San Lorenzo Protected area covers nearly 30,000 acres on the Carribbean coast on the west bank of the Panama Canal, about 5 miles west of Colón City. Its incredible biodiversity, range of ecosystems, and historic significance makes this a …

Interesting Facts

Along with the fortifications of Portobelo, the Fort San Lorenzo is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

About 1/3 of the total wildlife species in Panama can be found in the San Lorenzo Protected Area.

Twelve distinct types of vegetation grow in the area, including tropical humid rainforest and mangrove, palm, bloodwood and cativo swamps. Coral reefs and seagrass are found along the seashore.

From 1953 to 1999, the US Defense Department used the entire area for jungle training.

See and Do

Colonial Past: Visit the Spanish colonial Fort San Lorenzo, built in 1595 to protect Spain’s treasures and colonial territory.

Historic Sites: Remnants of the French canal, the U.S. military Fort Sherman, and World War I batteries teach visitors about the Panama Canal’s defensive history from the 19th and 20th centuries.

Water Sports: Lake Gatún offers fishing and water sports including water skiing, jet skiing, sailing and swimming.

Canal Viewing: View ships �? passing through the Panama Canal from Gatún locks and dam.

Nature Viewing and Hiking: About 37 miles of gravel roads and trails traverse the Protected Area, giving visitors the opportunity take in the spectacular terrain and many varieties of plants and wildlife.

Walk the Achiote Road: The road is known for its exceptional bird-watching.

Practical Information

Fort San Lorenzo is open from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm daily. Interpretive guides are available by appointment. ANAM phone: 507-442-8348.

Web site: http://www.sanlorenzo.org.pa/area_in.htm