Welcome to our community of adventurers! If you’re staying at our hostel and looking for travel tips on how to get from Bocas del Toro to Boquete, we’ve compiled the best experiences from previous guests to offer you a detailed and hassle-free guide. Follow these practical tips, based on real-life experiences, and ensure you make the most of your journey through Panama.

Our guests always highlight the tropical beauty of Bocas del Toro as a starting point. Most arrive on Isla Colón via a boat from Almirante, which costs around $10 round trip. A helpful tip is to remember that the taxi ticket is for both the outward and return trips, so be sure to hold on to your ticket for the return journey.

Several local companies offer this service, including Fabio, a friend of Joe’s Layover Hostel. His contact number is +507669631023.

If you’re looking for tranquility, many travelers prefer staying away from the busier areas and recommend Bastimentos, a nearby and less touristy island. The Green Coast Hotel, a small family-run establishment, has been frequently praised. Though the official rate is $45, some guests have managed to negotiate a $30 rate. It’s ideal if you’re seeking a relaxed atmosphere away from the hustle and bustle.

2. Exploring Bastimentos

Bastimentos Island offers plenty of outdoor activities for our more adventurous guests. The trails leading to beaches like Red Frog or Wizard come highly recommended. While some have reported walks of up to an hour to reach Red Frog, they’ve thoroughly enjoyed the experience.

If water activities are more your style, guests suggest renting canoes to explore the calm waters or booking tours, though they note that tours tend to be a bit more expensive in Bastimentos compared to Isla Colón.

3. Unforgettable Excursions in Bocas del Toro

One of the most exciting moments shared by our guests was a full-day excursion from Bastimentos, where they visited natural areas to see dolphins and sloths. While the experience of seeing these animals in their natural habitat was magical, some travelers expressed mixed feelings about intruding on the sloths’ space.

A highlight of the trip was the visit to Isla Zapatilla 2, a pristine island with white sandy beaches perfect for relaxing or flying drones. Several guests have described this spot as paradise.

4. Practical Tips for Returning from Bocas del Toro to Almirante

The return from Bocas del Toro to Almirante is easy. Most of our guests took the boat back for $10. Almirante doesn’t offer many attractions, so it’s generally not recommended to stay long. If you do need to stay overnight, Hotel 888 is a recommended budget option, with simple rooms for $25 per night.

For those traveling by car, Leiza Parking is the most reliable option at a cost of $3 per day. If you prefer public transport, buses run from Almirante to David, where you can then take another bus to Boquete.

5. The Refreshing Change of Boquete

After the adventure in Bocas del Toro, many of our guests rave about the refreshing feeling upon arriving in Boquete. The region’s mountains and cool climate offer a pleasant contrast to the coastal heat. Boquete is known for its world-class coffee, mountain trails, and relaxed atmosphere, making it a perfect destination for those seeking nature and tranquility.

Most travelers opt to stay at Joe’s Layover Hostel, our very own accommodation, which is cozy, affordable, and designed for backpackers and travelers seeking comfort at a reasonable price. At Joe’s Layover, we take pride in offering not only clean and comfortable rooms but also a friendly environment where we share valuable local information. We’re always happy to help you discover the best trails, coffee plantations, and other activities Boquete has to offer.

6. Recommended Activities in Boquete

Boquete offers a wide range of activities, and according to other travelers’ experiences, the Los Quetzales Trail is a must-visit if you enjoy hiking. If you’re lucky, you might spot the majestic quetzal, one of the region’s most iconic birds.

If you’re interested in coffee, many guests recommend taking a tour of the local plantations. Boquete’s coffee is considered among the best in the world, and several visitors have been fascinated by the cultivation and production process.

For the more adventurous, rafting and ziplining over the forest canopy are thrilling options. For those seeking a more relaxed experience, simply strolling around and enjoying the mountainous landscape has been described as a revitalizing experience.

7. Traveling Between Bocas del Toro and Boquete: Simple and Charming

Over the years, we’ve heard from many travelers who, although initially unsure about the journey between Bocas del Toro and Boquete, found the trip much simpler than expected. Whether you choose public transport or prefer to drive, the routes are well-connected.

Both destinations offer unique experiences: the vibrant tropical life of Bocas del Toro and the peaceful mountain atmosphere of Boquete. From our hostel, we encourage you to embark on this adventure filled with stunning landscapes, exciting activities, and relaxing moments in places like Joe’s Layover Hostel.

FAQs

What’s the best season to visit Bocas del Toro and Boquete?
The dry season (December to April) is ideal for enjoying both destinations without worrying about rain.

Is it safe to leave the car in Almirante?
Yes, Fabio Parking is safe, and many of our guests have used it without any issues.

What public transportation options are there between Almirante and Boquete?
You can take a bus from Almirante to David and then another to Boquete. It’s an affordable and easy option to coordinate.

What kind of activities can you do in Bastimentos?
From hiking to beaches like Red Frog to renting canoes to explore the waters, Bastimentos offers plenty of outdoor adventures.

Where’s the best place to stay for a quieter experience in Bocas del Toro?
Many of our guests recommend Bastimentos for its tranquility and less touristy charm.