Caribbean Island Hopping, Isla Grande & Portobelo Fort

Isla Linton, Panama



Join us on our Caribbean Coast adventure, visiting three pristine islands and Portobelo. Experience the other side of Panama, with its Caribbean charm, vivid history and afro-latin rhythms.

Portobelo and Surrounding Islands Day Tour from Panama City

This full-day tour suits travelers interested in Afro-Caribbean culture, wildlife, and beach activities near Portobelo, Panama.

Highlights

  • Experience the Afro-Caribbean culture of Portobelo
  • Meet the howler monkeys on Isla Linton
  • Swim in the 'Tunnel of Love' mangrove forest
  • Relax on the white sand beaches of Isla Grande
  • Snorkel on the coral reefs of Isla Mamey

Description

The tour begins at 7:00am with pickup from your lodging in Panama City by an English-speaking guide in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. You will cross the country from the Pacific to the Atlantic side.

At 9:30am, arrive at the port to board a lancha boat to Isla Linton, known for its dense forests inhabited by howler monkeys. Listen for their distinctive howls and watch for curious primates in the treetops.

Next is the 'Tunnel of Love,' a natural mangrove-surrounded pool ideal for wading in warm, shallow water. Enjoy the soundscape of birds and monkeys while relaxing waist-deep in this natural pool.

Afterwards, visit Isla Mamey, which features a large white sand beach and a shallow reef perfect for snorkeling. Palm trees provide ample shade for resting and enjoying the Caribbean breeze.

At noon, take a short 10-minute boat ride to Isla Grande. This island is known for its white sand beaches, palm trees, and a calm atmosphere without roads, only a footpath along the southern coast. The local Afro-Caribbean community lives by fishing and coconut farming, reflected in the local cuisine.

Your guide will recommend an oceanfront restaurant serving fresh seafood. Spend the afternoon on the private beach, with options to snorkel, scuba dive, or relax with a cold Balboa beer and Patacones (fried plantains).

By 3:00pm, return to the port and visit Portobelo town. Explore the historical sites, including old ruins, cannons, and colonial-era buildings. Portobelo was a key silver-exporting port for the Spanish treasure fleets between the 16th and 18th centuries.

The tour concludes with a drive back to Panama City, arriving at your hotel around 6:00pm.

Includes

  • Pickup and drop-off at your Panama City lodging
  • Well-maintained, air-conditioned vehicle
  • English-speaking guide
  • Visit to Portobelo Fort
  • Boat tours to Isla Grande, Isla Mamey, and Isla Linton (Monkey Island)
  • Boat tour through the Tunnel of Love mangrove forest
  • Island entrance fees
  • Bottled water

Excludes

  • Lunch
  • Pickup and drop-off from outside Panama City, including Playa Bonita and Costa del Este

Important Information

  • Bookings made after 6:00pm for the following day are not guaranteed until confirmed by our booking specialists. Unconfirmed tours will be rescheduled for the subsequent day.
  • This tour operates rain or shine.

Easy Cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

For best experience, bring sun protection, swimwear, snorkeling gear if preferred, and insect repellent. The ideal time to visit is during the dry season for calmer waters and clearer skies.

Frequently Asked Questions

The tour includes visits to Isla Linton to see monkeys, swimming in the Tunnel of Love mangrove forest, relaxing on Isla Grande beaches, and snorkeling at Isla Mamey reefs.
The tour starts with pickup from your lodging in Panama City and returns there after exploring the Caribbean coast destinations.
Travel between islands is by lancha boat departing from the port near Portobelo on Panama's Caribbean coast.
The tour typically begins at 7:00am with pickup in Panama City; check the website for current departure times.
Yes, the tour includes snorkeling on the colorful reefs of Isla Mamey and swimming in the Tunnel of Love mangrove area.
Yes, the tour is family-friendly and offers wildlife viewing and beach time that children can enjoy.
You can see monkeys on Isla Linton and various marine life while snorkeling at the reefs around Isla Mamey.
It is recommended to bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and snorkeling gear if you prefer your own; some equipment may be provided.
You will experience Afro-Caribbean culture in Portobelo, a historic town on Panama’s Caribbean coast included in the itinerary.
The tour generally operates year-round, but check the website for seasonal availability and weather conditions in Panama.

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