Situated at the northwestern outlet of the Panama Canal, the city of Colón opens a window into the marvels of this engineering feat. A cruise along the Gatun Locks reveals the diverse wildlife that thrives on the islands created by the canal’s construction, and on the far shores, the Miraflores Locks further illuminate the genius, dedication and sacrifice required to build the canal. The Panama Canal Railway, created in response to the traffic brought here by the California Gold Rush, follows the same route of scenic views. Within Colón stands the UNESCO World Heritage site of Fort San Lorenzo, which once defended the Spanish from raiding pirates, and east of the city are two gorgeous national parks. The tropical rainforest of Chagres National Park is perfect for hiking, rafting and swimming, and on its outskirts are the beautiful beaches, exotic flora and historic fortresses of Portobelo National Park.
Situated at the northwestern outlet of the Panama Canal, the city of Colón opens a window into the marvels of this engineering feat. A cruise along the Gatun Locks reveals the diverse wildlife that thrives on the islands created by the canal’s construction, and on the far shores, the Miraflores Locks further illuminate the genius, dedication and sacrifice required to build the canal. The Panama Canal Railway, created in response to the traffic brought here by the California Gold Rush, follows the same route of scenic views. Within Colón stands the UNESCO World Heritage site of Fort San Lorenzo, which once defended the Spanish from raiding pirates, and east of the city are two gorgeous national parks. The tropical rainforest of Chagres National Park is perfect for hiking, rafting and swimming, and on its outskirts are the beautiful beaches, exotic flora and historic fortresses of Portobelo National Park.