Background

Fort Nuestra Señora de la Soledad: A Sentinal Over Umatac Bay

Explore Guam's Spanish colonial history at Fort Soledad, offering stunning views of Umatac Bay and a glimpse into the island's past.

4.3

Fort Soledad, perched high above Umatac Bay, offers a glimpse into Guam's Spanish colonial past. Built in the early 1800s, it was the last of four fortifications defending this strategic harbor, a vital stop for galleons sailing between Acapulco and the Philippines. Today, its ruins provide stunning panoramic views and a tangible link to Guam's rich history.

A brief summary to Fort Nuestra Señora de la Soledad

Local tips

  • Bring water and snacks, as there are limited facilities at the fort.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven surfaces.
  • Visit during sunset for the most spectacular views.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to Umatac village to see the Spanish bridge and other historical sites.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Driving

    From Guam International Airport, take Route 1 south towards Hagåtña. Continue on Route 1, then merge onto Route 2 south. Follow Route 2 through Agat and Santa Rita. As you approach Umatac, Route 2 will lead you directly to San Dionisio Drive, where Fort Soledad is located. Parking is available near the fort. Expect a drive of approximately 45-60 minutes. Parking is free.

  • Public Transport

    The Guam Regional Transit Authority (GRTA) operates bus routes that serve Humåtak. From Hagåtña, take the Southern Shuttle bus towards Humåtak. The bus will drop you off in the village, from where you can walk or take a short taxi ride to Fort Soledad. Bus fare is approximately $3 for a day pass. Check the GRTA website for the latest schedules.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available at Guam International Airport and in major tourist areas. A taxi from the airport to Fort Soledad will take approximately 45-60 minutes. Expect to pay around $80 - $100 for the trip. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

Unlock the Best of Fort Nuestra Señora de la Soledad

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Fort Nuestra Señora de la Soledad

Fort Nuestra Señora de la Soledad, also known as Fort Soledad, stands as a silent sentinel overlooking the picturesque Umatac Bay in Guam. Constructed by the Spanish between 1802 and 1819, it was the final and best-preserved of four fortifications erected to protect this crucial anchorage. During the era of the Manila-Acapulco galleon trade (1565-1815), Umatac Bay served as a vital resupply point for Spanish ships traversing the Pacific Ocean. Positioned atop a steep bluff called Chalan Aniti, meaning "Path of the Ancestors," the fort commanded a strategic view of the bay, the coastline, and the southern mountain range. Its elevated location, approximately 224 feet above the bay, allowed for effective defense against pirates and other potential threats. The fort's construction utilized mampostería, a masonry technique employing stone rubble and mortar. It was designed to accommodate seven cannons, which could be fired over the parapet. While Fort Soledad served as an active military garrison for only a few years, it witnessed a significant period in Guam's history. The Mexican Revolution in 1815 brought an end to the galleon trade, diminishing the fort's strategic importance. Over time, the fort fell into disrepair, and treasure hunters further damaged the site in search of rumored buried riches. In the aftermath of World War II, the government of Guam recognized the fort's historical significance and took steps to preserve it as a public park. Restoration efforts began in the 1990s, and the site has since become a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. Today, visitors can explore the fort's ruins, admire the replica cannons, and soak in the breathtaking views of Umatac Bay and the surrounding landscape. Fort Soledad stands as a reminder of Guam's colonial past and the island's enduring beauty.

Popular Experiences near Fort Nuestra Señora de la Soledad

Popular Hotels near Fort Nuestra Señora de la Soledad

Select Currency