The Colon Free Zone is located on the Atlantic side of the Isthmus. It is possible to travel there from Panama City, located on the Pacific side, by automobile, train or bus. Cars may easily be rented upon arrival at Tocumen International Airport and their rates range from $45 dollars per day. Colon is located about two hours by road from the airport or one and a half hours from Panama City. Taxis are available from Tocumen Airport or city hotels and charge approximately $60 for one to four persons for a one-way trip.      

Traveling by bus is cheaper. Air conditioned express buses leave for Colon from the national bus terminal in Albrook every half hour until 11 a.m. and thereafter, every hour on the hour.

They charge $2.50 for a one-way trip. The non-stop journey takes one hour and fifteen minutes.    

Regular, non air-conditioned buses are also available. They charge $1.80 each way and take longer due to constant stopping along the route.

Another option is the railroad.  The train leaves the terminal in Corozal at 7:15 a.m. and returns from Colon at 5:15 p.m., arriving in Panama City at 6:15 p.m. A return ticket costs $44, a one way ticket costs $22.  

What to bring to the Colon Free Zone

Carry your valid passport at all times. You must present  it on your arrival to obtain your pass. Taxis and rental cars are not allowed into the area, so be prepared to do  a lot of walking.

As a result of Panama's tropical weather, the dress code for the Free Zone is casual.  Temperatures range between 25º - 30º Celsius and humidity is always very high. There are no restaurants in the Colon Free Zone.  The laws governing the zone do not allow them.  But from street vendors you can buy a variety of quick meals, ranging from hamburgers to Middle-eastern delicacies.