Colon: Rainforest Safari, San Lorenzo Fort & Panama Canal Locks

Summary

Rainforest wildlife, colonial fort stories and canal giants in Colon

You’ll ride into Colon’s rainforest listening for monkeys and watching for sloths, then wander San Lorenzo Fort’s old stones where pirate tales come alive. End your day at the Panama Canal’s Agua Clara Locks watching ships rise and fall with your local guide explaining every detail. There’s a sense of wonder here that sticks with you long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

“Don’t be surprised if you hear the howlers before you see them,” our guide Luis grinned as we bumped along in the minibus, windows cracked open to let in that thick, earthy air. He was right — not five minutes into the rainforest and there it was, this deep guttural sound echoing through the green. I pressed my face to the glass, hoping for a glimpse, but ended up spotting a sloth instead. It moved so slowly I almost missed it. Luis pointed out its favorite tree and explained why they never seem to hurry. I’d always thought rainforests would smell sweet, but here it was more like wet leaves and something a bit musky — not unpleasant, just different.

We stopped a few times for photos (and honestly just to stare). Someone behind me gasped when a toucan landed right above us — those colors look fake until you see them up close. Luis told us about the monkeys’ habits while we tried to catch sight of one swinging by (no luck for me). The drive wasn’t long but felt like its own little adventure. At San Lorenzo Fort, the air changed — saltier somehow, with a breeze coming off the Caribbean that made my shirt flutter. The stone walls looked battered but proud; Luis spun stories about pirates and Spanish gold that had us all squinting at cannon holes like we might spot treasure ourselves. I tried saying “cuartel” in Spanish and got a laugh from an older man sweeping near the entrance — probably mangled it completely.

The last stop was the Agua Clara Locks on the Panama Canal. I’d seen pictures before but standing there as these massive ships slid past — it’s hard to explain how quiet everyone got. Even some kids hushed up as we watched water pour in and out of those concrete chambers. Luis explained how this expansion changed world trade, pointing at maps with his pen while I tried (and failed) to imagine building something that big through jungle and rock. On the ride back to Colon port, someone passed around bottled water and we swapped animal sightings — turns out someone else saw an anteater I totally missed.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Rainforest, Fort, and Canal visit

• Safari minibús into rainforest
• Stop to observe wild animals
• Guide explains animal behavior
• Visit San Lorenzo Fort
• Guide shares fort history
• Ride back rainforest to Panama Canal
• Visit Agua Clara observatory desk
• Ride back to cruise ship

Top questions

How long is the Colon rainforest safari tour?

The full-day tour lasts approximately 5 hours including all stops.

Is port pickup included for cruise passengers?

Yes, port pickup and drop-off are included with this excursion.

Are entry fees for Agua Clara Locks included?

No, admission fee for Agua Clara observatory desk (about US$15) is not included.

What animals can you see during the rainforest part?

You may spot monkeys, sloths, toucans, caimans, crocodiles, anteaters and more during the safari.

Is lunch provided on this tour?

No lunch is included; bottled water is provided during the trip.

How much time do you spend at San Lorenzo Fort?

You’ll spend about 1 hour exploring San Lorenzo Fort with your guide.

Can children join this day trip from Colon?

Yes, children can join; infants can ride in a stroller or sit on an adult’s lap.

Does this tour require strenuous walking?

No, it’s suitable for most fitness levels but not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health.

What’s included

Your day includes port pickup and drop-off in Colon, transport by air-conditioned minivan with bottled water along the way, plus guidance from a knowledgeable local who’ll share stories at every stop—from wildlife in the rainforest to legends at San Lorenzo Fort—before returning you safely back to your ship.