BOCAS DEL TORO
Bocas del Toro
Bocas del Toro is located within the north-west of Panama
on the border with Costa Rica. It is made up of several large islands. The main
islands are Colón Island, Bastimentos Island and Cristobal Island. The heart of
this province is about an hour away from Panama City by plane, and
approximately 10-12 hours by car.
Bocas del Toro, the capital, is located on Isla Colón and
has lately become a popular tourist destination. The other parts of the
province are still relatively untouched by tourism. Bocas offers many excellent
spots for snorkeling, diving and fishing. Due to the fact that the province is
home to many species of endangered birds, fresh water turtles and the poison
dart frog, it offers many chances for bird watching and observing animals. A
highlight for nature lovers are of course the deserted beaches. A total of
ninety-five percent of La Amistad National Park lies within the province Bocas del Toro, as does Bastimentos National Park. Bocas del Toro - the destination for both, adventure and recreation.
Isla Colon
Isla Colon is the largest and most developed island of the
archipelago. It is home to the provincial capital of Bocas del Toro, a colorful
town made of wooden houses built in the early 20th century. Isla
Colón serves as a convenient hub for exploring the archipelago as water taxis
can bring you away to remote beaches and magnificent snorkeling sites. The
appeal of Bocas is basically slowing down and soaking up the Caribbean vibes.
The island offers a friendly and laid back atmosphere which invites you to stay
and feel at home. Even though the charming Isla Colon is in the middle of a
major development boom, it still preserves its original Caribbean flair.
Hotels, restaurants and condos are springing up around the island.
Isla Bastimentos
Isla Bastimentos is the biggest island of the Bocas del Toro
Archipelago and home of the national park that bears the same name. Various
secluded lodges are set on different spots on Isla Bastimentos, all of them are
located in midst of the exuberant and lush vegetation and offering a high
degree of privacy. There is one small village with a few possibilities to eat
out on the island. From Bastimentos it’s only a short boat ride to Isla Colón,
the archipelago’s main island. Activities at Bastimentos include snorkeling,
bird watching or just relaxing at one of the pristine white sand beaches.
