Discovering Colón: A Blend of Culture and Nature

Nestled between the Caribbean Sea and the lush rainforests of Panama, Colón is a treasure trove of hidden gems waiting to be explored. This weekend, as the warm sun peeks through the clouds and the gentle breeze rustles the leaves, it’s the perfect time to dive into the rich tapestry of culture and nature that this vibrant city offers.

Start your adventure with a journey into the heart of the Chagres rainforest. The Embera Village Tour is a must-do for those eager to connect with the indigenous Embera people. As you glide along the river in a traditional canoe, the rainforest unfolds around you, offering glimpses of its diverse flora and fauna. The tour, available from 8:00 AM to 3:30 PM, promises a day filled with cultural immersion and natural beauty. Upon reaching the Embera Drua Village, you’re greeted with the rhythmic beats of traditional music and the warm smiles of the villagers. Enjoy a VIP lunch featuring freshly caught fish and tropical fruits, a feast for both the eyes and the palate.

“A Must-Experience Experience in Panama - Timely pick-up and drop-off from hotel at no extra charge. Excellent for family with kids. Super well-organized trip. Phillips, the tour guide was excellent. Super-funny, friendly and extremely knowledgeable. Food served for lunch was native cuisine— yummy and delicious. Fish was freshly cooked.. like right out of the river, never frozen flavor.. Passion fruit, pineapple, watermelon, native avocado was served after lunch. Soursop samples gave you the opportunity to taste something you had never tasted before.” - Reviewed on 2025-02-16

Navigating the Panama Canal: A Transoceanic Journey

No trip to Colón is complete without experiencing the engineering marvel that is the Panama Canal. The Panama Canal Day Tour offers a unique opportunity to traverse this iconic waterway from both the Atlantic and Pacific coasts. Available from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM, this tour is perfect for those who want to witness the canal’s grandeur and the surrounding natural beauty.

Begin your day at the Pedro Miguel locks, where you’ll learn about the canal’s history and operation. As you continue to Lake Gatun, the largest lake in the canal, you’ll be treated to a boat tour that brings you up close to the massive ships navigating this crucial passage. The tour also includes a visit to the Agua Clara Locks, where you’ll see the canal’s new expansion in action. Along the way, keep an eye out for the playful monkeys and other wildlife that call the surrounding rainforest home.

“The guide Caesar was very informative and thoughtful. His knowledge of the animal habitat and the canal was self evident.” - Reviewed on 2024-10-09

Embracing the Elements: A Weekend of Exploration

As the weekend unfolds, embrace the elements and let the weather guide your adventures. With partly cloudy skies and intermittent rain showers, it’s the perfect excuse to mix indoor and outdoor activities. Start your mornings with a leisurely stroll through the city’s historic streets, where colonial architecture tells tales of a bygone era. As the day warms up, seek refuge in the cool embrace of the rainforest or the refreshing waters of the Chagres River.

The high UV index calls for sunscreen, so lather up before heading out to explore. Whether you’re marveling at the engineering feats of the Panama Canal or immersing yourself in the vibrant culture of the Embera people, Colón offers a weekend of discovery that promises to leave you with memories to last a lifetime. So pack your umbrella, don your sunhat, and get ready to uncover the hidden gems of this enchanting city.