The drive takes you partially along the green Caribbean coast before you reach the beautiful, wind protected bay of Portobelo, named by Christopher Columbus on his fourth voyage in 1502. Colonial fortresses of the 17th and 18th century are witnesses of the outstanding importance of this hub between South America and Europe. From here most of the treasures from the Americas were shipped to Spain. The fairs of Portobelo attracted the most famous pirates of the Caribbean in hunt of gold and silver.

On our tour you will have great views from different forts strategically positioned around the bay, protecting the access of the Custom House where the treasures were stored (now a small museum).  A short stroll through the town of Portobelo takes you to the church, famous for its statue of the Black Christ being carried in the biggest pilgrimage of the country on October 21.
If wished, we combine the tour with a visit to one of the small beaches in the area with some walking.
(Portobelo is in an almost 2 hour driving distance from Panama City.)

At the bay of Portobelo it is possible to dive at a reef and around Drake Island where it is thought the remains of Sir Francis Drake lie somewhere on the ground. Marine life abundance and visibility are quite moderate, but it is an easy option we can offer to dive in the Caribbean.