"boredom is an opportunity for positivity"
13/4/2012 Shelter Bay Marina and a bit of exploring
Rising early, having slept with the intention of going for an early ride to explore the surrounds of the marina. Dave had rigged up a fan over my bunk so things were a little more comfortable during the night, though the odd mosquito still hasselled me.
The ride was so pleasant in heavy forest (jungle) with a number of side roads leading to beaches or just into the forest. One particular beach, Playa Tortuguilla was idyllic with a crystal clear stream running out of the forest onto the beach before entering the calm sea in the small bay. A swim was enjoyed with no other company, whilst the luxury of removing the salt water from my body was enjoyed in the creek.
Monkeys were spotted in trees, many small animals were seen running on the forest floor at my approach but no Toucan was spotted. An array of other birds somewhat compensated this potential encounter.
On two occasions, large blue butterflies were seen flying in a hap hazard fashion due to the size of their wings. A kind of here and there flight path would best describe their progress along the trails.
So much old infrastructure is present from the days of the US control of the canal, most is now 12-13 years post decommissioning, old cable pits were seen in the forest, one had many small bats seeking less light within its interior.
Some Howler Monkeys were heard nearby on one trail, there was no chance of getting close, the forest was impenetrable without a machete, even then with the number of vines present the clearing process would have been difficult at best.
One trail lead to a disused firing range area, again with so much old infrastructure about, buildings and concrete surfaces everywhere.
The road terminated at Castillo San Lorenzo, a fort built by the Spanish to protect the coast from Pirates in the 1600’s.
It was then back to the marina for a good kip and some laundry duties.
13/4/2012 Shelter Bay Marina and a bit of exploring
Rising early, having slept with the intention of going for an early ride to explore the surrounds of the marina. Dave had rigged up a fan over my bunk so things were a little more comfortable during the night, though the odd mosquito still hasselled me.
The ride was so pleasant in heavy forest (jungle) with a number of side roads leading to beaches or just into the forest. One particular beach, Playa Tortuguilla was idyllic with a crystal clear stream running out of the forest onto the beach before entering the calm sea in the small bay. A swim was enjoyed with no other company, whilst the luxury of removing the salt water from my body was enjoyed in the creek.
Monkeys were spotted in trees, many small animals were seen running on the forest floor at my approach but no Toucan was spotted. An array of other birds somewhat compensated this potential encounter.
On two occasions, large blue butterflies were seen flying in a hap hazard fashion due to the size of their wings. A kind of here and there flight path would best describe their progress along the trails.
So much old infrastructure is present from the days of the US control of the canal, most is now 12-13 years post decommissioning, old cable pits were seen in the forest, one had many small bats seeking less light within its interior.
Some Howler Monkeys were heard nearby on one trail, there was no chance of getting close, the forest was impenetrable without a machete, even then with the number of vines present the clearing process would have been difficult at best.
One trail lead to a disused firing range area, again with so much old infrastructure about, buildings and concrete surfaces everywhere.
The road terminated at Castillo San Lorenzo, a fort built by the Spanish to protect the coast from Pirates in the 1600’s.
It was then back to the marina for a good kip and some laundry duties.
After Panama City, though exciting............. my bias leans towards the natural environment and its peacefulness.
Coming out of the bush, Playa Tortuguilla
Airstrip and facilities used by the US, now derelict, but for the distant buidings. Shelter Bay Marina far left, masts just visible
|
Old firing range, spent cases lying everywhere, all calibres represented, though those fom pistols predominated.
Castillo San Lorenzo. These cannons were protecting attacks from inland??. Rio Chigras in background
Canalside. North terminus.
|
