Created in 1997, San Lorenzo National Park spreads over 9,653 ha of coastal wetlands, cativo forests, and semi deciduous and moist forest where US forces and astronauts once learned jungle survival and combat techniques.

Despite its small size, an astounding 430 bird species have been identified here, as well as 81 mammals, including jaguars and tapirs. Birders flock like breeding macaws to El Camino de Achiote and the Sendero El Trogon trail.

The park’s highlight is Castillo de San Lorenzo el Real de Chagres, a fort looming magnificently over the mouth of the Rio Chagres. Built in 1597 and rebuilt in 1680, its rusted cannon and timeworn walls recall the day in 1671 when Henry Morgan and his pirates stormed the ramparts.