Cruiseline Excursion Colon: Panama City tour and Miraflores Locks
Active
6h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Panama is the only country in the world where you can experience both the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean in a single day. Your tour begins with a scenic drive of about one hour to the Centennial Bridge, where you’ll enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the Gaillard Cut—the narrowest section of the Panama Canal—and the Pedro Miguel Locks.
Next, visit the Miraflores Locks Exhibition Center to learn about the fascinating history of the canal and its operation over the past 100 years.
The journey then continues into the heart of Panama City, where you’ll explore the historic Cathedral, important monuments, and the vibrant downtown district. As you walk through Casco Antiguo, admire the stunning blend of Colonial and Neoclassical architecture that defines this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
To finish, the tour takes you along Balboa Avenue, where you’ll witness the striking contrast of Panama’s modern skyline, home to some of the tallest and most impressive buildings in Latin America
Available options
Cruiseline Excursion Colon: Panama City tour and Miraflores Locks
Pickup included
What's included
Bottled water
Professional guide
Port pickup and drop-off
Transport by air-conditioned minivan
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Pass by
The guide will meet you at Colon 2000 dock in front of Fantastic Casino, 40 minutes after the cruise docked.
2
• Minibús ride to Panama City, Pacific ocean, your guide will give you general information about Colon city, Panama country and the Canal.
• The minibús will ride the Centennial bridge to give you a wonderful panoramic view of Gaillard cut (the famous land divided), the minibús can not stop atthe bridge but during the ride you will be able to take a few pictures.
3
Stop 3
• Visit Miraflores exhibition center, your party will visit the museum and observe from the balcony the process to elevate the boats from the level of the Pacific ocean to the level of Gatun lake (27m / 85ft) . Admission fee US$20 is not included in our Price.
4
Stop 4
• Visit San Felipe (Casco Antiguo) see the historical town with Churches, monuments, souvenir shops and amazing Colonial and Neoclassical architectural styles throughout the city.
5
Later, the tour will go to Balboa avenue and you will observe the new city with the highest and modern building in Latinamerica, then Ride back to your cruise.
What's not included
Miraflores Locks exhibition center US$17 adult
Lunch
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.3
170 reviews
5★
114
4★
20
3★
18
2★
13
1★
5
Tripadvisor
4.7
35 reviews
5★
30
4★
3
3★
1
2★
0
1★
1
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Child rate applies only when sharing with 2 paying adults
May be operated by a multi-lingual guide
Walking the Colonial city take 1 hour approx. If you have inconveniences to walk the town, you can stay in our minibús and wait for the rest.
Not wheelchair or scooter accesible
Meeting point
For cruise docking at HOME PORT.(terminal 2)
Meeting Point: Street 11 between Cruise Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 , all tour operators and taxi drivers wait for their clients on the street with sign. All our guides hold a VIATOR sign. WHATSAPP +507 69784948
Important notes
You can also contact us by phone or WhatsApp +507 65000136
Full refund if you cruise never dock in Colon for any reason.
In case your cruise coming with any delay the meeting time will be 40 minutes after docked.
About Colón
Colón is a vibrant port city on the Caribbean coast of Panama, known for its rich history, diverse culture, and strategic location at the entrance to the Panama Canal. It offers a unique blend of Caribbean charm, historical landmarks, and bustling markets, making it a fascinating destination for travelers.
Top Attractions
Colón 2000
A large shopping mall offering a wide range of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options. It's a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
Shopping
Half day to full day
Free entry, varies by store
Panama Canal Extension (Canal Ampliation)
The expanded Panama Canal, which includes the new locks, offers a fascinating look at one of the world's most important engineering projects.
Historical
Half day
Free entry to visitor center, boat tours vary in price
Fort San Lorenzo
A 17th-century Spanish fortress located at the entrance to the Panama Canal, offering stunning views and a glimpse into the region's colonial past.
Historical
Half day
Moderate entry fee
Colón Free Trade Zone
One of the largest free trade zones in the world, offering a vast array of duty-free goods, from electronics to textiles and more.
Shopping
Half day to full day
Free entry, varies by store
Playa La Piscina
A popular beach located near the entrance to the Panama Canal, offering a mix of relaxation and adventure activities.
Beach
Half day
Free entry, varies by activity
Must-Try Local Dishes
Sancocho
A hearty chicken soup with root vegetables, often served with rice and plantains.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains chicken and root vegetables, can be made vegetarian with modifications.
Ropa Vieja
A flavorful shredded beef dish cooked with tomatoes, onions, and bell peppers, typically served with rice and beans.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains beef, can be made with chicken or vegetables for a lighter option.
Ceviche
Fresh raw fish or seafood marinated in citrus juice, mixed with onions, peppers, and cilantro.
Appetizer/Lunch
Contains raw seafood, can be made with cooked seafood or vegetables for a safer option.
Patacones
Fried green plantains, often served as a side dish or snack with various dips.
Side Dish/Snack
Vegetarian and vegan-friendly, often fried in oil.
Popular Activities
Boating and fishing in Gatun Lake
Hiking and nature trails in Portobelo National Park
Water sports at Playa La Piscina
Sunbathing and swimming at Playa La Piscina
Shopping and dining at Colón 2000
Exploring historic sites in Portobelo
Visiting the Panama Canal Museum
Exploring the Colón Free Trade Zone
Best Time to Visit
Dry season (January to April)
The dry season offers the best weather for visiting Colón, with lower humidity and less rain, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. This is the peak tourist season, so expect more visitors and higher prices.
24-30°C
75-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: English, Creole
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in other parts of the city
Currency
Panamanian Balboa (PAB)
Time Zone
Eastern Time Zone (ET) (UTC-5)
Electricity
110VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution
Colón has a reputation for being less safe than other parts of Panama, with higher crime rates and a history of violence. However, the city has made efforts to improve safety and security in recent years, and many visitors enjoy their time in Colón without incident. Exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, especially at night and in less populated areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas
- • Use licensed taxis and agreed-upon fares
- • Be wary of strangers offering unsolicited help or services
Getting there
By air
- Enrique Adolfo Jiménez Airport • 5 km from city center
By bus
Terminal de Transporte de Colón
Getting around
Public transport
The Diablo Rojo is a traditional and affordable way to get around Colón. These brightly painted buses are shared among passengers and can be crowded, but they offer a unique local experience.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, InDriver
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Cristóbal
Sabanitas
Colón City Center
Day trips
Portobelo
40 km from Colón • Half day to full day
A historic town on the Caribbean coast, known for its colonial fortifications, beautiful beaches, and rich cultural heritage. Portobelo offers a mix of history, relaxation, and adventure.
Panama Canal
Varies by attraction • Half day to full day
One of the most important engineering projects in history, the Panama Canal connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, offering a fascinating look at its construction, operation, and impact on global trade.
Gatun Lake
20 km from Colón • Half day to full day
A large artificial lake created by the damming of the Chagres River for the construction of the Panama Canal. Gatun Lake offers a variety of outdoor activities, including boating, fishing, and wildlife watching.
Festivals
Carnaval de Colón • February or March, before Lent
Feria de las Flores y las Frutas • July or August
Fiestas Patronales de Colón • December 8th
Pro tips
- Visit the Panama Canal visitor centers for a comprehensive understanding of the canal's history and operation
- Shop at the Colón Free Trade Zone for duty-free goods and unique souvenirs
- Explore the local markets for fresh produce, traditional goods, and authentic experiences
- Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas, and use licensed taxis and agreed-upon fares
- Dress modestly and respectfully when visiting religious sites, and be mindful of local customs and traditions
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
