🚶Walking Atlas

Portobelo walking tour & city guide

Spanish forts on a Caribbean bay.

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Portobelo, on Panama's Caribbean coast, was one of the most important ports of the Spanish Empire, where silver from South America was shipped to Spain. Its forts are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The forts

Ruined forts with cannons, such as Santiago and San Jerónimo, surround the bay. The Customs House, where treasure was stored, is now a museum.

Culture

The Church of San Felipe holds the Black Christ, celebrated by pilgrims every October. Portobelo is known for Congo culture, with its dances and music. Boats go to nearby beaches.

Top sights in Portobelo

  1. 1

    Fort San Jerónimo

    A fort with cannons on the bay.

  2. 2

    Fort Santiago

    Ruins on the coast.

  3. 3

    Real Aduana

    The old customs house.

  4. 4

    Church of San Felipe

    Home of the Black Christ.

  5. 5

    Nearby beaches

    Reached by boat.

Food markets & where to eat in Portobelo

  1. Village fondas

    Caribbean home cooking.

  2. Bay restaurants

    Seafood with views.

  3. Roadside stalls

    Coconut snacks.

Food to try in Portobelo

  1. Coconut fish

    Fish cooked in coconut milk.

  2. Lobster

    From the Caribbean.

  3. Pescado frito

    Fried whole fish.

Opening hours and prices change often. Please check with each place before you visit.

Plan your trip to Portobelo

Enjoyed the walk? Here is everything you need to see it for real.

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