Uncrowded golden sand beaches, howler monkeys in the jungle and turquoise water at every turn, these are just a few of the star attractions in Bocas del Toro, an island archipelago on Panama’s Northwest Caribbean coast. In addition to the nine-island chain, the destination consists of a continental section with forested mountains and dense rainforests.
How To Sell Bocas del Toro to Clients
For clients looking for an alternative to a traditional Caribbean vacation, Bocas del Toro offers a less commercialized destination with a diverse eco-system, strong cultural identity and wide variety of activities. Panama lies south of the main Caribbean hurricane belt, a great selling point for clients looking for a tropical vacation but concerned about hurricanes.
Copa Airline’s enhanced Panama Stopover Program allows passengers traveling through Panama City to spend up to 15 days on a stopover with no additional airfare cost. This makes Panama a great add-on to other Central or South American destinations. With multiple daily nonstop Copa flights between San Juan, Costa Rica and Panama City, travel advisors could also package these two Central American neighbors in a nature-lovers or ecotourism focused trip.
How To Get to Bocas del Toro
As Panama’s official flagship carrier, Copa Airline’s offers the most flights between the U.S. and Panama City, with 260-300 weekly departures, depending on the season.
Passengers arriving in Panama City at Tocumen International Airport (PTY) need to transfer by taxi, shuttle or Uber to the domestic airport, Marcos A. Gelabert International Airport (PAC), known locally as Albrook. The transfer can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, so allow at least three hours between flights. From Albrook airport, Air Panama operates direct 45-minute flights to Bocas del Toro “Isla Colón” International Airport (BOC).
It’s easy to navigate Isla Colón, the main tourist hub, by taxis, water taxis, bicycles and shared shuttles. Adventurous travelers can rent ATVs or scooters to explore.
What To Do
The best thing about Bocas del Toro is that clients can choose action-packed days of eco-adventure, a slower-paced luxury wellness vacation or a combination of both.
Top activities include:
- Boat Trips: Dolphin watching tours, island-hopping and visits to Cayo Zapatilla for pristine, white-sand beaches in a protected national park.
- Beach Time: Secluded Bluff Beach for long, sandy stretches and Starfish Beach for calm, shallow water which attracts many resident starfish.
- Scuba, Snorkeling and Surfing: Bocas has PADI dive shops, snorkel boats and world-class surfing with lessons for all levels.
- Spas and Wellness: Yoga, ocean front massage, wellness treatments, luxury spas and simply soaking in the sounds of the ocean and rainforest.
- Eco-tourism: Visitors can tour an organic chocolate farm, hike to a waterfall in an indigenous village or join an expert-led bird watching trip.
When To Go
December through April is Panama’s dry season and attracts the most visitors. The average year-round temperature ranges from 73 to 86 degrees, and rainfall varies by region. In Bocas del Toro, February and March are the driest months, although daily showers are common in the morning or evening.
Who Is It For
Consider Bocas del Toro for clients looking for a less commercialized, unique Caribbean vacation rich in culture and nature. The destination appeals to solo travelers looking for a tranquil retreat, honeymooners, wellness travelers and anyone interested in ecotourism.
Girlfriend groups and couples will find a combination of activities and relaxation in a beautiful, oceanfront setting. Bocas del Toro is also popular with surfers and water sports enthusiasts. Families with children who enjoy snorkeling, beach time, boat rides and nature will enjoy the islands. Those looking for stroller-friendly sidewalks, or all-inclusive beach resorts should consider another option.
Where To Stay
Isla Colón is anchored by Bocas Town, which has the largest selection of restaurants, shops and lodging from eco-lodges and beach bungalows to boutique hotels. From here, it’s easy to book tours or water taxis to surrounding islands.
Discerning clients will fall in love with La Coralina Island House, a Small Luxury Hotel of the World. Eight villas and 23 suites inspired by Balinese design are nestled into the hillside where the rainforest meets the ocean. Spectacular views, terraces and tropical landscaping create an intimate, close to nature experience.
An open-air restaurant and lounge bar, onsite fitness center, meditation area and a full-service spa and holistic wellness center mean clients looking to rest and recharge don’t need to leave the property. Breakfast and daily yoga and wellness classes are included. Eight treatment rooms including a private massage pavilion overlooking the ocean provide a luxury experience.
The adults only property welcomes guests 12 and over, and can arrange surfing lessons, eco-tours, hiking, boat tours, scuba diving, snorkeling and ATV rentals. The hotel’s two beach clubs provide access to the Caribbean, although depending on the tides and surf conditions, might not be suitable for all swimmers. Both feature oceanfront dining and cocktails, lounge chairs and raw natural beauty.
Good To Know
- Main Language: Spanish is the official language. Most hotel staff, tour operators and hospitality workers speak English.
- Time Zone: Eastern Standard Time (EST) year-round.
- Money: Standard U.S. dollar bills and a mix of American and Panamanian coins are used. Credit cards are widely accepted at tourist venues.
- Visa: Visa-free stays of up to three months for American, Canadian and most European passport holders.
Kirsten Harrington
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