Exploring the Marvel of Engineering: Gatun Locks
Discover the engineering brilliance of Gatun Locks, a pivotal part of the Panama Canal, and experience the transit of ships through this iconic landmark.
Gatun Locks, located in Colón, Panama, is a feat of engineering that is essential to the Panama Canal. Tourists can marvel at this massive structure, witness ships passing through, and learn about its historical significance.
A brief summary to Gatun Locks
- Colón, Colón Province, PA
Local tips
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds.
- Bring a camera to capture the impressive size of the ships and locks.
- Consider joining a guided tour for in-depth knowledge about the locks' history and mechanics.
- Check the schedule for ship transits to plan your visit around peak viewing times.
- Wear comfortable shoes as you may walk along observation areas to get the best views.
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving, start on the main road towards Colón from Panama City. Take the Pan-American Highway (Interamericana) and follow the signs to Colón. Once you reach Colón, continue straight on Av. Bolívar. After about 3 kilometers, you will see signs for Gatun Locks. Turn right onto the road leading to Gatun Locks. There is parking available near the visitor center.
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Public Transportation
To reach Gatun Locks via public transportation, you can take a bus from Albrook Terminal in Panama City to Colón. Look for buses heading to Colón, which are frequent. Once you arrive at the Colón bus terminal, exit and look for a taxi or a local bus that can take you to Gatun Locks. Inform the driver you want to go to Gatun Locks, and they will drop you off at the entrance.
Discover more about Gatun Locks
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Millennium Plaza
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Rey | Calle 13
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Columbus Municipal Market
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Restaurante Portobelo (Sopas Colón)
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Colón 2000 Mall
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Playita en aeronaval san cristobal fuerte sherman
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EL TRIP DE JENNY
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Playa Tortuguilla
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Chagres River
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Gatun Lake
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Puerto de Cristobal
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Panama Canal Railway
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Cruise terminal
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Essential places to dine
Club Arabe
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Vickylicious
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Restaurante Chepes
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Restaurante Don Tony
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Restaurante Beirut
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Café Portobelo #2
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Restaurante Bolivar
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Aqua clara
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
MAFE SHOP
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Plaza Cuatro Altos
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Sona Internacional
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El Maestro | Bolivar
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Artesanias Avila
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Bodega 1+
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Singular Bar Lounge
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La Esquinita
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la Cevicheria Restaurant
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The Bau
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