Discover Golfo de Montijo, in western Panama, on the Pacific Ocean side.

This is a large natural bay with numerous islands, where protection can be found for yachts in most weather conditions. It is situated approximately half-way on the route between Panama City & Golfito, making it an ideal stopover for a short rest or for longer.

We anchored at N07 39.763 W081 11.648, in 2m of water at zero low tides. Holding is good in the soft mud. It looks a long way from shore at high tide, but it shallows quickly closing in.

From here it is a short dinghy ride to Hicaco fishing harbour. As the bay is shallow and rocky, we followed a friendly fisherman for the first time. Just up the beach is Hicaco village. You’ll find 2 general stores, where you can buy good beef, cheese, butter and other basic supplies. We bought some fresh fish and huge shrimps directly from the fishermen. We found the people helpful and patient with our lack of Spanish. Hicaco is a fishing village – we had no problems leaving our dinghy on the beach all day.

From this anchorage, you can also go ashore at the Hibiscus Garden Hotel (info@hibiskusgarten.de). Head for the white buildings just north of Hicaco. You can go up the small tidal creek and anchor next to their boats or just go for the beach landing. There is one large rock on the right side of the creek channel, the rest is sand/silt. It is a long walk at low tide (mid to high tide is best) but well worth the effort.

At the Hibiscus you can get a cold beer, great meals, internet access, water and fuel. The team are a great source of local knowledge. They assisted us with buses and reprovisioning from Santiago. The management speaks fluent English, Spanish and German. As our yacht was securely anchored in sight, we took the opportunity for a rest-night ashore there.

Dan & Deanna Orr

S/V Pegasus

November 2009