The Gatún Locks are the Atlantic staircase of the Panama Canal — three pairs of chambers that lift or lower ships the full 26 metres between sea level and Gatún Lake in a single flight. They are the largest of the canal's lock complexes. A visitor centre on the east bank has viewing terraces that put you close enough to watch the lock walls slide past container ships and cruise liners with only metres to spare. The locks also house a small exhibition on canal history and engineering. Access is straightforward from Colón — taxis or rental cars make the journey in about 20 minutes.