Province of Colon

The province of Colon is a small Caribbean province in Panama that is rich in history and incomparable scenery.  It boasts the Panama Canal Zone and close proximity to the canal itself, in all its splendor and majesty. The weather is warm with average temperatures from 24C to 30C year-round.

Things To Do

Feel the Caribbean Rhythm

One of the highlights of visiting the Colon province is the Caribbean towns, like Portobelo and La Guaira. Visitors here will savor the vibrant, boisterous Caribbean flair, the rich food culture, the traditional Calypso music, and the traditional Congo dances, declared Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.  Immerse yourself in the African legacy at the Casa de la Cultura Congo which provides information workshops and the creation of stunning arts and crafts.

Explore the Outdoors

Colon is also home to beautiful islands, like Isla Grande and Isla Mamey, perfect for snorkeling, paddling and kayaking. And if you’re looking for lounge-friendly activities, you can take a boat tour or simply soak in the sun on one of their white sandy beaches. But our beaches aren’t the only places with breathtaking aquatic wonders. Trek and hike through the mysterious forests of Portobelo National Park and chase waterfalls. 

Learn Some History

Take a step back in time and learn about the province’s history in San Lorenzo and Portobelo’s forts, historic homes, and museums. In 1980, UNESCO declared Fort San Lorenzo and Portobelo as World Heritage Sites, describing the fortifications as “magnificent examples of 17th and 18th-century military architecture.” Enough of the forts remain to allow visitors to visually imagine what life would have been like during those times. Black-hearted pirates, staunch military personnel, and the metallic ring of clashing swords with breathtaking views to the turquoise waters of the Caribbean entrance of the Panama Canal. Of course, a visit to Colon would not be complete without visiting the Panama Canal’s Visitor Center in Agua Clara. The center offers unique views of the Panama Canal Expansion and the brand new locks you can’t get anywhere else.

How To Get There

Colon is about fifty miles from Panama City and there are several modes of transportation available to get there.

• By bus. Panama offers a national bus network and the duration of the trip is about two hours.
• By car. The drive takes about one hour. Car rentals are available in both cities.
• By train. The Panama Railway traverses the Isthmus of Panama. It was the world's first transcontinental railroad and it's full of history. In its passenger train, it is possible to make the journey between the two oceans (From Panama City to Colon City) in one hour (one-way), through the forest of Soberania National Park and bordering the Gatun Lake and the Panama Canal.