Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Getting Around
BUS
A cross-island bus goes to Bocas del Drago from Bocas plaza (US$2.40, one hour), with
six departures between 5:30am and 8:30pm. As it's used as a school bus, afternoon trips
tend to experience delays. The latest schedule is in the
Bocas Breeze
.
WATER TAXIS
To reach nearby islands, you can hire boaters operating motorized boats and canoes
along the waterfront. As a general rule, you should always sort out the rate beforehand,
and clarify whether it is for one way or a round trip. Always pay on the return leg - this
guarantees a pickup - though most boaters will want some money up front to buy petrol.
Though rates vary, you will get a better deal if you speak Spanish, are with a group and
arrange for a pickup.
Boteros Bocatoreños Unidos
( 6022-9554; Calle 3; 6:30am-6:30pm)
Locals claim
this service consistently offers fair prices; destinations include Isla Carnero and Basti-
mentos. Staff are trained in safe boating and sustainable tourism practices. Boats go to
Almirante (US$4, 20 minutes) every half-hour.
Boca del Drago
Located on the western side of Isla Colón, this sleepy beach earned fame for its huge
numbers of starfish, a 10-minute walk around the bend. The recent addition of commer-
cial stands and increased boat-taxi traffic are taking their toll on the beach, which has
seen a lot of erosion. Still, the calm and relaxed atmosphere at Boca del Drago will draw
beach bums. The swimming and snorkeling here are good, especially when the sea is
calm and the water is clear. Though it's not as stunning as the wilderness beaches on Isla
Bastimentos, the lack of surge means that this is the safest spot for swimming in the ar-
chipelago.
The beach is also home to a branch of the
Institute for Tropical Ecology & Conserva-
vation organization. The field station here offers field ecology courses to undergraduate
and graduate students, provides facilities for tropical researchers, operates marine conser-
vation programs and engages in community development. For more information on re-
search, employment and volunteer opportunities at the station, contact ITEC via the web-
site.
