Things to see and do in Colon Panamá?

Colon is one of the most interesting provinces to visit in Panama for its history and nature. On its Caribbean coasts there were important ports that traded with Spain during the colonial era. The relics of the time are still preserved there. The nature that surrounds everything in Colon Panama also stands out: its extensive jungles full of monkeys and birds, its paradisiacal beaches and islands in the middle of the ocean. The Panama Canal, an engineering feat well worth seeing, also passes through the area.

In this post we’ll tell you everything you need to know before you set off on your trip to Colon. Panama is not one of the safest countries in the world, so it’s a good idea to know where to get around to avoid any setbacks. Here are some travel tips to help you organise your holiday. We will also tell you about the must-see places to visit in the region, how to get there and the main dishes to try. Ready to start your trip? Let’s get started.

What are the best places to visit in Colon?

1. Church of the Black Christ

The chapel of the Church of the Black Christ is one of the most interesting places in Colon. It was built in 1814 and renovated over the years. Inside it houses a life-size figure of the Black Christ which normally occupies a place next to the altar. During the famous feast of the Black Christ the figure is moved to the centre. The chapel is decorated with gilded scenes of the crucifixion.

A curious fact is that there are only two Black Christs in the country, and one of them is in Portobelo, in the Colon region. Admission is free.

2. Soberania National Park

This national park is located on the banks of the Panama Canal and is the perfect place for hiking in its lush jungle that crosses the Chagres River. The park is famous for the large number of birds living there. You only have to look at the sky to discover the great variety of species.

Within the park there are numerous hiking trails for all levels and natural pools where you can take a dip. It is the perfect activity for the whole family.

3. The Panamanian Railway

Although today there are numerous options to move between the two largest cities in the country, Panama and Colon, the truth is that the Panamanian Railway, despite its age, remains one of the favourite alternatives for tourists. This luxury train dates back to 1855 and crosses the country through lush jungles.

The ticket for the journey costs €25 and includes a welcome snack. The journey takes one hour and the train only departs twice a day.

4. Isla Grande, a favourite Panamanian excursion

Isla Grande is one of the most common stops on trips to Colon for its wonderful white sand beaches and crystal clear waters for snorkelling, diving and other water sports. At the top of the island there is also a lighthouse which you can reach by a short walk.

To get to this (despite its name) small Caribbean islan , you need to take a boat from Portobelo National Park. The trip takes just 15 minutes and costs between €3 and €10 depending on the time of day.

5. Colon 2000, the most touristy thing in the city

Colon 2000 is a shopping complex famous for the products being duty free. It is the usual stop to make in the city of Colon, where cruise ships usually arrive from the Caribbean. It is a safe complex within the city where you can shop for luxury goods cheaper than usual and buy souvenirs and local handicrafts. Beyond shopping it’s of little interest.

6. Portobelo, the town with the most history

Portobelo is one of the most important municipalities in the region of Colon because of the history and historical legacy of its ruins. During colonial times it was a rich city with a lot of commercial activity, but after several raids by pirates it was emaciated.

The most famous tourist attractions are the Fort of San Fernando, from 1601, the Fort of San Geronimo and the Fort of Santiago from 1595. All were commissioned by the King of Spain at the time and are now considered World Heritage Sites. Portobelo today is a beautiful fishing village. In this post we tell you more about Portobelo: What to see and do in Portobelo Panama?

7. Panama Canal

This spectacular engineering feat, that allows ships to cross from the Atlantic to the Pacific across the continent, is one of the most interesting stops on your trip to Colon. There are several places to visit, but the closest to Colon is the Agua Clara visitor centre, where you can visit the museum that tells the history of the canal and other curiosities, as well as take in a panoramic view of the canal.

The entrance fee for non-residents ranges from $5 to $10, and the visitor facilities are open daily from 8am to 5pm.

Travel Tip: To organize your trip we recommend using Passporter totally free. You can be inspired by the experiences of other travelers, choose the places that interest you most, create the travel route with a geolocated map, upload all important documents such as reservations and invite your friends so that everyone can participate in the organization of the trip.

What to see around Colon?

1. Panama City, the country’s capital

Panama City is one of the most striking cities in the country for its stark contrasts between modern buildings and skyscrapers versus poorer neighbourhoods where it is often recommended not to go because of their danger. Tourists tend to stay there for two to three days to tour the surrounding area, as the city is relatively easy to see.

In Panama City you can’t miss the colonial centre, the Metropolitan Natural Park, the seafood market and the Calzada de Amador.

What to see in 1 day in  Colon?

The city of Colon as such has very little to offer, in fact, it is recommended that you spend as little time as possible as it is a rather dangerous place. However, the region of Colon is a natural paradise with interesting municipalities such as Portobelo. For this reason, it is usually recommended to spend at least a couple of days in the region to allow time to see the jungles, the Panama Canal and the Soberania National Park.

Many people stay in Panama City and take day trips to these key points to understand the country’s history. But there is also the option of staying in the region itself, in very safe resorts and hotels.

Where and what to eat in Colon?

The cuisine of Colon is characterised by its high quality fish and seafood which is usually served fried and accompanied by coconut rice or Bon bread. Other typical dishes are Sao (meat stew), patties (meat pies) or dumplings. Here are some of the best restaurants where you can try these delicacies:

• Cevicheria El Pargo Lunar: is one of the best seafood restaurants in Colon Panama. The food, service and ambience are exceptional, and the price, although a little higher than usual, is very appropriate for the quality of the place.
• El Penol Restaurant and Bar: is a simple restaurant serving local cuisine at moderate prices. It is the perfect place to discover the most authentic flavours of Panama.
• Drake’s Restaurant:is a buffet with a wide gastronomic offer that includes both national and international, vegan and vegetarian options.

Where to stay in Colon Panama?

Colon is one of the least safe cities in Panama, so it’s important to know where to get around. You won’t be in any danger inside your accommodation, but it’s advisable to be careful when moving around and avoid them at all costs at night. Here are some of the safest places to stay in Panama:

• Hotel Candy Rose: This beautiful hotel is located on Isla Grande by the sea. It has a garden with swimming pool, bar and restaurant, and also offers family rooms. It is the perfect place to relax. The price per night is around €140 and breakfast is included.
• Hotel Andros: This is a simple and pleasant three-star hotel in the city centre. The rooms are fully equipped and the price per night is around 50€.
• Ciel y Miel:is a luxury accommodation located in Cacique. It has a private beach, swimming pool, garden and restaurant. The views are exceptional and the rooms have all the comforts. The price is around 400€ and breakfast is included.

How to get to Colon?

There is no airport in Colon, however, being one of the most touristic regions of the country, it is very well connected to the capital, where the main international airport is located. From the capital there are several ways to get to Colon Panama.

• Bus: The whole country is very well connected by bus, which from the capital takes only 2 hours to Colon.
• Train: is one of the best options for the incredible views as the train passes through the forest of Soberania National Park and alongside Gatun Lake and the Panama Canal. It takes 1 hour to get there.
• Car: You can rent a car at the airport. It takes about 1 hour by road.

What should I consider before travelling to Colon?

• No visa is required to enter Panama, but a passport valid for at least 6 months is required.
• The city is not one of the safest in the country, so avoid the centre at night and keep an eye on your belongings.
• The official language in Panama is Spanish although there are more than 19 languages.
• Vaccinations for hepatitis A and B, MMR, tetanus-diphtheria, typhoid fever are recommended, but not compulsory if travelling from Spain.
• There are two currencies in Panama, the dollar and the balboas.
• It’s best to change money before you start your trip, as there are shops and restaurants that don’t accept credit cards.
• The weather is warm all year round, but May to December is the rainy season.
• Tap water is safe to drink in most parts of the country.
• Be covered for medical emergencies: travel insured.

How to prepare what to see on your trip to Colon?

Register or download the Passporter App and discover all its possibilities.

• Find inspiration from the experiences of other travellers.
• Create your own itinerary and add suggestions from the app to it.
• Add the stops you’re most interested in, as well as the restaurants and bars where you want to eat (you can use the points of interest listed in this post as a reference).
• Organise your itinerary by route days according to their location on the map (you can take inspiration from the routes presented in the post).
• Check out the travel budget that the app calculates for you based on your travel stops, restaurants, and leisure activities.
• Make any modifications you need and you’ll be all set for your trip.
• Share your experience. Upload photos of the places you visited on your trip to the app and recommend other travellers what to see in Colon Panama.

Frequently asked questions about a trip to Colon