Colon

Colón sits at the Caribbean entrance to the Panama Canal and exists largely because of it. The Colón 2000 cruise terminal has duty-free shops and a handful of restaurants, but the real draw is the canal itself. Excursions to the Gatún Locks let you watch container ships and cruise vessels transit through the lock chambers, which is more impressive in person than any documentary suggests. The Gatún Lake rainforest surrounding the canal is home to howler monkeys, toucans, and caimans. The town beyond the terminal is rough around the edges. Most cruise lines recommend organised transport rather than wandering independently. The Colón Free Trade Zone is one of the largest in the Western hemisphere, though it caters more to wholesale buyers than casual shoppers. San Lorenzo Fort, a Spanish colonial ruin overlooking the river mouth, is worth the drive if you have time. Stick to guided excursions here, and you'll get the best of the canal experience without the hassle.