Things To Do
in Almirante

Almirante is a small yet vibrant town located in the Bocas del Toro province of Panama, known for its picturesque landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Nestled along the coastline, it serves as a gateway to the stunning Bocas del Toro archipelago, attracting visitors with its tropical climate and lush surroundings. The town features a mix of Afro-Caribbean and indigenous cultures, which is reflected in its customs, music, and culinary offerings.

Almirante is also an important port town, facilitating trade and transportation to nearby islands.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Almirante
morning
:

Start your day with a traditional Panamanian breakfast at a local café, followed by a visit to the Almirante Market to experience the vibrant local culture.

afternoon
:

Take a boat tour to the nearby islands, where you can relax on the beaches and explore the lush tropical forests.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a waterfront restaurant, savoring fresh seafood while watching the sunset over the Caribbean Sea.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure Awaits
morning
:

Visit the local botanical garden to discover the diverse flora of the region and learn about medicinal plants.

afternoon
:

Join a guided hike through the nearby rainforest, where you can spot exotic wildlife and enjoy the natural beauty.

evening
:

Experience Almirante's nightlife by visiting local bars for live music and a taste of the local rum.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Local Restaurant$10
🏨Budget Hotel Night$30
🚕Taxi Ride (Short Distance)$5
Coffee$2
🍺Local Beer$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural beauty with access to pristine beaches and islands.
  • Rich cultural experiences through local festivals and cuisine.
  • Friendly locals who are welcoming to tourists.
  • Limited luxury accommodations and amenities.
  • Public transportation may not be as reliable as in larger cities.
  • Language barriers may arise for non-Spanish speakers.
  • "Hola" - Hello
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "¿Dónde está...?" - Where is...?
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in Almirante

Visit one of these nice places.

Cayo Zapatilla

A stunning uninhabited island with pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, perfect for capturing breathtaking coastal landscapes.

Isla Bastimentos National Marine Park

This park features diverse marine life and lush mangroves, offering unique photography opportunities for nature enthusiasts.

Almirante Harbor

The harbor provides picturesque views of fishing boats and the surrounding hills, ideal for capturing the essence of local life.

Culinary Guide

Food in Almirante

Almirante offers a rich culinary landscape influenced by Caribbean flavors and traditional Panamanian cuisine, making it a delightful destination for food lovers.

Almirante Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Rondon

A hearty stew made with fish, coconut milk, and spices, traditionally served with plantains.

Must-Try!

Patacones

Fried green plantains served as a crunchy side dish, often topped with various toppings like guacamole or ceviche.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Almirante Market

A bustling market where locals sell fresh produce, seafood, and street food, perfect for experiencing the local flavor.

Climate Guide

Weather

Almirante experiences a tropical climate characterized by high humidity and warm temperatures year-round. The dry season, from December to April, sees minimal rainfall and sunny days, while the rainy season, from May to November, brings afternoon showers. Average temperatures range from 75°F to 90°F (24°C to 32°C), with the warmest months being March and April.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly handshake with eye contact is common; greetings are important in establishing rapport.

Dress Code

Casual, comfortable clothing is acceptable, but avoid overly revealing attire, especially in rural areas.

Respect for Elders

Showing respect to elders is crucial in Panamanian culture; it's customary to greet them first in a group.

Safety Guide

Safety

Almirante is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night, keep valuables secure, and stay aware of your surroundings. It's advisable to use reputable transportation services and to avoid displaying expensive items in public.

Tipping in Almirante

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip around 10% in restaurants if service is not included, while rounding up for taxi drivers is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Many establishments accept credit cards, but it's advisable to carry cash for smaller vendors and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (December - April)

Expect sunny weather with low humidity, making it perfect for outdoor activities and beach visits.

Rainy Season (May - November)

Rain showers are common, often in the afternoon, providing a lush landscape but also requiring flexible plans.

Carnival Season (February)

Experience vibrant celebrations with parades and music, showcasing local culture and traditions.

Hurricane Season (June - November)

While hurricanes are rare, it’s important to stay informed about weather updates during this period.

Nightlife Guide

Almirante at Night

Almirante has a lively nightlife scene with various bars and clubs offering live music, dancing, and local drinks. The waterfront bars are particularly popular, providing a relaxed atmosphere to enjoy the evening. Live reggae and salsa music are common, showcasing the local culture and inviting visitors to join in the fun.

Hiking in Almirante

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sendero La Loma

A scenic trail that takes you through lush rainforests, offering views of the surrounding landscape and opportunities to spot wildlife.

Cerro Brujo

A challenging hike that rewards adventurers with panoramic views of Almirante and the Caribbean Sea from its summit.

Airports

How to reach Almirante by plane.

Bocas del Toro International Airport (BOC)

Located about 30 minutes from Almirante by boat, this airport serves domestic flights and connects the region to Panama City and other destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Almirante is relatively walkable, especially in the town center where most amenities are located close to each other. Sidewalks are available but can be uneven in some areas. Exploring on foot allows visitors to appreciate the local architecture and interactions with residents.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Indigenous Peoples

The Ngäbe-Buglé people are one of the main indigenous groups in the region, contributing to the cultural diversity and traditions of Almirante.

Afro-Caribbean Community

This vibrant community has a rich cultural heritage, influencing music, food, and local festivals throughout Almirante.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is widely popular in Almirante, with local teams playing in community leagues and matches drawing enthusiastic crowds.

Surfing

The nearby beaches are known for great surfing conditions, attracting both novice and experienced surfers to the waves.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Almirante is generally light, with most travel done by foot, bike, or small vehicles. Public transportation options include shared taxis and buses, which are inexpensive and accessible. However, during peak hours, roads can become congested, especially near the market area.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Almirante.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask about specific ingredients.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options may be limited, so it's best to inquire with the restaurant staff.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Almirante are basic, with a small hospital and clinics available for minor health issues. For serious conditions, it's advisable to travel to nearby cities like Bocas Town or David, which offer more comprehensive medical services. Travelers should carry health insurance and consider having a basic first-aid kit.

Discover Panama

Read more in our Panama 2025 Travel Guide.

Panama Travel Guide