Colonial Fortresses, Beaches, and Living Traditions
Colon province is a jewel of the Panamanian Caribbean, combining history, Afro-Antillean culture, idyllic beaches, and valuable natural reserves. From Colon City, with its blend of modernity and tradition, to the colonial forts of Portobelo and its unique cultural expressions, this destination invites you to discover a Panama full of contrasts.
Gastronomic Tour of Colon City
Colon is renowned for its Caribbean and Afro-Antillean flavors, utilizing ancestral recipes and great culinary creativity. In the restaurants located within the 16 blocks that make up the city center, you can enjoy dishes such as rondon, coconut rice, and fried fish accompanied by patacones, which are just a small part of the vast culinary offering.
How to get there: Just a 45-minute drive from Panama City via the Panama–Colon freeway.
Cost: Varies by restaurant; from $5.00 at local restaurants to $25.00 at specialized ones. There are also food tours offered by tourism companies from Panama City.
Tour Portobelo’s Colonial Forts
Portobelo was one of the main ports of the Spanish Empire and today houses colonial fortresses declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Touring its walls, cannons, and plazas is like traveling back in time to the era of pirates and corsairs.
How to get there: At 1 hour and 30 minutes from Panama City, taking the freeway to Sabanitas and then the road to Portobelo.
Cost: Free admission to most forts.
Discover Mamey Island
This small island off the coast of Portobelo is famous for its turquoise waters and white sands. It’s ideal for snorkeling, swimming, or simply relaxing in a Caribbean paradise. It’s also possible to camp on the beach and have a bonfire with friends and family.
How to get there: From Portobelo, take a boat from the tourist pier, which takes less than 10 minutes.
Cost: Boat transportation starts at $5.00 per person; entrance to the island $3.00 per person.
San Lorenzo National Park
Located at the mouth of the Chagres River, this park combines history and nature. It houses Fort San Lorenzo, another colonial bastion, as well as trails that run through tropical forests home to howler monkeys, toucans, and sloths.
How to get there: From Colon, access is via the highway toward Sherman, crossing the Atlantic Bridge.
Cost: Park admission is $3.00 for adults and children.
Canoeing on the Chagres River
Sailing on a canoe along the historic Chagres River means entering a natural corridor that was vital for human and commercial transportation during the colonial period and the construction of the Panama Canal. Along the route, you can see tropical flora and fauna in its purest form.
How to get there: Excursions are available from Gamboa, Colon and communities located along the banks of the Chagres River.
Cost: Guided tours start at $20.00 per person.
Also Enjoy These Experiences:
Cerro Bruja: A natural view point not visited that often delivers panoramic views of the Caribbean and the jungle.
Congo Dances: Cultural heritage that reflects Afro-descendant resistance through music, colorful costumes, and vibrant rhythms.
Black Christ of Portobelo: Located in San Felipe Church, this image is venerated by people from all over the world. A huge pilgrimage takes place every October 21st.
