Top 10 Excursions from La Purita Ecolodge
#BocasdelToro
Situated in an exceptional natural setting, La Purita Ecolodge is the ideal starting point to discover the very best of Bocas del Toro. Nestled between tropical rainforest, crystal-clear waters, and untouched beaches, the lodge offers an authentic and sustainable experience in the heart of the Panamanian Caribbean.
Thanks to its privileged location, La Purita Ecolodge provides easy access to paradise islands, iconic beaches, coral reefs, and unique nature excursions. To help you plan your stay, here is our Top 10 of the best excursions from La Purita Lodge in Bocas del Toro.
Top 1. Polo Beach and Red Frog Beach
Just a 10-minute boat ride from La Purita Ecolodge.
Two iconic beaches on Bastimentos Island, surrounded by tropical rainforest and golden sand. A perfect blend of nature, relaxation, and the unique charm of the Caribbean. It is also common to spot howler monkeys, sloths, and the famous tiny red frog that gives this emblematic place its name.
Top 2. Cayo Zapatilla
30 minutes by boat from La Purita Ecolodge.
Cayo Zapatilla is one of the most iconic and paradisiacal places in Bocas del Toro, famous for its turquoise waters and pristine white sand. The name "Zapatilla" comes from the shape of its two main islands, which resemble a shoe when seen from above. It's the perfect place to swim, snorkel, and completely disconnect from everything.
Top 3. Playa Wizard
10 minutes by boat from La Purita Ecolodge.
Wizard Beach is a wild and spectacular beach, known for its natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere.
To reach it, you'll cross the small harbor of Old Bank and walk over a hill through the jungle, until you discover this magnificent hidden beach where nature reveals itself in its purest form.
The name "Wizard" comes from old local stories and reflects the mysterious character of this isolated place, surrounded by lush rainforest.
Top 4. Piscina Natural & Bluff Beach in Colón Island
15 minutes by boat (Isla Colón) and 30 minutes by scooter from La Purita Ecolodge.
After a scenic 30-minute ride through lush nature—if you're lucky, you might even spot howler monkeys along the way—you'll arrive at Playa Bluff.
This wild beach is a must-see for surfers, drawn by its powerful waves and untouched natural setting.
Continuing along the road, you'll reach the Natural Pool, a sheltered swimming area protected by a natural barrier, perfect for relaxing and enjoying calm waters surrounded by nature.
Top 5. Blue Lagoon in Colón Islqnd
15 minutes by boat and 1 hour by scooter from La Purita Ecolodge.
A little further on from the Natural Pool mentioned above, we recommend a spot called Blue Lagoon, where you can swim in complete tranquility in turquoise waters, surrounded by mangroves and nature, in an intimate and relaxing setting.
Top 6. Piscina Natural & Bluff Beach in Colón Island
15 minutes by boat (Isla Colón) and 30 minutes by scooter from La Purita Ecolodge.
A shallow beach filled with starfish, a charming Caribbean corner rich in natural beauty.
Top 7. The Bat's Cave, Isla Bastimentos
30 minutes by boat from La Purita Ecolodge.
The Bat Cave on Isla Bastimentos is a guided excursion within the Marine National Park, managed by the Ngäbe-Buglé community.
It includes a boat ride and a walk through mangroves and cacao trails, leading to a cave with underground tunnels and an internal lake.
Top 8. Cacao Tour
30 minutes by boat from La Purita Ecolodge.
Visiting a cacao plantation in a Ngäbe community is a unique cultural experience in Bocas del Toro. Discover the traditional chocolate-making process, take part in its preparation, enjoy a typical lunch, and connect with local culture through authentic and sustainable tourism.
Top 9. Buceo & Snorkeling in Bocas del Toro
30 minutes by boat from La Purita Ecolodge.
Around La Purita Ecolodge, you'll find several ideal spots for diving and snorkeling, featuring colorful reefs and crystal-clear waters. During the activity, it's common to spot parrotfish, angelfish, butterflyfish, rays, as well as tropical corals and sponges.
It's a perfect experience for both beginners and experienced divers, in one of the richest marine ecosystems in Bocas del Toro.
Top 10. The Bird's Island
30 minutes by boat from La Purita Ecolodge.
Bird Island is a small rocky islet, ideal for birdwatching in Bocas del Toro. It is home to colonies of frigatebirds, pelicans, and other seabirds, which can be observed up close from the boat. A short but spectacular excursion, perfect for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.
+ Special Extra : Bioluminiscence desde La Purita Lodge
Experience the magic of bioluminescence near La Purita Lodge, where the water lights up at night with every movement. A unique and unforgettable natural phenomenon, best enjoyed on a calm night, surrounded by the silence of the jungle and the Caribbean Sea.
