Isla Bastimentos: Authentic Island Life
Isla Bastimentos, Panama is an island with an eponymous town in Bocas del Toro. It is one of the country’s biggest islands. It is a famous destination for backpackers year-round. Christopher Columbus first landed on the island in 1502. He gave the name “Bastimentos,” which means “provisions.”
Best Time to Visit
The perfect time to visit Isla Bastimentos is from December through March, for the best weather. Peak tourist season is usually from March through July. Tourists are least likely to visit in November.
What to Do & Area Attractions
Bastimentos National Marine Park is one of the most well-known attractions in the island. Established in 1988, it is the first national marine park in the country. It protects crocodiles, forests, mangroves, monkeys, sloths, and 28 species of amphibians and reptiles. It is also home to the Rana Rojo or strawberry poison-dart frog. On the park, the Cayos Zapatillas, two island refuges for birds, coral reefs, mammals, and reptiles, can be found. Named after the Zapatillas fruit, the islands resemble a pair of shoes. The park is also home to Wizard Beach or Playa Primera, a scenic beach with yellow sand. Tourists should also visit Nivida Bat Cave, a huge cavern with swarms of nectar bats. Considered as one of the island’s most beautiful natural wonders, it also has a subterranean lake. A lot of Isla Bastimentos PA hotels provide authentic island experiences, such as the 4-star Red Frog Beach Island Resort, and the AL NATURAL RESORT. The Kevin Condos is perfect for groups like a whole family.