No visit to Panama would be complete without a passage on the Panama Canal Railway.
The Panama Canal Railroad goes down in history as the first intercontinental train route between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. First construction started in 1850 and was completed in 1855 at a cost of $8,000,000 to meet the transportation needs of the gold seeking '49ers on their way to the fields of California. The death toll for the original construction of this line is estimated to be more then six thousand workers that fell to the scourges of diseases of which at the time, were no known cures.
It continues today to serve the country as the primary source for movement of modern container commerce between Atlantic and Pacific ports.
Today, passengers riding on the clean, comfortable smooth riding cars are treated to a spectacular view of the actual operation of the magnificent waterway as you make the hour passage from ocean to ocean plus crossing thru the Gatun Lake watershed with its lush green jungles alive with tropical wildlife. One can possibly spot birds and monkeys in the trees or catch a glimpse of a crocodile sunning itself on the banks.
Upon your arrival at either the Atlantic or Pacific terminals, you can be met by the professional guides from Gold Coast Travels and Expeditions Panama if you choose to continue your tour in the paradise of Panama.
San Lorenzo / Portobelo and Gatun Locks Land Tour
Tour will include tour of the Colon City and head out to Fort San Lorenzo the former Spanish stronghold located at the mouth of the Chagres River. We will walk in the footsteps of colorful history with a running commentary of the period from the early 1500’s to present
Upon our return from Fort San Lorenzo we will stop in at the Gatun Locks opened in 1914 to observe the operation and presentation by the Panama Canal professional guides.
In Portobelo, approximately 1 ½ away, there will be a guided walking tour around the town visiting the Church of the Black Christ, the Aduana (Customs House), Fort San Geronimo, Santiago de Gloria and stop in at some of the local artesenia shops
A snack and cold bottled water will be provided.
Lunch will be provided at a local restaurant that we have dealt with in the past and have been very pleased with. The choices of meals include fish, shrimp, pulpo or chicken plates with arroz coco, and salad. A drink of either soda or water is included. Wine or beer is available for purchase.
We will depart Portobello and either return to the Panama Canal Yacht Club for an air-conditioned break or if you like stop along the way in at the new Cuatro Alto Mall for brief shopping.
Visit both of the famous historical fortifications in one day stopping off at the Gatun Locks. A must for the history buffs!
