Portobelo Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, where to stay, and tips for travelers in Portobelo, Panama.


Portobelo is a historic town located in Central Panama, in the province of Colon. Known for its rich history, beautiful landscapes, and cultural attractions, Portobelo has become a popular tourist destination in recent years. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to plan your visit to Portobelo.

Introduction to Portobelo

Portobelo was once an important Spanish port for gold and silver trade between South America and Spain. The town is surrounded by lush forests and the Caribbean Sea, making it a great destination for outdoor adventure lovers as well as those interested in history and culture.

List of Places to Visit in Portobelo

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • San Felipe Fort - a colonial fortress built to protect the town from pirates and other invaders. It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1980.
  • Iglesia de San Felipe - a beautiful church built in the 17th century and known for its rich history and architecture.
  • The Customs House Museum - a museum that showcases the history of the town’s customs house, where gold, silver, and other goods were collected and shipped to Spain.
  • Real Aduana de Portobelo - a historic building that was used as a customs house during the colonial period and now houses a museum.

Natural Attractions of Portobelo: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Isla Grande - a small island near the town of Portobelo, known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and coral reefs.
  • Palo Seco Wildlife Refuge - a protected area that spans over 8,000 hectares and is home to numerous wildlife species, including monkeys, sloths, and various bird species.
  • Portobelo National Park - a national park that encompasses the town of Portobelo and its surroundings. The park is home to a wide variety of plant and animal species, hiking trails, and scenic viewpoints.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Portobelo

  • El Castillo de San Lorenzo Trail - a hiking trail that takes you to the historic Castillo San Lorenzo, a colonial fort built by the Spanish to protect the Chagres River and Portobelo.
  • El Gólgota Trail - a hiking trail that leads to the top of a hill overlooking Portobelo and its surroundings.
  • The Coastline Hiking Trail - a scenic hiking trail that follows the coastline from Puerto Lindo to Portobelo.

Best Things to Do in Portobelo: Activities and Tours

  • Scuba Diving and Snorkeling - Portobelo is known for its crystal-clear waters and coral reefs, making it an ideal destination for scuba diving and snorkeling enthusiasts.
  • Boat Tours - take a tour around Portobelo Bay to explore the town’s history and architecture.
  • Kayaking and Stand-Up Paddleboarding - explore the calm waters around Portobelo at your leisure.
  • Fishing - join a local fishing tour to catch some of the region’s tasty seafood.

Week-Long Itinerary for Portobelo

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore Portobelo Town and visit San Felipe Fort and Iglesia de San Felipe
Day 2 Take a boat tour of Portobelo Bay and visit the Customs House Museum
Day 3 Hike the El Castillo de San Lorenzo Trail and visit the historic Castillo San Lorenzo
Day 4 Scuba diving or snorkeling tour in the coral reef around Portobelo
Day 5 Visit Isla Grande and enjoy the beautiful beaches
Day 6 Hike the El Gólgota Trail or the Coastline Hiking Trail
Day 7 Relax on the beach or take a fishing tour to catch some fish for dinner

Food and Drink Scene of Portobelo

Must-Try Dishes

  • Arroz con coco - a traditional dish made with rice, coconut milk, and spices.
  • Ceviche - a popular seafood dish made with raw fish, lime juice, and spices.
  • Patacones - a classic panamanian side dish made with plantains.

Local Beverages

  • Ron Abuelo - a popular, locally produced rum made from sugar cane.
  • Chicha - a traditional drink made with fermented corn and mixed with spices.

Where to Stay in Portobelo: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Hotel Portobelo - a full-service hotel located near the historic San Felipe Fort.
  • Casa Congo - a boutique guesthouse located in the heart of Portobelo Town.
  • Hostal El Centinela - a budget-friendly hostel located in Portobelo Town.

What to Buy in Portobelo: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Golden Jewellery - made with 18 karat gold, the intricate hand-made jewellery is one of a kind.
  • Handicrafts - made by local artisans, the handicrafts include tagua carvings, woven baskets, and other unique items.

Local Culture and Customs of Portobelo

Carnival - held in Portobelo in February, the carnival is a celebration of traditional music and dance, and an important part of the town’s culture.

Best Time to Visit Portobelo

The best time to visit Portobelo is from December to April when the weather is dry and mild.

Do’s and Don’ts of Portobelo

Do:

  • Learn some basic Spanish to communicate with the locals.
  • Respect the local customs and traditions.
  • Keep your valuables and belongings safe when exploring the town.

Don’t:

  • Don’t forget to apply sunscreen and use insect repellent when spending time outdoors.
  • Don’t drink tap water, always opt for bottled water.
  • Don’t disrespect local customs and traditions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Portobelo

Portobelo is generally a safe town, but it is always wise to take precautions, such as not flashing valuables or wandering alone in unfamiliar areas at night.

Health in Portobelo

Visitors to Portobelo are advised to be up-to-date on routine vaccinations, including measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine and diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine. It is also wise to consult with your doctor about hepatitis A and typhoid vaccines.

Getting to Portobelo: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Portobelo

The nearest airport to Portobelo is Tocumen International Airport in Panama City, which is about a two-hour drive from Portobelo.

Bus Stations Near Portobelo

Buses from Panama City to Portobelo are available daily from Albrook Bus Terminal.

Other Options

Shared taxis and private transfers are also available from Panama City to Portobelo.

How to Get Around in Portobelo

Walking is the best way to explore Portobelo Town, but biking and renting a car are also viable options.

Where to Go Next from Portobelo: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Panama City - a must-visit destination known for its historic landmarks, vibrant nightlife, and stunning natural landscapes.
  • San Blas Islands - a group of over 300 islands located off the Caribbean coast of Panama, known for its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters.
  • El Valle de Anton - a picturesque valley located in the highlands of Panama, known for its unique climate, hot springs, and waterfalls.

Conclusion

Portobelo is a fascinating destination that offers visitors a unique experience of the history, culture, and natural beauty of Panama. With its mix of natural and man-made wonders, friendly locals, and welcoming hospitality, Portobelo is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a truly authentic travel experience.

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