This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Bocas del Toro.
The Bocas del Toro archipelago in Panama, filled with colorful, clap-board style houses, is a perfect Caribbean destination for travelers who are looking to enjoy some fun in the sun away from traditional tourist areas. With a relaxed atmosphere and a friendly, diverse population, Bocas del Toro provides a great opportunity to unwind away from the daily grind.
Home to Panama’s first National Marine Park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this tropical paradise gives visitors a huge variety of places to explore. Comprised of nine main islands, 52 cays, and thousands of small islets, Bocas del Toro is recognized as one of the planet’s most biologically diverse areas – making this a top destination for eco-tourists.
Accommodation in Bocas del Toro is plentiful, and visitors can choose from a variety of hotels or hostels to suit their needs. With jungle eco-lodges, exclusive resorts, busy hostels, and even private island rentals, this beautiful community offers lodging for every holiday. Most hostels and hotels are located on Isla Colon, Isla Bastimentos, and Caranero Island, but off-grid accommodation can be found on some of the archipelago’s more remote areas, as well.
Leaving your hostel or hotel, there is no shortage of activities to enjoy in this island oasis. Visitors can sail through the beautiful chain of tropical islands, experience the biological diversity of Bocas del Toro’s stunning coral reefs first-hand with a scuba diving excursion, explore the forest with a zip-line tour, or just relax on the warm Caribbean beaches and enjoy the brilliant tropical waters.
Visitors to Bocas del Toro can fly into the international airport in Panama City, then take a shuttle bus to Almirante. Boats are readily available to bring tourists from Almirante to their final destination on the archipelago, where travelers can kick back and experience all this gorgeous Caribbean paradise has to offer.
Written by local enthusiast for Bocas del Toro hostels
Jakob Lombardi
