Portobelo History & Beach Private Tour in Colon Panama
Active
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
You want to spend a spectacular day in clear, calm waters. Also learn a little about the Afrocolonial culture and history of Panama on the Caribbean coast of Colon. This is the tour you should choose. A tour that includes the most important and paradisiacal places on the Caribbean coast of Portobelo, Colon with excellent guides and knowledgeable drivers to the best local sites on the Colón coast. This paradise it is located 1 hour and 30 minutes away from Panamá city. You will enjoy a smooth and conformtable ride in a spacious SUV car then you will arrive to Portobelo city a small fisherman town with a lot of our Colonial History to then enjoy the best beaches on the Caribbean side of Panamá. Don't miss this nice opportunity
Available options
Pickup Colon Cruise Terminal
Starting in Colon City<br/>Pickup included
Pickup up point in Panama City
Pickup included
Playa Bonita PickUp
Playa Bonita & sorrounding<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Private transportation
Bottled water
Air-conditioned vehicle
Detailed itinerary
1
This fort was the largest of the three in Portobelo. It is strategically located next to the Royal Customs House, which was the accounting house of the Spanish Treasury. It had more than 20 cannons and has beautiful views of the bay.
The current fort was rebuilt in 1774, as the older structure was attacked by Henry Morgan before its completion, and then again in 1739 by Edward Vernon. Entry is free and you can stroll slowly and enjoy the beautiful views that the fort presents.
2
When approaching Portobelo by road, the first thing you see is the Santiago de la Gloria Fort. These facilities are part of the monumental complex of Portobelo established as a world heritage site in 1980.
You can tour the fort on foot and observe the structures that were reinforced in the 18th century. This fort, along with San Jerónimo, San Fernando and San Fernandino, are considered prototypes of the forts that followed them at that time.
3
The museum tells the history of the trafficking of enslaved people in Portobelo, and talks about Afro-Panamanian culture. It highlights their influence on the culture and identity of the region, especially highlighting the ritual and festive expressions of the Congos.
4
Venas Azules has become one of the most popular places in Panama. Venas Azules is an estuary.
The color of its name can be seen from above, and the photos that have been taken with a drone are what make us go to see this place, however, from below it is beautiful, although it does not look so bluish. They are channels of crystal clear waters surrounded by mangroves.
5
It is a place with beautiful crystal clear waters, it has a reef area with a great diversity of fish.
To get to this place by boat you can go from Portobelo, José Pobre and Cacique. It is a trip of around 20 minutes by boat, enjoying beautiful landscapes. You can also see species of birds and howler monkeys on the beach.
What's not included
Lunch
Breakfast
Alcoholic Beverages
Snacks
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.4
5 reviews
5★
4
4★
0
3★
0
2★
1
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
2 reviews
5★
2
4★
0
3★
0
2★
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1★
0
Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
About Panama City
Panama City, the capital and largest city of Panama, is a vibrant metropolis where modern skyscrapers meet historic colonial architecture. Situated at the Pacific entrance of the Panama Canal, it offers a unique blend of urban sophistication and tropical charm, making it a compelling destination for travelers.
Top Attractions
Panama Canal
One of the most significant engineering feats in history, the Panama Canal connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.
Historical
Half-day to full day
Free to visit locks, tours vary
Casco Viejo
The historic district of Panama City, Casco Viejo is a UNESCO World Heritage site with colonial architecture, vibrant nightlife, and cultural landmarks.
Historical
Half-day to full day
Free to explore, entry fees for museums
Biomuseo
Designed by Frank Gehry, the Biomuseo explores the biodiversity and natural history of Panama.
Museum
2-3 hours
Moderate
Ancon Hill
A popular hiking spot offering panoramic views of the city and the Panama Canal.
Nature
1-2 hours
Free
Panama Viejo
The ruins of the original Panama City, founded in 1519, offering a glimpse into the city's colonial past.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free to explore, entry fee for museum
Must-Try Local Dishes
Sancocho
A hearty chicken and root vegetable soup, often served with rice and corn.
Soup
Contains meat, can be made vegetarian
Ceviche
Fresh raw fish marinated in lime juice, mixed with onions, peppers, and cilantro.
Appetizer
Contains seafood, can be made with various types of fish
Ropa Vieja
Shredded beef stew with vegetables, served with rice and beans.
Main Course
Contains meat
Hojaldres
Fried dough pastries, often served with cheese or jam.
Snack
Vegetarian
Popular Activities
Hiking in Soberanía National Park
Kayaking in the San Blas Islands
Beach day at Playa Blanca
Spa day in a luxury hotel
Exploring Casco Viejo
Visiting the Biomuseo
Snorkeling in the San Blas Islands
Boat tours through the Panama Canal
Best Time to Visit
December to April
This is the dry season with sunny days and minimal rainfall, ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
24°C to 32°C
75°F to 90°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Panamanian Balboa (PAB)
Time Zone
GMT-5
Electricity
110VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Panama City is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas. Exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Use official taxis or ride-sharing apps
- • Be cautious in crowded areas
Getting there
By air
- Tocumen International Airport • 24 km (15 miles) from city center
By bus
Albrook Terminal, Panama Viejo Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Modern, efficient, and air-conditioned. A convenient way to travel within the city.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Didi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Casco Viejo
El Cangrejo
Bella Vista
San Francisco
Day trips
San Blas Islands
300 km (186 miles) from Panama City • Full day to overnight
A group of islands known for their pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and Guna Yala culture.
El Valle de Antón
80 km (50 miles) from Panama City • Full day
A picturesque mountain town surrounded by lush forests and waterfalls.
Soberanía National Park
30 km (19 miles) from Panama City • Half day to full day
A lush rainforest offering a variety of wildlife and hiking trails.
Festivals
Panama Carnival • February (4 days before Ash Wednesday)
Panama Jazz Festival • January
Festival de las Mil Polleras • July
Pro tips
- Visit the Panama Canal early in the morning to see ships pass through the locks
- Explore Casco Viejo on foot to discover its hidden gems and vibrant street life
- Try local street food for an authentic culinary experience
- Use the metro for efficient and affordable travel within the city
- Book tours and activities in advance to secure your spot and avoid disappointment
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
