Historic Portobelo & Aguaclara Locks

Following an early morning pick-up, we’ll head to Portobelo to begin our exploration. During the 17th and 19th centuries, the Port of Portobelo was used as a Spanish Fortress and as a Caribbean terminal. Products such as spices, gold, and silver that came from Peru and other Spanish Colonies passed through the country, along a trail called the Royal Path, and then were boarded on ships to be transported to Spain. Portobelo was attacked by pirates several times; the best-known attack was organized by Henry Morgan.

We will visit the ruins of the colonial port, the custom house where the treasure and gold were stored, and the Portobelo church, where the famous Black Christ statue is located. A ceremony to commemorate the Black Christ, which is worshipped throughout the country, is held on the 21st of October of each year.

After lunch, we will have the opportunity to visit the Agua Clara Visitors Center and be amazed by the panoramic view. With the same concept as the Gatun Locks, they were reinvented to handle bigger cargo by reusing water and locking the chambers with rolling gates. After enjoying the panoramic view, continue onto the screening room where you will learn more about the construction and effort of several Panamanians of this modern engineering masterpiece. If you’re up for it, we can enjoy a short walk through the ecological loop trail and identify the different species the Panama Canal Rescue Team has relocated within the trail.

Note: This tour can be tailor-made to your interests and needs.