The train between Panama City and Colón is widely considered one of the most scenic rail journeys in Central America. For tourists, it offers a relaxed and memorable way to cross the country alongside the Panama Canal.
Operated by the Panama Canal Railway Company, the route connects the Pacific and Caribbean coasts in roughly one hour. The experience is designed as much for sightseeing as for transportation.
The train departs from Corozal Passenger Station, located near the Albrook transportation area. The departure point is easy to reach by taxi or Uber from central neighborhoods like Bella Vista.
The arrival station in Colón sits close to the cruise port and commercial areas. From there, travelers can explore the Caribbean coast or continue to nearby attractions.
One of the highlights of the journey is traveling parallel to the Panama Canal. Passengers often see massive cargo ships moving through the waterway.
Large viewing windows allow unobstructed views of jungle, lakes, and canal infrastructure. Even short sections of the ride feel cinematic.
The train includes comfortable seating and air-conditioned cars. Some carriages feature panoramic windows or observation areas.
For photographers, the route offers constant visual interest. Dense rainforest, open water, and industrial canal scenes appear in sequence.
Wildlife sightings are possible along the route. Birds, monkeys, and tropical vegetation are often visible near the tracks.
The ride is smooth and quiet, making it easy to relax and simply enjoy the scenery passing by.
Schedules are designed primarily for weekday commuters, but tourists are welcome. Typically, one train runs toward Colón in the morning and returns to Panama City in the late afternoon.
Because of the limited schedule, planning is important. Many visitors treat the train as a day trip rather than flexible transportation.
Travel time is approximately one hour each way. This makes it one of the fastest ways to cross the country.
Ticket prices are higher than bus fares but reflect the scenic and comfortable experience. Fares are generally considered moderate for a tourist attraction.
Seating is assigned, and advance purchase is recommended, especially during high travel seasons.
Passengers are advised to arrive early for boarding. Security and check-in procedures are simple but organized.
Luggage space is available, but most tourists travel with small bags for day trips.
The journey appeals to travelers interested in engineering, nature, and history all at once.
Compared to highway travel, the train provides a calmer and more immersive experience of Panama’s landscape.
Many travelers combine the ride with visits to Caribbean destinations after arriving in Colón.
For visitors arriving from the highlands — especially those coming down from Lost and Found Hostel — the train offers a dramatic contrast to mountain scenery.
The route showcases Panama’s geographic diversity in a short timeframe, moving from urban skyline to tropical jungle to coastal port.
While buses are cheaper and more frequent, the train experience is unique and memorable.
The limited schedule means it works best for planned excursions rather than spontaneous travel.
Overall, the Panama Canal Railway provides more than transportation. It delivers a scenic, comfortable, and distinctly Panamanian experience linking two coasts in a single hour.