"Isla Bastimentos" Isla Bastimentos by malecon

Probably the most inviting island in the Bocas group as there is much to do on every side of the island. When I recap my adventure in these parts this island involves some of the most vivid adventures.

Arrival is, ofcourse, by boat. There are several places to eat and lobster can be had for less then $10. Many of these eateries are right on the water, literally over the water.

The main artery through town is a sideway as there are no roads or cars. People mill about watching me but for the most part pay no attention. I made my way the entire length of the sidewalk to a small couryard next to a point of land with tall coconut palms and giant breakers. Out in the surf a lone surfer made the best of an idealic situation.

An idealic scene; palms, breakers and a surfer.

The island is just minutes away by skiff from Colon. If you wanted to live in Bocas town, this my be an ideal location. You can commute by boat back to town.

On the other side of the island is the Salt Creek Village, home of the Guaymi, one of Panama's seven indiginous groups. The village is deep down the creek. When you can't go further because of the mangroves then you have arrived. Take the $7 tour and check out the gift shop. They make some incredible crafts such as wood carved birds and reptiles, also necklaces. You won't find these anywhere else.

Looking back at Bastimientos over the rooftops.

The island is just a few minutes by skiff from Colon. Many live here and work in Bocas town. This is Caribbean living at it's simpliest. If there is zoning and building codes it certainly doesn't show. One thing about Panama, they rarely get hit by storms.

On every side of the island there is stuff to do. Directly opposite to the town of Bastimientos is the Salt Creek Village, home to the Guami Indians, one of Panama's seven indidinous groups.

This village is located deep down the Salt Creek. At the point where your skif cannot go any further than the mangroves there is a dock. Take the dock to the trail and walk into town. You'll see a sign on the path advertising a tour for $7. The tour takes your for a loop around the village. Ask to see the cayman alligator in the lagoon. Otherwise the most memorable sight are the villagers themselves. These are great people and I relish the pictures taken with them.