Complete Guide Bocas del Toro Panama
Two weeks in Bocasa del Toro, Panama and I finally feel like a local here. Bocas is essentially a small town that’s been invaded by muddy tourists in swimsuits.
This is everything you need to know before visiting Bocas del Toro, Panama.
Getting Here
After booking a flight to Tocumen International Airport in Panama, go on Air Panama and book a separate flight to Bocas del Toro. That flight will leave from Albrook Gelabert Airport, about 25 minutes away in taxi. Make sure to plan ahead and leave time for check-in. I arrived so early that they offered to move my flight up for the first time ever.
You can choose to take a bus & ferry from Panama City. It’s cheaper, but about a 9+ hour journey
Getting Around
When you get to Bocas Town, you will find taxis & taxi boats to take you to your hotel. The boat rides cost anywhere between $1-10 and there are docks all over. They are super easy to catch; within minutes you can be on another island.
It takes about 15 minutes to walk from one end of town to the other. If you want to explore the rest of the Island, there are local buses parked in front of the park and taxis. You can also rent bikes, e-bikes, scooters, or 4-wheelers.
FYI there is mud everywhere. DO NOT bring shoes you care about.
Food
As a coffee addict, I’m always searching for a perfectly foamy cup. My favorite cafes in town are Cafe del Mar, La Ranita, and Amaranto. El Patio has a chic garden vibe and great tacos. Bocas Sushi is literally just a food truck on the front lawn of a hostel, but with the FRESHEST tuna from the Pacific.
My advice: walk down the main strip and go towards what smells good.
Multiple street carts remain open until about 4AM for the trashy people (me) who desperately need grease in their bodies after a night out. Be warned: they sell out fast. There is also a great fried chicken spot on the park.
Activities
The easiest thing to do is take water taxis to different islands and explore. Official tours include Isla Zapatilla, night time Bioluminescence snorkeling, and scuba diving. There are a couple surf spots as well and places to rent boards in town.
The weather changes FAST so it’s best not to plan until the day of or the day before if you have to book.
Pro tip: the weather app LIES. Go outside and see for yourself.
Partying
There is a party every night, sometimes 5 happening simultaneously. Selina is good for meeting new people. Tequila Bar has an incredible assortment. Malamore is an easy dive bar. Iguana has techno house, if you’re into that. And on and on.
FILTHY FRIDAYS happens every week. Its a party that takes place in 3 clubs on 3 islands, back-to-back-to-back. The official ticket includes the boat rides in between, a t-shirt, and welcome shots at each location.
If that sounds absolutely insane you can opt to go to the last party at Aqua around 7PM or just the after parties back in town.
Safety
My gauge for safety: can walk around alone at 4AM? Yes. The locals are super friendly and greet you as you pass. I have never felt unsafe or uncomfortable.
