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Trip Report
The impressive landscape of Panama
From the carribbean coast of Panama to the shores of the islands at the pacific coast
+ 5
North AmericaPanama16 days / February - March 2023
Highs & Lows
Wildlife on Boca Brava and the lost beaches at Bocas del Toro
Too much obvious touristic vibes at Bocas del Toro
Itinerary Overview
During my trip to Panama, I had the opportunity to explore the beautiful region of Bocas del Toro and Boca Brava. These paradisiacal destinations stand out for their lush nature and dreamy beaches.
In Bocas del Toro, I was amazed by the diverse marine life while snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of the archipelago. I also visited Isla Colón, where I enjoyed its charming Caribbean atmosphere, savoring authentic dishes of fresh seafood and relaxing on the white sandy beaches.
Later, my adventure continued in Boca Brava, a private island that offers a more exclusive experience. Here, I explored dense tropical forests and came face to face with the local wildlife, such as howler monkeys and exotic birds. I also enjoyed breathtaking panoramic views from the island's lookout point.
In summary, my trip to Bocas del Toro and Boca Brava was an unforgettable experience that combined natural beauty with the tranquility and charm of these Panamanian gems. I highly recommend travelers to visit these areas to discover their magic and be captivated by their splendor.
Bocas del Toro Province Party location and beautiful beaches with surf spots
1+Bocas del Toro can be reached via boat taxi. For the ride to the islands and back you will be charged 10$ at any boat service at the harbor of Almirante. The ticket is valid for one month. The ride takes about 20-30 minutes and departes once the boat is full enough.
There are several supermarkets and bodegas at Bocas del Toro. The prices might be higher than local store prices at the mainland. The price of a boat taxi from Bocas del Toro to the Aqua Lounge on Isla Carenero is 1$. Just walk down the eastern rode at the coast. The island has pretty beaches and you can walk around the island within one hour.
Some local boat charters will offer you a snorkelling trip to the Zapatilla Islands for around 30$. We got the guy down to 20$ including 5 beers. Try your haggling skills and be ready to walk to the competition if he won’t lower the price. You will experience few snorkling time, some dubious dolphine watching, including 10 motor boats chasing the dolphine couple for the best view, way to much time at a water restaurant owned by some uncle of the guy, one hour at the beautiful beach of Zapatilla island and 20 minutes of snorkling depending on how patient your captain is.
One secret adventure is the bat cave in the middle of the Isla Colon west of Bocas del Toro. The name is Cuevas y Santuario La Gruta and you can take a local bus to the location. A local family who lives with their permaculture community there will lend you headlamps and rubber boots for a small donation. The cave is full of water, make sure it does not rain while going and avoid floodings. Prepare for many bats and water until your waiste line. If you are scared of spiders and dirt, do not enter.
Surfing at Bocas del Toro is fun at the east side of Isla Carenero. Try to get a good surf board at Selinas for 15$ a day. There might be cheaper options I did not find.
Some poeple at Bocas will try to sell you illegal drugs, which you should just decline with a short „No quiero nada“.
Overall the vibe at Bocas del Toro is focused at parties and pub culture. If you want to get away from the crowd, try Isla Bastimentos or Isla Carenero.
Boca Brava Recreation
1+One of the best places I have been to in Panama. The wildlife on the island is just overwhelming. Don‘t feed the animals and respect the nature.
Q & A
What would you have changed?
Visited more islands around Bocas del ToroAnything go wrong during the trip?
Nothing wrongRestaurant recommendations?
Try the Caribbean street food in Bocas del Toro and avoid the touristic fancy barsTips you would give a friend?
Don‘t sleep beneath a coconut palm treePacking tips?
Headlamp and maybe a machete for CoconutsTransportation Tips?
Just walk along the road and wave the buses, they will pick you up
Lodging
Bocas Corner/The Corner Good vibes and cheap dorm room Cold showers as always and cleanlines depends on the staff
Donde's Jungle House