Cayos Zapatillas
2 UNINHABITED ISLANDS THAT FORM PART OF THE BASTIMENTOS NATIONAL MARINE PARK
Cayos Zapatillas are the islands you have most likely seen on websites and brochures of the Bocas area. These two islands, ringed by golden sand beaches and coral reefs teeming with life.
Photo by Owen Trainor
Cayos Zapatillas
Two Paradise Islands of the Bastimentos International Marine Park
These two islands, ringed by golden sand beaches and coral reefs teeming with life, fall inside of the Isla Bastimentos National Marine Park. Its famous crystalline waters and golden sands are ideal for snorkeling and diving during the right months. Otherwise, the water may be a bit cloudy and has a current on the seaside. These islands are also essential ecological sites for the critically endangered Hawksbill sea turtles that nest on their shores.
These islands are full of stories- local legends say that the Zapatillas (or slipper) Cays were created by the feet of God as they touched down from the heavens. Other stories tell of pirates hiding their treasures here. One thing is for certain, Cayos Zapatillas is a treasure itself and is a must see destination on your next vacation to Bocas del Toro.
Information
- History of Zapatillas
- Zapatillas Culture
- How to Get to Zapatillas
- Safety on Cayos Zapatillas
- Zapatillas Tips & Tricks
History of Cayos Zapatillas
The Bastimentos National Marine Park was Panama’s first marine park established in 1988. This park protects 13,226-hectares (32,682-acres) of land and sea. It’s best known for the Cayos Zapatillas, two lovely islands with fantastic snorkeling and diving opportunities.
Cayos Zapatillas Culture
The only inhabitants of these cays are the park rangers, which protect the cays and its wildlife. There is minimal infrastructure. The Zapatilla Cays include Cayo Zapatilla Norte & Cayo Zapatilla Sur. Panama’s National Environmental Authority (MIAMBIENTE) manages the Cay. There is a MIAMBIENTE center on the southeastern island, and visitors pay to land on the cays. These fees are usually included on day tours. When visiting, please take any trash you bring with you.
How to Get to Cayos Zapatillas
Usually, the visit to Cayos Zapatillas is combined with another tour. Still, you can also hire a private boat to take you here. We recommend bringing water and something to eat since there are no hotels or restaurants on the islands.
Safety on Cayos Zapatillas
Panama’s Ministry of Environment manages the Zapatillas Cays. There is a center on the southeastern island, and visitors pay to land on the cays. When visiting practice common sense, make sure to not leave your things unattended on the beach. If you go out snorkeling, go out in pairs or groups and be cautious of strong currents on the cays’ seaside.
Cayos Zapatillas Tips & Tricks
Take snacks and beverages, there are no stores on these cays. Usually, day tours here include a stop for lunch at nearby Cayo Coral. Pack a light jacket for the boat ride. It takes about 30 minutes to arrive and if it’s raining it can get a bit chilly.
Things to Do
With us, Flytrip, discover Bocas del Toro, a natural paradise with international projection
A charter flight company offering you the most memorable experience with VIP lounge, personalized attention and trips with a purpose.The natural beauty surrounding Bocas del Toro and its residents'...
Bocas Adventure: The Panama Day Tour You Will Love
How fun does taking a boat ride to Tranquilo Bay Eco Adventure Lodge on Isla Bastimentos, exploring the trails onsite, climbing up the canopy observation tower, and spending the afternoon in the...
Where to Learn to Surf in Bocas del Toro
Blessed with both the Pacific Ocean to the west and the Caribbean Sea to the east, Panama is one of the top surfing destinations in Central America. It offers a wide array of options for all types...
Renting a Bicycle on Isla Colon (And Where to Go)
Isla Colon is the Bocas del Toro archipelago's central hub and one of the few islands in this area with roads. On Isla Colon, you can find cars, trucks, and many, many bikes. Over the years, more...
How to Spend 1 Week in Bocas del Toro (On a Budget)
So you got your airplane ticket, and you're coming to Panama for vacation. You have decided that you want to explore the islands of Bocas del Toro for one week, but you're not sure where to stay,...
Does Bocas del Toro Have a “Rainy Season”?
In Panama, there are only two seasons; dry and rainy. Lots of websites and travel books about visiting Panama tell you that the dry season is from December to March. But that isn't the case when it...
5 Places to Kayak in Bocas del Toro
Bocas del Toro is a paddling paradise. No matter what canoe you decide to use, the Bocas del Toro islands offer several different spots where you can go exploring. Whether it's over colorful reefs...
