4 Best Ways to get from Bocas del Toro to Panama City, Panama

You can get from Bocas del Toro to Panama City by ferry + bus, ferry + private transfer, a flight, or ferry + rental car.

The cheapest option to travel from Bocas del Toro to Panama City is by ferry + bus, which costs only USD 48. The journey takes 10.5 hours.

The most popular option is also the ferry + bus, offering a convenient and affordable transportation alternative!

The fastest way to travel to Panama City from Bocas del Toro is by catching a flight , which takes about 1 hour!

Join me on a delightful exploration of Panama’s transportation, where the journey itself is part of the adventure. I’ve gathered a wealth of tips and stories from my travels and am eager to share them with you.

In this guide, I’ll share how to travel through Panama and get from Bocas del Toro to Panama City in the most enjoyable and seamless way possible!

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

Transportation Options from Bocas del Toro to Panama City

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

Method	Time	Price
Ferry + Bus from Bocas del Toro to Panama City	10.5 hrs	$48
Bocas del Toro to Panama City Ferry + Private Transfer	10 hrs	+$805
Flight from Bocas del Toro to Panama City	1 hr	+$149
Ferry + Rental Car	~10 hrs	–

How far is Panama City from Bocas del Toro?

The distance from Bocas del Toro to Panama City is 376.6 miles or 606 kilometers.

It takes around 10 hours to travel from Bocas del Toro to Panama City.

Getting to Panama City from Bocas del Toro

1. Ferry + Bus from Bocas del Toro to Panama City

Journey Duration: 10 hours 30 minutes

When planning your journey from the idyllic archipelago of Bocas del Toro to the bustling metropolis of Panama City, the first transportation option you should consider is the ever-popular Boat + Bus combo! 

This unique travel experience combines the thrill of a scenic boat ride with the convenience of a comfortable, air-conditioned bus.

To embark on this adventure, you’ll first need to catch a boat from Bocas del Toro’s main island, Isla Colón, to the charming coastal town of Almirante. The boat trip, which takes approximately 30 minutes, offers breathtaking views of the crystal-clear Caribbean waters and the lush, green coastline. 

Upon arriving in Almirante, you’ll board a bus for the next leg of your journey. The bus ride takes approximately 10 hours, providing ample opportunities for rest, relaxation, and soaking in the mesmerizing views.

If you want to avoid the long road trip during the daytime, there is an overnight bus you can board, which will save you a day spent traveling!

Although the journey is long, this option is quite popular because of the ticket prices. A single ticket that includes the bus trip and the boat trip costs only USD 48!

So, if you’re in search of an authentic and affordable way to get from Bocas del Toro to Panama City, look no further than this Boat + Bus option!

Bocas del Toro to Panama City Ferry + Bus Schedule:

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

DEP	ETA	DUR	PX
06:30am	05:00pm	10h 30m	$48
05:00pm	03:30am	10h 30m	$48

2. Ferry + Private Transfer from Bocas del Toro to Panama City

Journey Duration: 10 hours

If you’re seeking a more personalized and comfortable journey from the beautiful archipelago of Bocas del Toro to the vibrant Panama City, consider the Boat + Private Transfer option. 

Your adventure begins with a short boat trip from Isla Colón, which lasts about 30 minutes, to the coastal town of Almirante.

Once you arrive in Almirante, instead of taking a bus, you can arrange a private transfer to pick you up and take you straight to Panama City.

You’ll be greeted by your pre-booked private transfer service directly at the port. Then, traveling in style and comfort, you can relax in a well-maintained, air-conditioned vehicle while your professional driver navigates the Panamanian roads. 

The drive to Panama City typically takes around 10 hours, depending on your preferred route and the number of stops you choose to make. 

This option is quite expensive unless you have a group to split the cost with, and therefore, that’s why it’s only recommended for larger groups.

So, if you’re looking for a convenient transportation option for you and your group, check out the prices and book a private transfer to Panama City here!

Prices for a private transfer from Almirante to Panama City:

• Up to 10 passengers: USD 805

3. Flight from Bocas del Toro to Panama City

Journey Duration: 1 hour

For those who prefer a quicker and more convenient way to travel from Bocas del Toro to Panama City, the flight option is your best bet!

This mode of transportation allows you to bypass the lengthy bus ride and reach your destination in a fraction of the time, ensuring that you can maximize your time enjoying the many delights that Panama has to offer.

To begin your aerial journey, make your way to Bocas del Toro “Isla Colón” International Airport, located on the main island of Bocas del Toro. There, you’ll board a short domestic flight to Panama City, typically lasting around 1 hour. 

As you soar high above the picturesque landscape, you’ll have a bird’s-eye view of the country’s breathtaking natural beauty.

Upon arrival in Panama City, it’s a quick and easy journey to the city center, where you can begin exploring the countless attractions that await you in this dynamic and diverse metropolis.

Panama Air operates these domestic flights from Bocas del Toro to Panama City, with tickets starting at USD 149. However, it’s essential to book your tickets in advance, as seats can fill up quickly during peak travel seasons!

4. Ferry + Rental Car from Bocas del Toro to Panama City

Journey Duration: ~10 hours

For travelers who crave a sense of adventure and autonomy while journeying from Bocas del Toro to Panama City, there is also the option to rent a car!

This mode of transportation allows you to set your own pace, explore off-the-beaten-path destinations, and create a truly personalized travel experience.

The first part of the trip is always the same- you’ll have to board a boat from Bocas del Toro to Almirante, where you can get your car rental. 

After arriving in Almirante, you’ll head to a nearby rental car agency to pick up your vehicle. With your trusty steed at your disposal, you’re free to embark on a self-guided road trip through the breathtaking Panamanian countryside. 

The drive to Panama City typically takes around 10 hours, but the beauty of this option is that you can customize your journey to suit your interests and schedule.

As you navigate the winding roads and rolling hills, you’ll have the freedom to stop at your leisure, whether to admire a stunning vista, visit a quaint village, or delve into the vibrant local culture. With a rental car, the possibilities for exploration and discovery are virtually endless!

Best day tours in Panama City, 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.

Here, you can find some of the best tours in Panama City, Panama.

Frequently Asked Questions