Panama's Bocas del Toro

Bocas del Toro archipelago consists of nine main islands and over 200 smaller islets on Panama's Caribbean coast. This tropical paradise features some of the Caribbean's most biodiverse marine ecosystems, including coral reefs, seagrass beds, and mangrove forests. The archipelago serves as a critical habitat for numerous endangered species and maintains strong indigenous Ngöbe-Buglé cultural presence. The waters support four species of sea turtles (hawksbill, leatherback, green, and loggerhead), manatees, dolphins, and over 95% of Caribbean coral species. The islands' forests shelter sloths, poison dart frogs, and numerous bird species. Isla Bastimentos National Marine Park protects key nesting beaches and coral reefs. Conservation initiatives include community-based sea turtle monitoring programs, sustainable tourism certification, and coral reef restoration projects. Local indigenous communities and conservation organizations collaborate to protect nesting beaches, regulate tourism impacts, and maintain traditional sustainable fishing practices. The area demonstrates how ecotourism can support both conservation and local livelihoods.

Water Features

Caribbean Sea, coral reefs, mangroves

Ecosystem

This destination features a coastal & marine ecosystem.