A Look At Schedules, Prices, And Options

Traveling to the Bocas del Toro islands is one of the highlights of any trip through Panama, but reaching them requires a combination of buses and boats that can be confusing to new visitors. Fortunately, the system has become streamlined over the years, and with a little planning you can get from David or other points in Chiriquí to the islands in a single day. Along the way, many backpackers choose to stop off at the famous Lost and Found Hostel, breaking up the journey with a night in the cloud forest before continuing on to the Caribbean coast.

The most common access point to Bocas del Toro is the port town of Almirante. From here, water taxis run frequently to Isla Colón, the main island where Bocas Town is located. Several companies operate these boats, including Bocas Marine and Taxi 25. Boats generally leave every half hour throughout the day, starting around 6:00 a.m. and continuing until about 6:00 p.m. The ride takes roughly 30 minutes across sheltered waters. For foreigners, the price of the ticket is usually eight dollars one way, and most companies charge the same rate regardless of nationality.

In addition to Isla Colón, some boat companies also run direct services from Almirante to the smaller islands like Bastimentos, though these may be less frequent and sometimes require arranging with a local captain. The majority of travelers take the boat to Isla Colón first and then use smaller water taxis to hop to Bastimentos, Carenero, or other nearby islands. These secondary rides usually cost between three and seven dollars depending on the distance, and are paid directly to the boatmen.

Another option for reaching the islands is through Chiriquí Grande, another Caribbean port town located further east along the coast. From here, there are also boats running to the Bocas islands, although the schedules are not as frequent or standardized as those from Almirante. The ride is longer, often closer to an hour depending on sea conditions. Prices for foreigners are similar to those in Almirante, around eight to ten dollars one way, but the journey feels more off-the-beaten path and is used less by casual travelers.

To reach either Almirante or Chiriquí Grande from the western highlands, buses from David are the main form of transport. Buses begin leaving David as early as four in the morning, with departures roughly every half hour throughout the day. The trip to Almirante typically takes between four and five hours depending on traffic and road conditions, while the ride to Chiriquí Grande can take closer to six hours. Tickets are affordable, usually in the range of eight to ten dollars, making the journey reasonable for backpackers on a budget.

Because of the early start times and long ride, many travelers prefer to break up the trip between David and the Bocas ports by staying at the Lost and Found Hostel. Located along the main highway between David and Almirante, the hostel is perched in the cloud forest and surrounded by hiking trails. This stop not only breaks up a long day of travel but also offers the chance to explore Fortuna Forest Reserve and Palo Seco Protected Forest, both of which have free access and incredible wildlife.

Staying at Lost and Found has become a sort of rite of passage for backpackers on their way to Bocas. It allows you to enjoy a mountain experience before heading to the Caribbean, and since buses from David to Almirante and Chiriquí Grande pass right by the hostel, continuing the journey the next morning is simple. Most travelers will hop back on the bus after breakfast and arrive in Almirante with plenty of time to catch an afternoon boat to the islands.

In addition to public buses, several shuttle companies run direct services from Boquete to Almirante, which is especially convenient for travelers based in the highlands. These shuttles are designed with backpackers in mind and will often stop at the Lost and Found Hostel to drop off or pick up passengers. That means you can split your trip in two without worrying about juggling separate buses, since the shuttle will return the next day to continue your ride to the coast.

The cost of these shuttle services is higher than the regular bus, but the convenience and time saved can be worth it. Typical fares range between thirty and forty dollars per person, depending on the company and season. For this price, travelers get a direct, air-conditioned ride without the hassle of multiple transfers, and the door-to-door service from Boquete to Almirante makes the journey much smoother. Many backpackers who are short on time or simply want an easier ride choose this option.

Ultimately, the combination of buses, boats, and shuttles makes reaching Bocas del Toro part of the adventure. The process may seem long, but with frequent departures, affordable prices, and the chance to stop along the way at places like Lost and Found Hostel, the journey becomes as much a part of the experience as the destination itself. Whether you depart at four in the morning on a local bus, book a direct shuttle from Boquete, or take your time exploring the mountains before crossing to the Caribbean, the trip offers a glimpse into Panama’s diverse landscapes on your way to the laid-back island life of Bocas.