Fort San Lorenzo Portobelo ruins Panama canal sightseeing Tour
Overview
Available languages
10 hours
Mobile ticket
The ruins of El Castillo de San Lorenzo and those of Portobelo, once formed the strategic points of defenses of San Lorenzo at the Mouth of the Chagres River and the two fortifications of Portobelo. Narrate silently and vividly the prosperity of Panama in that era. The now World Heritage sites (UNESCO) built to assure a safe transfer of gold and silver from one city to another and ocean to ocean, were attacked countless time and witnessed the bloody wars of the Caribbean against the Spaniards by the buccaneers, mercenaries, corsairs, privateers and pirates. It is worth mentioning the courage and contribution of the enslaved persons, the Cimarrons and how they brought freedom to their fellowmen and how they shaped the future and culture for many generations.
Additional Info
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Fort San Lorenzo
The ruins of El Castillo de San Lorenzo and those of Portobelo, once formed the strategic points of defenses of San Lorenzo at the Mouth of the Chagres River and the two fortifications of Portobelo.
Agua Clara Locks
The only site to enjoy seeing the Mega ships exiting or entering Panama canal locks.
What‘s Included
Bottled water
All Admission / Entrances fees and Taxes
Air-conditioned vehicle
Certified Tour Guide
Gratuities / Tips
All other other hotel located in the Outskirt of Panama city, a $50.00 fee
Pickup points
Select a pickup point
Options
Fort San Lorenzo Portobelo ruins Panama canal sightseeing Tour
Pickup included
Reviews
6 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Tour and company highly recommended: must do experience!
Remco B,Sep 3, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This tour was of an exceptional level. Our vehicle was new, spacious, cool and safe. Our driver and guide Hector were very friendly, proud of the country they live in and very well informed and eager to share the knowledge. The tour took longer than anticipated but this was no problem for Live folks. They arrived before the start time and communication and instructions (through WhatsApp) was done in a professional way. They site we saw were very nice and did meet and exceeded our expectations.
Amazing History of Panama!
Alexandra E,Jun 28, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Our day trip with Hector was the highlight of our time in Panama! We started at the Agua Clara Locks, where his clear and passionate explanations made the canal experience unforgettable. San Lorenzo Fort offered stunning views and rich history, brought to life by Hector’s storytelling. A scenic drive through Colón added local flavor, and we ended in the vibrant town of Portobelo, exploring forts and soaking in Afro-Caribbean culture. Hector was knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive throughout. The tour was perfectly paced and full of memorable moments. Highly recommend this experience for anyone visiting the Caribbean side of Panama!
Very interesting historical site
Andrea438,Mar 8, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Very interesting historical site, part of the World Heritage sites (UNESCO) . A guide is strongly recommended for having historical information's of the Castillo otherwise you risk to miss the importance of this site that's was part of a Spanish defense system and its peculiarity. You will be transported in the fascinating word of conquistador's galleons devoted to gold transportation, buccaneers and pirates.
Truly Wonderful, Educational & Informative
jleshea,Jan 14, 2023
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Mom and I always schedule private tours to learn the history of every location to which we travel. This tour was one of the best tours we've taken. I reached out to Live Folks, via whatsapp, and received a response very quickly from a live person who answered all of my questions. I booked directly with Live Folks and they sent me a payment link and emails with all of the information I needed. Hector, our guide, was knowledgeable, personable, patient, and engaging. He answered all of our questions, and we had a lot. The tour is long, but there were no dull moments, we learned a lot and laughed a lot. The time passes quickly and there were plenty of breaks. The history of Portobelo and the ruins is amazing, the town is colorful with beautiful artwork located throughout. The people are beautiful and warm and our lunch in Portobelo was delicious. This tour also includes the Agua Clara Visitor's Center and Hector explained all facets of the the ships moving through the canal. He also showed up where the river meets the ocean, and gave us plenty of time to take it all in. We appreciated Hector's expertise so much we booked a second tour with him.
Best Journey and Best Experience Ever!
Arthurgn1,Aug 12, 2022
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Best Journey and Best Experience Ever! Never have I ever received been treated so good by a tour agency. This tour is top notch, our tour guide was on point, so knowledgeable. El Castillo of San Lorenzo by the Atlantic sea and the Mouth of the chagres river wear breath taking.Since we booked directly with this company the customer service agent was highly professional and helpful. My family and I, had one of the best moments of our lives while on vacations, the only thing we regret is that, we did not come accross this company sooner as our previous experience with other tour agency were not so good. We ended up booking our Airport transfer with Live folks, we support small businesses, we truly recommend this company and this tour is a must.
Beyond amazing Experience
alexandersD650TK,Apr 20, 2022
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Our party of 6, first of all we wanted to book the tour with the train included,however,we were advised to book this tour instead since the train was not running, we were hesitant but we were wrong, we thank LIVE FOLKS for their recommendation, this tour is more than expected. We learned so much, discovered so many things and understood everything from the right perspective.So much history, so educational, entertaining, the San Lorenzo, The Castle besides of its historical importance, has a breath taking view of the atlantic ocean, its position, all that mixed with Portobelo, that conclude the highlight the historical paths for gold transportation and line of defenses, the construction of the Inter-oceanic railway, the panama canal. We had so much fun at each place we visited, Alejandra our tour guide really knows her stuff, and LIVE FOLKS customer service representative really provided us with the best service,answered each one of questions,help us with our booking needs, were very patient, through chats and emails, we were taking care of, thank you, my family owes you big time. This is a must do, i really recommend this tour, contact them and book, they will answer all your questions.
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