Plizio Visual Lab

Cobre Panama Mine

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Industrial site

Weather…

The Cobre Panama mine is a large-scale open-pit copper mining operation located in the Donoso district of Colón Province, ranking among the largest of its kind globally. Developed by the Canadian firm First Quantum Minerals, the mine commenced commercial production in 2019. The complex features an expansive extraction area, a processing plant, and a dedicated coal-fired power station to sustain its energy needs. Copper concentrate was exported through the nearby Punta Rincón port, making Panama a significant participant in the global mineral market. However, in late 2023, widespread public protests and a Supreme Court ruling led to the cessation of operations due to environmental concerns and constitutional disputes. The economic fallout of the closure is substantial, as the mine previously accounted for approximately 4 to 5 percent of Panama's Gross Domestic Product.

Location: Panama
Nearby: Chitré (25 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	26	26	27	27	27	27	27	27	27	27	26	26
Rain mm	22	10	17	95	252	233	229	237	250	255	263	102

📋 Practical info

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What is this place?

The Cobre Panama Mine is one of the largest copper mines in the world, located in Panama. It plays a significant role in Panama's economy and global copper production.

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Visiting

The mine is an active mining area and not open to the public. From surrounding roads, you can see the processing plants and conveyor belts. Information is available at the visitor center in Donoso.

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Where to view it

A good viewpoint is the bridge over the Río Coclé del Sur, from which the loading facilities and open-pit edge are visible. A better overview is offered by the height near the Donoso mine.

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Local products

Copper concentrate is the main product, shipped out. In nearby towns like Penonomé, you can find local foods and handicrafts unrelated to the mine.

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Active season

The mine operates year-round with continuous extraction. The dry season from December to April facilitates transport and maintenance work.

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Nearby

Combine the trip with a visit to the nearby Altos de Campana National Park. The beaches of Santa Clara and Río Hato also offer relaxation options.

Geography

Coordinates

8.85700, -80.60300

Facts

Commercial copper production officially started in 2019.
Operated by First Quantum Minerals under the name Minera Panamá.
Accounted for roughly 4-5% of Panama's total GDP.
The project involved an investment of over 6 billion USD.
Features a dedicated 300 MW coal-fired power plant on-site.
Operations were halted in late 2023 following a court ruling.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Aguadulce Sugar Industry13 km · NWExplore →

Cocle Rice Farm13 km · NWExplore →

Port of Aguadulce17 km · NWExplore →

Parita Children's Playground18 km · NWExplore →

Santa María River19 km · SWExplore →

Chitré25 km · NWExplore →

Azuero Mountains26 km · NWExplore →

Museum of Nationality27 km · NWExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is the Cobre Panamá Mine?

It is a large copper mine in Colón province, one of the largest in the country.

Is it open to visitors?

No, it is a private and strictly secured industrial site.

What is the impact of the mine?

It is economically significant, but also critically discussed regarding the environment.

Where exactly is it located?

It is located in a remote, densely forested area in Colón province.

Are there jobs there?

Yes, the mine employs thousands of workers from across the region.

Cobre Panama Mine: where is it located?

Cobre Panama Mine is located in Panama.

Cobre Panama Mine: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.

Cobre Panama Mine: why is it worth visiting?

The Cobre Panama mine is a large-scale open-pit copper mining operation located in the Donoso district of Colón Province, ranking among the largest of its kind globally.

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