Isla Bastimentos National Marine Park Voyage Tips and guide

Contents

Isla Bastimentos National Marine Park is located in the province of Bocas del Toro, in northwestern Panama. It was one of the first land and marine national parks established in the country and stands out for its natural beauty, Caribbean beaches, tropical forests, mangroves, and rich biodiversity, both terrestrial and marine.

Created in 1988, Bastimentos Island National Park covers approximately 13,226 hectares, part of which corresponds to land (island) and the rest to the marine environment (coral reefs and protected Caribbean waters). The park protects various ecosystems, including virgin beaches, humid forests, coastal wetlands, mangroves, lagoons, and coral reefs. The island is also home to Afro-Caribbean and Ngäbe indigenous communities, who have lived in the area for generations and incorporate sustainable practices in their interaction with the environment.

The park was created to conserve one of the most diverse and vulnerable areas of the Panamanian Caribbean. For centuries, the island has been used by indigenous peoples, fishermen, and navigators who found a natural refuge in its geography. In recent decades, tourism has grown significantly in the Bocas del Toro region. Declaring the area a national park aimed to protect marine and coastal ecosystems from urban development and increasing tourism pressure.

The park’s vegetation includes:

• Tropical humid forest, with trees such as almond, strangler fig, and various palms.
• Coastal mangroves, including red, black, and white mangrove species.
• Epiphytic plants like bromeliads and orchids, as well as ferns.
• Seagrass beds, vital for marine species like sea turtles.

The park is home to a wide variety of land and marine species:

• Mammals: sloths, capuchin monkeys, raccoons.
• Birds: toucans, herons, kingfishers, and the endangered Bocas del Toro parrot.
• Reptiles and amphibians: green iguanas, tree snakes, and the iconic red frog (Oophaga pumilio).
• Sea turtles: the park is a nesting site for hawksbill, green, loggerhead, and leatherback turtles.
• Marine life: over 80 species of coral, tropical fish, lobsters, octopuses, and sponges.

The park has a humid tropical climate with frequent rainfall throughout the year. There is no clearly defined dry season, though December to April are usually drier months.

• Average temperature: between 25°C and 30°C (77°F to 86°F)
• Humidity: high, usually above 85%

Visitors are advised to bring light clothing, waterproof gear, sun protection, and insect repellent.

• By air: Flights to Bocas del Toro (Isla Colón) depart from Albrook Airport and take around 45–50 minutes.
• By land and sea: Bus to Almirante (around 10 hours), then a boat to Isla Colón (30 minutes).

• Take a boat from Bocas Town to Bastimentos Island (10-20 minutes). The cost can vary between B/. 3.00 and B/. 5.00 per person.

• Some areas of the park are only accessible by private boat or guided tour.

• Nationals and resident foreigners: B/. 6.00
• Non-resident foreign adults: B/. 20.00
• Seniors (nationals and resident foreigners): B/. 3.00
• All children under 12: Free

Note: All entry should be arranged in advance. Fees may vary if camping inside the park.

• On foot: Some trails allow hiking across the island, especially to beaches.
• By boat or kayak: Ideal for exploring mangroves, lagoons, and marine areas.
• Snorkeling and diving: Possible in authorized reef areas.

• Playa Larga (Long Beach): sea turtle nesting site.
• Cayo Coral: excellent snorkeling spot with live coral reefs.
• Bahía Honda: rich in mangroves and wildlife.
• Zapatilla Key – Quebrada Sal Trail: connects jungle paths to virgin beaches.
• Zapatilla Islands: two small islands with white sand and crystal-clear waters.

• Snorkeling and scuba diving: in coral reefs with certified guides.
• Hiking: through the rainforest to beaches like Wizard or Red Frog.
• Wildlife watching: including red frogs, monkeys, turtles, and tropical birds.
• Boat tours: through mangroves, water tunnels, and hidden lagoons.
• Environmental education: in community centers or through guided tours.

In the towns of Bastimentos or Isla Colón, you can find:

• Ngäbe indigenous crafts: wood carvings, necklaces, and textiles.
• Local products: Caribbean coffee, honey, cocoa, and natural creams.

Local communities and eco-friendly restaurants offer:

• Afro-Caribbean dishes: coconut rice, fried fish, plantains.
• Indigenous cuisine: preparations using cassava, plantains, and tropical fruits.
• Refreshing drinks: natural juices, fruit smoothies, coconut water.

Accommodation options range from rustic to eco-friendly:

• Eco-lodges inside or near the park (some over the water).
• Hostels and hotels in the town of Bastimentos.
• Authorized camping in specific zones with prior permission.

• It's recommended to hire a local guide for jungle or mangrove excursions.
• Avoid swimming in rough seas or unsupervised beaches.
• Bring a personal first-aid kit, insect repellent, sunscreen, and drinking water.
• Let someone know your planned route or activity before departure.
• During turtle nesting season (March to October), follow all park rules to avoid disturbing nests.

• Do not litter. All waste must be carried out.
• Do not touch, remove, or damage coral, turtles, or marine life.
• Hunting, fishing, or collecting within the park is prohibited without authorization.
• Campfires are not allowed. Use flashlights or portable stoves if needed.
• Respect wildlife, plants, and local communities.

• Ministry of Environment – Bocas del Toro Regional Office
• Information offices available in Isla Colón or Bastimentos community
• Cell signal is limited throughout the park.
• In some areas, contact is possible via radio or through local guides.

• Isla Colón – The main island of the Bocas del Toro archipelago and the region's tourism hub. It offers a wide variety of restaurants, bars, lodging, and nightlife. Many tours to Bastimentos and other islands depart from here.
• Isla Carenero – Just a few minutes by boat from Bastimentos or Isla Colón, this small island features calm beaches and beginner-friendly surf spots. Perfect for a day trip.
• Isla Solarte – Known for its biodiversity and jungle trails, it's a great spot for nature lovers and birdwatchers.