Ft San Lorenzo & Gatun Locks

The fort at San Lorenzo was first built during the late 16th century. King Philip II of Spain ordered a fortress to be built to protect the mouth of the Rio Chagres which was heavily used by commerce and slaves ships.

This entry was also the easiest route for pirates and buccaneers looking for gold, and the location of the fort provided an extraordinary view of any approaching ships.

It is one of the most complete forts built in Panama and is full of history of pirates and buccaneers that sealed that water for centuries.

Its view to the Chagres River and the Caribbean Ocean together is a natural show that you should appreciate.

The Panama Canal has three sets of Locks, two situated near to the Pacific coast (Miraflores & Pedro Miguel locks), and the third along the Atlantic (Gatun Locks).

Of all three sets of locks, those at Gatun might be the most impressive.

Due to the fact that all three chambers are connecting, you'll have the opportunity to see the entire process completed at one, rather than in two different stages in Miraflores and Pedro Miguel Locks.

It takes approximately 2 hours for a vessel to complete the transit at Gatun Locks, regardless of whether it's heading northbound or southbound.

A visitor's tower exists and sits high up above the locks themselves. While there is a rather large roof that overhangs the front portion, nice photos can be taken from here.