Skip to Content

How to get from Bocas del Toro to Boquete, Panama

Boquete is well connected to Bocas del Toro. You can get from Bocas del Toro to Boquete by water taxi + shared shuttle, water taxi + public transport, water taxi + private transfer, or rental car.

Boquete, Panama, isn’t your typical holiday destination. It’s a breath of fresh air where coffee plantations and rainforests share the same zip code, and local culture is as rich as the surrounding landscapes!

Here, life moves at a different pace – defined by the harmonious balance of nature and tradition. You’ll find yourself in a town that is as welcoming as it is beautiful, where the people are as warm as the world-class coffee they brew!

So, how about taking your travel experience a notch higher with the Panama Cross-Country Highlights 8-Day Tour?

This isn’t just another tour; it’s your golden ticket to exploring the best of Panama – from the energetic vibe of Panama City to the laid-back charm of Bocas del Toro and, of course, the scenic beauty of Boquete!

You’ll get to see, taste, and live the Panamanian lifestyle firsthand. And the best part? It’s all been planned out for you. So sign up for the tour, pack your bags, and get ready for an unforgettable Panamanian adventure! 

Make that booking today, and let’s get this journey started!

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

How far is Boquete from Bocas del Toro?

The distance from Bocas del Toro to Boquete is 124.6 miles or 200.6 kilometers.

It takes about 4 hours and 30 minutes to travel from Bocas del Toro to Boquete.

Transportation Options from Bocas del Toro to Boquete

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

MethodTravel timePrice
Water Taxi + Shared Van Shuttle from Bocas del Toro to Boquete4 hours 30 minutesUSD 36-USD 43Book Now 3 E1661788865313
Water Taxi + Public Transport from Bocas del Toro to Boquete~5 hours 10 minutes~USD 17
Water Taxi + Private Transfer from Bocas del Toro to Boquete~4 hours 30 minutes
Water Taxi + Rental Car from Bocas del Toro to Boquete~4 hours 30 minutes

Getting to Boquete from Bocas del Toro

1. Water Taxi + Shared Van Shuttle from Bocas del Toro to Boquete

Journey Duration: 4 hours 30 minutes

First on our list of transportation options from Bocas del Toro to Boquete is a combination of a water taxi ride to Almirante and a shared shuttle to Boquete. 

This option offers a blend of convenience and affordability, making it a popular choice among travelers!

Your journey begins aboard a water taxi from Bocas del Toro to Almirante, a bustling port town on the mainland. This maritime commute, usually taking about 30 minutes, offers stunning views of the Caribbean Sea. 

Upon reaching Almirante, you’ll transition from sea to land as you board a shared shuttle for Boquete. The shuttles are comfortable, air-conditioned, and can accommodate a small group of passengers. 

The drive to Boquete takes approximately 4 hours, traversing through various landscapes. 

It’s a comfortable and relatively quick way to travel between these two popular destinations in Panama. Additionally, you only have to book one ticket for both rides at a very affordable price of only USD 36!

The whole trip will be organized for you, so you can have an easy and hassle-free travel experience without worrying about separate schedules and tickets!

Check out the departure times and book your tickets today, as the spots are very limited!

Bocas del Toro to Boquete Shared Van Shuttle Schedule:

Departure TimeArrival TimeDurationPrice per Person
11:30 AM04:00 PM4 hours 30 minutesUSD 36Book Now 3 E1661788865313
11:50 AM05:05 PM5 hours 15 minutesUSD 43Book Now 3 E1661788865313
Bocas Del Toro To Boquete2

2. Water Taxi + Public Transport from Bocas del Toro to Boquete

Journey Duration: ~5 hours 10 minutes

The second transportation option from Bocas del Toro to Boquete involves a more hands-on and authentic travel experience, utilizing a combination of a water taxi and public buses.

While this option requires a bit more navigation, it also allows you to experience Panama like a local!

Like the first option, your journey starts with a water taxi ride from Bocas del Toro to Almirante. Tickets for the boat ride can be bought directly at the port for only USD 6.

Once you arrive in Almirante, you must catch a taxi to the local bus station.

The drive is relatively short and gives you a quick glimpse of life in this bustling port town. The ride will last for only about 10 minutes, and you’ll only pay approximately USD 1!

At the bus station, you’ll board a public bus bound for David, the largest city in the Chiriqui province.

This part of the journey, taking about 3 to 4 hours, offers a unique opportunity to mingle with locals and enjoy a slice of Panamanian culture that most tourists rarely get to see. Tickets for this bus ride cost USD 8.

Upon reaching David, your final leg of the journey will be a shorter bus ride to Boquete. Tickets for this last ride cost only USD 2, and the trip lasts about 1 hour!

The route up to Boquete is known for its scenic beauty, so be sure to grab a window seat! 

Choosing this option requires a bit of extra time and patience, but the reward is a closer look at the rhythms of daily life in Panama.

It’s the perfect choice for intrepid travelers who prefer a little off-the-beaten-track journey.

Bocas Del Toro To Boquete1

3. Water Taxi + Private Transfer from Bocas del Toro to Boquete

Journey Duration: ~4 hours 30 minutes

Another option to get from Bocas del Toro to Boquete is a private transfer, which offers a seamless, comfortable, and private journey!

This option combines a water taxi ride to Almirante with a private transfer to Boquete, ideal for those seeking convenience and exclusivity.

Your adventure commences with a 10-minute water taxi ride from Bocas del Toro to Almirante. 

Upon arrival in Almirante, you’ll transition to a private transfer vehicle destined for Boquete. The beauty of a private transfer lies in its flexibility and comfort. 

The driver will meet you directly at the dock, assist with your luggage, and you’ll have the vehicle all to yourself. This is particularly beneficial if you’re traveling with a lot of luggage, as a family, or value the peace and quiet of a private ride.

The drive to Boquete takes around 3-4 hours, weaving through changing landscapes. You can request stops along the way, perhaps to capture a photo or to grab a snack.

The water taxi and private transfer combo is hard to beat in terms of ease and comfort. It’s a stress-free, efficient, and personalized way to make the journey from Bocas del Toro to Boquete, allowing you to arrive at your destination refreshed and ready to explore.

So check out the offers of vehicle options online, and book the best deal!

Do you need help arranging your transportation?

Fill out the form below, and one of our travel experts will contact you!

We can organize your transportation in Guatemala, Costa Rica, Mexico, and Colombia!

4. Water Taxi +Driving with Rental Car from Bocas del Toro to Boquete

Journey Duration: ~4 hours 30 minutes

And lastly, the final transportation option for traveling from Bocas del Toro to Boquete caters to those who crave independence and adventure on their journey!

By combining a water taxi ride to Almirante with a rental car drive to Boquete, you’ll have complete control of your travel experience and itinerary.

Your voyage begins with a water taxi from Bocas del Toro to Almirante, which costs only USD 6. Once you arrive in Almirante, head to one of the reputable car rental agencies to pick up your pre-booked vehicle!

Driving from Almirante to Boquete allows you to explore at your own pace.

This option allows you to make impromptu stops along the way, whether to appreciate the panoramic views, indulge in local cuisine, or explore hidden gems that catch your eye!

When choosing a rental car, select a vehicle suitable for the terrain and road conditions you may encounter during your drive.

Also, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with Panamanian driving regulations and ensure you have all the necessary documents, such as a valid driver’s license and insurance.

We recommend browsing the rental options and booking online in advance!

Rentalcars compares 900 companies at over 53,000 locations. Click here to guarantee you the best car rental price.

Best day tours in Boquete, Panama

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.

The following widget shows some of the best tours in Boquete, Panama.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the fastest way to get from Bocas del Toro to Boquete?

The fastest way is usually a combination of a water taxi to Almirante followed by a private transfer or rental car to Boquete. This can take around 4 hours, depending on road conditions and traffic.

Is there a direct bus from Bocas del Toro to Boquete?

No, there’s no direct bus from Bocas del Toro to Boquete. However, you can take a water taxi to Almirante, a taxi to the bus station in Almirante, a bus to David, and then another bus to Boquete.

Can I drive from Bocas del Toro to Boquete?

No, you can’t drive directly from Bocas del Toro to Boquete. However, after a water taxi ride to Almirante, you can rent a car and drive to Boquete!

What should I expect to pay for the journey from Bocas del Toro to Boquete?

Costs vary depending on your chosen mode of transportation. Water taxis usually cost around USD 6, buses are approximately USD 8, and private transfers depend on the number of passengers. Car rental prices depend on the type of vehicle and rental duration.

Rate this post

Leave a comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Table of Contents