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Bocas del Toro: paradise on earth

Bocas del Toro is the name of an exotic archipelago to the west of Panama. The beaches here are pearly white and the sea is azure blue. This is the perfect destination for some peace and privacy. Pass the time snorkelling, swimming or diving and enjoy nature; the islands are covered with beautiful tropical rainforest.

Bocas del Toro is nicknamed the ‘treasure house of Panama’ and one dive will reveal why: its waters are teeming with colourful fish, coral reefs and sea turtles. The area is also great for snorkelling. Explore the Bocas del Drago, the coral reef gardens at Isla Cristobal and the Cayos Zapatilla. Hospital Point is a popular spot for night diving, when you are most likely to encounter dolphins, sea turtles, eagle rays and nurse sharks.

Tropical bungalows on the Caribbean Sea
Tropical bungalows on the Caribbean Sea

Panama City

Coconut palms on Isla Bastimentos

Relaxing on a tropical beach

The island of Isla Bastimentos is home to 2 beautiful beaches: Red Frog Beach and Playa Larga. Red Frog Beach was named after the bright red frogs that are only found in the forests around this beach. But watch out as they are tiny - the size of a pin-head - and poisonous! Isla Bastimentos is also famous for its beach where swimming is not allowed. This is where from April to August sea turtles come to shore to lay their eggs. A really unique sight.
The islands of Bocas del Toro

Feasting in and around the tropical capital

All the islands share one capital: Bocas del Toro, located on Isla Colón. The residents of Bocas del Toro clearly have a taste for great food. The city centre offers a host of eateries, including American (Nine Degrees), Asian (Lemongrass), Mediterranean (Casbah) and Indian (OM). Just outside the city we find Guari Guari: the kitchen prepares delicious meals with local products and ingredients.
Tropical cabins on Isla Colón
Poisonous dart frog on Escudo island

Animal-spotting in the rainforest

Every island in the Bocas del Toro archipelago offers beautiful beaches and lush tropical rainforest. The forests are inhabited by monkeys, exotic birds, sloths and brightly coloured frogs. The most popular attraction on Boca del Drago is the Grotto, a cave that is home to 3 different species of bats. The islands are also inhabited by many Indians – for example, the hospitable Ngobe-Bugle tribe lives on Isla Bastimentos.

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