Colon Panama Cruise Port Guide: 8 Must-Do Activities for Visitors
Located at the Caribbean entrance to the Panama Canal, Colón is a bustling port city and the second-largest city in Panama.
It is often included in Panama Canal and Southwestern Caribbean cruise itineraries alongside Cartagena, Puerto Limon, Aruba, Curacao, and other ports.
Colon is a gateway to one of the world’s most famous engineering marvels, the Panama Canal, a crucial waterway that connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.
The cruise port, located on the Atlantic side of the Panama Canal, has two docks, including the modern Colon 2000, which is part of the tax-free zone.
From Colon cruise port, you can explore the iconic locks of Gatun Lake or Miraflores and witness the fascinating operations of the Panama Canal firsthand.
In this Colon cruise port guide, I share with you practical information about Colon cruise port, along with the 8 best things to do in Colon port.
Colon Panama Cruise Port
The port of Colon consists of two cruise terminals where cruise vessels can dock: Colon 2000 and Cristobal Pier.
The Cristobal Pier is nowadays rarely used, and the majority of cruise ships dock at the new Colon 2000 cruise terminal, located within 1.5 km/1 mile (a 20-minute walk) from Colon downtown.
The Colon 2000 is part of a tax-free zone and boasts modern facilities such as a duty-free shopping mall, a tourist information center, cafes and restaurants, lounge areas, and check-in facilities.
Colon is also a homeport which means that cruises start and end here.
The taxis are available outside to take you into the city center for a small fee (the ride takes only a few minutes).
You can also walk for around 20 minutes but Colon is generally not the safest place to walk around.
If you’re planning to shop, a duty-free shopping mall within the Colon 2000 cruise terminal area is the best place to do so.
Booking a guided shore excursion is the best way to get around the island, primarily for safety reasons but also because the major attractions are located outside the city.
Plan your Caribbean cruise with this all-in-one guide to 40 ports, complete with detailed port insights, practical tips for getting around, and the top attractions you won’t want to miss at every destination!
Planning a Stop in Colon? These Ports Are Often Included in the Itinerary
Colón is often part of an exciting Panama Canal and Southwestern Caribbean cruise itinerary, and you’re likely to visit other incredible ports along the way. Here are some popular stops you might see on your cruise:
In the port of Cartagena, you can explore the city’s colonial charm, stroll through the historic walled city, and enjoy breathtaking views from San Felipe Castle.
Over in Cozumel, snorkel vibrant coral reefs like El Cielo, visit Chankanaab Adventure Park, or relax on stunning beaches such as Paradise Beach.
The port of Costa Maya offers access to ancient Mayan ruins and lively Mahahual Beach, while Roatan is known for its lush jungles, eco-parks, and world-class snorkeling at the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef.
Meanwhile, Belize cruise port boasts a spectacular barrier reef, idyllic cayes, and a rich Mayan heritage.
If your cruise begins in Fort Lauderdale or Tampa, plan a smooth start to your journey with our guides to the best hotels near Fort Lauderdale’s cruise port and the top hotels near Tampa’s cruise port.
8 Best Things To Do In Colon Panama Cruise Port
Colón offers a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. From visiting the iconic Panama Canal and exploring the historic Fort San Lorenzo to relaxing on nearby beaches and shopping in the Free Trade Zone, there’s something for every traveler to enjoy! Here’s the list of the best things to do:
1. Explore Colón City
Although the major attractions are located outside the city, if you decide to spend some time in the downtown area, there are a few attractions not to be missed:
- Christ Episcopal Church – Also known as Christ Church by the Sea, this Anglican Church dates from 1865 and is the oldest church in Colon. The church was built in the Gothic style, characterized by its tall spire and pointed arches, and features beautiful stained glass windows.
- Inmaculada Concepción Cathedral – Located in the heart of the city, this historic Catholic cathedral was built in the first half of the 20th century and is recognized by its striking white façade and twin bell towers.
- Parque Centenario – This public park was established to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Panama Canal and features lush green spaces, walking paths, and a large central fountain. It’s a popular spot for leisurely strolls and cultural events that often take place in the park.
- Colón Public Market (Mercado Público de Colón) – If you want to experience the local culture firsthand, the public market is the place to go! Here, you can try a variety of fresh produce, seafood, and traditional Panamanian foods. It’s an excellent spot to sample local flavors, meet friendly vendors, and immerse yourself in the everyday life of Colón’s residents.
2. Gatun Lake Locks
Gatun Lake (Lago Gatún) is one of Panama’s most remarkable natural and engineering wonders, created during the construction of the Panama Canal.
Formed by damming the Chagres River, Gatun Lake spans over 164 square miles, making it one of the largest man-made lakes in the world at the time of its creation.
The lake plays a crucial role in the canal’s operation, providing the water needed to raise and lower ships as they pass through the locks.
Beyond its engineering significance, Gatun Lake is also a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and eco-tourists.
You can explore its waters by boat, spot exotic birds, monkeys, and even crocodiles, or enjoy fishing and kayaking in this lush tropical environment.
The Gatún Locks are located around 15 km/9 miles (a 30-minute drive) southwest of the port of Colon.
Explore Gatún Lake tours and activities
3. Miraflores Locks
The Miraflores Locks are one of the most iconic and visited sites along the Panama Canal, located just outside Panama City, within a 1-hour drive from Colon cruise port.
These locks are a critical part of the canal’s operation, helping ships navigate the elevation changes between the Pacific Ocean and Gatun Lake.
At the Miraflores Locks, you can witness the fascinating process of vessels being raised or lowered as they pass through the canal.
The locks feature an impressive visitor center with observation decks, an interactive museum, and a short film detailing the history and significance of the canal.
4. Panama City
Just about an hour’s drive from Colón, Panama City, also known as Panama, is Panama’s capital and largest city with a population of around 1 million.
A must-see is Casco Viejo, the city’s charming historic district, where you can wander through colonial-era streets, visit quaint cafes, and admire stunning architecture.
The famous Panama Canal can be experienced up close at the above-mentioned Miraflores Locks, where you can watch ships pass through and learn about the canal’s history at the visitor center.
For a taste of local life, head to the Amador Causeway, offering panoramic views of the city skyline and access to the Biomuseo, a museum dedicated to Panama’s natural history.
To visit Panama City, consider booking a guided tour to maximize your time and ensure smooth travel between Colón and Panama City.
Traffic can be heavy, so plan for possible delays, especially if you’re on a tight schedule to return to the ship.
Make sure to bring water, sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes, as Panama City can be quite warm and humid.
Explore Panama City tours and activities
5. Fort San Lorenzo
San Lorenzo Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a historic fortress located a 45-minute drive southwest of Colón, at the mouth of the Chagres River.
Built in 1595 by order of the Spanish King Phillip II, the fort played a crucial role in protecting the area from pirates and guarding the entrance to the river, which was a vital route for transporting goods across the Isthmus of Panama.
You can explore the well-preserved ruins, including the walls, cannons, and dungeons while learning about the fort’s fascinating history and its role in Panama’s colonial past.
The fort’s strategic position atop a cliff offers breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea. It is surrounded by more than 30,000 acres of protected rainforest, making it a popular destination for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Explore Fort San Lorenzo tours and activities
6. Portobelo National Park
Located 55 km/35 miles (a 1-hour 15-minute drive) from Colon Port, Parque Nacional Portobelo is a perfect option for those looking to explore both nature and history.
The park is named after the historic town of Portobelo, once a vital Spanish port, where you can explore colonial forts like San Jerónimo and Santiago de la Gloria. These ancient fortifications, now UNESCO World Heritage Sites, offer a glimpse into Panama’s rich past, with cannons still pointed out to sea.
Beyond its historical significance, Portobelo National Park is also a paradise for nature lovers, with lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and vibrant coral reefs.
The park is ideal for hiking, birdwatching, snorkeling, and diving, which makes it perfect for those looking for a more active holiday.
Portobelo National Park is best visited on a guided tour from Colon cruise port.
7. Emberá Quera Village
If you want to experience the intriguing culture of the Embera Tribes, one of Panama’s indigenous tribes, head to Emberá Querá Village, located on Lake Gatún in the Colón Province, only a 30-minute drive from the port.
Nestled within the lush rainforests near the Chagres River, the village is accessible by a scenic boat ride.
The Emberá are known for their vibrant traditions, which include intricate body painting, handmade crafts, and traditional music and dance.
One of the most unforgettable experiences you can have is painting your body with jagua, a natural dye extracted from the jagua fruit.
During your visit, you can learn about their way of life, including their deep connection to nature and their use of medicinal plants.
The community warmly welcomes visitors, offering demonstrations of their craft-making techniques, such as weaving baskets and carving wood, which are available for purchase as souvenirs.
The visit also includes a traditional meal and the chance to engage in a cultural exchange that provides a deeper understanding of their history and values.
Explore Emberá Querá Village tours and activities
8. Panama Canal Railway
The Panama Canal Railway offers a scenic and historic journey between Colón and Panama City, running parallel to the Panama Canal and linking the Atlantic to the Pacific Ocean.
Established in the 19th century and rebuilt in the early 2000s, this railway was originally a critical route for transporting goods across the isthmus before the canal was completed.
Today, the train ride in vintage-style train cars provides passengers with stunning views of the canal, Gatun Lake, and the surrounding rainforest.
The hour-long journey is the most unique and probably best way to appreciate the engineering marvel of the canal and the natural beauty of Panama.
Explore Panama Canal Railway tours and activities
Beyond Colon: Explore Other Western Caribbean Ports
The Colón cruise port offers a unique mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. From the world-famous Panama Canal and historic forts to lush rainforests and Emberá villages, there’s something for everyone at this Central American gem!
Colón is often included in Southern and Western Caribbean itineraries alongside fascinating destinations like the port of Aruba, with its pristine beaches and turquoise waters, and Bonaire, a diver’s paradise with vibrant coral reefs.
The port of Curacao impresses with colorful architecture and rich cultural experiences, while Montego Bay in Jamaica offers a lively blend of beaches and adventure.
You might also stop at San Juan, renowned for its historic Old Town, or Grand Cayman to enjoy world-class snorkeling and the famous Seven Mile Beach.
If your cruise departs from New Orleans, make sure to check out the top hotels near New Orleans’ cruise port.
Helpful Resources for Colon Cruise Port
- Google Maps Location: Find the exact location of the Colon cruise port.
- Cruise Ship Schedule: See when ships are in port and plan your visit.
- Local Weather Forecast: Get the latest weather updates to prepare for your day.
- Colon Port Authority
You may also like our cruise port guides to the Mediterranean, Caribbean, Northern Europe, USA & Canada, Australia & New Zealand
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