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Bocas del Toro Archipelago National Marine Park adventures

Bocas del Toro Archipelago National Marine Park Adventures

The Bocas del Toro Archipelago National Marine Park protects vibrant coral reefs, lush mangroves, and diverse marine life across dozens of islands in Panama's Caribbean, offering world-class snorkeling, diving, and ecotourism opportunities.

32,690
Acres Protected
N/A (mostly marine environment)
Miles of Trails
Approximately 50,000
Annual Visitors
1998
Year Established

About Bocas del Toro Archipelago National Marine Park

 

Established to safeguard one of Panama's most biologically diverse marine ecosystems, the Bocas del Toro Archipelago National Marine Park encompasses a cluster of islands, cays, mangroves, coral reefs, and seagrass beds in the western Caribbean Sea. The park spans over 13,226 hectares (approximately 32,690 acres), including the main islands of the archipelago and surrounding marine waters, making it a critical refuge for threatened and endemic marine species. Geographically, the park is characterized by tropical rainforests on land transitioning to fringing coral reefs and extensive seagrass meadows in the water. It hosts a wide array of fauna such as green and hawksbill sea turtles, manatees, several species of dolphins, and vibrant reef fish alongside countless invertebrates. The lush islands offer habitat to tropical bird species, including toucans and frigatebirds. Visitors are drawn to Bocas del Toro for its exceptional snorkeling and scuba diving spots like Hospital Point and Coral Cay, where healthy coral gardens flourish. Other popular activities include kayaking through mangrove channels, boat tours to see dolphins and sloths, and exploring indigenous Ngäbe-Buglé villages that preserve rich cultural traditions. The park plays a vital role in regional conservation, integrating ecological preservation with sustainable community tourism. Its easy accessibility from the town of Bocas Town, located on Isla Colón, makes it a favored destination for nature lovers, researchers, and adventure seekers alike.

Highlights

Highlight

Coral reefs of Hospital Point – spectacular snorkeling and diving site

Highlight

Mangrove forests – critical nursery habitat and prime kayaking destination

Highlight

Marine wildlife viewing – sightings of sea turtles, dolphins, and manatees

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Indigenous Ngäbe-Buglé community cultural tours

Notable Natural Features

Hospital Point

A renowned coral reef system offering outstanding snorkeling and scuba diving with abundant marine biodiversity.

Mangrove Ecosystems

Extensive mangrove forests providing essential habitat for juvenile fish and coastal bird species; ideal for kayak eco-tours.

Isla Bastimentos

Largest island in the archipelago featuring tropical rainforest, beaches, and nearby coral reefs forming a biodiversity hotspot.