The Pirate Trail by Train

When the Spanish colonies were at their prime and the conquest of the Inca Empire was accomplished, the Spaniards set their eyes on Panama to transfer their cargos from coast to coast. Portobello was the end of the Royal Road (Camino Real), a path between the oceans that started in Panama City. There, the Spanish galleons unloaded cargo to be transferred across the Isthmus, then loaded with gold to be transferred to Spain. This activity became very attractive to Pirates and Buccaneers, forcing the Spanish conquerors to build forts for protection and customs. Nevertheless, all this was strategically planned, Sir Francis Drake, a British buccaneer, who sacked and destroyed Portobello, was later killed in a battle. His body still remains in a lead coffin in the bottom of the ocean in Portobello Bay. In the 20th Century, Portobello has been known as the site of the procession of the Black Christ, held every October. This activity attracts thousands of pilgrims from Panama and other countries. Leaving Panama early in the morning, head to the Atlantic coast following a portion of the old (Camino Real). Once in Portobello, visit the Black Christ Church, the historic Customs House, and the forts of the area. Enjoy a Caribbean style seafood lunch. Return to Panama City in the afternoon.