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Bocas del Toro
Bocas del Toro Province lines Panama’s northwest Caribbean coast, just south of the border with Costa Rica. Much of its’s mainland is swathed in jungle and banana plantations. Bocas del Toro is also home to dozens of sunny islands, welcoming visitors to the region with warm sands and clear water.
Visitors also appreciate the unspoiled beaches and reefs. Two examples are Red Frog Beach and neighboring Wizard Beach—featuring pale sands and cool forest trails. Snorkelers and divers can observe colorful starfish, sponges, sharks, and rays. Over 70 coral species have been identified here.
Some of the best marine habitats are located within the Bastimentos Island National Marine Park, which protects 32,000 acres of reef and forest along with the Zapatilla Cays.
The coastlines of Isla Cristobal and Isla Popa are also protected by mangrove habitat and are home to Magnificent frigates, Brown boobies, and a wide variety of herons and egrets. The forested island interiors are populated by parrots, toucans, hummingbirds, and kingfishers.
What to do in Bocas del Toro
Regionally, Bocas del Toro Archipelago is synonymous with good times and great surf. Surf spots such as Dumpers (left break), Silverbacks (off Isla Bastimentos) and the northern tip of Carenero Key (a left tube reef break) are generally uncrowded and rideable for eight months of the year. November to April are the most popular months for surfing. Other Bocas del Toro activities include:
- Snorkeling and diving
- Bordwatching
- Visits to nearby Ngobe Indigenous communities
- Hikes through mainland cloud forests
- Sportfishing
- Sea kayaking
- Cruises in Dolphin Bay
- Moonlit sea turtle nesting tours
What is the Weather Like?
Bocas del Toro has a warm and oppressive weather year-round, with temperatures varying very little, usually from 73°F to 86°F and rarely below 70°F or above 88°F. The wet season lasts from May to November, is overcast, and has a 38% chance of a given day being a wet day. July is the rainiest month. The dry season lasts from December to April and is partly cloudy. February is the least rainy month.
These averages are changing, please check extended weather forecasts using your favorite weather app prior to departure.
Getting There
Bocas del Toro is best reached by air. The town of Bocas (BOC) has daily flights from Panama City’s Albrook Airport (PAC), with a flight time of about one hour. Private charters can also be arranged. Bocas del Toro can also be reached by air in 30 minutes from Limon, Costa Rica.
Start your journey today
LANDED delivers the finest in custom, private travel to Central America, South America, and Antarctica. These regions are our passion; we know them first-hand and by heart. Speak with one of our travel designers and let us create a tailored itinerary for you in Bocas del Toro.
How to combine Bocas del Toro
Have some extra time? Here are some options for you to combine with.
