Vacation Guide
~Bocas del Toro~
To our Bocas Bound guests:
WELCOME to our slice of heaven here on Isla Bastimentos! Our vision is to live in harmony with our natural environment and be a meaningful part of the local island community. We constantly strive to learn, improve and help our guests enjoy this remarkable place. We hope you too will be enchanted by all that the Bocas del Toro region and what Isla Bastimentos has to offer.
The Basics
It is a 10 minute boat ride from Bocas del Toro town to get to Bastimentos. This is a beautiful boat ride that winds through the mangroves and costs approximately $3–$6. Many travelers fail to realize that Bocas Town does not have a nearby beach.
Once arriving on Isla Bastimentos (Red Frog Marina) it is a 5 minute walk through the jungle and up on top of a hill to arrive at Bocas Bound (follow the signs). It is another 5 minute walk through a neat jungle trail to the most famous beach in Panama – Red Frog Beach!
There is a small general store at Bocas Bound and a simple kitchenette. Most guests eat at Kayukos located just across from Bocas Bound or Punta Lava that lies right on Red Frog Beach.
Kayukos is located just across from Bocas Bound and is the largest covered activity center in Central America, other Panama Resorts have nothing that compares to this place! It has many activities, bar, restaurant, and wifi. Wifi will occasionally work in your room if you happen to bring your own computer but we do not promise a great connection from your room at Bocas Bound.
Our staff can assist you in arranging any tour or activity throughout the Bocas Archipelago. If you would like to go to Bocas town for the evening, please check with one of our staff members.
The best launching point for tours in the Bocas Archipelago
All Tours are a Minimum of 4 People
~Surf Rentals/Lessons, Kayak & Snorkel Rentals available at Resort~
Dolphin Bay, Coral Cay & Zapatilla Keys
Go see dolphins, snorkel @Coral Cay & Zapatilla
Coral Cay & Zapatilla
Minus Dolphin Bay, more time @ Zapatilla Keys
Coral Cay & Salt Creek
Salt Creek is a guided tour with a local Indian Guide to see wildlife. This is a good tour
Bird Island, Starfish Beach, & Bocas del Drago
Bird Island has lots of indigenous birds, Starfish beach has tons of cool starfish, Bocas del Drago is a small beach village with one restaurant
Wildlife Cave Tour
Bats and Wildlife. Very rigorous, need shoes and clothes to get wet
Deep Sea Fishing Tour
This is a max of 4 people
Organic Cacao Farm & Dolphin Bay
Tour of a working chocolate farm and dolphin spotting
Hospital Point, Coral Cay, Manglaras
This tour is designed for snorkeling. The boat driver will make several stops for different types of snorkeling
Polo Beach & Playa Larga
Nice beaches and snorkeling. Polo beach has a great snorkeling spot and Playa Larga is the prettiest beach in the area
Butterfly Garden
Go to a local village on Bastimentos and see many butterflies
Scuba Diving
Arranged through Bocas water sports in Bocas town
Yacht Charter Tour
Take a tour around the Bocas Archipelago in a 38 foot Silverton Yacht
Horseback Ride
Coming 2010
Bastimentos Sky Zipline
Summer 2010
RESORT ACTIVITIES (within walking distance)
Red Frog and Turtle Beaches
Red Frog and Turtle Beaches are among the most beautiful beaches in Panama, and are at the heart of our island community. Turtle Beach is the wilder of the two beaches. Your villa is a short walk from both beaches. As you feel the sand between your toes, hear the surf, and see the lush bordering rainforest, you will know that you have made it. Few people will ever get to experience the beauty and tranquility of Red Frog and Turtle Beaches – relax, enjoy, and be safe.
Other Beaches and Reefs:
Whether you are exploring through the mangrove forests along the beaches or swimming above the tropical reefs, the northern shore of Bastimentos offers a water experience that will truly amaze you. Colorful sea fans, sponges and starfish thrive on shallow tropical reefs and provide homes to hundreds of species of fish.
Kayaking, Surfing, Boogie boarding, and Snorkeling:
The resort provides equipment rental for the above activities. Check with RM for information on rentals.
Red Frog Marina/Welcome Center:
Our gardens include 235 different species of native plants, including many fruits, flowers, trees and shrubs. The public dock has a walkway through the mangroves. The marina is host to boaters from around the world.
Hiking and Bird watching:
As you travel to the beach, savannah, and jungle trails within and outside of the resort you will be able to see many different plants and animals. There are a large variety of birds, as well as white face capuchin monkeys, three-toed sloths, caimans, and of course, the bright red frog which is found only on the Island of Bastimentos. The resort is neighbor to Bastimentos Marine Park, which has over 30,000 acres of land and sea, and is home to hundreds of plants and animal species. Various trails run from the resort through the park and lead to great beaches such as Playa Larga.
Sea Turtle Nesting:
Bastimentos is host to 4 of 8 types of sea turtles including the loggerheads, hawksbills, leatherbacks and green turtles. They are most prevalent from April to September. The northern beaches of Bastimentos provide secluded areas for these turtles to build nests and are optimal for these sightings. Playa Larga is a common breeding ground and visitors can see remnants of nests and egg casings along the beach. PLEASE DO NOT GET TOO CLOSE OR DISTURB NESTS.
“Kayukos” Community Center:
Restaurant, bar, small “convenience” store, TV, music, pool and ping pong tables, movies, internet, board games and book exchange, right next to Bocas Bound. A great place to hang out on a rainy day.
“Punta Lava” Bar and Restaurant on Red Frog Beach:
Serves drinks, snacks, and grilled sandwiches in a lush and relaxed beach setting.
“The Point” Boardwalk:
Between Red Frog and Turtle Beaches, you can watch waves crash against the rocks and enjoy a panoramic view of Red Frog Beach. Some early risers have also been seen practicing their yoga poses there shortly after sunrise.
RENTALS AND SERVICES
Rentals
Kayaks
Boogie boards
Snorkel gear
Surf boards
Golf carts
Services
Fishing and Wildlife/Cave Tours
Panama means an “abundance of fish.” Go on a fishing tour inshore or offshore with a guide, bait, lunch, and drinks. Get out and explore the local wildlife and cave. For details, prices and assistance booking tours, please see our staff members.
Hiking – includes snack and map.
Horseback to Playa Larga – An all day trip through native rainforest trails out to one of the most beautiful and secluded beaches one will ever see.
Massage
We can arrange for relaxing massages in the privacy of your own villa. Indulge in a soothing, deep tissue massage and leave your worries in your suitcase. Foot reflexology is also available. Please call RM for assistance in making an appointment.
Scuba Diving
Bocas del Toro is a unique location to get PADI certified. The waters in the archipelago are calm and warm with no strong currents, perfect circumstances for beginners. Divers of all skill levels will enjoy the numerous species of fish and coral. There are more than 15 great spots to dive in Bocas del Toro. Scuba lessons are available in Bocas Town.
OTHER ACTIVITIES ON BASTIMENTOS ISLAND
Ngobe Village and Lagoon:
Bastimentos Island is home to a native Ngobe village and the interior of the island holds a small lagoon which can only be reached with the help of local indigenous guides.
Bastimentos Caves:
The caves are an adventure for a sunny day only. More active travelers will love this day trip and will be able to see rock formations as well as swim in an underground freshwater lake. As always, it is recommended to explore the island with a guide or stay on the trails. This is for adventurous travelers only.
Bahia Honda Tours:
The indigenous community of Bahia Honda is also on Bastimentos Island. There are a few tours which give a taste of local culture while exploring some of the most interesting spots on Bastimentos Island.
Cave Tour: This tour is a great way to explore some of the most uninhabited parts of Bastimentos and starts at the local community center of Bahia Honda. From there, you will pass through a river in a cayuko, a dugout canoe that is a common mode of transportation in the region. You will paddle through this tranquil river and along the way visitors will be able to see the Three-Toed Sloth and even the white-faced and spider monkeys. From there, an easy hike will take you to the Bastimentos caves. These caves boast large stalactites and stalagmites as well as open caverns where you will be able to spot different species of bats and cave-dwelling animals. Adventurous travelers will be amazed at this gem nestled in the hills of Bastimentos, and is a perfect way to spend part of your day.
Hike to Playa Larga: Playa Larga is a very wild and beautiful beach. Protected in the Bastimentos National Marine Park, this beach is a common nesting site for Leatherback and Hawksbill turtles, and has some of the most picturesque landscapes on the entire island. As you begin your hike in Bahia Honda, a local guide will take you through the hills and forests, explaining how the community uses different plant and animal species in their everyday life. Your hike will take you along secluded coves and rock formations until you finally arrive at Playa Larga. When you are finished, your guide will walk you back to Red Frog Beach where you can enjoy some well-earned relaxation. This is a moderate hike and tennis or hiking shoes are recommended.
Cayuko Fishing: For a real indigenous experience this tour is a must. A local guide will take you throughout the bay of Bastimentos to try your luck at some fishing. Paddle along the mangroves in a dugout cayuko and fish for pargo (red snapper) and other fish that inhabit the area. You will get the true local experience as you fish using the same methods that the indigenous people have been doing for years.
Local Restaurant and Artensanía: The community center has a small restaurant where simple local meals are prepared using the freshest ingredients. For large dinner parties, reservations a day early are necessary so the locals can catch your fish. Chicken or fish is generally served with coconut rice and patacones (fried plantains).
Some of the Bahia Honda residents make clothes and bags from natural fibers found around the island. Different plants and trees can be made into different colored fibers that make up these one of a kind souvenirs.
SHOPPING, RESTAURANTS, and OTHER ACTIVITIES
On Main Street in Bocas Town there are a number of small supermarket/variety/liquor stores, pharmacies, hardware stores, and a tourism store specializing in locally produced handcrafts.
You can also find street vendors selling fruit, jewelry, crafts and souvenirs. Fresh pineapple, handmade coco seed necklaces, and beautiful molas handcrafted by the Kuna Indians are available. Prices are very reasonable, but it’s always fun to test your negotiation skills with local merchants.
We recommend that you go over to Bocas Town and explore. If you are able, please re-use plastic bags, cloth/other reusable bags or packs to carry your purchases.
Listed below is a sampling of local restaurants, with the caveat that there are too many good local restaurants to be able to list them all. Try some not listed here and we know you will find some more winners!
RESTAURANTS
-Bocas Town and Isla Colon
9 degrees
Visit 9 degrees for fine dining. You will find a relaxing waterfront atmosphere, elegant patio dining, and Caribbean cuisine prepared with the freshest ingredients available. Located behind Tropical Market, El Reloj Building , Calle Primera. 507.757.9400.
Bocas Bambu Beach
This open-air restaurant serves burgers, pastas, and pizzas. This is a good place to relax and grab a few drinks with friends. Calle 3.
Buena Vista Bar & Grill
Located on the waterfront, this bar and grill serves American, Caribbean and seafood. The menu ranges from salads, burgers, and sandwiches to the more daring jambalaya, enchiladas, and ginger-orange shrimp. Calle 2. 507.757.9035.
El Limbo
This restaurant is located inside of El Limbo Hotel. They offer Italian and International cuisine. Located right on the water, you will be able to enjoy pizzas and pastas with the serenity of a calm breeze in a relaxed atmosphere. Calle 2.
El Ultimo Refugio
Right on the water with a beautiful sunset view, El Ultimo Refugio has fresh seafood, salads, nightly specials, and an ever-changing menu. This restaurant is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Located just off Calle 3 on Avenida Sur, 100 yards down from the Ferry Dock.
La Casbah
La Casbah offers a Mediterranean-inspired menu. Start with a half-liter of sangria and a bowl of gazpacho before moving on to goat-cheese-stuffed chicken, falafel, and tapas. Locals say they serve some of the best steaks in town. Avenida Norte near Calle 4. 507.6486.5558.
Lemon Grass
This restaurant’s location on the second floor of an old wooden building over the water gives it a great view of the turquoise sea and nearby islands. Their specialty is Asian fusion. Calle 2.
Lili’s Cafe
A local favorite, this restaurant is well known for their “Killin’ Me Man” hot sauce. For a spicy, tangy Caribbean dish this is the spot. They also serve sandwiches made on homemade breads. Breakfast is served all day. Calle Primera. 507.6560.8777.
Om Cafe
You can get authentic Indian cuisine at this cozy café atop a bar. They offer dishes such as prawn vindaloo, palaak paneer (fresh cheese in a spinach sauce), chicken tandoori, or any of half-dozen vegetable dishes. Breakfast, lunch, & dinner. Avenida F at Calle 2. 507.6624.0898.
Restaurante Guari Guari
A Spanish chef works wonders with local ingredients while her German partner provides excellent service in the open-air dining room, enveloped by banana trees and within earshot of the sea. The restaurant features a six-course pre-fixed menu. If you have special dietary needs, call a day ahead. Guari Guari sits on the main road leading out of Bocas Town by the only gas station here. The cab drivers know where to go. Reservations recommended. 507.6627.1825.
Starfish Cafe
Overlooking the water, this is a great place to grab a cup of coffee or stop off while exploring Bocas Town. They have magazines and books for you to peruse while enjoying your refreshments. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Calle 3. 507.6621.4108.
-Isla Bastimentos
Bahia Honda
For a truly local experience, the community of Bahia Honda has a small restaurant. The food is some of the freshest in town, as local fishermen often catch fish in the same day and collect natural foods straight from the forests of Bastimentos Island.
Cayo Coral
Cayo Coral is on the water and serves a combination of seafood with traditional Caribbean side preparations. There is a great atmosphere and it is possible to snorkel right off the dock in this tropical location. You can relax in a hammock or snorkel while you wait for your food to arrive.
Roots
This Caribbean restaurant over the water serves the best “rice & beans” in the entire area. Try the whole “pargo rojo” (red snapper), a local specialty around the islands, with coconut rice, beans and salad. Roots is located in the town of Old Bank and is only a five-minute water-taxi ride away from Red Frog Marina.
-Isla Careneros
Cosmic Crab Café
This restaurant on the water serves fresh seafood, burgers, salads, and frozen drinks. Seafood is purchased from local fishermen/crab and lobster divers who come by to sell the day’s catch. There are 3 “ranchos” alongside the main dining area for a more private dining experience and smaller parties. 507.757.9157.
OTHER ACTIVITIES
Bike Rentals
Various companies will rent bicycles on Isla Colon. This is a great way to explore the different areas of town. You can bike to beaches such as Paunch and Bluff, great local spots for reef break surfing and beach enjoyment. Adventurous bikers can bike to Bocas del Drago, but be warned this is a long and hilly journey!
Botanical Garden
Finca Los Monos (the Monkey Farm) is a privately funded garden situated on Isla Colon right after the Smithsonian Institute. Over the years, a magnificent garden has been created with large collections of heleconias, gingers, palms, flowering trees, fruit trees, spices and ornamentals. New plants are constantly being added to the property.
There is an entrance fee and a tour that lasts about 2 hours. More rugged footwear is recommended for the tour. Contact the farm for hours and fee information. 507.757.9461.
Bocas del Drago
A short bus ride from the Bocas town square will take you to Bocas del Drago. There you can explore Starfish Beach, dine at the beach restaurant, or lounge in one of the many hammocks strung among the palm trees. Bocas del Drago is a great place to spend the afternoon for those who want to get outside of Bocas. If you are game, you can walk to Drago in 3 hours and take the bus back into town. It’s a beautiful hike.
Butterfly Garden
A few minutes west of Bocas Town by boat is the Bocas Butterfly Garden, where a dozen native butterfly species including the giant Morpho butterfly inhabit a screened flyway and a trail that leads through a small forest reserve.
Smithsonian Institute
The Smithsonian Tropical Research Institution (STRI) has established a site for education and research and provides scientists and students access to an extraordinary diversity of marine and land ecology. The station performs research and works to conserve the pristine forest, coastal lagoon systems, and the region’s numerous islands and reefs. You can visit the research center, free of charge. Located on Isla Colon, just outside of Bocas Town. Check the institute for hours.
Yoga
At Bocas Yoga studio, you will find a safe, comfortable, air-conditioned, and soundproofed haven to practice yoga. The studio offers several types of classes, in addition to private lessons. Mats are available for rent. Classes are offered Monday to Saturday. Current schedules are posted outside of the studio. Located in the purple building on Calle 4 and Avenida H.
APPENDIX I
Surfing in Bocas del Toro
Bocas del Toro has become a haven for surfing in the Caribbean. Swells are best from December to April, creating waves of 20’ at peak times, but one can find good surf year round. There are many beaches, especially on Bastimentos Island, that are good for all skill levels for surf-hungry travelers. Be mindful of surf conditions/currents and stay within your ability level in order to avoid injury.
-Isla Colon
- Paunch is a long peeling left or right on a not too shallow reef. When swells are over 6 feet, this wave tends to just break towards the left with fast tubes. Its usual size is between 4 to 8 feet. For intermediate to expert surfers.
- Inner Dumpers is a 1-2 minute drive from Paunch. This is a fast left, breaking on a coral reef. When swells are above 5 feet or on strong period swells, this wave tends to have a good tube that you will not want to miss! Its usual size is between 4 to 8 feet. For intermediate to expert surfers.
- Outer Dumpers is the outer reef of Inner Dumpers. This break is a very hollow and heavy left that breaks on shallow reef. The break often throws a tube and occasionally spits. Its usual size is between 4 to10 feet depending on swell. Experienced surfers only.
- The Curve is a 2 minute ride from Inner and Outer Dumpers. This is a short left or right peak breaking on shallow reef. It is great for getting short heavy tubes, but again is only for experienced surfers.
- Bluff Beach is 45 minutes walk or 15 minute taxi ride from Bocas Town. This wave is a world class beach break with left or right heavy peaks. It is loved by body boarders and more fearless surfers. The waves here can become very heavy, and surfers should take caution when riding this monster.
- Isla Carenero
- Carenero is the small island that lies between Isla Colon and Isla Bastimentos. This spot is a world class left, breaking on a moderate reef. You can surf the outer reef if you are looking for some power or surf the inner section if you are looking for a fast, long ride. The usual size for this wave is 4 to 10 foot faces. It is also a regional classic so you can expect some crowds but the wave is long and consistent enough to provide great waves for all. Intermediate surfers welcome here.
- Silver Backs is located in between Bastimentos Island and Carenero Island at a 5 to 10 minute boat ride from Bocas Town. This is a left or right “A frame” peak. It is rarely frequented by experienced surfers due to its enormous size! Its usual swell is in between 10 to 20 foot faces, and can get even larger during hurricane season. This is a wave for only the bravest of experts.
-Isla Bastimentos
- Wizard Beach (First Beach) is one of the more popular spots on Isla Bastimentos and can provide a fun day to all types of surfers. There is a beach shore break here that can become very glassy when conditions are right and forms in both left and right breaks. Be careful as there are rocky points here, and occasionally strong rip tides. Depending on swell conditions, even beginners will find this to be a fun spot.
- Red Frog Beach is another beach break that is suitable for all types of surfers. Waves here usually range from 2 to 6 feet and break on sandy, white beaches. Enjoy a more relaxing surf day here, but be careful as rip currents can become dangerous.
- Playa Larga is a pristine beach break that is located within the boundaries of the Bastimentos Marine Park. The waves here are usually left breaks, and can form perfect glassy waves that will impress any type of surfer. These waves range from 2 to 8 feet. A day of surfing here can be one of the best in the region.
APPENDIX II
Wildlife
Look and listen… Don’t touch…
Stay on trails…Respect the natural habitat…
Feel delight and wonder at the world around you.
(Please do not encourage local children who trap frogs for tourist photos).
Poison Dart Frog
This small red frog can only be found in this particular area on Isla Bastimentos and is one of the more famous animals in the Bocas island archipelago. This species of frog -Pumilio, has many different color and size variations. It appears that the geographic isolation of the islands has allowed these creatures to evolve so that each island has its own unique frog that can be seen along forest trails and around thick vegetation. The evolution of these frogs is so unique and special that Panama has made it a crime to transport any of the Pumilio to other islands or regions. While our red frog is slightly poisonous, it is only harmful to humans if eaten – so no taste testing! Please do not touch these tiny creatures, as even picking them up can jeopardize their survival.
Sloths
The Three-toed sloth is a commonly seen (and universally loved) animal on Bastimentos. The sloth is the world’s slowest mammal and is so sedentary that algae will grow on its furry coat. This algae growth gives the sloth a greenish tint that is useful camouflage in the trees. This animal is found throughout Central and South America. You will have to look carefully to spot these beautiful creatures. People say that sloths are among the happiest animals in the forest because they constantly appear to be smiling.
Monkeys
There are a few species of monkey that live here on Isla Bastimentos. Lucky visitors will be able to see the White-Faced monkeys or will hear the loud cries from Congos (Howler Monkeys) as they scurry high in the tree canopy. Bastimentos even has a “night monkey” that is most easily seen at sunrise and sunset, and feeds on mostly leaves and small insects.
Birds
Panama has the greatest diversity of birds in all of Central America. You will be able to see a wide array of species on the island, and their calls can be heard throughout Red Frog Beach. One of the more famous species is the Montezuma Oropendula, which has a bright yellow tail and can be seen making large hanging nests which resemble a pendulum (giving the bird its name). You can also hear the Golden Collared Manakin make its very distinct “click” or see the Green Parrot that will normally travel in larger family groups.
APPENDIX III
Bocas del Toro History and Geography
Christopher Columbus landed in the Bocas del Toro islands in 1502. While here, Columbus met the original inhabitants of the islands – the Guaymies, Bokota and Teribe. After Columbus left, the region was largely undisturbed until the beginning of colonial times. While there was little development during this time, the Bocas archipelago did become a safe haven for pirates. These pirates were able to build and repair ships freely due to the absence of Spaniards in the region and the abundance of food and wood from the rainforests made this an ideal location. There are many tales of pirates having buried treasures on the surrounding islands, but to this day no treasure has been found or at least reported to have been found.
During the 18th and 19th centuries, Afro-Caribbean immigrants from Jamaica, San Andres and Providencia began coming to Bocas del Toro. As more and more people came to the region, many commercial markets emerged and goods from Bocas del Toro were sent all over the world. There was a large wave of fishermen who hunted Hawksbill (Carey) turtles for their meat and decorative shells. Export of cocoa, mahogany, and other agricultural goods also sparked the development of this Bocas island region. In 1899, the United Fruit Company located itself in Bocas del Toro and established vast banana plantations that stretched across the entire peninsula and surrounding islands. They also constructed elaborate networks of roads, bridges, and canals as well as entire towns and cities to house their workers. People from many regions came to work in these plantations and this helped shape Bocas del Toro into the intriguing mix of Afro Caribbean and indigenous (Ngobe, Teribe, and Guaymie) cultures that it is today.
Isla Colon is the largest island of the Bocas del Toro archipelago. Bocas Town is the largest town in the area and is the heart of Bocas del Toro. In Bocas Town, you can find almost all the region’s hotels, restaurants, bars and tourist information centers. Whether you are looking for a traditional Panamanian meal or looking to relax in a hammock by the water, Isla Colon has activities that everyone will enjoy.
Some of the natural attractions offered on Isla Colon are Bluff’s Beach, Bocas del Drago, Swans Key, and Starfish Beach (a crystal clear beach filled with hundreds of large starfish). Swans Key is a small rocky formation just off the coast of Isla Colon. It is inhabited by many species of marine birds. Some bird species reside here year round, others just stop by while migrating.
Isla Solarte is a smaller island located in front of Isla Colon (behind Isla Bastimentos). Solarte has a good nearby scuba diving and snorkeling spot called Punta Hospital or Hospital Point. Here you can find a great population of corals, especially soft corals, and for this reason it is one of the preferred scuba diving spots in the Bocas region. Isla Solarte is still inhabited by indigenous people, particularly Ngobe, and you may notice some of these individuals using native dugout “cayuko” canoes as their primary method of transportation.
Isla Cristobal is located closer to the mainland. Off the coast of this Island lies Dolphin Bay. This is a protected lagoon area and is home to many dolphins that live here almost year round feeding on the abundant mollusks and fish.
Isla Popa is one of the smaller islands, and is located close to mainland. Isla Popa is known for the blue colored variation of the poisonous dart frog. These dart frogs inhabit almost all of the islands, but different species and colors have emerged on each island due to the geographical isolation. Today Popa and Cristobal are still inhabited by the Ngobe Indigenous people.
Isla Bastimentos, the second largest island in the Bocas Archipelago, is located across from Isla Colon and separated by a marine channel thriving with tropical reefs and game fish. Red Frog Beach is just one of the beautiful beaches here; other equally beautiful and unique beaches are Turtle Beach, North Beach, Playa Larga, Wizard Beach, and Cayman Beach (and coves). These beaches are not only picturesque places to spend the afternoon, but they offer world-class surfing, diving and hiking destinations for the more adventurous traveler.
Bastimentos National Marine Park consists of over 30,000 acres of protected jungle and rainforest as well as reefs that are home to one of the most diverse ecologies anywhere in the world. Bastimentos also has a fresh water lagoon and a village inhabited by the indigenous Ngobe people. Crawl Key is a very small island located just off Bastimentos.
Zapatilla Keys are two smaller islands located north of Bastimentos and are part of the Bastimentos National Marine Park. You can explore exotic white sand beaches or enjoy snorkeling and scuba diving. There are many tour operators who will take you for day trips and provide lunch while on the Keys – a must see while you are here!
APPENDIX IV:
Language of the Indigenous Guaymi/Ngabere
The Guaymi (pronounced why-me) people have been indigenous to the region for centuries. They are now mainly concentrated in the northern provinces of Panama and the Southern regions of Costa Rica. There are many parts of Bocas del Toro which are home to the Guaymi.
The language of the Guaymi known as Ngabere (pronounced ‘naw-bay-ray) is now spoken by only around 250,000 people and it is solely a spoken language –it does not have a written form. If you meet some of these people along the way we thought it would be helpful and fun to give you a taste of the local language.
General Conversation
Hello = ma-bone-yo
What is your name = ma-cone-yo
I am John = ti-go John
Good Morning = yan-toro-dega
Good Evening = yan-toro-day-oo
I am going to eat = te-nigita-muh-ruh-re
See you later = ah-toe-eye-ah-hedd-a-way
Animals and insects
dog = nu-guro
cat = min-gee
chicken = kwee
crab = doo-day
sandfly = nee-ba
ant = nine-ya
mosquito = huh-ra
Mother = tee-may-yay
Father = tee-rom
Brother = tee-ed-eba
Sister = ting-why
Food = muh-ruh
Miscellaneous
Beautiful = bone-o-ray
Unattractive = ma-musa
Shoes = sab-da
Boat = ru
Sandals = cringu
Nature
Ocean = mar-en-ee-a
Beach = oo-ma
Sun = hi-wanna
Moon = s-uh
Wind = mu-rie
APPENDIX V
Red Frog Beach- Environmental Protection Practices and Planning
The Red Frog owners have worked with the government of Panama and the environmental protection agency to develop and implement strategies to protect this unique island eco system. The practices and development of the resort has continued to exceed the Panamanian environmental requirements.
Bocas Bound is located on what was once deforested grazing land dating back to 2003 when the land was acquired. There was an extensive amount of erosion damage that was occurring as a result of the grazing and deforestation. This picture shows the deforested area before any development began (notice the deforested circular ring in the center-left of the picture).
Our Sustainability Director has expertise in using native flora and fauna to reclaim the area to its original state. With proper planning, primary rainforest can begin to spread and reclaim this area similar to what has been done in the Tropical Garden located at the Marina Entrance Village.
More than 70% of the land owned by Red Frog Beach and Rainforest Resort and Bocas Bound will be preserved as natural rainforest/jungle with limited walking trails. As mentioned above, the developed areas are focused in what was previously cattle pasture and non-native teak plantation.
Since the beginning of the development, special precautions were implemented to protect the special red frogs. We are pleased to report that the red frog population has increased since the beginning of the development.
Environmental Practices
- The wastewater treatment facility is one of the most high-tech and low-impact systems in Central America.
- We have replanted over 235 species of native plants where soil has been disrupted.
- The use of disposable plastic water bottles and plastic bags is discouraged.
- Reusable metal water bottles are available for purchase.
- No disposable glasses, dishes or silverware are used at Kayukos.
- All villas have low flow toilets.
- We use energy efficient light bulbs as much as possible.
- Regular cleanup of Red Frog Beach is paid for by proceeds from the Red Frog Express.
- Trash collection is provided at Red Frog Beach area next to our property.
- The Red Frog Cleaning System uses no aerosols or bleach and is based on homemade natural cleaners.
We are continuously seeking to improve and minimize any environmental impact and we welcome your ideas for ways we can improve our stewardship of this special place. As the resort grows, we are very sensitive about any impact that might affect this precious island. We are investigating feasible alternative ways to create electricity, including methane digesters and hydroelectric generators. We are also investigating rainwater collection systems. The recycling program will be the first of its kind on Bastimentos and will make a tremendous difference over time.
We know that our guests will appreciate that this island ecology is very unique. If you are interested in volunteering some time during your stay, please let us know.
