Bocas del Toro, one of the jewels of the Caribbean

If you’re planning a trip to Panama soon, don’t miss a destination that’s sure to take your breath away: Bocas del Toro!

Located in northeastern Panama, very close to the border with Costa Rica, the province of Bocas del Toro is an archipelago consisting of nine islands, including Isla Bastimento, Isla Colón, and Isla Carenero. Surrounded by the Caribbean Sea, the Bocas region boasts a wide variety of marine life, coral reefs, and lush vegetation. The area is also known for Playa Estrellas, a beach where starfish are the stars of the show.

On this island, Panamanian Caribbean vibes blend with a spirit of vacation and relaxation. Once on the main island of Bocas, you can stay at one of the local hotels or set sail to explore another island in the province, such as Bastimento, for example!

Nestled on the island of Bastimento, the Al Natural Hotel is a place where you can unwind and relax, surrounded by the jungle and the sea.

This hotel invites you to spend a few days surrounded by nature, staying in bungalows built entirely by locals using natural materials and authentic traditional construction methods. From the hammock on your balcony, the Caribbean Sea will unfold before you in all its unspoiled beauty.  

If you’re traveling with a group and want to unwind, stay at the Residencia al Natural, which has a larger capacity but still offers ocean views.

Between the hotel’s bungalows—just a stone’s throw from crystal-clear waters—and the breathtaking view of the sea, it’s impossible to escape the sound of the waves, the scent of the sea, or the golden grains of sand.

With the sea as its playground, Al Natural offers full-day water excursions: snorkeling, scuba diving, and fishing. Accompanied by your local captain, enjoy the Caribbean Sea—almost all to yourselves—and observe the rich marine biodiversity.

If you head out to sea, be sure to stop at one of the two Zapatillas Islands, east of Bastimento, to relax after your snorkeling session, for example. West of Zapatillas Island No. 2, you can observe sea turtles laying their eggs on the beach between March and September. 

If you’d like to stay on dry land, take a 45-minute walk toward the island’s village to meet the locals who go about their daily lives on Bastimento.

Or, take advantage of the kayaks, paddleboards, and snorkel gear provided by the hotel to enjoy your time at your own pace.

After a wonderful day at sea, it’s time to sit down to dinner.

On the menu: fish in all its forms, and best of all, deliciously prepared by the hotel’s local chefs. Recipes worthy of a Michelin-starred restaurant. This fish is caught by locals who come every evening to drop off their catch, which will be prepared to delight travelers’ taste buds.

A heavenly experience you won’t want to miss… the hardest part will be packing your bags and saying goodbye to the jewels of the Caribbean.

Coline, who sometimes likes to « take it easy » on an archipelago in Panama