Lago Bayano is a reservoir formed by the damming of the Bayano River ( Republic of Panama ), for the generation of electrical energy. A place where you can discover nature in all its splendor, with calm waters and exuberant fauna.
Summary
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- 1 Location
- 2 History
- 3 Activities
- 4 Ruta
- 5 Sources
Location
It is located in the corregimiento of Cañitas , district of Chepo ( province of Panama ), at 09º10’14.5″ north latitude and 78º47’46.2″ west longitude.
History
Bayano is an artificial lake that dates back to 1979 , to supply hydraulic energy to the Bayano Hydroelectric Power Plant, which to this day continues to supply electricity to Panama City and surrounding provinces.
The lake was created by flooding large areas, including indigenous settlements; today they have benefited from the cultivation of thousands of tons of fish for sale in the area and foreign markets.
activities
In the reservoir, fishing is carried out by about 1,258 fishermen, of which some 331 are organized and 927 come from various communities or are hired.
The commercialization of the fishing product is carried out in a rural way in the communities of Akuayala , Chepo , Chimán and the Madugandí region, in the urban environment in the city of Panama and suburban areas, presenting the fresh product, and using as a means of transport the land, iced and without refrigeration. In the case of the foreign market to the United States, England, the Dominican Republic and Mexico, the presentation is whole and fillet.
The main use of the reservoir is the generation of electrical energy for which the “Ing. Ascanio Villalaz” Hydroelectric Plant has a capacity of 260 Mw, while fishing represents a production of 1,089,000 kilograms per year, of which 95% is destined for the export.
The area is used by tourists and people engaged in hunting and sport fishing. You can travel around the lake by boat, observing the unique fauna and birds of the area, or venture into the aforementioned caves. Likewise, you can eat at various places in the town of Cañitas just ten minutes away.
You can also take excursions, or venture on a motorcycle (motocross) through one of the natural trails that have been traced to explore the surrounding jungle.
Ruta
This wonder is located just an hour and a half from Panama City by car, passing the towns of Chepo and Cañitas. It can also be reached from the Great National Transport Terminal of Panama City , by means of buses that go to the Province of Darién .