Portobelo is located in the Province of Colon, which is on the northern
side of Panama. It was once the hub for Export and Trade and was
originally named "Puerto Bello" by legend Christoper Columbus, meaning
"Beautiful Port".
Portobelo, Colon
The Journey:
If you have been to Portobelo before and you are leaving from the City, you would know that you need to cater to be on the road for about 6 hours (at least 3 hours one way) depending on traffic. Of course I opted for the "local experience" as opposed to using hired means of transportation.
"Estacion Iglesia del Carmen" - "Iglesia del Carmen" Metro Station
So I took a taxi from home to the nearest Metro/Train Station then I took a Train in "Direccion Albrook" which is the last stop heading in that direction.
Albrook Terminal
Albrook Terminal is Panama's main Hub for Public Transportation and small chartered aeroplanes throughout the country. From here I took a Bus heading to Colon. Normally there is a long line of people waiting for the bus and once it has arrived, it doesn't leave until every last seat is taken. A bus comes about every 15-20 minutes. Choose a comfortable seat because the first stop is approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes.
Busy Street of Sabinatas
First stop:
Sabanitas: You get off right at the corner where you will get your final bus to your destination. If you miss your stop, the bus goes all the way to Colon. It is very easy to pass your stop if you are not familiar with the area. My advise is to take a friend with you or go with someone who knows their way around.
The Diablo Rojo Bus
There is a grocery store at that same junction where you would take the
second bus. While waiting for it, this is an opportunity to stock up on
water, mints and other snacks for the remainder of the trip. If you need
to use a washroom there is one inside the grocery store that is quite
convenient since the next stop would be at least 2 hours.
People waiting to board the Diablo Rojo
The "Diablos Rojos" Bus
The "Diablos Rojos" or "Red Devils" in English is not your average air conditioned bus. This is an economical mode of daily transportation to and from the City for most locals who live outside of the city center. They are privately owned unlike the typical government-owned public buses.
Waiting in Sabinatas
They can be spotted from afar because they are usually old school
buses painted in bright colours or graffiti-like painting. Most of them
are equipped with loud boom boxes which can be heard from a mile away; I
suppose to take your mind away from the long weary journey. At nights
they are noticeably adorned with colour-themed flourscent lights.
Yellow
Cabs from Sabinatas are ready and willing to go to Portobelo but they charge a lot of money
especially if they realize you are not a native.
At the Fort
My bus ride experience:
Very economical.
Very convenient mode of transportation that works in certain areas where taxis are difficult or on shortage.
Small with limited seating so a lot of people stand in the isles for long distances.
Loud blast of music ranging from Traditional, Reggaeton, Dancehall, Salsa etc.
Seats are short and not very wide which makes it very uncomfortable.
All windows do not open and the ones that do open are usually all the way to the top.
People do not get up for you to sit unless you are visible pregnant, holding a baby or elderly. However some men do allow women to take their places, but don't expect them to.
There are no bells to signal when you are approaching or have reached your stop. You have to get up and walk towards the driver a little before so that the he knows you are coming off soon.
The drivers rarely use caution and drive at ridiculous speeds hence the name "diablo rojo".
The buses are usually old and they do not have air condition. However there are some decent ones if you're lucky.
No proper lighting inside the bus at nights. Only colourful florescent lights.
Do NOT board one of these if you are not sure where you are going. It is usually crowded and a visual of outside the bus may be partial or impossible most times.
Diablo Rojo
The Church of the Black Christ
You have reached your destination once you have arrived at this Church. Most times the driver will let you know that you have reached. The only other people who stays on the bus are villagers who live deeper in the community.
Church of the Black Christ
So far I have been to Portobelo twice since living in Panama and I have to say that I really love this place. It is my favourite part of the country thus far. The people are warm and friendly and the community is very peaceful.
Street Vendor near the Church
Villager / Vendor
There are 2 forts and a museum within walking distance from the Church of the Black Christ that I also visited.
Folk Dancers/Performers
That day when I visited Portobelo I was lucky to witness a performance by these Folk Dancers and Performers. Another beautiful tradition of Panama that I enjoy.
