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Colón Panama Cruise Port: Tips, Attractions and Weather

The Colón cruise port is the gateway to the Panama Canal on the Caribbean side and one of the more popular stops on “exotic” western Caribbean cruises.

The most popular western Caribbean cruises usually visit some combination of Jamaica, Grand Cayman and Cozumel. The word “exotic” in exotic western cruises promoted by cruise lines usually means the ship will go to one or more ports of call on on the Central American coast. Roatan, Belize City, Costa Rica and Panama’s Colón lead the list.

Cruise visitors usually arrive at Colón 2000 or Pier 6 of Cristóbal port on the south side of Limon Bay. The location on the bay is important to know for the sake of seeing as much as possible in the shortest amount of time.

Colón is the provincial capital, and the province has Central America’s largest port system.

Like other Central American countries with a Caribbean coast, Panama offers more in the way of ecotourism, history, culture and education than just plain beaches. In fact, Colón is not the place to go for beaches. So plan excursions accordingly.

Quick Travel Tips

Where is colón panama.

Colón Panama is a little more than 200 miles east to southeast of Puerto Limon in Costa Rica. Because of their closeness, they often are included on the same cruise itinerary. But like Limon, Colón is one of the southernmost ports of any western Caribbean cruise at 900 miles south of Cozumel. For that reason, Colón is usually on exotic western Caribbean itineraries of at least seven days.

Attractions and Shore Excursions

A cruise to Panama might lead someone to think that the main attraction is the Panama Canal and the famous locks that raise and lower ships as they cross between the Atlantic and Pacific oceans.

They would be right, but Colón has more to offer.

Walking Around Attractions

Colón cruise port map.

The area around the Colón 2000 terminal is known for its restaurants and shopping. The area around the nearby Cristóbal port is known for its craft markets.

The two locations are about three miles apart and take 10 minutes to reach by regulated taxis.

It is worth noting that Colón has a reputation for street crime, but government authorities have made a strong effort to make tourists feel secure within the duty-free zone. Make sure to use a registered taxi when traveling outside of the zone and don’t display wallets or jewelry. When possible, walk with or among other tourists.

Colon 2000 is a growing tourism district with restaurants, shops, casinos and duty free shopping mall. The mall calls itself, “The only tourism and tax-free mall in the Caribbean”, although some other ports with malls beg to differ. The mall has dozens of shops representing some major international brands.

The Panama government has invested $900 million in a major city renovation. It includes refurbished streets, improved sewage systems and upgrades of public spaces and buildings.

Otherwise, the city doesn’t have much to see or do outside of Colón 2000. It is one of the few Caribbean ports without any guided city shore excursions at this time. Most cruise visitors opt for the shore excursions that take them outside of the city.

Shore Excursions

The most popular shore excursions take cruise travelers to the Panama Canal locks.

For first-time visitors, it is useful to know that the Panama Canal was made possible because of the narrow width of Panama between the Atlantic and Pacific oceans and a huge investment of money and labor (as well as lives). It also was made possible by the presence of the sprawling Lake Gatún near Colón.

Limon Bay connects with Lake Gatún at the Gatún Locks, the first of the famous locks on the Atlantic side that raise and lower ships going through Panama and that need to adjust to different terrains and sea levels.

The lake and the locks are only about a 25 minute drive from Colón via taxi or excursion bus.

A tour of the locks is not the most exciting experience for a cruise traveler in the Caribbean , but it is one of the most impressive and educational excursions. The tour is highly recommended for families in particular.

Anyone on a tight schedule can visit the locks and return to Colón within a few hours. Other visitors usually combine the locks with other activities including a kayak or canoe tour around Lake Gatún to view the numerous species of wildlife that live there. Less active people can take boat tours.

Other Attractions

Two of the next best attractions in the area are in opposite directions of each other along the Atlantic coast.

Fort San Lorenzo, one of the oldest Spanish forts in America, lies about 45 minutes west of Colón. Built in 1597, this UNESCO World Heritage Site was designed to protect the mouth of Chagres River. A four- to five-hour tour that includes both the fort and the Gatún locks will cost about $100 per person with discounts for children.

The Chagres was an entry point for boats that traveled upstream to reach Venta de Cruces. From that point, they walked to Panama City on a trail Camino de Cruces.

Cruise visitors to Colon also can go to Panama City on a much quicker shore excursion than early settlers. They can take a train or excursion bus from the Colon docks on a one-hour ride across the country. It includes a tour of the historical Panama City as well as a visit to the Miraflores Locks. Prices usually range from about $75 to $150 depending on the length, mode of transportation and other factors.

Portobelo National Park is another UNESCO World Heritage site located about an hour east of Colón. Christopher Columbus discovered and named the landing site Portobelo, which is Italian for “beautiful port,” in 1502.

Francisco Valverde y Mercado founded the city of San Felipe de Portobelo in 1597. The Spaniards shipped gold and silver from Peru, unloaded it at Panama City and carried it on mules across the isthmus to Portobelo. Visitors can see the remains of the original fortifications that protected the plunder from pirates.

Beaches Near the Cruise Port

Colón is known for the above shore excursions, but it’s not known as a beach destination.

Although Panama has its share of good beaches, most of them are located elsewhere, like Bocas del Toro.

Cruise visitors to Colon with a passion for beaches can go to Playa La Angosta, which is about a 40 minute drive from Colon, or to Isla Grande, an island about an hour away.

Shopping / Restaurants

Visitors can start their shopping at the modest Colón 2000 mall right by the cruise docks. It is known for a handful of shops, restaurants, a casino and a safe environment. For safety reasons, tourists should not venture outside of the mall unless by taxi or excursion bus.

Colón claims the second largest duty-free shopping zone in the world.  The much bigger opportunity lies at the Colón Free Zone southeast of the cruise docks. It has more than 3,000 companies represented on more than 1,000 acres of land.

Cristobal Pier on the eastern side of the Panama Canal has an active crafts market.

Another interesting option is for passengers to hop on a train and go to Panama City. The distance is 46 miles, and the ride lasts about an hour. Passengers can board the train at the Atlantic Passenger Station in Mount Hope near the Port of Cristobal. It is a mile and a half southwest of the cruise terminal. Multiple cruise lines offer this trip as an excursion.

Getting Around / Transportation

Colón is better known as a port where cruise passengers take excursions into the countryside or over to Panama City rather than staying in the city. Although taxi service is available in Colón, there are few options for traveling short distances.

“Rather than spending the day in Colon, many cruise passengers choose instead to participate in shore excursions arranged by their ships or tours organized independently,” as one cruise line said.

Panama weather on the Caribbean coast enjoys drier weather from late winter to early summer and wetter weather from early summer to late fall.

The wet weather in the second half of the year is the result of the Caribbean hurricane season. It brings heavier rains to the Caribbean and parts of Central America. Panama rarely gets hit by a hurricane, but instead has spikes in rain.

Temperatures are warm throughout the year with average highs nearing 90 degrees Fahrenheit or 32 Celsius.

things to do in colon panama near cruise port

Panama City Cruise Port Guide

Panama City overview

Colón Panama Cruise Port

Panama photo

Best Times to Visit Panama

Celebrity Equinox

7 Best Panama Tourist Attractions

Top beaches in panama, 5 great tourist attractions in western panama, panama canal cruise guide, panama cruise and hotel vacation tips, 5 caribbean cruise tips, western caribbean weather guide, 10 best eastern caribbean ports, western caribbean cruise guide, top western caribbean ports.

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things to do in colon panama near cruise port

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.

things to do in colon panama near cruise port

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

Golfing-Bermuda

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

things to do in colon panama near cruise port

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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What to do at Colon, Panama port?

holdon216

By holdon216 , January 6, 2019 in Panama Canal

Recommended Posts

Cool Cruiser

We will be on a Gatun Lock tour till 2pm this April.  We will then meet up with NCL Jade in Colon. The Jade will be leave Colon at 8pm. Is there anything to see near the port for a couple hours?

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BillB48

Nothing for you in Colon whatsoever except the shopping area where the ship docks.  Nothing all that special there, just some of the regular things you would expect to find.

  • 2 weeks later...

Stay near ship. Very dangerous to leave gated area!

mjkStirling

Just returned and would verify stay in the port, or, take a taxi from inside the port to somewhere identified on the tourist board where prices are all clearly stated. Small shopping area, restaurant, hotel etc. seasoned speaker on board advised no one to leave the port without an organised excursion. 

  • 1 month later...

Definitely do not leave the port area. My husband and I took a taxi to see the church and I feel lucky we made it back to the ship unharmed. After spending about five minutes near the church we realized the area was not safe. We were looking for a taxi to take us back to the ship and an elderly lady warned us not to walk down the street we were heading toward. She then very kindly flagged down a taxi for us. We have traveled extensively and this is the only place I have ever felt like we were in danger. Very scary.

Brick427

Wonder why in the world the cruise companies would chose to stop in this dangerous port ?

30,000+ Club

Because ships that do a partial transit of the canal need a place to dock to pick up passengers from their excursions.  Otherwise, you would need to ask Pullmantur, TUI, Windstar, etc. why they choose this port as a stop, or a place to embark passengers.  EM

90,000+ Club

The ship will likely be there for hours before you're excursion gets back.  No worries.  There is a "flea market" type mall....all sorts of crap for sale!  That can take an hour if you look at all the stuff they sell!

On 1/16/2019 at 1:32 PM, missjulia1 said: Stay near ship. Very dangerous to leave gated area!

It actually is not a good idea to leave the gated area.  

:classic_wink:

Back from our cruise and i agree there was nothing to see in the port area or beyond. Super poor area! We did enjoy the excursion we took through NCL, Eco Cruise & Gatun New Locks.

ValerieJo

On 4/17/2019 at 12:38 PM, holdon216 said: Back from our cruise and i agree there was nothing to see in the port area or beyond. Super poor area! We did enjoy the excursion we took through NCL, Eco Cruise & Gatun New Locks.

We will be on Royal Caribbean and they offer the Eco Cruise on Gatun Lake.  Here is the description:    Cruise along the vast jungle area surrounding Gatun Lake and prepare yourself for a wildlife extravaganza. You will ride along the back channels, islands, and bays of this unique waterway to get an up close glimpse of the capuchin monkeys and other animals that inhabit this area. Have your camera ready to take advantage of the abundant photo opportunities, and listen along as your guide describes the culture, history, and ecology of this unspoiled region. CO62.  

Does this sound like the same excursion you did with NCL?  Did you go through some of the locks?  Thank you.

15 minutes ago, ValerieJo said: We will be on Royal Caribbean and they offer the Eco Cruise on Gatun Lake.  Here is the description:    Cruise along the vast jungle area surrounding Gatun Lake and prepare yourself for a wildlife extravaganza. You will ride along the back channels, islands, and bays of this unique waterway to get an up close glimpse of the capuchin monkeys and other animals that inhabit this area. Have your camera ready to take advantage of the abundant photo opportunities, and listen along as your guide describes the culture, history, and ecology of this unspoiled region. CO62.   Does this sound like the same excursion you did with NCL?  Did you go through some of the locks?  Thank you.

Our NCL Jade went through the  two locks which brought us into Gatun Lake.Where we then tendered. We then took a very short tender ride to the area where we boarded a bus. We then went to the observation area of the new locks. I found this interesting and i'm not really into the blah blah blah tour type info. Back onto the bus we went to the canals. We did see sloths, monkeys, caiman aka gators, and a couple other animals.

 While we were on the excursion The Jade went back through the locks where we met it in Colon.

Thanks

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For the most recent version of this page, visit:

www.cruiseandsea.com

https://www.cruiseandsea.com/port/colon-panama/

Colon Panama

Colon cruise port is located in a commercial port on the Atlantic side of the Panama Canal. It is from this port that you can visit the locks of Gatún lake or Miraflores and see the operations of the Panama Canal. Apart from the Panama Canal, the region does not offer many other points of interest except for the flora and fauna of the rainforest. Colon is a duty-free zone, which will appeal to shoppers.

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Useful Information

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Where is located the port of colon cruise terminal.

Two docks accommodate cruise ships. The Colon 2000 is the most modern and is part of the tax free zone.

The Cristobal wharf is located nearby and an artisan market is close to it.

Travelling around the Colon Cruise Port

Excursions in colon.

Cruise line tours are probably the most convenient and safe option. In addition, many ships do not stay long in this port and stop mainly to disembark or board passengers for excursions.

It is not advisable to try to walk around this area on your own. There are not many tourist attractions in Colon. You can shop at the port. If you’d rather relax, you can enjoy a drink on the terrace of the Washington Hotel, which offers views of the mouth of the Canal. Colon Cathedral was built in honour of Christopher Columbus.

It is not advisable to try to walk around this area on your own.

  • Gatún Lake Locks : Locks are open to visitors from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. every day of the week.
  • You can now see the new locks . Some ships are beginning to use these locks for their cruises.
  • Portobelo : A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this small Spanish colonial-style town offers interesting views of the sea. You will also discover the ruins of six forts.
  • Village of the Embera Tribes : Experience what life was like for the Embera tribes 600 years ago and discover their history and folklore.
  • Kayak in the locks of the Panama Canal
  • Excursion to the Miraflores Locks : The observation centre and its museum will allow you to understand the workings and history of the Panama Canal.

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Useful References

  • Tourism Board - Colon
  • Tourism Board - Panama
  • Colon on Wikipedia
  • Panama on Wikipedia
  • Travel Advice and Advisories (Government of Canada)

For details or to book an excursion, visit our page:

Alternative:

https://www.viator.com/en-CA/Colon/d4510-ttd?pid=P00045706&mcid=42383&medium=link&campaign=morebutton

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Gatún Lake Panama

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THE 10 BEST Colon Boat Rides & Cruises

Boat rides & cruises in colon.

  • Dolphin & Whale Watching
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  • 5.0 of 5 bubbles
  • 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
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  • Chagres National Park
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  • Fort San Lorenzo
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  • 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.

things to do in colon panama near cruise port

1. Ocean to Ocean Panama Canal and Jungle Tour

things to do in colon panama near cruise port

2. Tour at the Chagres Rainforest and Embera Indigenous Village

things to do in colon panama near cruise port

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

things to do in colon panama near cruise port

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

things to do in colon panama near cruise port

5. Day Tour at Panama Canal from Ocean to Ocean

things to do in colon panama near cruise port

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

things to do in colon panama near cruise port

7. Embera Village Tour from Panama City

things to do in colon panama near cruise port

8. Embera Indigenous Culture Tour

things to do in colon panama near cruise port

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

things to do in colon panama near cruise port

10. Embera Village and Jungle Tour

things to do in colon panama near cruise port

11. Traditional Ecotour Community embera

things to do in colon panama near cruise port

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

things to do in colon panama near cruise port

13. Agua Clara Excluses and Fort San Lorenzo

things to do in colon panama near cruise port

14. Chagres Challenge Overnight - 2 Days Jungle Expedition in Chagres National Park

things to do in colon panama near cruise port

15. Panama Canal through the Chagres River

things to do in colon panama near cruise port

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

things to do in colon panama near cruise port

17. Full Day Private Embera Day Tour

things to do in colon panama near cruise port

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

things to do in colon panama near cruise port

19. Embera Indian Village

things to do in colon panama near cruise port

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

things to do in colon panama near cruise port

21. Embera Indigenous community Waterfall and rainforest

things to do in colon panama near cruise port

22. Emberá Villas Tour

What travelers are saying.

Dominic B

  • Day Tour at Panama Canal from Ocean to Ocean
  • Snorkeling on The Caribbean side of Panama
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  • Agua Clara Excluses and Fort San Lorenzo
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Colon: Boat Tours Information

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7 Best Things to Do in Colón, Panama

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.

View of a ship going from Gatun lake to the Panama Canal

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

View of Gatun lake of the Panama Channel and blue sky

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

View of the 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 !

View of Fort San Lorenzo

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!

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Colon, Panama

What to do in colon, panama cruise port.

Visiting Historical Sites

Visiting Historical Sites

Colon, Panama is home to a number of historical sites, including the ruins of the old Spanish fort, the San Lorenzo National Park, and the Gatun Locks. Cruise passengers can also visit the nearby town of Portobelo, which was once a major trading port for the Spanish Empire. There are also plenty of museums and other attractions that offer insight into the history and culture of the region.

Shopping

Colon, Panama is a great place to shop for souvenirs and unique items. The Free Trade Zone is a popular destination for cruise passengers, offering a wide variety of duty-free items, including electronics, jewelry, and clothing. There are also plenty of local shops and markets where you can find handmade crafts, traditional Panamanian food, and other unique items.

Exploring Nature

Exploring Nature

Colon, Panama is home to some of the most beautiful natural scenery in the world. Cruise passengers can explore the rainforest, visit the nearby beaches, or take a boat tour of the Panama Canal. There are also plenty of opportunities for bird watching, fishing, and other outdoor activities. The nearby Gatun Lake is a great spot for swimming and kayaking.

The Panama Canal

Shopping near Colon, Panama Cruise Port

Almacen El Rey

Almacen El Rey

Almacen El Rey is a great shopping option near Colon, Panama cruise port. It is a large store that offers a variety of souvenirs, including t-shirts, hats, jewelry, and other items. The store also has a wide selection of local crafts and artwork, making it a great place to find unique gifts. Prices are reasonable and the staff is friendly and helpful.

Casa de los Artesanos

Casa de los Artesanos

Casa de los Artesanos is a great shopping option near Colon, Panama cruise port. It is a small shop that specializes in handmade crafts and artwork from local artisans. The store has a wide selection of items, including jewelry, pottery, and other items. Prices are reasonable and the staff is friendly and helpful. The store also offers a variety of workshops and classes, making it a great place to learn about local culture and art.

Mercado de Artesanias

Mercado de Artesanias

Mercado de Artesanias is a great shopping option near Colon, Panama cruise port. It is a large market that offers a variety of souvenirs, including t-shirts, hats, jewelry, and other items. The market also has a wide selection of local crafts and artwork, making it a great place to find unique gifts. Prices are reasonable and the staff is friendly and helpful. The market also offers a variety of workshops and classes, making it a great place to learn about local culture and art.

Beaches in Colon, Panama

Playa Blanca

Playa Blanca

Playa Blanca is a stunning white sand beach located just a short drive from Colon, Panama. It is a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. The beach is lined with palm trees and offers a variety of activities, including kayaking, paddle boarding, and jet skiing. There are also several restaurants and bars located nearby, making it a great spot for a day trip.

Isla Grande Beach

Isla Grande Beach

Isla Grande Beach is a stunning beach located just a short boat ride from Colon, Panama. It is a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. The beach is lined with palm trees and offers a variety of activities, including kayaking, paddle boarding, and jet skiing. There are also several restaurants and bars located nearby, making it a great spot for a day trip. The beach is also home to a variety of wildlife, including monkeys, iguanas, and tropical birds, making it a great spot for wildlife viewing.

Portobelo Beach

Portobelo Beach

Portobelo Beach is a beautiful beach located just a few miles from Colon, Panama. It is a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. The beach is lined with palm trees and offers a variety of activities, including kayaking, paddle boarding, and jet skiing. There are also several restaurants and bars located nearby, making it a great spot for a day trip. The beach is also home to a historic fort, which is a great place to explore and learn about the area's history.

Colon Free Trade Zone

Attractions in Colon, Panama

Best cruise excursions in colon, panama.

Colon Shore Excursion: Panama City and Canal Private Tour

Colon, Panama cruise port map

Colon 2000

Colon, Panama Cruise Port Terminals

Manzanillo International Terminal

Manzanillo International Terminal

Manzanillo International Terminal is a smaller cruise ship terminal located in Colon, Panama. It is located on the Caribbean side of the Panama Canal and is the main port of call for many smaller cruise lines. The terminal features a variety of shops, restaurants, and other amenities, as well as a large outdoor area for passengers to explore.

Colon Container Port

Colon Container Port

Colon Container Port is a large port located in Colon, Panama. It is located on the Caribbean side of the Panama Canal and is the main port of call for many cargo ships. The port features a variety of shops, restaurants, and other amenities, as well as a large outdoor area for passengers to explore.

Colon 2000 Cruise Terminal

Colon 2000 Cruise Terminal

Colon 2000 Cruise Terminal is the largest and most popular cruise ship terminal in Colon, Panama. It is located on the Caribbean side of the Panama Canal and is the main port of call for many cruise lines. The terminal features a variety of shops, restaurants, and other amenities, as well as a large outdoor area for passengers to explore.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, Colon, Panama is a popular cruise port. It is the gateway to the Panama Canal and offers a variety of attractions and activities for visitors. Cruise ships often dock at the Colon 2000 Cruise Terminal, which is located in the city center. From there, visitors can explore the city's historic sites, take a tour of the Panama Canal, or go shopping in the nearby markets.

Taxi Transfers and Tours

Panama Taxi Transfers and Sightseeing Tours

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PANAMA BEST SHORE EXCURSIONS

From  your cruise ship in  colon  port and back.

Flexible Panama City and Panama Canal Sightseeing Tour Cater To Individuals, Family Groups and Friends.    Option 4-6 hrs Tour.  Run By Panama Certified Tour Operator With Bilingual Local Guides  In Comfortable Air Ccondition   Vehicle  Choose excurtion   

TOUR OPTIONS

  • Sightseeing Panama City – Casco Antiguo, Amador Causeway;
  • Panama Canal at Miraflores Visitor Center – in Panama City;
  • Agua Clara ( New Locks – “new canal” – an engineering masterpiece in Colon area );
  • Monkey Island (wildlife and monkeys);
  • Embera indigenous Village visit;
  • Bird Watching  to Metropolitan Park ($185),  Pipeline Road ($185) and Achiote Road ($185)
  • Nature walk (Soberania National Park) ($68)

Note:  Price is per person minimum two persons, include transportation in ac vehicle, local bilingual certified guide, tolls and taxes.

Also we provide Transfer from Tocumen airport and from  Colon cruise port to  other destinations like Beach Resorts airports, Panama city hotels and other destinations.      

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FROM  YOUR CRUISE SHIP IN AMADOR PORT AND BACK

  • Bird Watching   to Metropolitan Park ($95),  Pipeline Road ($120) and Achiote Road ($180)

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TRANSFER SHUTTLE:   to Panama Beach Resorts and Hotels: Gamboa, Decameron, Playa Blanca, Buenaventura, Playa Bonita (Veracruz)  and        more…

FROM PANAMA CITY   AMADOR PORT

PRIVATE SHORE  EXCURSIONS – (6 hr)       BOOK NOW!   

Also transfer to – from Tocumen Airport, Panama city, Beach Resort or from Port to your next destination.

Shore Excursions From/To  Cruise Ship – Terminal Colon 2000 or  Amador Flamingo Marina   and Your Transfer  From  Colon  Port or  Amador  Cruise Port (NEW) secure your transfer 

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Cruises to Colón, Panama

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  • Colón Port Guide
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Colón Panama Port Guide

For a short stop on a Panama Canal cruise , Colón is a must. Colón is home to one of the largest duty-free shopping areas in the world called Zona Libre, so shoppers might need a second suitcase to take home all their local goods. Colón is a resilient city, building and rebuilding after fires, occupations, and economic recessions. Today, the city is making a concerted effort to revitalize its parks, monuments, and attractions.

On a cruise to Colón, Panama, leave time to see one of its most famous attractions—the Panama Canal. Or hop in a car for a day trip to it’s largest metropolitan area: Panama City. Explore Casco Viejo, the historic district, for a glimpse of Panama from another time, and some of the best restaurants in the area. Though Colón isn’t as flashy as other cities in Panama, it’s centrally located to get to any number of nearby excursions to stunning rainforests, national parks like Soberania National Park, and historic sites like the ruins of San Lorenzo.

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Top sights & attractions for cruises to colón, the panama canal.

The construction of the Panama Canal provided access to the Caribbean from the Pacific Ocean like never before, and Colón became the main entry point for imports from around the world. When you check out the Panama Canal on your cruise, watch giant cargo ships rise and fall as the Canal opens and closes from the observation deck. You can book a boat tour to experience the canal up close and personal, and many tours include multiple stops in Colón beyond the Panama Canal to deepen your knowledge of the area.

This artificial lake is part of the Panama Canal, and also happens to be one of the biggest attractions for tourists in the Colón area. Built from 1907 to 1913, Gatun Lake is a monument to human achievement. See Colón’s natural landscape for yourself, beautiful even when contrasted with a man-made structure. Gatun Lake act as a reservoir, enabling the canal locks to work properly.

Casco Viejo

Casco Viejo means “Old Quarter,” in Spanish, and this historic district of Panama City is a little over an hour’s drive from Colón. Casco Viejo has been called an up-and-coming destination for visitors, complete with restored Spanish-Colonial streets, tucked-away cafes and restaurants, and even a local fish market where you can find octopus, mahi mahi, shrimp, tuna, and more. Stop in at the Panama Canal Museum, located in a building dating back to 1874, for a quick education on the construction and history of the canal.

Panama City

As the capital city, Panama City is a bustling center for politics, banking, commerce, and other industries. Over 1.5 million people call Panama City home, and it’s an excellent day trip from Colón. You can be there by car in a little over an hour, and you can explore Casco Viejo, or head to Panama Viejo, a museum and historic site in the area while you’re there. Plus, Panama City has some of the best dining, lined with cafes and bars down the skylined Avenida Balboa.

Learn More About Colón Shore Excursions

Top things to do in colón, go shopping at colón’s massive duty-free zone.

Zona Libre is the largest duty-free shopping area in the world, and here you’ll find goods and wares of all types for every kind of shopper. Over 1,600 stores are located in Zona Libre, and this massive shopping center helped kickstart the economy of parts of Colón during a bitter recession. If you have a short stop on Colón cruise with little time to explore outside the city, get lost among the plentiful shopping options in Zona Libre.

Day Trip to Portobelo

Take an hour-long drive northeast of Colón to reach tiny Portobelo, where you’ll see unique ruins and historic sites from the Spanish colonial period. Portobelo is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take in Panama’s natural beauty with a trip to Portobelo National Park, complete with mangrove trees, lush rainforest, beaches, and plenty of activities like snorkeling, diving, and more. Sightsee the preserved ruins of not one but five Spanish forts.

Explore the Area’s Abundant Nature Sites

The province of Colón contains many natural sites not far from Colón proper. See monkeys at the expansive Soberania National Park, where you’ll find over 55,000 acres of greenery and over 500 species of birds—some rare, others endangered—calling this area home. Climb the observation tower at the Panama Rainforest Discovery Center. You just might spot a sloth from the top.

See the Ruins of Fort San Lorenzo

Just eight miles from the center of Colón are the ruins of the Fort of San Lorenzo, where you can look out at an abandoned, rustic village along the Chagres River. Book a tour of the ruins with a local guide, where they often delve into the history of the area, including the fort’s primary goal of protecting trade routes from greedy pirates. They’ll making additional stops in the area’s rainforest and share stories of Panama’s famous history along the way.

Top Food and Drink Spots Near the Colón Cruise Port

Most of the top-rated spots are a short trip to the historic Casco Viejo neighborhood in Panama City. You’ll find good eats in downtown Colón, too. Here are few you might try while you’re there:

Address: Calle 5 Oeste, Casco Antiguo, Panama City

In neighboring Panama City, Lo Que Hay serves high quality Panamanian classics in a relaxed, casual atmosphere, something of a hidden gem of the area. Don’t miss dishes like pork tacos, yucca tostadas, tuna ceviche, and much more.

Address: Ave. Central and Calle 11, Casco Viejo, Panama

You’ll need a reservation at this romantic, intimate eatery in Casco Viejo. Once your Colón cruise is booked, call up the folks at Donde Jose to secure a seat, because this 16-seat restaurant consistently makes “best of” lists. Chef José Carles welcomes diners each night and serves an eight-course adventure for you, paying tribute to classic Panamanian cuisine with unexpected twists along the way.

San Angel Restaurant & Lounge

Address: 84W4+2R Colón, Panama

Located within the Millenium Plaza shopping complex in Colón, San Angel Restaurant & Lounge offers everything from pasta and hamburguesa to fresh ceviche and salmon dishes.

Super Gourmet

Address: Calle 6a Oeste, Casco Viejo, Panama

This simple deli is perfect for a quick bite before you continue shopping, exploring, and seeing the sights in Casco Viejo. The casual atmosphere and cold air conditioning provide a respite from the heat. The simple, unpretentious menu has sandwiches, meats and cheeses, salads, and options for vegetarians and vegans, too. 

Culture & History of the Colón Cruise Port

During the California Gold Rush in the mid-1800s, many people decided to migrate vast distances to start new lives on the West Coast of the United States. Demand for a railroad connecting Panama and the United States grew, and interest in traveling to California from Panama—instead of trekking across the continent—skyrocketed too. Later, the French took over the city and built colonial structures and French architecture during their occupation.

Colón was founded in 1850, and was originally called “Aspinwall” after one of the founders of the Panama Railroad. When the Panama railroad was finished in 1855, Colón boomed instantly, but its notoriety and busyness as a city faded after the U.S. transcontinental railroad project was abandoned. Colón then suffered a terrible economic depression.

The French began building the Panama Canal to connect the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans. Later, they sold the canal to the United States, who finished building and updating the Panama Canal Zone—everything from housing to infrastructure to water systems—during the presidency of Theodore Roosevelt from 1904 to 1913. Fires in the late 1800s and mid-20th century devastated the city, and though it has since recovered, Colón is still in process of creating ways to share the city with the world.

Colón Port Facilities & Location

On your cruise to Colón, Panama, the cruise terminal offers shops, restaurants, a 24-hour supermarket, and a casino to keep you busy while you’re at the Colón 2000 pier. Most excursions and tours will take off from the Colón 2000 pier. There’s also a pier called Cristobal, where you can typically find easy excursions to the Panama Canal. You’ll find a flea market along the pier.

Transportation in Colón

Your cruise to Colón, Panama offers a variety of ways to get around Panama, primarily by bus, taxi, or train. You can get a taxi or private car to get from Colón to Panama City, which averages around $125-160 USD roundtrip. You can also rent a car and drive around Panama or head to Panama City as you wish. There are tolls on the way to Panama City, and the ride will take about an hour and a half.

If you’re trying to get to Colón from one of an excursion, you can take buses or trains to get there. Buses will drop you typically at the Albrook Bus Terminal. The train run every day, and a one-way ticket will cost about $25.

Shopping Near the Colón Cruise Port

You’ll find the second largest duty-free shopping center in the world at the Colón 2000 terminal with endless opportunities to shop to your heart’s content while stopped in Colón. Of course, beyond the terminal are street vendors selling their goods and wares, and plenty of souvenir shops to keep you busy even if you spend your stop in Colón just shopping.

Local Currency & Tipping Customs

The official currency of Panama is the Balboa (PAB), along with the U.S. dollar (USD). One Balboa is equivalent to one dollar. Many places will give you dollars in USD and change in PAB. You can probably get by in Colón without exchanging currencies, since the dollar is so widely accepted. When at a restaurant or bar, leaving a 10% tip for your server is expected, but tipping taxi drivers for a short trip isn’t required.

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Local Tour Guide Walking and Pointing Toward the Skyline with a Group of Cheerful, Fashionable Afro-Descendant Tourists Together with a View of 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.

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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

things to do in colon panama near cruise port

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

things to do in colon panama near cruise port

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.

things to do in colon panama near cruise port

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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Fortifications on the Caribbean Side of Panama in Colon

Cruise to Colón, Panama

Colón shore excursions, amazing experiences coming soon., sorry, there are no excursions for this port at this moment., things to do in colón.

The second lock of the Panama canal from the Pacific ocean

Lock in the Wonder

The second lock of the Panama canal from the Pacific ocean

Experience the Panama Canal in all its engineered glory as you witness ships being lifted in the Gatun locks to enter Gatun Lake. Ships then traverse through the lake and exit the canal on the Pacific Ocean side, going down again in the Miraflores locks.

The San Lorenzo fortifications in Portobelo National Park in Colon, Panama

Naturally Fortified

The San Lorenzo fortifications in Portobelo National Park in Colon, Panama

Head to the Portobelo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and find yourself surrounded by historic fortifications like the ruins of San Lorenzo Castle and Fort. Don't miss San Lorenzo Protected Forest, which houses many hiking trails and marine flora and fauna, like mangroves and sea turtles.

The Panama Cathedral in Colon

The Beat of the City

Drive for just an hour and find arguably the most visually appealing city in Central America: metropolitan Panama City. Cruise to Colón and walk by impressive skyscrapers like the Vitri Tower, feed your artistic side with a visit to BioMuseo museum, and shop for souvenirs in the historic streets of Panama Viejo.

Young woman holding in hands wicker basket with freshly baked empanadas

Local Cuisine

Seafood in its many forms is the staple cuisine of Colón. Sample shrimp and coconut rice or white fish ceviche marinated in lime and habanero. Not feeling like fish? Seek out golden-brown empanadas stuffed with meat and cheese or sancocho , a hearty chicken stew with corn, squash and herbs. Finish your meal with raspados , the local dessert of grated ice sweetened with condensed milk.

Panama Hats sold in Colon, Panama

The Colón Free Zone is one of the biggest duty-free markets in the world. Head here to find wholesale stores selling everything from clothes to shoes and jewelry during your Colón cruise. If you're heading to Panama City, don't miss out on the shopping there. Shops like Karavan, Beermarkt and Papiro y Yo selling indigenous art, local beer and the ever-popular Panama hats.

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  1. Colón 2022: Top 10 Tours & Activities (with Photos)

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  2. Colon (Panama) cruise port schedule

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  3. Panoramio

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    things to do in colon panama near cruise port

  5. Things to Do in Colon Panama on a Cruise Day Stop

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  6. Colon Cruise: Discover Cruises to Colon Panama

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  1. Colon Shore Excursion to Panama Canal

  2. PANAMA CITY COLON CRUISE PORT: HURTIGRUTEN FRIDTJOF NANSEN

  3. Top 10 Attractions: Colon Panama #colonpanama #passport #panamá #panamacitypanama #travelvlog

  4. Panama Canal Cruise

  5. Panama Canal Cruise and San Pedro Cruise Port

  6. Panama Canal Cruise Port Guide: Tips and Overview

COMMENTS

  1. Colón Panama Cruise Port: Tips, Attractions and Weather

    The Colón cruise port is the gateway to the Panama Canal on the Caribbean side. It is one of the more popular stops on ... Beaches Near the Cruise Port. ... like Bocas del Toro. Cruise visitors to Colon with a passion for beaches can go to Playa La Angosta, which is about a 40 minute drive from Colon, or to Isla Grande, an island about an hour ...

  2. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Colon

    See ways to experience (5) 9. Gatun Eco Adventures. 12. Amusement & Theme Parks. GATUN ECO ADVENTURES (GEA) is a different and unique Ecotourism Center located in the Province of Colon, only 45 minutes away from Panama City. Its 27 hectares (67,5 acres) include the pristine rainforest of Fort Gulick, a former US Army post.

  3. Colon Panama

    The city of Colon Panama is often a stop on a Panama Canal cruise. Duty free shopping is popular in Colon. ... The Colon 2000 port complex also houses restaurants Arrecifes and Rotana Cafe. ... Things To Do in Colon - Panama. View this post on Instagram. A post shared by Port Colon 2000 (@portcolon2000) ...

  4. What to do at Colon, Panama port?

    33.4k. November 13, 2007. Coastal GA USA. #7. Posted March 6, 2019. Because ships that do a partial transit of the canal need a place to dock to pick up passengers from their excursions. Otherwise, you would need to ask Pullmantur, TUI, Windstar, etc. why they choose this port as a stop, or a place to embark passengers. EM.

  5. Port Colon 2000

    Top ways to experience Port Colon 2000 and nearby attractions. Cruiseline Excursion Colon: Panama City tour and Miraflores Locks. 23. Recommended. Bus Tours. from. $76.93. per adult. Private 6 hours Discover Colon City & Atlantic Ocean Tour Panama.

  6. Colon Cruise Port

    Colon cruise port is located in a commercial port on the Atlantic side of the Panama Canal. It is from this port that you can visit the locks of Gatún lake or Miraflores and see the operations of the Panama Canal. Apart from the Panama Canal, the region does not offer many other points of interest except for the flora and fauna of the rainforest.

  7. THE TOP 10 Colon Tours & Excursions (UPDATED 2024)

    A: The best tours in Colon according to Viator travelers are: Colon Shore Excursion: Panama City and Canal Private Tour. Catamaran Sailing Caribbean Beaches with Snorkelling and Lunch - Day Tour. Colón to Panama Tocumen Airport (PTY)- Departure Private Transfer. From Colon Port Private Canal Lock & San Lorenzo Fort.

  8. Colon (Cristobal) Cruise Reviews

    Things to Do. Read over 493 detailed Colon (Cristobal) cruise port reviews and find great tips to enjoy Colon (Cristobal) including shore excursions, local activities and must see attractions.

  9. THE 10 BEST Colon Boat Rides & Cruises (from $75)

    The pristine jungles of upper Chagres National Park, the gorgeous Chagres River, and the Embera Indigenous met through an…. 15. Panama Canal through the Chagres River. HIGHLIGHTS • 7 nights all included package • Embera Villages • 4x4, hiking, • Pristine Chagres National Park • rafting…. 16.

  10. THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Colon

    See ways to experience (5) 9. Gatun Eco Adventures. 12. Amusement & Theme Parks. GATUN ECO ADVENTURES (GEA) is a different and unique Ecotourism Center located in the Province of Colon, only 45 minutes away from Panama City. Its 27 hectares (67,5 acres) include the pristine rainforest of Fort Gulick, a former US Army post.

  11. 7 Best Things to Do in Colón, Panama

    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.

  12. Colón 2000 Cruise Terminal

    The basics. Most visitors to the port city take a guided excursion to the Panama Canal, but the two cruise terminals in Colón offer plenty of things to see and buy. The Colón 2000 terminal has a massive shopping center selling everything from electronics to cosmetics for cheap. Cristóbal Pier is the place to pick up local artisan wares or ...

  13. Colon, Panama Cruise Port

    See which Colon, Panama cruise is best for you at Cruiseline.com Check out the Colon, Panama cruise port viewing 807 reviews and 82 photos from real travelers. Learn the best things to do at the port of Colon, Panama.

  14. Colon, Panama Cruise Port

    Beaches in Colon, Panama The beaches near Colon, Panama cruise port are some of the most beautiful in the Caribbean. The beaches are white sand and crystal clear waters, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing. The nearby beaches of Playa Chiquita, Playa Blanca, and Playa Grande are all within a short drive from the port.

  15. Panama Best Shore Excursions From Colon Cruise Ship Port

    Panama Canal at Miraflores Visitor Center - in Panama City; Agua Clara ( New Locks - "new canal" - an engineering masterpiece in Colon area ); Monkey Island (wildlife and monkeys); Embera indigenous Village visit; Bird Watching to Metropolitan Park ($185), Pipeline Road ($185) and Achiote Road ($185) Nature walk (Soberania National ...

  16. Colon (Cristobal) Shore Excursion Reviews

    In Port: The cafe at Cristobal Pier can rustle up tasty bar snacks when cruisers are in port. There are more restaurants -- notably Arrecifes and Rotana Cafe -- to choose from in the Colon 2000 ...

  17. THE TOP 5 Colon Shore Tours (w/Prices)

    The best Shore Excursions in Colon according to Viator travelers are: Colon Shore Excursion: Panama City and Canal Private Tour. Catamaran Sailing Caribbean Beaches with Snorkelling and Lunch - Day Tour. Colon Panama: Embera Indians and Miraflores Locks. Birding ACHIOTE ROAD from Cruise Ship Colon Port.

  18. Colón Shore Excursions & Cruise Excursions

    Schedule Colón shore excursions to learn about the engineering feat that's often called "the eighth wonder of the world," the Panama Canal. On a full day cruise excursion, you'll see a film that details the history of the Canal and experience the workings of the Miraflores Locks up close. At the Agua Clara Locks Expansion Center and ...

  19. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Colon (Updated 2024)

    See ways to experience (5) 9. Gatun Eco Adventures. 12. Amusement & Theme Parks. GATUN ECO ADVENTURES (GEA) is a different and unique Ecotourism Center located in the Province of Colon, only 45 minutes away from Panama City. Its 27 hectares (67,5 acres) include the pristine rainforest of Fort Gulick, a former US Army post.

  20. Colon Cruise: Discover Cruises to Colon Panama

    On your cruise to Colón, Panama, the cruise terminal offers shops, restaurants, a 24-hour supermarket, and a casino to keep you busy while you're at the Colón 2000 pier. Most excursions and tours will take off from the Colón 2000 pier. There's also a pier called Cristobal, where you can typically find easy excursions to the Panama Canal.

  21. Colon Cruise Port Guide

    Cruise port guide for Colon, Panama. Information on where your ship docks, how to get from the port into the city, maps, bus and shuttle information, public transport options, cruise terminal information, cruise port schedules, must see sights, shopping guides, restaurant guides, internet and wifi locations, and suggestions for things to do.

  22. Best Panama Canal cruise excursions from Colon and Panama City

    Things to know about Panama Canal excursions. Coral Princess in the Panama Canal. PRINCESS CRUISES. 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.

  23. Cruises to Colón, Panama

    The Beat of the City. Drive for just an hour and find arguably the most visually appealing city in Central America: metropolitan Panama City. Cruise to Colón and walk by impressive skyscrapers like the Vitri Tower, feed your artistic side with a visit to BioMuseo museum, and shop for souvenirs in the historic streets of Panama Viejo.