fort Gulick. Shore Excursions Group's tours in Colon Panama reveal the intricate beauty and awe-inspiring fauna of Panama's forests and of course the engineering masterpiece, the Panama Canal.

Top Tours in Colon, Panama

Colon tours.

• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Ocean to Ocean Panama Canal and Jungle Tour

2. Tour at the Chagres Rainforest and Embera Indigenous Village

3. Ocean to Ocean Panama Canal Miraflores, Agua Clara & Pedro Miguel

4. Cruiseline Excursion Colon: Panama City tour and Miraflores Locks

5. Cruiseline Excursion Colon: Rainforest, San Lorenzo Fort and Canal Expansion

6. Embera Village Day Tour, Chagres River & Waterfalls + Lunch, Fruits & Water

7. Embera Indigenous Tribe & River Tour with Lunch included

8. Day Tour at Panama Canal from Ocean to Ocean

9. Canal expansion Agua Clara, Rainforest safari & San Lorenzo Fort

10. From Atlantic to Pacific Ocean Private Panama Canal & Jungle Tour

11. Catamaran Day Tour to Caribbean Beaches with Lunch and Snorkeling

12. Private VIP Ocean to Ocean Panama Canal and Lake Discovery Tour

13. Private & Fun Panama Canal... 3 different perspectives

14. Snorkeling on The Caribbean side of Panama

15. Embera Village Tour from Panama City

16. Top Tour Pueblo Indígena Embera y Cascada

17. Embera Indigenous Culture Tour

18. Agua Clara Locks Tour Fort San Lorenzo Third Bridge Panama

19. Tour to the Caribbean Coast: 3 Islands: Grande, Mamey and Monkey plus "Love Tunnel", Including Historic Portobelo Fort

20. Panama Canal, Aguas Claras and Miraflores

21. Full-Day Fort San Lorenzo and Panama Canal Guided Tour

22. Embera Indigenous Village and visit a Waterfall in the rainforest

23. Panama Canal (Caribbean Locks) & San Lorenzo Fortress

24. The Chagres Challenge - a full day jungle expedition from sunrise to sunset

25. Traditional Ecotour Community embera

26. Full Day - Panama Canal Coast to Coast - by Land

27. Embera tribe Experience

28. Embera Tribe - Native Panamanians

29. San Lorenzo Castillo Portobelo ruins & the Panama canal expansion

30. Chagres River Kayak Expedition From Panama City

What travellers are saying.

• Tour at the Chagres Rainforest and Embera Indigenous Village
• Ocean to Ocean Panama Canal and Jungle Tour
• Cruiseline Excursion Colon: Panama City tour and Miraflores Locks
• Cruiseline Excursion Colon: Rainforest, San Lorenzo Fort and Canal Expansion
• Embera Indigenous Tribe & River Tour with Lunch included
• Panama Tours & Scuba
• Black Expats in Panama Cultural Caribbean Day Trip w/ Lunch
• Panama Can al Railway. Agua Clara Lock San Lorenzo Tour
• Embera Quera
• Wow A Tour: Colon

Colon – Panama

Last updated on January 30th, 2024 at 09:46 am

Welcome to Colon, a bustling city located at the Caribbean entrance of the Panama Canal. Discover the rich history of the region at the Panama Canal Expansion Observation Center, explore the colorful architecture of Colon's historic district, or take a boat tour through the Gatun Lake. Immerse yourself in the vibrant Afro-Caribbean culture, sample delicious local cuisine, and witness the engineering marvel that is the Panama Canal.

Check out these excursions in Colon .

The temperature in Colon has little variation during the year. It ranges from a low of 77 degrees F to a high of 86 degrees F. Seldom does the range dip below 75 degrees F or rise above 89 degrees F. It tends to be hot and oppressive year-round.

The official currency of Panama is the Balboa. The currency is named after Spanish explorer Vasco Nunez de Balboa, who discovered the Pacific Ocean in 1513. One Balboa is divided into 100 cents. One Balbo equals one U.S. dollar, and the dollar is legally circulated in Panama. The day-to-day currency used in Panama is the U.S. Dollar, and there are no paper Balboas, although there are Panamanian coins. Traveler’s checks are not accepted, but major credit and debit cards are.

Wireless Internet:

There is an internet cafe in the Colon 2000 Cruise Terminal that offers WiFi.

Spanish is the official language of Panama. There is a small smattering of English spoken and an even smaller amount of French.

Where You Dock in Colon – Panama

Colon has two cruise terminals. The Cristobal Pier is located in Colon, Panama, on the eastern side of the canal. That facility is seldom used anymore.

Cruise ships arrive at Colon 2000 or Pier 6 of Cristobal Port on the south side of Limon Bay.

Cruise passengers will board for shore excursions right outside the terminal. If you take an organized tour, your bus will be in the parking area just a few yards from the gangway.

Getting Around Colon – Panama

Walking: It is not advised to walk around Colon, as it is not safe.

Taxi: There are taxi services in Colon, and the fares are relatively inexpensive. Taxi prices are fixed by the central desk in the Colon 2000 center.

Car: There are several rental car services in Colon. The majority of the rental cars are manual transmission, and you will have to pay an additional charge if you want a car with  automatic transmission.

To rent a car, you will need an I.D., a valid driver’s license approved for driving in Panama and hold third-party auto insurance. Hertz, Budget, Thrifty, Mexrentacar, Dollar, and Sunnycars have locations in Colon. Driving is on the right-hand side of the road in Panama.

Shopping In Colon – Panama

The Colon Free Zone is primarily a commercial park where companies import and export products free of duty. It is not set up to sell individual items to tourists. If you are able to make a purchase, your item will be sent to Tocumen International Airport in Panama City to be retrieved when you depart. If you are part of a cruise, this procedure will probably not work well for you.

There is a shopping center, strip mall type, across from the pier. It contains a grocery store, a sandwich shop, and souvenir stores.

Dining In Colon – Panama

The cafe at Cristobal Pier has bar-type snacks. The Colon 2000 port complex also houses restaurants Arrecifes and Rotana Cafe.

Arrecifes serves Caribbean, Latin cuisine and seafood.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Restaurante Arrecifes (@restaurante_arrecifes)

You will find pizza, lemon chicken and vegetarian options at Rotana Cafe.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Rotana Café (@rotanacafepanama)

In Colon, the Grand Cafe has Lebanese and Mediterranean cuisine and the Restaurante Nuevo 2 Mares offers authentic Panamanian cuisine.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Grand Café (@grandcafepty)

Things To Do in Colon – Panama

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Port Colon 2000 (@portcolon2000)

As was mentioned, Colon is primarily a base for day trips with little in the way of attractions for tourists. Again, it is not a city you will want to traverse on your own due to safety concerns.

Here are the few attractions in Colon:

Gatun Locks: These are the largest locks in the Panama Canal and are open to visitors from 9 am until 4 pm seven days a week. Use a taxi service to negotiate round trip service to this area.

Colon City Tour: There are coach and taxi-based city tours. Most of the tours will show you the New Washington Hotel that overlooks the entrance to the canal. A stone-built Episcopal Christ Church Cathedral and a monument to Christopher Columbus are the main sights on the tour.

Portobelo: In old Spanish, this name meant “beautiful port.” Located in the northern part of the Isthmus of Panama, Portobelo is about 20 miles northeast of Colon. There are the ruins of five Spanish forts and incredible sea views.

Top Tours & Excursions In Colon – Panama

Embera indians and miaflores locks.

Visit an authentic Embera Indian village where the indigenous people are committed to preserving their traditions. You will tour the village  and interact with the Embera people.  The Embera's are skilled artisans and have items available for purchase. After, you will spend time at the Miraflores Visitor Centre to learn more about the construction and operation of the Panama Canal....

• Duration: 6.5 Hours
• Activity Level: Moderate
• Wheelchair Accessibility: No
• Food: Sandwich, Fruit and Water included

Aerial Tram and Miraflores Locks

Take a one-hour gondola ride and ascend 280 feet from the forest floor to the canopy of the Gamboa rainforest. The Observation Tower will give you spectacular views of Gatun Lake, and the Panama Canal. Visit the Miraflores Visitor Center to learn more about the construction and operation of the canal. You will be able to watch vessels cruise the waters and see the lock gates open and close....

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Best Tours in Colon

Local recommendations from our my guide panama team.

The best tours in Panama all under one site, Exploring the Rain forest, Diving in Caribbean waters, Hiking, Cruise around the Panama Canal, Fishing and so many more tours

Book Top Experiences and Tours in Panama:

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Beautiful Caribbean island located in the district of Portobelo, neighboring the island of monkeys, its white sand beach with row of coconut palms, facing a warm sea of ​​turquoise water...

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Recommended Experiences in Panama

Panama City: City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

Explore Panama City from the top deck of a brand new open top bus. The flexible ticket allows you to hop-on and off to see sites such as the Bridge of the Americas, Bio-Museum and Casco Antiguo.

Panama: All-Inclusive Taboga Island Catamaran Cruise

Admire Panama from the water on a sightseeing catamaran cruise to Taboga Island. See the city skyline, swim, relax on a beach in Taboga, dance with the crew, and enjoy snacks, lunch, and an open bar.

Panama City: Embera Indigenous Tribe & River Tour with Lunch

Learn about and meet the indigenous Embera people in a beautiful natural setting. After a canoe ride down the river, explore the village, watch a dance performance, and enjoy a traditional lunch.

From Panama City: 4 San Blas Islands Day Trip with Lunch

Admire the turquoise seas and white sandy beaches of the San Blas Islands on a day tour from Panama City. Savor a fresh lunch, and enjoy snorkeling, kayaking, and swimming.

Climb aboard the Pacific Queen and set sail southbound along the Panama Canal on a 6-hour cruise. Enjoy a delicious lunch as you admire views of the Centennial Bridge and pass through the Culebra Cut.

Panama: Guided Northbound Panama Canal Cruise

Sail from Panama and travel northbound along the Panama Canal on a 6-hour cruise on the Pacific Queen. See the Bridge of the Americas, Pedro Miguel Locks, the Gaillard Cut, and the Centennial Bridge.

From Panama City: Gamboa Rainforest Guided Tour with Lunch

Take a 5-hour tour to learn about the rainforest. Ride an aerial tram, get up close with nature & enjoy a boat trip through the Panama Canal Lake.

Explore the colonial city of Portobelo on a day trip from Panama City. Visit a private beach on Isla Grande to relax on the sand, swim in crystal-clear waters, and enjoy a delicious Caribbean meal.

Panama City: Small-Group Miraflores Locks and City Tour

Discover one of the Wonders of the Modern World, the Panama Canal. Go back in time at Casco Viejo, the second city of Panama, which dates back to 1673. See the beautiful Amador Causeway and the Bridge of the Americas.

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Best Panama Canal cruise excursions from Colon and Panama City

While the actual crossing is the true highlight of any Panama Canal cruise, cruisers should not forget about the fascinating things to see and do in Colon and Panama City. These Panamanian ports might be stops on your itinerary or embarkation/debarkation ports, depending on the length of your sailing and which direction your ship travels through the canal. No matter which you visit, either will give you access to active, cultural and outdoor pursuits.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Don't miss out on all Central America has to offer cruisers. Here are some of the best Panama Canal excursions to book during your journey.

Things to know about Panama Canal excursions

Keep in mind that prices vary among tour operators and cruise lines. For this story, here is a price key to give you a general idea of the expected cost for these itineraries:

• $ = less than $75
• $$ = $75-$150
• $$$ = $150-$200
• $$$$ = over $200

Also, here are a few tips to follow while preparing for your Panama outing:

• Wear comfortable shoes, clothing and a hat, and carry a small backpack with necessities for the day, including a refillable water bottle and snacks if food isn't included in the tour.
• If you're doing an excursion in the jungle or around any foliage, be sure to wear insect repellent.
• Wear sunscreen for any tours that are outside; even if you're not going to be in the water, Panama's close proximity to the equator makes the sun intense. If you're snorkeling or swimming, use reef-safe sunscreen, which won't harm coral or marine life.
• Take cash for tips for your guide and to purchase souvenirs and handmade items from indigenous peoples. U.S. dollars are accepted everywhere.
• Before taking pictures of any indigenous people, ask them or your guide if it's permitted.

Panama City

Aerial tram tour at Gamboa Rainforest Reserve Price: $

About 45 minutes from Panama City lies the lush tropical paradise of the Gamboa Rainforest Reserve, where visitors can book various eco-focused experiences. The reserve is part of Soberania National Park, which encompasses 55,000 acres on the shores of the Panama Canal.

On a 90-minute aerial tram tour, visitors can get a peek at the local wildlife from a unique perspective. Board a gondola for the 2,000-foot-long, 400-foot-high ride above the rainforest canopy, during which you'll feel like you can almost touch the trees. Spot sloths, nesting birds and various species of monkeys.

Once you arrive at the top station, you'll disembark for a five- to 10-minute walk to a 100-foot-tall observation tower that offers a scenic 360-degree-view of Gamboa, Soberania National Park, the Chagres River and the Panama Canal.

Native peoples tour at Gamboa Rainforest Reserve Price: $$

During this two- to three-hour cultural tour, you'll learn about the Wounaan, one of the country's seven Indigenous groups. For centuries, the Wounaan people have lived in the Darien, a geographic region with a watershed, forest and mountains close to Colombia. Over time, however, some members of the Wounaan have migrated to other regions close to the Chagres River, giving visitors to the region a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the culture.

Related: Top Panama Canal cruise tips and tricks to get the most out of this unique crossing

The Wounaan community is known for its artistic and warrior skills. As you walk through their settlements, you'll get to experience some of their traditions and purchase authentic tribal souvenirs.

Driving/walking tour of Old Panama City Price: $$

Old Panama City, or Panama Viejo, is what remains of the original city, which dates back to 1519 and was destroyed in 1671 by Welsh privateer Henry Morgan. Sitauted in the suburbs of Panama, it was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997.

Getting here requires an hour-long drive from Colon or a half-hour drive from the Panama City cruise port. When you arrive, you can explore the Old Panama Cathedral and other ruins on foot, climb up the bell tower for a view of the skyline and shop at the artisan market.

The tour continues to the old colonial city of Casco Antiguo (also called Casco Viejo), a hip neighborhood with lots of architectural variety that gives it an eclectic vibe. Wander the city's cobblestone streets, and take in the colonial mansions, the Metropolitan Cathedral, art galleries and the Interoceanic Canal Museum. The final stop is Las Bóvedas in Casco Viejo, the sea wall on the Spanish fort, where you'll stroll along the top for a view of Panama City across the bay.

Free time is built into the tour, so branch off to try some local cuisine or shop for souvenirs.

Taboga Island catamaran tour Price : $$

This island in the Gulf of Panama was discovered in the 16th century by Balboa, who called it Isla de San Pedro; its current name derives from an indigenous word "aboga," meaning "many fish." Taboga Island's beaches, hiking trails, and fishing and snorkeling opportunities (not to mention its proximity to Panama City) make it a popular destination for tourists.

A six-hour catamaran tour lets you experience some of what Taboga Island has to offer. The tour departs from the Panama City cruise terminal, where you'll board a large catamaran equipped with everything you'll need for the day.

Related: 12 best Panama Canal cruises for a bucket-list trip

The first stop is a bay on the back side of the island, where you can swim or lounge on the boat's nets. Next, you'll sail to the beach side, where you'll have the opportunity to visit the village of San Pedro, home to the town church of the same name (said to be the second-oldest church in Latin America). You can also grab some snorkeling equipment on board and take to the water. The tour concludes with lunch and drinks on the ride back to Panama City.

Miraflores Visitor Center Price: $

If you fully transit the canal to the Pacific side, you'll pass through the Miraflores Locks, where you'll no doubt see visitors waving and cheering from a platform at the visitor center. It's worth a trip to come back here, where you can learn more about the process of ships passing during a self-guided tour. The center is about a 30-minute drive from the Panama City cruise port.

Currently, the four exhibition halls that portray the canal's history, construction, biodiversity and importance are temporarily closed for renovations. A trip is still worth it for the excellent 3D IMAX film narrated by Morgan Freeman, which does a great job explaining the trials, tribulations and perils of building this awe-inspiring feat.

You can also stand on the ground-level terrace or grab a seat in the bleachers on the first level to watch ships pass through; often, a staff member is on hand to provide commentary as the cargo and cruise vessels navigate the final set of locks in the Canal before reaching the Pacific. Before leaving, pick up all kinds of souvenirs, from hats to shirts and books, at the on-site gift shop.

Embera tribe village Price: $$

The Embera people, also called the Choco or Katio Indians, are indigenous to Panama and Colombia; today, about 33,000 people living in Panama identify as Embera. A tour of an Embera tribe village is immersive but also long (generally six to seven hours).

The tour starts with a 45-minute drive to Chagres National Park, followed by a ride in a traditional Embera dugout canoe on the Chagres River in an area full of flora and fauna; you might even spot a toucan. Once at the village, the chief welcomes your group, and the Embera people perform a series of traditional dances. Guests will have time to explore the village independently and listen to locals talk about their lives, including how they use the medicinal plants they source from the jungle.

Lunch is usually included and often consists of a traditional meal of fried fish or chicken, yuca and fried plantains. Visitors can shop for handwoven baskets, plates and masks made from palm leaf fibers, cocobolo wood and tagua seeds, before heading back to the ship.

Related: What to pack for a Panama Canal cruise

Kayaking in the Agua Clara Locks Price: $$

This tour is perfect for active travelers who will get to see Gatun Lake from a kayak. The roughly five-hour tour starts with a 75-minute drive to Gamboa Resort, where you'll get your kayak and get on the lake. While you paddle, keep an eye out for wildlife; the area is home to more than 300 species of birds, along with capuchin monkeys.

The tour continues to the Agua Clara Visitor Center to see ships passing through the canal and learn more about the canal's construction, expansion and operations through interactive displays and a rainforest trail.

Portobelo Price: $-$$

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Portobelo boasts sea views and ruins from its former life as a Spanish colonial town. After a 1 1/2-hour ride from Colon, you'll embark on a guided walk around town, dotted with houses in brightly painted colors, workshops and galleries housing Congo art installations. Congo dancers performing in the streets and restaurants serving Afro-Caribbean cuisine.

The tour stops at Iglesia de San Felipe, a Roman Catholic church that's also known as the Black Christ Church. Here, Christo Negro is on display, a life-size wooden statue of Black Christ that was found on the shores of the harbor and is celebrated with a festival every October. You'll also see the ruins of Fort San Jeronimo and Santiago Battery, two of the five Spanish ports in the area. You'll also notice the Royal Customs House of Portobelo, which was used in the 16th century to stash Peruvian gold and other loot that was seized in Latin America.

Depending on the tour, there may be time to take a short speedboat ride to Playa Huertas or Isla Mamey to snorkel or relax on the beach.

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7 Best Things to Do in Colón, Panama

Last Updated on January 29, 2023

The city of Colón is Panama’s gateway to the Caribbean. It’s the main port of entry. If you’re cruising nearby, there’s a high chance Colón will be one of your stops.

While it’s not the most popular city in the country, it definitely has incredible sights and experiences to offer. There’s plenty to do, but if it’s a cruise ship that’s taking you to Colón, you will likely have just a day to explore the region and its beauties.

But you better be excited! Because while you are preparing for your trip, we’ll prepare a bucket list of things you can easily fit into the small amount of time you’re going to spend in the city.

The Ocean to Ocean Panama Canal and Jungle Trip

7 best things to do in colón, agua clara visitor center.

Being located on the Atlantic side, near Colón City, Agua Clara Visitor Center has made it clear that both its legacy and beauty will continue to shine upon the world.

In this remarkable place, you can learn more about one of the world’s greatest feats of engineering: The Panama Canal .

Up in the Visitor Centre, you can enjoy the panoramic view of the Canal, specifically the famous Gatun Lake, where you can see gigantic cargo ships and other vessels peacefully riding the waves. It’s a perfect place for photos and/or daydreaming.

Agua Clara Visitor Centre also offers a Projection Room, where you can see a short historic movie about the Canal. Throughout your visit to the room pay close attention to the walls and exhibits for the interesting information that will astonish you.

If you happen to be hungry after the information and the trip, the Centre offers two great dining options. One of them is a coffee shop, where you can have a quick snack and something to drink. And the other one is a restaurant, where, if you aren’t in such a rush, you can enjoy a nice, peaceful meal.

Before you leave, don’t forget that there is also a gift shop. Get a special something for a special someone or just get it for yourself. Cherish the memory of this heavenly place.

Interested in the Panama Canal and all it has to offer? Check out these tours to get to know the historic city and canal.

Fort San Lorenzo

Fort San Lorenzo is another must-see in Colón. Starting as part of a defense system for transatlantic trade, it is one of the most significant military ruins in the country. The original fort dates back to 1595 and sits on the top of a cliff, watching over the Caribbean sea and the mouth of Rio Chagres.

Today, the fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

It did have to be rebuilt a few times in history as it has been burned to the ground and fired at by pirate cannons.

There are no official tour guides on the grounds, tourist offices around town can aid you with maps that’ll help you get to know the region by yourself. Some tours do include Fort San Lorenzo as a stop if you’re not looking to spend the entire day exploring.

Gatun Lake, Monkey Island and Sounds of Silence Island

Gatun Lake is a large artificial lake to the south of Colón . It takes a major part in the Panama Canal, carrying ships and other vessels for 33 km of their transit across the Isthmus of Panama. At the time the largest man-made lake was created. Gatun Dam was also the largest of its kind.

With the creation of the lake, many hilltops became islands. The largest and most famous one of them is Barro Colorado Island , home to the world-known Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute (STRI) .

Monkey Island is one of the most famous stops in Gatun Lake. Various tourist agencies offer trips there. For some of them you have to just call or just message to get picked up.

When they hop you on a high-speed motorboat in the lake, you’ll be amazed by the flora and fauna that surrounds the lake. If you’re lucky, you might get to see one of the small Gatun Lake crocodiles.

Once you get off the boat, you’ll walk onto the beautifully forested banks of the lake into the protected area where you’ll be able to see capuchin monkeys, three-toed sloths, howler monkeys and various kinds of toucans! Yes, toucans!

After the wildlife extravaganza, you’ll be able to get on that boat again and drive to an even more remote location, which is the Sounds of Silence Island. Where everything around is nature. Seize the chance to find yourself rocking on a boat, having red sunset rays soar above your head, surrounded by swinging leaves and singing birds. Sweet enjoyment of the soul.

Avenida Central

When it comes to shopping, Colón has it all. Avenida Central is a six-block-long pedestrian mall that is lined up with restaurants and shops of all kinds. You can find everything, from dollar stores and small souvenir shops to designer suits, dresses, and perfume showrooms.

Shopping in Colón is a treat. Panama Viejo is an old district in the city, there you can find one of the largest, in the country, art and craft markets with vendors from all over the world.

Another thing that makes shopping a thrill is the bargain. Many of the vendors are willing to negotiate a price. You can have a shirt’s price brought down from $40 to $15. However, bargaining isn’t that easy, but it rewards you with a rewarding experience. It gives you a winning sensation.

Panama Canal Railway

The train that connects the oceans. The Panama Canal Railway could perhaps be one of the best train rides in the world. It passes through lush rainforests and cruises alongside the Canal’s locks. It simply captures the essence of Panama’s beauty.

The Railway has been active since 1855, effectively connecting Colón (Atlantic Coast) to Panama City (Pacific Coast) in just an hour ride. And you don’t even need a reservation! Panama City is definitely a blooming flower that needs to be seen, but the road to the city is where the magic lies.

However, their service’s long history doesn’t mean that they haven’t modernized. The inside of the train is being constantly updated though the implementation of luxurious coaches, carpeted floors, bathrooms, wooden blinds, a bar and, of course, air conditioning!

The whole trip would take you anywhere from six to 10 hours. Because of that, it is advised that you make sure you plan it out thoroughly, so you don’t miss your ship. There are also some tours that offer the train ride as an activity.

La Granja Campo y Aventura

La Granja (The Farm) is an ecological and ecotourism center about 10 kilometers from Colón, Panama. This is the perfect place to go if you’re looking for adventure activities. In The Farm, you enjoy experiences such as kayaking , horse riding, zip-lining , paintballing, fishing and so much more!

However, if you’re not all about adventure and you just want to chill in nature, La Granja has got you covered as well! They offer a nice and cozy poolside with a restaurant nearby. If you want to go for a stroll, they also do hike tours. So you can go adventuring while you’re adventuring!

And if you don’t have your cruise ship waiting for you at the port and you have a bit more time, The Farm offers accommodation in the form of cozy, atmospheric bedrooms !

The Ocean to Ocean Panama Canal and Jungle Trip combines the majority of activities that are listed above. It’s a full-day adventure.

This amazing offer comes with a pick-up option. Meaning you can get picked up from various points in Colón. The walkthrough looks like this:

You’ll hop into an air-conditioned minibus that will take you to the coast.

You start by going with a boat to Monkey Island , observing the picturesque of the rainforest flora and fauna on the way there.

Afterward, you’ll be taken to the Agua Clara Visitor Center to enjoy the panoramic view and learn about the importance and history of the Canal.

Next, you’ll visit San Lorenzo National Park, followed by a picnic and a tour of Fort San Lorenzo , the 4-century old Spanish fort on a cliff with a view of the Caribbean.

The trip also includes lunch and bottled water throughout the day.

Your full-day trip ends with a return to your starting location. So you’ll be able to board the ship again.

Where to stay in Colón

Looking for where to stay in Colón? Check out these hotels located in Colón.

Is Colón Worth a Visit?

There are many ways to make your time in Colón a story worth telling. However, the ones listed above are perhaps the best of the lot. Panama is definitely worth a visit.

Don’t waste a minute! Explore!

Rovology is leveraging advice from Vagabonds, Tourists, Digital Nomads, Wayfarers and Travel Writers to give our readers a guide on the best things to do no matter where they go.

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THE 10 BEST Colon Private Tours

Private tours in colon.

• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Private Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. From Atlantic to Pacific Ocean Private Panama Canal & Jungle Tour

2. Private & Fun Panama Canal... 3 different perspectives

3. Panama Canal, Aguas Claras and Miraflores

4. Traditional Ecotour Community embera

5. Full Day - Panama Canal Coast to Coast - by Land

6. Full Day Fort San Lorenzo & Canal Expansion (Aqua Clara) Tour with Private Guide

7. From Colon Port Private Canal Lock & San Lorenzo Fort

8. New set of locks (Aguas Claras), Rainforest and San Lorenzo Fort

9. Embera Village and Waterfall Eco Tour with Private Guide

10. Agua Clara Locks Tour Fort San Lorenzo Third Bridge Panama

11. Colon Shore Excursion: Panama City and Canal Private Tour

12. Agua Clara Excluses and Fort San Lorenzo

13. Embera Culture

14. Agua Clara Canal Lock Center & Colon Fort

15. San Lorenzo Fort and Agua Clara Locks Panama Canal Tour

16. Private Tour to Mall Colón 2000 Duty Free from Panama City

17. Private 6 hours Discover Colon City & Atlantic Ocean Tour Panama

18. Kayak and Embera Village in Chagres Park

19. Tour to the New and Expanded Panama Canal: Agua Clara Locks

20. Embera Indian Village

21. Historic Caribbean Tour

22. Full Day Private Embera Day Tour

23. New Panama Zip-Line over Gatun lake and Kayak or Horse riding

24. River Tubing Full Day Private Tour to the Chagres Park in Panama

25. 2 Days Private Panama's Wildlife Experience

26. Emberá Villas Tour

27. Birding ACHIOTE ROAD from Cruise Ship Colon Port

28. From Riu Playa Blanca - Private Embera Tribe, Rainforest Eco Tour

29. Isla Grande and Portobelo Private Tour. Caribbean Beaches (Full day)

30. Santa Clara Beach Tour

What travelers are saying.

• Agua Clara Locks Tour Fort San Lorenzo Third Bridge Panama
• Private Tour to Mall Colón 2000 Duty Free from Panama City
• Colon Shore Excursion: Panama City and Canal Private Tour
• Full Day - Panama Canal Coast to Coast - by Land
• Private 6 hours Discover Colon City & Atlantic Ocean Tour Panama
• Panama Tours & Scuba
• Black Expats in Panama Cultural Caribbean Day Trip w/ Lunch
• Panama Can al Railway. Agua Clara Lock San Lorenzo Tour