Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
(admission US$3)
A stunner, Red Frog Beach is home to the
rana rojo
(strawberry poison-
dart frog). The recent wave of development here is likely to affect this sensitive species -
up to 300 visitors arrive daily in the high season. From Bocas, water taxis go to a small
marina on the south side of the island, from where it's an easy, signposted 20-minute
walk.
Playa Larga
BEACH
(Long Beach)
Playa Larga and much of the eastern side of the island fall under the protec-
tion of Parque Nacional Marino Isla Bastimentos. Sea turtles nest here from April to
August. To get here, follow the path past Red Frog Beach.
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Salt Creek
This remote Ngöbe-Buglé village, also known as Quebrada Sal, is on the southeastern
side of the island. Reached via a long canal cut through the mangrove forest, this Ngöbe-
Buglé village has 60-odd houses, an elementary school, a handicrafts store, a general
store and a soccer field. The community largely depends on fishing and subsistence
farming, travels mostly by canoe, and resides in wooden, thatched-roof huts without
electricity or running water.
The Quebrada Sal is slowly modernizing and villagers are friendly and open to visit-
ors, especially if you can speak Spanish. If you have the time, it's worth hiring a local
guide to walk with you along the roughly one-hour cross-island trail to Playa Larga
(US$12 per person). A recommended guide is Señora Kony Gonzales. Water taxis can
also drop you off at the entrance. You will need to pay the US$2 entry fee and sign the
visitors logbook.
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Parque Nacional Marino Isla Bastimentos
Established in 1988, Panama's first
marine park
(admission US$10)
protects various areas
of the Bocas del Toro archipelago, including parts of Isla Bastimentos and the Cayos
Zapatillas. The marine park is an important reserve for countless species of Caribbean
wildlife.
You can get current park information from the ATP or ANAM offices in Bocas del
Toro. The dive operators and boaters in Bocas are also good sources of information about
the park and its attractions. To camp in the park, first obtain a permit from ANAM.
Nivida Bat Cave
CAVE
