Things To Do
in Colón
Colón is a major port city located on the Caribbean coast of Panama. It is known for its historic architecture, including colorful colonial buildings in the old town area. The city is an important hub for trade and commerce, with a bustling free trade zone attracting businesses from around the world.
Colón also offers beautiful beaches, vibrant markets, and opportunities for outdoor activities like snorkeling and fishing.
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Hasta luego" - See you later
- "¿Qué tal?" - What's up?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $1.50 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.25 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the historic Fort San Lorenzo, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the fort's amazing views and learn about its significant history.
Head to the Colón Free Zone for some shopping and local cuisine. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby restaurant.
Wrap up your day with a stroll along the waterfront. Enjoy the sunset while sipping on a refreshing drink.
Spend your morning at Playa Langosta, relaxing in the sun and swimming in the warm Caribbean waters. Bring a book or enjoy beach games.
Indulge in fresh seafood at a beachside restaurant. Taste some local delicacies while soaking up the coastal ambiance.
Watch the stars come out as you enjoy a beach bonfire with friends. Share stories and enjoy the sounds of the ocean.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strategic location as a major shipping and transportation hub.
- Access to both the Atlantic and Pacific oceans through the Panama Canal.
- Rich cultural diversity and a vibrant local community.
- Growing economy with opportunities in trade, logistics, and tourism.
- Beautiful natural surroundings, including beaches and rainforests.
- High levels of poverty and unemployment in certain areas.
- Infrastructure challenges, including traffic and public services.
- Safety concerns related to crime in specific neighborhoods.
- Limited access to healthcare and education in some parts.
- Environmental issues, such as pollution and deforestation.
Best Activities in Colón
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Take a guided boat tour on Gatun Lake to see the Panama Canal up close, wildlife, and lush rainforest.
Visit the Safarick's Zoo for a unique and up-close experience with animals from around the world in a natural setting.
Embark on a birdwatching adventure along the Achiote Road to spot a diverse range of bird species in their natural habitat.
Enjoy a kayaking excursion on the Chagres River, surrounded by pristine tropical rainforest and breathtaking scenery.
Tours
Uncover the best of Colón with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Colón
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of the Caribbean coastline and historical ruins for great photo opportunities.
Provides beautiful panoramic views of the surrounding jungle and the Caribbean Sea from a historic 16th-century fort.
Presents fantastic photo opportunities of the lake, its lush surroundings, and the famous Panama Canal.
Food in Colón
Colón Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A staple dish made with rice, beans, and coconut milk, often served with a side of plantains and a choice of meat such as chicken, pork, or fish. Best enjoyed at local eateries like Mama Rita's Kitchen or El Trapiche.
Must-Try!
A delicious one-pot stew featuring a mix of seafood, root vegetables, plantains, and coconut milk. For an authentic taste, head to La Casa del Rondón, a popular spot among locals and tourists alike.
Fried plantain slices that are flattened, refried, and served with a variety of toppings like cheese, shrimp, or shredded meats. Widely available at street food stalls and recommended vendors include Patacones Doña Meche and Patacón Loco.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Colón better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market offers an array of traditional Panamanian street food such as empanadas, ceviche, and tamales. It's a great place to sample local flavors and experience the lively atmosphere of street food culture in Colón.
A popular location for street food vendors offering an assortment of treats including carimañolas (deep-fried meat-filled yuca rolls) and raspados (flavored shaved ice). Visitors can savor these delights while exploring the park's surroundings.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Colón, it is important to show respect for elders. This can be demonstrated through polite language, deference, and attentive listening when elders are speaking.
Colón residents often value personal space and may prefer to maintain a comfortable distance when interacting. It is important to be mindful of this cultural norm and respect others' personal space.
Greeting people with a handshake and a smile is a common way to show respect in Colón. It is also respectful to use formal titles (such as 'Señor' or 'Señora') when addressing others, especially in formal settings.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Colón with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Colón
Ensure a smooth experience
In Colón, Panama, tipping is commonly practiced in restaurants, bars, and for other services. It is customary to leave a 10% - 15% tip at restaurants if a service charge is not included in the bill. For other services such as taxi rides and hotel staff, rounding up the bill or offering a small tip is appreciated.
Cash is widely used for transactions in Colón, Panama. Credit and debit cards are also accepted in many establishments, especially in tourist areas and larger businesses. It's advisable to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases and when visiting more local establishments. ATMs are available for withdrawing local currency.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Colón.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Colón, Panama is during the dry season when you can expect sunny and warm weather. This is ideal for enjoying outdoor activities and exploring the city without being hindered by rainfall.
During the rainy season in Colón, Panama, you can expect frequent rainfall and high humidity. While the lush landscapes are beautiful, outdoor activities may be limited due to the weather. However, this can be a great time to experience the city's cultural events and festivals.
Colón at Night
Hiking in Colón
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A vast natural reserve with numerous trails, offering a rich biodiversity and beautiful views of tropical flora and fauna.
A well-known hiking trail famous for birdwatching, with a flat route that allows for easy access to the rainforest environment.
Located near Panama City, this park features hiking trails that offer stunning panoramas of the city and natural surroundings while being easily accessible.
This park provides a variety of hiking opportunities through lush forests and along rivers, ideal for those seeking adventure in a quieter area.
A picturesque valley surrounded by mountains, featuring hiking trails that lead to waterfalls and scenic viewpoints, located a bit further from Colón.
Aiports
How to reach Colón by plane.
The main international airport of Panama, located in Tocumen, about 24 km from Colón. It serves as a hub for international flights to and from Panama City.
Located in David, approximately 360 km from Colón, this airport serves as a gateway to the western regions of Panama.
Located about 30 km from Colón, this airport primarily serves domestic flights and is also a hub for cargo services.
Situated about 400 km from Colón, it serves flights to the Bocas del Toro region and connects to other domestic destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population in Colón consists of Afro-Panamanians, with significant influences from indigenous groups and European settlers.
The economy features a substantial working-class population, primarily involved in trade, shipping, and commerce due to the city's strategic location.
Colón has a relatively young population, with a higher proportion of individuals under 30 years of age compared to older age groups.
The demographic profile indicates a mix of socioeconomic statuses, with a considerable number of individuals living in poverty alongside a rising middle class.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is the most popular sport in Colón, Panama, with many local teams and leagues. The sport has a rich history in the region, and many players have gone on to play in Major League Baseball.
Soccer is also widely played and followed in Colón. The local community supports teams in the national leagues and the enthusiasm for soccer events draws large crowds.
Basketball enjoys a growing popularity in Colón, especially among the youth. Local schools and organizations often host tournaments and community events centered around the sport.
Boxing has a significant following in Colón, producing several notable professional boxers. The sport is a source of local pride and often features prominently in community events.
Track and field events are popular in Colón, with various schools and clubs promoting athletics. The community often participates in regional competitions and marathons.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Colón.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Panamanian cuisine traditionally features a lot of meat and seafood, many restaurants in Colón offer vegetarian and vegan dishes. Look for eateries that specialize in plant-based fare or are willing to accommodate dietary restrictions upon request. Diablicos and Restaurante El Puerto are good options for diverse menus catering to vegetarian and vegan diners.
For those with gluten restrictions, it's advisable to communicate your dietary needs to restaurant staff who can often suggest suitable options or make adjustments to certain dishes. Fresh seafood, salads, and rice-based meals are generally safe choices, and establishments like Restaurante El Puerto are accustomed to addressing gluten-free requirements.