Bocas del Toro and its Good Vibes

Bocas del Toro is one of the favorite destinations among Panamanians and visitors. Just a 45-minute flight from Panama City brings you to the north-westernmost province of the country. Immerse yourself in its cultures, cross forest-covered mountains, sail through mangroves, swim among reefs, surf the perfect wave and discover the good vibes of Bocas.

If you are looking for activities in the sea, the Bocas Archipelago is a destination not to be missed. Its nine islands and thousands of islets, its crystal clear waters with a constant temperature of 79 °F (26 ºC) and its types of waves and surf spots have made it famous around the world.

But that's not all. Because of its immense diversity of coral and marine fauna, the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute settled in the archipelago. It was also declared a Hope Spot by Mission Blue, for the restoration of coral reefs. This is a great reason to add diving and snorkeling to your travel plans.

The archipelago of Bocas is a reflection of the Afro-Caribbean culture. On the streets you’ll hear calypso and reggae rhythms, you’ll perceive the essence of its cuisine and you’ll even hear guari-guari– a language that is a mixture of English, French and Spanish, very distinctive of its culture. 

Bocas has 3 main islands: Isla Colón, Isla Carenero, and Isla Bastimentos. Most surfers and travelers alternate their visit among them.

The three islands are quite close together, and hopping between them is very easy with tours and water taxis. Depending on where you are staying, many can pick you up and drop you off at the hotel pier.

Where to Stay

From Panama City, you can take a 45-minute flight from Marcos A. Gelbert Airport to Bocas Town on Isla Colón.

If you go by bus or car, from Panama City to the port of Almirante in Bocas del Toro is approximately 9 hours, followed by a 35-minute boat ride. 

If you are traveling from Chiriquí, you can reach Bocas by a 4-hour trip from David to Almirante by car or bus, and then a 35-minute boat ride to Isla Colón.