Things To Do
in Colón
Colón sits on the Caribbean coast at the eastern entrance to the Panama Canal, where ships pass close to the docks and tropical weather hums in the air. The city has a raw, Afro-Caribbean flavor, with bustling markets, portside activity, and colorful streets. It serves as a gateway to Portobelo and Isla Grande, offering a blend of history, seafood feasts, and jungle-adjacent scenery.
Despite its rough edges, Colón rewards curious travelers with authentic coastal experiences and striking photo opportunities.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the historic buildings of Colón, including the majestic Catedral de Cristo Rey and the remnants of the old railway station. Wander through the colorful streets lined with colonial architecture, capturing the vibrant essence of this historical port city. Don't forget to stop by local cafés to sample Panamanian coffee and pastries for a delightful breakfast experience.
After lunch at a local eatery, take a guided tour of the Colón Free Zone, exploring its bustling markets and unique shops. This area is known for its duty-free shopping, so you can find great deals on electronics, clothing, and more. As you stroll through the vibrant marketplace, immerse yourself in the local culture and interact with the friendly vendors.
As the sun sets, head to the waterfront promenade for a leisurely walk while enjoying the views of the Caribbean Sea. Choose a nearby seafood restaurant for dinner, where you can indulge in freshly caught fish and local delicacies. End your night with a stroll through the lively streets, soaking in the sounds of music and laughter that fill the air.
Begin your day with a boat tour on Gatun Lake, where you can explore the vast waters and see the diverse wildlife that inhabits the area. Keep an eye out for monkeys, sloths, and a variety of birds as you glide through the serene landscape. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at a lakeside café before embarking on your adventure.
Spend the afternoon kayaking or paddle boarding on the tranquil waters of Gatun Lake, discovering hidden islands and enjoying the stunning views. Alternatively, opt for a thrilling jungle hike where you can learn about the unique flora and fauna of the region. Pack a picnic to enjoy on the shores, surrounded by nature's beauty.
Return to Colón in the evening and dine at a local restaurant offering traditional Panamanian cuisine. Try the famous sancocho or rice with coconut, paired with a refreshing drink. Cap off the night with a cultural show featuring local music and dance, experiencing the vibrant heritage of Panama.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕️Coffee in a cafe | $2-4 |
| 🚌One-way ticket on public transport | $0.25-0.60 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (1 night) | $60-120 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Vibrant coastal culture with authentic Caribbean flavor
- Easy access to Portobelo and Isla Grande for day trips
- Limited nightlife compared to Panama City
- Can be hot and humid with occasional heavy rain
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Por favor, hable más despacio" - Please speak more slowly
Places to Visit in Colón
Visit one of these nice places.
Impressive colonial fortifications perched above the Caribbean with sea walls, lush jungle, and dramatic light for landscape and history shots.
Colorful market stalls, workers, and cargo activity create vibrant street photography opportunities.
White-sand beaches and turquoise water provide pristine coastal landscapes and palm-fringed silhouettes.
Industrial docks, container ships, and coppery skies deliver a moody, maritime cityscape.
Food in Colón
Colón Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A rich coconut seafood stew with crab, shrimp, fish, plantains, and yuca, inspired by Caribbean coast cooking.
Must-Try!
Hearty fish soup with cassava, plantains, yuca, and okra; comforting and flavorful.
Fresh fish cured in lime juice with onions, cilantro, and peppers; best with crisp tostadas.
Fried green plantain slices topped with cheese; a common street-side snack.
Coconut rice often served with seafood; a staple accompaniment on the coast.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling wholesale market by the port offering fresh seafood, tropical fruit, and local staples; arrive early for the best picks.
Casual beachfront stalls serving fried fish, patacones, empanadas, and fresh juice; great for quick bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake is common; address adults as Señor/Señora and use polite language. In Afro-Caribbean communities, friendly chit-chat and warm greetings are appreciated.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially in local neighborhoods and markets; some areas may have restrictions.
Safety
Tipping in Colón
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, leave about 10–15% if service is not included; casual eateries may be more flexible. For tours and guides, 10–15% is common. Tipping for taxi rides is appreciated but not required.
US dollars are widely accepted; cash is recommended for markets and small vendors. Cards are generally accepted at hotels, larger restaurants, and some shops; carry smaller bills for easier transactions.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, sunny mornings with lower rainfall and pleasant beach conditions; humidity remains high. Great for outdoor exploration and boat trips, but stay hydrated and use sun protection.
Frequent afternoon showers and intermittent heavy rain; mornings are often drier and better for outdoor activities. Pack a light rain jacket and quick-dry gear; seas can be rough after rain.
Colón at Night
Hiking in Colón
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Jungle trails and coastal paths with rainforest scenery and wildlife.
Rainforest trails near the river region, offering birdwatching and scenic viewpoints.
Airports
How to reach Colón by plane.
Located near Colón; serves a mix of domestic and occasional international flights; convenient for Portobelo trips and quick access to Colón.
Panama City's main international gateway with connections throughout the Americas; from PTY you can drive or take a domestic option to Colón.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Strong Afro-Caribbean heritage with distinctive music, cuisine, and cultural practices.
A diverse mix of mestizo, Caribbean-origin residents, and foreign visitors.
Smaller populations from Emberá and Wounaan groups in the broader region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A staple sport in Panama with deep local roots and community leagues.
Widely played and followed; local clubs and street games are common.
Popular in urban centers and community courts.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Colón.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Options exist in cafes and markets, featuring beans, plantains, yuca, salads, and rice. When ordering, ask for dishes without meat or seafood stock and seek vegetable, bean, or lentil sides alongside plantain and rice staples.