2 Best Ways to get from Bocas del Toro, Panama to Limon, Costa Rica

You can get from Bocas del Toro to Limon by ferry taxi + shared shuttle or ferry+ public transport.

The cheapest option to travel from Bocas del Toro to Limon is by ferry + public transport, which costs only USD 20. The journey takes 5.5 hours.

However, the most popular option and also the fastest way to travel to Limon from Bocas del Toro is the ferry + shared shuttle, offering both transportation modes in one ticket for only USD 25! The journey takes about 4.5 hours.

Imagine cruising through Panama’s scenic landscapes and urban centers with the know-how of a local. That’s the journey I’m inviting you on.

I’ll share my experiences and practical tips, helping you to get from Bocas del Toro to Limon and cross the Panama-Costa Rica border in the most enjoyable way possible!

Check our guide for the best options to travel from Bocas del Toro to Limon.

Transportation Options from Bocas del Toro to Limon

The following table outlines all transportation options from Bocas del Toro to Limon:

Method	Time	Price
Ferry + Shuttle from Bocas del Toro to Limon	4.5 hrs	$25
Bocas del Toro to Limon Ferry + Public Transport	~5 hrs	~$20

How far is Limon from Bocas del Toro?

The distance from Bocas del Toro to Limon is 94.2 miles or 151.6 kilometers.

It takes about 4 hours to travel from Bocas del Toro to Limon.

Getting to Limon from Bocas del Toro

1. Ferry + Shared Shuttle from Bocas del Toro to Limon

Journey Duration: 4 hours 30 minutes

Navigating the picturesque journey from Bocas del Toro in Panama to Puerto Limon in Costa Rica is an adventure in itself!

One of this route’s most popular and efficient transportation options is the pre-arranged combination of a Water Taxi and a Shared Shuttle.

This choice offers a convenient and cost-effective solution and allows you to experience the region’s stunning beauty as you travel between these two enchanting destinations.

The Water Taxi + Shared Shuttle option begins with a thrilling water taxi ride from Bocas del Toro to the mainland town of Almirante, Panama.

As you glide across the sparkling turquoise waters, you’ll be captivated by the scenic beauty of the lush, verdant islands dotting the Caribbean Sea. 

This short boat ride typically takes around 30 minutes, and the ticket is included in the total price of your reservation for the trip!

Upon arrival in Almirante, you’ll be greeted by a shared shuttle service that will transport you to the Costa Rican border at Sixaola.

After completing the necessary border formalities at Sixaola, you’ll continue your journey to Puerto Limon for the final leg. 

This last stretch offers a glimpse into the heart of Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast, with its vibrant communities and pristine natural beauty.

Opting for the Water Taxi + Shared Shuttle combination is an affordable and convenient way to travel between Bocas del Toro and Puerto Limon and an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery of this remarkable region! 

The travel time takes about 4 hours and 30 minutes, and the combo tickets cost only USD 25!

Don’t miss the chance to experience this unforgettable journey as you make your way to the charming town of Puerto Limon, Costa Rica. Book your tickets here!

Bocas del Toro to Limon Ferry + Shared Shuttle Schedule:

The table below displays the ferry + bus timetable for trips from Bocas del Toro to Limon, detailing departure times, journey lengths, and fares.

DEP	ETA	DUR	PX
07:30am	11:00am	4h 30m	$25
11:30am	03:00pm	4h 30m	$25

2. Ferry + Public Transport from Bocas del Toro to Limon

Journey Duration: ~5 hours

Another enticing transportation option for travelers venturing from Bocas del Toro to Puerto Limon is the combination of a water taxi and public transportation. 

This alternative allows for a more flexible and budget-friendly experience while still offering a memorable journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Central America.

Similar to the previous option, your adventure begins with a water taxi ride from Bocas del Toro to Almirante. 

The water taxi ride typically lasts around 30 minutes, and tickets cost about USD 6. With this option, you have to get your boat tickets separately once you arrive at the port.

When you arrive in Almirante, you can either choose to use public transportation, which includes multiple changes and stops along the way, or catch a taxi to the Costa Rican border at Sixaola for only USD 10! 

We recommend taking a taxi, as the journey is much quicker, lasting about an hour, and way more convenient. 

After completing the necessary border formalities at Sixaola, you’ll board a public bus for the final leg of your journey to Puerto Limon. This mode of transport allows you to travel like a local, experiencing the authentic charm of Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast. 

The public bus offers a slower pace, which gives you even more time to absorb the stunning scenery, observe the diverse wildlife, and interact with fellow passengers.

This bus goes to San Jose but makes a few stops along the way, including Puerto Viejo and Puerto Limon!

Tickets are also incredibly cheap, and the price depends on your final destination, but it shouldn’t cost more than a few dollars. 

This option is an excellent way to enjoy a budget-conscious and authentic travel experience while still taking in the rich natural beauty and intriguing culture between Bocas del Toro and Puerto Limon. 

Immerse yourself in the wonders of this unforgettable journey and prepare to be captivated by the enthralling beauty of Central America!

To learn more about using the public buses from Panama to Costa Rica, check out our other guide on How to get from Bocas del Toro, Panama to Cahuita, Costa Rica!

Best day tours in Limon, Costa Rica

Get Your Guide helps you find the best tours wherever you are heading to. It’s usually the first website I check when I plan a trip to a new place.

Here, you can find some of the best tours in Limon, Costa Rica!

Frequently Asked Questions