El Otro Lado Private Retreat, Portobelo Bay, Panama Vacation Rental

El Otro Lado Private Retreat in Panama located on the beautiful shores of the Caribbean, in the north of Panama, El Otro Lado Private Retreat can accommodate up to 20 guests; rates are all-inclusive and includes meals, non-alcoholic beverages, select activities, and transfers. Engulf yourself in this jungle paradise and enjoy this private retreat with activities that span water, mountain, rainforest, wellness, and cultural. This special location receives one group of guests at a time offering exclusive use whether you group is large or small. Although located on a peninsula of the mainland, a 10 minute boat transfer is required to arrive at Casa Grande as there are no roads through the protected forest.

The Casa Grande is located 3 minutes’ walk higher than Las Casitas that overlook the infinity pool and Portobelo Bay. The ground floor of the Casa Grande features an air-conditioned living room, a bar, outdoor dining and three suites located on the second floor. Special unique elements, surrounded by spacious terraces make this an ideal setting to enjoy exceptional views of the jungle and the Bay. The infinity pool overlooks the Bay, full staff tend to your every request, International-Caribbean fusion cuisine is delicately prepared, excursions & adventure abound.

We will curate a menu and itinerary specifically for your group. Enjoy hiking to the castle and around lake then kayak or take a paddle boat. Discover the rainforest, safari through the mangroves, take a cultural tour, and more. Additional options include workshops on traditional dance or Congo drums. Create your custom art on wood and take home your souvenir.

Featuring elegant architectural geometry, ample terraces and extraordinary views of the Bay of Portobelo. With nearly 8,600 square feet, the residence is arranged over two floors. Ground floor: includes an air-conditioned living room, which may be easily prepared for private or business meetings, plus a bar and outdoor dining. The three suites, which are located on the second floor, each has its own identity and unique elements, surrounded by spacious terraces with exceptional views of the jungle and the bay. A unique and perfect place to unwind in relaxing and beautiful surroundings.

LAS CASITAS:

The four bungalows are next door to each other and face the sea offering both proximity and privacy. In total there are five bedrooms and five en-suite bathrooms with showers.

Forest Villa - 1 king bedroom; 699 sq ft
Tucked between a soothing waterfall and the rainforest. Decorated with the work of local artists, together with molas (decorative fabrics painted by Guna Indians) and a peculiar collection of Turkish caps.

Sea Villa - 1 king bedroom; 699 sq ft
Staying here is an experience of pure energy with views over the rainforest and the sea bay from the terraces. It contains a collection of African masks made by plastic waste material in the most genuine representation of Arte Povera.

Sun Villa - 1 king bedroom + kitchen; 1,022 sq ft
At the edge of the rainforest, with exceptional views of the bay from its two terraces, exclusive privacy and all the elements for maximum comfort. Decorated with a collection of Congo headgear with paintings by local artists.

Sprit Villa - 2 king bedrooms + kitchen; 2,314 Sq ft
Decorated with paintings and sculptures created by artists from the region. This casita features a living room, two individual suites, bathroom, and unique views of the sea bay from the terrace.

CASA GRANDE SUITES:

Each room is equipped with King-size beds, LCD TVs and Bose iPod sound dock's as well as a mini-bar and an electronic safe.

1 King Beds, 2 Twin Beds, Sleeps 4; 527 sq ft
The two single beds make for a perfect miniature bedroom for children and teenagers. Decorated with local art, wood and colonial hand crafted ceramic tiled floors that create the perfect atmosphere to disconnect and create memorable family experience.

2 Double Beds, 2 Twin Beds, Sleeps 4; 516 sq ft
Two single beds are in the half attic/loft area above that makes for a perfect miniature bedroom for children and teenagers. Decorated with colorful painted headboards and adornments of the Guna Yala indigenous regions. Paintings rendered by our own local artists of The Portobelo workshop, representing Congo kings and other mythical characters. Featuring wood and colonial handcrafted ceramic tiled floors.

2 Double Beds, Sleeps 2;322 sq ft
With a maximum capacity of 2 guests, this suite has Colonial style decoration combined with wood and handcrafted ceramic tiled floors and Influences of African culture. Waiting on the terrace, just outside your door, is a hammock and one of the most unforgettable views of the surroundings.

OUR FOOD:

Fusion Cuisine is a delicious mix with the ultimate purpose of satisfying the different palates uniting the local food culture with European, American and Oriental traditions. Our food is based on local, primary, organic tropical ingredients to present a creative yet simple menu. We can gladly accommodate special meal requests and private dinners; we also offer vegetarian, vegan and gluten free menus.

The idea is to invite you to a journey through the textures and flavors of the different dishes where the secret of the preparation lies in reaching a balance between colors, quantity and quality. Our chefs Juan Ríos and Mirna Chavarría trained by culinary experts work with this formula on a daily basis.

Enjoy dinks at the Barrage Lake, a truly special and unique place at the highest point of our property. A century old barrage and small wooden homestead await you, where, at your request, you can enjoy cocktails and snacks while gazing at the captivating nature that surrounds you. Indulge your taste buds with the intensity of the “Aji Chombo”, the fiery Panamenian red pepper from the Caribbean Coast. Learn how to make the secret recipe of our homemade spicy sauce “La Llamarada” accompanied by our version of “El Otro Lado” mojito.

ACTIVITIES AND ADVENTURE:

A lush rainforest, the turquoise sea, placid rivers, and a rich native history that’s culturally and ethnically diverse—Portobelo is a land that was trod upon by gold rushers, slaves, pirates, and merchants. A new experience mixing culture and design with nature and luxury to provide authentic and exclusive custom itineraries.

Let the sea and the jungle set you free with our adventure and wellness activities. Discover the rainforest in a wide variety of different habitats around Portobelo and witness the incredible biodiversity that makes this such a unique location! Monkeys, sloths and toucans are spotted in the areas around the village. Exploring a bit farther into the mountains gives us the chance to encounter more exotic species like the beautiful poison-dart frogs, and excellent places for birdwatching. Join us in our power hike up our neighboring forts: San Fernando and San Fernandito. You will have a good workout and enjoy the best view of the whole bay.

Dive right into the rainforest of the Portobelo National Park. This protected area extends over 34.846 hectares. Monkeys, reptiles, turtles, crab-eating raccoons and many other species call this ecosystem home. We are an 11-minute walk from Playa Blanca beach resort where you can go scuba diving. Feel like in a safari through the mangroves in the Farahona? If so, sit back, relax, dance into the sunset while observing the beauty of nature. Let’s make it a romantic ride, a party with friends or a jungle expedition with your family.

How about a cultural tour through the town of Portobelo dating back to the Spanish Colonial Period in the XVII century? Travel back in time while wondering its streets, visiting UNESCO World Heritage sites. Learn about the Congo Culture and the Congo dance, where the people never lost the spirit of life and the lust to celebrate it. To see a Congo dance is to witness the free spirit that comes in contact with its ancestors, giving it life and movement.

Relax and enjoy a restorative and magical massage. Get in your workout, be ready to sweat with our local fitness coaches. Enjoy a nice cardio session around the property, followed by functional training out in nature. Yoga - A place where the state of meditation will easily be attained, the surreal surroundings provide the perfect stage for that zen moment.

LOCATION:

Located approximately 90 minute drive from Tocumen International Airport (PTY) and one hour away from Panama City. is Fort San Lorenzo, recognized World Heritage by UNESCO.

Check-in: 4:00 – 5:00 PM

Check-out: 10:00 AM

Ask about late or early check-in/out

Children welcomed (ask about age restrictions when applicable)

Events (inquire)

Pets (inquire)

No Smoking (penalty for smoking, damages applicable)

Rates vary depending on time of year

High season and holiday rates are higher

2 to 4 night minimum (based on season and arrival date)

10% Taxes shall apply to final bill

Refundable damage deposit to vary by capacity/length of stay

50% required to book your dates (ask if you need an exception)

Balance due 60 days prior to arrival (ask if you need more time)

Bring identification for verification upon check-in

Ask about trip cancellation & medical trip insurance

Covid Clean requirements followed

Please follow guidelines for travel, ask your travel advisor for updates

Concierge is included for planning & booking excursions

Unless otherwise noted, ask about cancellation policies which change rapidly

Bring a mask for your own protection in case of mandate