Can you imagine crossing from one ocean to the other in just one hour… aboard a train surrounded by tropical jungle? In Panama, this is a reality. The Panama Canal Railway, one of the oldest railways in the Americas, offers a short but unforgettable journey: it connects the Pacific Ocean and the Atlantic Ocean through landscapes that look straight out of a documentary.
If you’re planning a trip to Panama, set aside a morning to hop on this historic train. You’ll experience a unique combination of nature, engineering, and the rare sensation of traveling between two worlds in very little time.
A Railway Gem with Over 160 Years of History
The Panama Railway is more than a mode of transportation—it’s a living piece of history. Opened in 1855, decades before the canal, it was crucial for connecting the two coasts during the Gold Rush era. Today it still functions as a cargo line, but it also offers a unique tourist experience, especially on weekdays when passenger service is available.
The Journey: From City, to Jungle, to Caribbean Sea
The train departs from Corozal Station in Panama City and heads toward Colón on the Caribbean coast. Just minutes after leaving the city behind, the natural wonders of the isthmus begin to unfold: dense, vibrant jungle crisscrossed by rivers, lagoons, and wetlands.
Along the way, the train skirts much of the Panama Canal, offering views of locks, cargo ships, and Gatún Lake—an artificial lake so vast it feels like an inland sea. All of this is seen from spacious carriages with large panoramic windows, perfect for watching the scenery glide by.
It’s an ideal ride for photography enthusiasts, lovers of slow travel, and nature aficionados.
Panama from a Different Perspective
Beyond its historical value, this journey offers something few trips can: the feeling of crossing a continent in just over sixty minutes, without rush or hassle. It’s a different way to understand Panama—not just as a point connecting two oceans, but as a destination rich in contrasts, biodiversity, and culture.
Many travelers combine this ride with visits to nearby attractions such as Portobelo, Isla Grande, or even a return by road to continue exploring the country from another perspective.
Practical Information for Your Trip
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Operating Hours: Monday to Friday, mornings. Check updated schedules before your visit.
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Ticket Purchase: Tickets can be bought at the station or through local travel agencies.
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Duration: Around 1 hour.
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Recommendations: Bring a camera and water. If you’re interested in history, do a little research beforehand—it greatly enriches the experience.
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Departure Point: Corozal Station, Panama City.
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Destination: Colón, on the Caribbean coast.
Book your flight with Iberia now and discover everything Panama has in store for you.
Photo | Ceri Breeze