Portobelo: Vibrant Color, Rhythm and Flavor
Uncover the magic of Portobelo, one of the world's best tourism villages in 2024, recognized by the UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). This charming town has been renowned for its stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and commitment to sustainable tourism. Come explore and experience the heart and soul of Portobelo, where tradition meets nature.
Portobelo is located in the province of Colón, facing the Caribbean Sea. The story goes that Columbus christened Portobelo with its name as soon as he saw it. The color of its deep blue sea, its white beaches along with the intense green of its forests and mangroves are deserving of its name, which translates to “beautiful port.” Come and see why for yourself!
You'll know you've arrived in Portobelo when you see the ruins of a Spanish castle and its old cannons. The set of forts that once defended the town from pirate attacks were declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
Among its narrow streets and brightly painted houses, you will find restaurants with exquisite Afro-Caribbean food and some with international menus. There are also small hotels, hostels and vacation homes with sea views.
The Richness of Afro-Congo Culture
Walking around Portobelo is a cultural experience. In the central square, you can see the large Customs building, which was converted into a museum about the history of the African people who arrived on these shores during the Spanish colony. Their descendants are representatives of the Congo culture that lives and thrives in this town. The Congo culture was also declared an Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO.
On any of its corners you will find workshops and galleries with samples of “Congo” art. You will see students entering and leaving the “Escuelita del Ritmo” (“Little School of Rhythm”) and improvised performances of the famous “Congos de Portobelo.”
Learn about the little devils and Queen Congo’s Dance. Some characters that have served as caricatures of the conquerors.
Immerse yourself in the profound devotion of the people of Portobelo to the Black Christ, also known as the Nazareno of Portobelo. This revered image, housed in the Church of San Felipe, has been a symbol of faith, hope, and protection for centuries. Don't miss the opportunity to visit its sanctuary and witness one of the most important religious icons in Panama.
You can’t leave Portobelo without visiting the beaches and islands that surround the port, such as Playa Huertas or Isla Mamey. Most are just a short boat ride away. Some have little ranches that will offer you shade and in others it will be you and nature. Thanks to the services offered in the town you can snorkel or tank dive in very well preserved reefs in the Portobelo National Park. A complete plan to get to explore this jewel of the Panamanian Caribbean also includes walking along trails through the forest or waiting for the sunset in the bay on a stand up paddle board.
Getting There
To get to Portobelo from Panama City, Panamá take the Don Alberto Motta Highway (Panama-Colón Highway). Note that this route has toll booths where you'll need to pay in cash. Once you reach Sabanitas, look for the turnoff to Portobelo, a secondary road on the right that's well-signposted. Take this turnoff and follow the road until you reach the town of Portobelo. The journey takes about 1.5 hours from Panama City, depending on traffic.
From the Albrook Bus Terminal, take a bus to the Colón Terminal, where you can then take a taxi or bus to Portobelo. You can also get off at Sabanitas and take local transportation from there. The journey from Panama City takes about 2.5 to 3 hours.
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