We finally went to visit Fort San Lorenzo at the mouth of the Rio Chagres with Tom & Julie (Gris-Gris). We were happy to catch up with them before they sailed to the islands, where they'll save a nice anchor spot and a few fish for us when we return in the Fall.
An old Spanish fortification, this location as a trailhead across Panama's isthmus made it relevant to many over the years. From Columbus-era royalty treasure transport, to pirate treasure interception, to an alternate route to get to the California gold rush before the trains, access to the Rio Chagres via San Lorenzo was quite important.
San Lorenzo is so isolated now, since the Canal took over the region, that it is quite possibly an under-appreciated site. The views are impressive of the mouth of the Rio Chagres.
From the overlook it seems like a tricky river entrance with many shallow bars and reefs, but many sailboats do navigate this river
It was a great place for a relaxing afternoon tour, complete with howler monkeys and yellow-headed caracaras. I got to practice one-handed photography with beer in other hand ~ not too shabby.
We also tagged along with Tom & Julie to the city for their provisioning trip and had a yummy lunch of fried corvina.
Missing our fish diet! It was so good.
