Extreme in contrast of mountain and isle, this area invites visitors to experience the charm of Caribbean island culture, the thrill of premier snorkelling and surfing, and the insights of engaging with indigenous peoples.

The most popular tourist destination beyond Panama City, Bocas del Toro Province is known for its funky, laid –back island lifestyle. There are really two Bocas del Toro, however: island and mainland. Banana plantations cover much of the hot and humid coastal lowlands, centered on Changuinola, while pineapples poke up around Chirique Grande.

A huge chunk of the mainland province lies within Parque Internacional La Amistad and the Bosque Protector Palo Seco buffer zone. This wild and rugged region is virtually unexplored. Sluggish Rivers spill from the mountains to long brown-sand beaches, drawing marine turtles to nest. Manatees forage the inshore waters, where black-as-night swamps such as San San Pond Sak are also inhabited by caiman, river otters, and waterbirds.