Portobelo
In the province of Colón, facing the Caribbean Sea, you'll find Portobelo. Legend has it that Columbus named Portobelo as soon as he saw it. The color of its deep blue sea, the white of its beaches, along with the intense green of its forests and mangroves, deserve no other name: it is a beautiful port. Come and discover it for yourself!
You'll know you've arrived in Portobelo when you see the ruins of a Spanish castle and its old cannons. The group of forts that once defended the town from pirate attacks has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Among its narrow streets and brightly painted houses, you'll find restaurants with exquisite Afro-Caribbean cuisine and some with international menus. There are also small hotels, hostels, and rental homes with ocean views.
Afro-Congo Culture
Walking through Portobelo is a cultural experience in itself. In the central square, you can see the large Customs building, turned into a museum about the history of the African people who arrived on these shores during the Spanish colonial period. Their descendants represent the Congo culture that lives and thrives in this town, which has also been declared Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
On any corner, you'll find workshops and galleries with "Congo" art exhibitions. You'll see students coming in and out of the "Rhythm School" and impromptu performances by the famous "Congos of Portobelo."
Learn about the "diablitos" and the Queen Congo dance, some characters who have caricatured the figure of the conquerors since then. Hear about this town's faith in the Black Christ and visit its image in the church.
You can't leave Portobelo without visiting the beaches and islands surrounding the harbor, such as Playa Huertas or Isla Mamey. Most of them are just a short boat ride away. Some have little huts that offer shade, while others will be just you and nature. Thanks to the services offered in the town, you can snorkel or scuba dive in well-preserved reefs in the Portobelo National Park. A complete plan to discover this gem of Panamanian Caribbean also includes walking on forest trails or watching the sunset in the bay while paddleboarding.
Things to do in
Portobelo
Historic Sites
Since its foundation in 1597, Portobelo has been a vital port in the history of...
Diving & Snorkeling
Be sure to put Portobelo on your priority list to discover the underwater...
Afro Heritage
Portobelo, on the northern coast of Panamá, is a cultural treasure that...
Beaches
Be sure to include the closest Caribbean port to Panama City on your next...
Getting There
Portobelo is located in the Colón Province, a 2-hour drive from Panama City. If you're using public transportation, take a bus to Colón or Sabanitas and then another one to Portobelo.
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