Bastimentos Travel Guide

Plan your perfect vacation to Bastimentos with our comprehensive travel guide. Learn about cultural attractions, natural wonders, food and drink, lodging options, local customs, health and safety, and transportation options.


Introduction to Bastimentos

Bastimentos, located in the Caribbean West region of Panama, is a stunning and vibrant destination that offers visitors the perfect combination of history, culture, and adventure. This island boasts incredible natural beauty and is home to many native and endangered species, making it a favorite among nature lovers. Whether you’re looking to soak up the sun on beautiful beaches, explore the dense rainforests, or learn about the local culture, Bastimentos has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Bastimentos

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Bastimentos National Marine Park: One of Panama’s most famous national parks, Bastimentos National Marine Park is home to a vast array of marine life, including sea turtles, dolphins, and colorful tropical fish. The park is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site.

  • Isla Bastimentos Old Bank: A charming and historic town with colorful houses, narrow streets, and friendly locals. Visitors can stroll along the picturesque waterfront, dine in local restaurants, and shop for handmade souvenirs.

  • Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute: The Smithsonian has a research station located on Bastimentos Island, offering visitors a chance to learn about the island’s unique ecology and conservation efforts.

Natural Attractions of Bastimentos: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Red Frog Beach: A stunning, white-sand beach that is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. Visitors can also take a kayak tour of nearby mangroves or hike to the beach from the town of Old Bank.

  • Wizard Beach: This secluded, black-sand beach is located on the east side of the island and is a popular spot for surfers and hikers. Visitors can hike through the rainforest to reach the beach, where they can watch the waves crash against the beautiful volcanic rocks.

  • Zapatilla Islands: A group of two uninhabited islands just off the coast of Isla Bastimentos. The islands boast pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and an abundance of marine life, making them a perfect destination for swimming, snorkeling, and diving.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bastimentos

  • Bastimentos Island Loop: This 5-mile loop takes visitors around the perimeter of the island, offering stunning views of the rainforest and coast. The trail is best explored on foot or bike and takes approximately 2-3 hours to complete.

  • Wildlife Viewing Trail: This 2-mile trail takes visitors through the lush rainforest and offers a chance to see a diverse range of wildlife, including monkeys, sloths, and various species of birds.

Best Things to Do in Bastimentos: Activities and Tours

  • Snorkeling and Diving: With an abundance of marine life and crystal-clear waters, Bastimentos is a great destination for snorkeling and diving. Visitors can explore shallow reefs or venture deeper to see some of the area’s larger inhabitants, such as manta rays and whale sharks.

  • Kayaking: Visitors can rent kayaks and explore the mangroves and waterways around the island. The calm waters make it easy for even novice kayakers to enjoy the scenery and wildlife.

  • Hiking: Bastimentos is home to an extensive network of hiking trails that meander through the lush rainforest and offer stunning views of the coastline and neighboring islands.

Week-Long Itinerary for Bastimentos

Day Activity
1 Explore the town of Old Bank and the surrounding area
2 Snorkeling or diving excursion to nearby reefs
3 Hike through the rainforest to Red Frog Beach
4 Kayak through the mangroves and waterways
5 Visit Zapatilla Islands for swimming and snorkeling
6 Guided hiking tour to explore the island’s diverse wildlife
7 Relax on the beach and enjoy local cuisine

Food and Drink Scene of Bastimentos

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pescado Frito: A traditional Panamanian dish of fried fish, often served with rice, beans, and plantains.

  • Hojaldre: A pastry made with flour and lard, often enjoyed with marmalade or other sweet toppings.

  • Ceviche: A seafood dish made with raw fish or shellfish marinated in citrus juice and spices.

Local Beverages

  • Chicha: A fermented corn-based beverage that is slightly sweet and tangy.

  • Seco Herrerano: A clear spirit made from sugarcane, often enjoyed in cocktails or mixed with fruit juice.

  • Panama Beer: A light and refreshing lager that is a popular choice among locals and visitors alike.

Where to Stay in Bastimentos: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Mar Azul Hotel: A boutique hotel located on Red Frog Beach that offers stunning ocean views and luxurious amenities.

  • Palmar Beach Lodge: A rustic lodge located on Old Point Beach that offers guests a chance to connect with nature and enjoy the laid-back island lifestyle.

  • Selina Red Frog: A stylish and modern hostel located on Red Frog Beach that offers clean and comfortable accommodations at an affordable price.

What to Buy in Bastimentos: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Handmade Artisan Crafts: Local artisans create beautiful handmade crafts, including jewelry, textiles, and pottery.

  • Panama Hats: Made from the leaves of the toquilla palm, Panama hats are a popular souvenir and a symbol of Panamanian culture.

  • Coffee: Panama is known for its high-quality coffee, with some of the best varieties grown in the Boquete region.

Local Culture and Customs of Bastimentos

Bastimentos is a melting pot of different cultures, with influences from indigenous Panamanian groups, Afro-Caribbean peoples, and Spanish colonizers. Visitors should respect the local customs and traditions, which include speaking Spanish or English, dressing modestly in public areas, and being courteous to locals.

Best Time to Visit Bastimentos

The best time to visit Bastimentos is during the dry season, which runs from December to April. During these months, the weather is warm and sunny, with little chance of rain. However, the island can be busy during peak season, so visitors should plan their trip accordingly.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bastimentos

Do:

  • Do bring sunscreen and insect repellent.

  • Do try local cuisine and beverages.

  • Do respect the local culture and customs.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the local environment.

  • Don’t wear revealing clothing in public areas.

  • Don’t leave valuables unattended on the beach or in public spaces.

Safety and Health

Safety in Bastimentos

Bastimentos is a relatively safe destination, but visitors should be aware of the risk of petty crime, such as theft and pickpocketing. Visitors should keep valuables secure and avoid walking alone at night.

Health in Bastimentos

Visitors should take precautions against mosquito-borne illnesses, such as Zika and dengue fever, by wearing long-sleeved clothing and using insect repellent. It is also recommended that visitors receive vaccinations for Hepatitis A and B before traveling to Panama.

Getting to Bastimentos: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Bastimentos

  • Bocas Del Toro “Isla Colon” International Airport: Located on Isla Colon, this airport is the main gateway to the Bocas del Toro region. From here, visitors can take a short boat ride to Isla Bastimentos.

Bus Stations Near Bastimentos

There are no bus stations on Isla Bastimentos. Visitors can take a bus from Panama City to Almirante, then board a water taxi to Bastimentos.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Bastimentos by private boat or ferry from other islands in the region, such as Isla Colon or Isla Popa.

How to Get Around in Bastimentos

The easiest way to get around Bastimentos is by boat or foot, as there are no cars on the island. Visitors can rent kayaks or take water taxis to explore the various beaches and attractions around the island.

Where to Go Next from Bastimentos: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Bocas del Toro

Just a short boat ride away from Bastimentos, Bocas del Toro is a vibrant and colorful town with a lively food and nightlife scene, as well as plenty of outdoor adventures to explore.

Boquete

Located in the scenic highlands of Panama, Boquete is a popular destination for coffee lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and exploring the nearby national parks.

Conclusion

Bastimentos is a hidden gem of the Caribbean, offering visitors a chance to connect with nature, explore local culture, and make unforgettable memories. With this comprehensive travel guide, visitors will be able to plan the perfect trip, whether they’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a little bit of both.

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