When travelers think of tropical destinations in Central America, Costa Rica often tops the list. But just across the border lies a destination that offers the same naturally beautiful splendor, without the crowds. Bocas del Toro, a dreamy Caribbean archipelago off Panama’s northern coast, feels like a quieter, slower-paced version of its better-known neighbor. It’s a place where days unfold with the rhythm of the tides, wildlife outnumbers tourists, and peace comes easily.
Whether you’re planning your next adventure or simply daydreaming of a tropical escape, here are 7 one-of-a-kind experiences you can only have in Bocas del Toro—especially when traveling with Adventures in Good Company.
1. Paddle Through Bioluminescent Waters
Far from city lights, the warm Caribbean waters here are framed by coral reefs, mangroves, and unspoiled beaches, each teeming with life. On our trip, you’ll glide over calm turquoise water by kayak or paddleboard, keeping an eye out for tropical fish darting below and seabirds swooping overhead. Snorkeling brings you even closer to this underwater world, where soft corals sway and colorful parrotfish, angelfish, and starfish abound.
2. Snorkel Secluded Coral Reefs (Without the Crowds)
Bocas del Toro is part of the Isla Bastimentos National Marine Park, which means its reefs and waters are protected and thriving. Unlike other popular Caribbean snorkeling spots, many of Bocas’ coral gardens are hidden away in calm bays and quiet coves only accessible by boat.
You might snorkel among sea stars, spot a stingray gliding along the ocean floor, or find yourself surrounded by swirling schools of colorful, tropical fish. With fewer crowds, the experience feels more like floating in an aquarium—peaceful, intimate, and unforgettable.
3. Learn to Make Chocolate, Start to Finish
In the hills above Bocas lie small Indigenous cacao farms where chocolate is made the traditional way—by hand and heart.
Visiting a farm offers a deep dive into the entire process: harvesting the pods, roasting the beans, grinding the nibs, and transforming the rich paste into pure, local chocolate. It’s part cultural experience, part culinary indulgence, and a meaningful way to support the region’s sustainable agriculture movement.
The best part? You get to taste your creation (and take some home). Who can say no to chocolate?!
4. Unwind at an Overwater Eco-Lodge with Open-Air Wellness
Bocas doesn’t do five-star hotel chains, and that’s a good thing! Instead, you’ll find intimate eco-lodges that blur the line between indoors and outdoors. One of the best examples is Casa Cayuco, a boat-accessible, off-grid retreat tucked along the quiet shores of Isla Bastimentos. With solar power, rainwater systems, and open-air bungalows that invite in sea breezes, bird calls, and sunrise views, it offers the kind of wellness luxury that blends seamlessly into nature—no TVs, minimal Wi-Fi, and a deep sense of peace.
When you travel to Panama with Adventures in Good Company, this is your home base. You’ll enjoy locally sourced meals served family-style, sunrise swims from the dock, and easy access to kayaks, paddleboards, hiking trails, and coral reefs. It’s part wellness retreat, part jungle getaway, and the perfect place to unplug, reset, and reconnect.
5. Hike Through a Rainforest to a Hidden Beach
It’s not all about water in Bocas. Head inland on Isla Bastimentos or Isla San Cristóbal and you’ll find vibrant lowland rainforests buzzing with life. Guided hikes can reveal medicinal plants, howler monkeys, poison dart frogs, and a chorus of birds. Some hiking trails lead to hidden beaches only accessible on foot. You’ll step out of the jungle and into golden sands.
6. Connect with the Ngäbe-Buglé Community
Bocas is home to the Ngäbe-Buglé, one of Panama’s largest Indigenous groups. A respectful visit to one of their communities offers an opportunity to learn about their culture, language, crafts, and connection to the land.
When visiting, you might hear stories from local women about traditional medicine, try your hand at weaving a bracelet, or share a meal prepared with fresh, local ingredients. These experiences are powerful reminders that travel is not just about scenery, but more importantly, about connection.
7. Fall Asleep to the Sounds of the Sea, Not a Screen
One of the most unique things about Bocas del Toro? How easy it is to unplug.
There’s something restorative about ending your day with a swim, not a scroll on your phone (save that for home). Falling asleep to the sound of rain on a palm-thatched roof or the gentle splash of waves just beyond your doorstep is the kind of peace that stays with you.
Explore Bocas del Toro with Adventures in Good Company?
As beautiful and remote as Bocas is, navigating its islands, water taxis, and hidden gems on your own can be tricky. That’s where traveling with Adventures in Good Company makes all the difference.
We’ve curated an experience that blends wellness, cultural connection, and nature immersion, without the hassle of planning it all yourself. You’ll stay in eco-lodges that prioritize sustainability and community partnerships, enjoy locally guided excursions, and travel with a small group of like-minded women.
Our days in Panama are full, but never rushed. Picture this: starting with a gentle stretch on the deck, kayaking through calm mangroves, hiking with local guides who share the stories of the land, making chocolate at a local cacao farm, and ending the day with sunset drinks and laughter on the dock. It’s a thoughtful blend of movement and rest, connection and reflection.
