How to Get to Bocas Del Toro. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Air Travel

Airports & Flights

Bocas del Toro "Isla Colón" International Airport (BOC) is the only airport directly serving the group of islands. It handles domestic flights.

Airlines & Routes

Air Panama is the main airline from Albrook (PAC) in The Capital of panama to BOC.
Flights take around 1 hour. Private hire are also an option.
Flights are available year-round; prices higher during Panama's high season.

International Connections

No direct international flights operate to BOC. International travelers must first fly into Tocumen International Airport (PTY) in Panama City.

Transfer Details

From PTY, transfer to Albrook Airport (PAC) for a domestic flight.
This transfer generally takes 30-60 minutes by taxi.
Upon arrival at BOC, taxis take you to accommodations or water taxi docks.

Find Cheap Flights

Dollar Flight Club and Skyscanner are good resources for flight deals.

Car Rentals

When renting a car on the mainland, check DiscoverCars.com for options.

Flight Compensation

AirHelp assists with flight delays or cancellations.

Land Transportation

Border Crossings & Buses

Sixaola/Guabito is the usual border crossing from Costa Rica.
Overnight buses departing from Albrook Bus Terminal (Panama City) to Almirante.
Bus trips are around 10-12 hours, costing about USD $28-35.
From Almirante bus station, take a short taxi to water taxi docks.

Self-Driving & Road Conditions

Driving to Almirante is possible but less common; it is an 8-10 hour drive.
Road conditions vary; some rural routes can be rough and unpaved.
Driving at night is not suggested due to potential hazards.
Cars are not permitted on most islands.

Sea Arrivals

Water Taxis

The main and most efficient transport from Almirante to Bocas Town (Isla Colón) for tourists. Multiple companies offer frequent departures. The ride is direct and takes around 30 minutes, costing about USD $6 per person.

Car Ferry

Operates from Almirante to Isla Colón, carrying vehicles and foot passengers. It is slower (1.5-3 hours) and less frequent than water taxis. Schedule might not be reliable, subject to delays.

Connections

Upon arrival at water taxi docks in Bocas Town, taxis are available to take you to your accommodation or the airport. Sea travel is integral to the Bocas del Toro experience, offering scenic views.

Departure Information

Exit Fees & Air Departure

For air travel from BOC, airport departure taxes are typically included in your flight ticket price. You will not need to pay a separate cash exit fee at the airport.

Air Travel Timing

Arrive at Bocas del Toro Airport (BOC) at least 1 hour before your domestic flight.
The airport is small, and check-in procedures are quick.
If departing from another island, allow sufficient time for water taxi transfer.

Land/Sea Departure

For land border crossings (e.g., to Costa Rica), confirm any exit fees for Panama. These are usually small fees paid at the border.

Ground & Water Timing

Allow ample time for your water taxi transport from Bocas Town to Almirante.
Water taxis run frequently until late afternoon (approximately FIVE:00-6:00 PM).
Arrive at the Almirante bus terminal or border crossing at least an hour early.

Airport Facilities BOC

Facilities at Bocas del Toro Airport (BOC) are very limited. It is best to eat and purchase any last-minute items before arriving at the airport. No extensive shops or restaurants are inside the terminal.

Almirante Facilities

Water taxi docks in Almirante have small shops and cafes.
The bus terminal in Almirante also has basic services.
Reconfirm your flight or bus schedule the day before departure.

Departure Summary

A well-planned departure concludes your Bocas del Toro adventure smoothly. This leaves you with positive memories without last-minute stress.

Aspects

Verify flight/bus times.
Plan island transfers carefully.
Allow buffer time for connections.

Travel Table Quick View

Air (Panama City PAC to BOC): Fastest, most comfortable. Most expensive.
Bus + Water Taxi (Panama City to Bocas Town): Most economical land route. Long, overnight journey.
Water Taxi (Almirante to Bocas Town): Frequent, essential for island access. Can be bumpy.

Local Water Taxi (Island Hop): Convenient for inter-island travel. Only cash.
Taxi (Isla Colón): Convenient for short distances. Cash only.
Bicycle Rental (Isla Colón): Economical, flexible, eco-friendly. Limited to Isla Colón.

Transport Summary

Land travel, while longer, has a different view of Panama and holds adventure. For the fastest and most efficient sea transfer from Almirante to Bocas Town, use the frequent passenger water taxis.

How to Get to Bocas Del Toro