Gatun Lake: A Serene Oasis in Panama
Discover the tranquility and biodiversity of Gatun Lake, a stunning man-made marvel in the heart of Panama, perfect for eco-adventures.
Gatun Lake, a stunning man-made lake in Panama, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. It's an ideal destination for tourists seeking adventure, tranquility, and a glimpse into Panama’s rich biodiversity.
A brief summary to Gatun Lake
- PA
Local tips
- Bring binoculars for bird watching; you can spot unique species around the lake.
- Consider a guided tour to learn about the lake's history and ecology.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy on one of the quieter islands amidst the beauty of nature.
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best light for photography.
- Wear comfortable shoes if you plan on exploring the surrounding trails.
Getting There
-
Bus
From Colón, head to the main bus terminal located at Avenida Bolívar. Look for the buses that are headed towards Gatun or the nearby area. Make sure to ask the driver if they stop at Gatun Lake, as some may only go to Gatun Locks or other destinations. The bus fare is usually inexpensive, and the ride should take around 30-45 minutes depending on traffic.
-
Boat Tour
Several tour operators in Colón offer boat tours to Gatun Lake. You can find these operators near the cruise terminal or in the city center. Make sure to book in advance if possible, as these tours can fill up quickly. These tours usually include transportation from Colón to the lake, and they often provide a guided experience exploring the lake and surrounding wildlife.
-
Taxi or Rideshare
If you prefer a more direct route, you can use a local taxi or rideshare service. From Colón, provide the driver with 'Gatun Lake' as your destination. The ride should take about 30 minutes, depending on traffic. Make sure to confirm the fare beforehand or check if the rideshare app provides an estimate.
Discover more about Gatun Lake
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Millennium Plaza
17.1 km
Explore Millennium Plaza in Colón, Panama, a vibrant shopping destination with local crafts, global brands, and delightful dining options.
Rey | Calle 13
18.0 km
Discover the essence of Panamanian culture at Rey Supermarket in Colón, where local flavors and daily life come together in a vibrant shopping experience.
Playa Tortuguilla
18.2 km
Experience the tranquility of Playa Tortuguilla, a serene campground in Colón Province, Panama, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Columbus Municipal Market
18.2 km
Explore the lively Columbus Municipal Market in Panama City, where fresh produce, local flavors, and vibrant culture come together in a delightful culinary experience.
Colón 2000 Mall
18.4 km
Experience the vibrant shopping culture of Colón 2000 Mall, where diverse retail, dining, and entertainment options await every shopper.
Restaurante Portobelo (Sopas Colón)
18.5 km
Savor the authentic taste of Panama at Restaurante Portobelo, where every dish tells a story of local culinary traditions.
EL TRIP DE JENNY
18.6 km
Discover the heart of Panama with El Trip de Jenny, your go-to tour operator for unforgettable adventures and cultural experiences in Colón.
Colon Cruise Terminal
18.8 km
Experience the vibrant culture and welcoming atmosphere at Colon Cruise Terminal, your gateway to exploring the wonders of Panama.
Playita en aeronaval san cristobal fuerte sherman
19.1 km
Discover the serene landscapes and diverse wildlife at Playita en Aeronaval San Cristobal, a tranquil nature preserve in Panama's Colón Province.
Park of Youthfulness
19.4 km
Experience the enchanting beauty of the Park of Youthfulness in Colón, Panama—a perfect destination for relaxation, recreation, and community events.
Rosas places c3
22.9 km
Experience the ultimate relaxation at Rosas Resort Hotel in Puerto Pilon, where luxury meets nature in Panama's stunning Colón Province.
Ivan's Bed & Breakfast
24.4 km
Experience the serene beauty of Gamboa at Ivan's Bed & Breakfast, your cozy retreat for nature adventures and relaxation in Colón Province.
Panama Boat Tours
25.1 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Gamboa's waterways with Panama Boat Tours, your gateway to adventure, wildlife, and unforgettable memories.
Culebra Cut
27.1 km
Experience the breathtaking views of Culebra Cut, where nature meets engineering in the stunning Panama Canal.
Parque Nacional Soberanía
30.2 km
Discover the breathtaking biodiversity and scenic beauty of Parque Nacional Soberanía, a must-visit national park in Panama for nature lovers and adventurers.
Unmissable attractions to see
Isla Pelican
7.6 km
Discover the serene beauty of Isla Pelican, a tranquil island in Panamá Oeste, perfect for relaxation, adventure, and nature exploration.
Agua Clara Locks Visitor Center
8.1 km
Discover the awe-inspiring Agua Clara Locks Visitor Center, an engineering marvel and a gateway to the Panama Canal's history and operations.
Centro de Visitantes Agua Clara
8.1 km
Explore the breathtaking views and educational wonders at Centro de Visitantes Agua Clara, your gateway to the Panama Canal's history and engineering marvel.
Gatun Locks
8.5 km
Experience the remarkable Gatun Locks, a key part of the Panama Canal, showcasing engineering brilliance and historical significance.
Centro de Visitantes Agua Clara Colón
8.9 km
Explore the natural wonders of Panama at Centro de Visitantes Agua Clara Colón, a gateway to breathtaking biodiversity and conservation education.
Chagres River
9.1 km
Discover the breathtaking Chagres River in Colón Province, a vibrant destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Esclusas De Gatun
9.3 km
Discover the engineering marvel of the Panama Canal at Esclusas De Gatun, where ships navigate through impressive locks amidst stunning tropical scenery.
Cerro Gatun
9.5 km
Explore Cerro Gatun, a stunning mountain peak in Panama known for breathtaking views and abundant wildlife, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Puente Atlántico
13.0 km
Explore the stunning Puente Atlántico in Colón, a symbol of engineering excellence and a gateway to breathtaking views of the Panama Canal.
Monkey Sightseeing
16.3 km
Discover the playful world of monkeys in Gamboa, a tropical paradise teeming with wildlife and natural beauty.
Isla Gatun, Panama
16.7 km
Explore the stunning Isla Gatun in Panama, a serene island retreat rich in wildlife and history, nestled within the Panama Canal.
Things To Do In Panama the Embera Quera Village
16.8 km
Experience the vibrant culture and traditions of the Embera people at Embera Quera Village, a captivating destination in Panama's lush landscapes.
Things To Do In Panama
16.8 km
Discover the stunning beauty and rich biodiversity of Rio Gatun, a must-visit natural attraction in Colón, Panama.
Puerto de Cristobal
17.5 km
Explore the vibrant Puerto de Cristobal, a scenic harbor in Colón Province, rich in culture and adventure, perfect for unforgettable experiences.
Panama Canal Railway
17.6 km
Discover the breathtaking views and rich history of the Panama Canal Railway, a vital connection between two oceans in beautiful Colón, Panama.
Essential places to dine
Restaurante Chepes
14.0 km
Experience authentic Panamanian cuisine at Restaurante Chepes in Colón – where every dish tells a story.
Restaurante Don Tony
14.6 km
Experience the authentic flavors of Chinese cuisine at Restaurante Don Tony in Colón, Panamá – where every dish tells a story.
Club Arabe
14.8 km
Discover the flavors of Colón Province at Club Arabe - a culinary hotspot offering delicious dishes in a vibrant setting.
Vickylicious
15.1 km
Experience family-friendly dining at Vickylicious in Colón – where delicious food meets warm hospitality for an unforgettable meal.
KOKIO
15.2 km
Experience authentic Korean cuisine at KOKIO in Colón - where flavor meets tradition in an inviting atmosphere.
Centollas VIP
16.7 km
Experience authentic Panamanian seafood at Centollas VIP in Colón – where every meal tells a story of local culture and flavors.
Donde Aralis
16.7 km
Experience authentic Panamanian cuisine at Donde Aralis in Colón Province - where every dish tells a story!
Bado BBQ/ Burger
16.7 km
Experience authentic Panamanian flavors at Bado BBQ/Burger - where every bite tells a story of culinary passion.
Restaurante Beirut
17.2 km
Discover authentic Lebanese cuisine at Restaurante Beirut in Colón – a delightful dining experience blending tradition with taste.
RESTAURANTE Delicius-David
17.7 km
Experience authentic Panamanian cuisine at Restaurante Delicius-David in Colón Province—where every dish tells a story.
Shawarma Panama
17.9 km
Discover authentic Middle Eastern cuisine at Shawarma Panama - where every bite takes you on a flavorful journey.
Restaurante Cafe Cristobal
18.0 km
Discover authentic Panamanian flavors at Restaurante Cafe Cristobal in Colón – where every meal is a celebration of local cuisine.
Café Portobelo #2
18.1 km
Discover authentic Panamanian cuisine at Café Portobelo #2 in Colón - where every dish tells a story.
Aqua clara
18.2 km
Discover Aqua Clara in Colón: A Seafood Haven Celebrating Local Flavors with Unmatched Ambiance.
La Cevicheria
18.2 km
Experience authentic Panamanian ceviche at La Cevicheria, a culinary gem in Colón that brings fresh seafood flavors to life.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
MAFE SHOP
15.0 km
Explore MAFE SHOP in Colón for an eclectic mix of books, fabrics, and unique gifts, perfect for every traveler seeking a memorable shopping experience.
Plaza Cuatro Altos
16.4 km
Discover the vibrant Plaza Cuatro Altos, a shopping haven in Colón, Panama, featuring diverse shops, local goods, and delightful eateries.
Embera Quera
16.7 km
Experience the vibrant culture and stunning landscapes of Embera Quera, a captivating tourist attraction in Panama rich in indigenous heritage.
Sona Internacional
17.9 km
Explore Sona Internacional in Colón for the latest in beachwear and accessories, perfect for your tropical getaway in Panama.
Somos Amigos s.a.
18.1 km
Discover the finest clothing and bedding at Somos Amigos s.a. in Colón, where style meets comfort in a vibrant shopping experience.
Panamá Shops
18.2 km
Explore the vibrant Panamá Shops in Colón, where shopping meets local culture and international flair, all at competitive prices.
Mtx Outlet
18.2 km
Explore Mtx Outlet in Colón for unbeatable bargains and a diverse selection of products that reflect the charm of Panama.
ShoppingC3
18.2 km
Discover the finest selection of boots at ShoppingC3 in Colón, where style meets local craftsmanship in a unique shopping experience.
El Maestro | Bolivar
18.2 km
Discover El Maestro in Colón: A trendy clothing store blending local fashion with exceptional service for a unique shopping experience.
Almacen Punto Favorito
18.2 km
Explore Almacen Punto Favorito in Colón for authentic seasonal goods and unique souvenirs reflecting Panama's rich culture.
Boutique Variedades Valez
18.3 km
Discover unique Panamanian crafts and local treasures at Boutique Variedades Valez in Colón - a vibrant shopping experience awaits!
Artesanias Avila
18.4 km
Explore Artesanias Avila in Colón for unique, handcrafted footwear that captures the essence of local craftsmanship and style.
Sirena Home
18.5 km
Discover the essence of Panama at Sirena Home, your go-to store in Colón for unique crafts, souvenirs, and local treasures.
Shawty
18.5 km
Explore Shawty in Colón for unique fashion accessories that blend local craftsmanship with modern trends, perfect for every style.
Monissima Essence
18.6 km
Experience fashion at Monissima Essence in Colón, where exquisite lingerie meets trendy clothing and accessories for all styles and sizes.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bar Win's
16.5 km
Experience the heart of Colón's nightlife at Bar Win's, where vibrant culture meets refreshing drinks in a lively atmosphere.
Evolution Zona Libre
17.8 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Colón at Evolution Zona Libre, where great drinks and friendly faces await you.
Decantes
18.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Decantes, a premier bar in Colón, Panama, known for its cocktails, live music, and lively atmosphere.
Jupa Internacional
18.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Jupa Internacional, a must-visit bar in Colón known for its lively atmosphere and refreshing local drinks.
Nigth Club Champagne Rosse
18.1 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Colón at Night Club Champagne Rosse, where music, dancing, and unforgettable memories await you.
NightClub La Flor
18.2 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at NightClub La Flor in Colón, where electrifying music and dance await every night.
Lucky 7 Bar Colón
18.3 km
Discover the lively Lucky 7 Bar Colón, where local flavors meet a vibrant atmosphere for an unforgettable nightlife experience.
Singular Bar Lounge
18.5 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Singular Bar Lounge in Colón, Panama, where great drinks and vibrant nightlife await.
Bar la Colón
18.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Colón at Bar la Colón, where great drinks and friendly vibes await you.
Parrillada la amistad
18.6 km
Discover the vibrant flavors and welcoming atmosphere at Parrillada la Amistad, a premier bar in Colón, Panama, perfect for tourists and locals alike.
World Logisitic Colón, S. A.
18.6 km
Experience the serene vibes of World Logistic Colón, S. A., a cozy lounge in the heart of Colón Province, Panamá, perfect for relaxation and socializing.
Bodega 1+
18.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Bodega 1+, a premier bar in Colón, where locals and tourists come together to enjoy delicious drinks and lively atmosphere.
la Cevicheria Restaurant
18.8 km
Discover the authentic taste of Panama at La Cevicheria Restaurant, where fresh ceviche and local flavors come together in a vibrant setting.
Eleven bar sport
18.8 km
Discover Eleven Bar Sport in Colón - a vibrant sports bar offering great drinks, live games, and an electrifying atmosphere perfect for every fan.
The Bau
18.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Colón at The Bau, where local flavors and lively atmosphere create unforgettable moments.
