Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Colón Province
POP 242,000 / ELEV SEA LEVEL TO 979M / AREA 4890 SQ KM
Why Go?
With an edgy reputation more true crime than travel, Colón rarely makes travel wish lists.
But there is more to this Caribbean province than its downtrodden capital. Think pristine
beaches and lowland rainforests, colonial splendors and modern engineering marvels. Por-
tobelo, with its growing music and art scene, shows the best of vibrant Congo culture. The
luxury train between Panama City and Colón remains one of the greatest rail journeys in
the Americas.
The region's incredible history dates back to the earliest European explorers. Black
roots also run deep; Colón is the birthplace of today's ultra-popular
punta
music (better
known abroad as reggaetón).
During the colonial era these coastal cities ranked among the world's richest; their gold
and silver stores enticed pirates from English privateer Sir Francis Drake to Admiral Ed-
ward Vernon. Today, the fallen fortresses and cannons embedded in the coral reefs recall
the fallen Spanish empire.
When to Go
»
Dec-Apr
Dry season is a great time for snorkeling or diving for Caribbean treasure, as
visibility is at its best. It's high season for lodging and beaches fill up.
»
Oct
Pilgrims set out walking from all over Panama weeks ahead to attend the Black
Christ Festival, an enormous event with masses and street celebrations in Portobelo.
»
May-Jul
A relatively good time to visit, with some rain showers and off-season prices.
Best Surf Spots
»
Isla Grande (
Click here
)
»
Isla Mamei (
Click here
)
»
Playa Grande (
Click here
)
»
Turtles Beach (
Click here
)
