Coiba Island Panama - Travel Guide
- Lago Bay
- Jul 9
- 24 min read
Updated: Jul 17
Coiba Island, Panama is relatively new on the world's best list of diving and snorkeling options. It is just getting started as a tourism destination.
Located in central Pacific Panama, Coiba has only be available to the public during the last 20 years. Because it was a prison colony for decades prior to being established as a national park, Coiba is unspoiled from any kind of development.
The Coiba National Park includes 38 islands apart from the main island of Coiba. Isla Coiba is the largest island in Central America. In all, the park consists of 2,701 square kilometers or slightly over 667,000 acres.
So it's big and unspoiled...but...
What makes Coiba Island so special?
Coiba is often described as the 'Galapagos' of Panama. That's a very interesting and accurate comparison. Thousands of years ago Coiba and Galapagos were joined. Shifts in tectonic plates sent Coiba further to the North. Although their land masses are no longer joined above water. They are still interconnected below water.
The Eastern Tropical Pacific Marine Corridor
There are four major island parks that are all a part of the Eastern Tropical Pacific Marine Corridor. These islands include: Cocos Island in Costa Rica, Coiba Island in Panama, Malpelo Island in Colombia and Galapagos Archipelago in Ecuador — all part of the Eastern Tropical Pacific Marine Corridor (CMAR).
Their importance is made clear by all four having the title of UNESCO marine World Heritage Sites. Coiba also serves as a hub for scientific research and conservation, thanks to institutions like Coiba AIP, which lead ongoing efforts to study and protect the park's unique ecosystems.
All four of these park areas have some of their own unique endemic species, however, all four share an amazing number of commonalities due to their underwater connectivity.
These island chains are all linked by underwater volcanic rock formations with a complex system of marine currents.
The Largest Coral Reefs in the Region
The convergence of these currents helps to disperse marine larvae from a variety of species like crustaceans, mollusks, tropical fish and corals. It also influences migrations of regional species such as whales, birds, turtles, sharks and tuna. Seasonal oceanographic processes create specific and important marine habitat for an impressive variety of species. That translates into some incredible world-class diving sites.
The largest coral formations in this corridor are at Coiba National Park. With around 1,700 ha of reef divers and snorkelers will find some rich biodiversity on their visit. On the east side of Coiba Island, you'll find Bahia Damas.
This reef alone is around 135 hectares (335 acres) Coral reefs in the Eastern Pacific are usually found at shallow depths of 30 feet and less. Because Coiba has the biggest and most well-developed coral system in the region, divers have plenty of variation of types and depths. At Coiba, you'll be able to see marine life that you can't find anywhere else in the world.
How to Get to Coiba Island, Panama
With all of the incredible attributes of Coiba National Park and with all of the wildlife to encounter it's time to figure out how to get this stunning park on your Panama Itinerary. Panama is a small country, but even so... Coiba is somewhat remote. Santa Catalina is the most popular town to start your Coiba tour.
The drive from Panama City to Santa Catalina takes anywhere from 6 to 8 hours. If your Panama itinerary isn't that flexible, there is good news. Getting to Coiba National Park has become much easier just in the last year. There are now charter flights to Lago Bay just outside of Santa Catalina. From Panama City, you can get there in just 45 minutes.
To find out more about available charter flights to Lago Bay Airstrip visit here.
Panama City - Santa Catalina
To reach Coiba National Park, most travelers start their journey from Panama City to Santa Catalina. The options below show the main ways to get from Panama City to the coast. From Santa Catalina, you must take a boat or book a guided tour to access the island, as Coiba is only reachable by sea.
Transport | Travel Time | Price |
Charter Flight to Lago Bay | 45 min flight | From $875 (3 passenger) |
Hired Car | 7–8 hrs | $300 per leg |
Rental Car | 7-8 hrs drive | $40-80/day |
Bus to Santa Catalina | 8-9 hrs | $15-20 |
Your Coiba Tour Pack
The best way to experience Coiba is with our Coiba Tour Pack.
This option includes everything you need: boat, certified guide, lunch, snorkel gear, and your park entrance — all taken care of. It’s flexible, reliable, and built to make your day on the island unforgettable. Whether you're diving, snorkeling or just exploring, this is the most complete and stress-free way to do it.
What to Expect on a Coiba Tour
Now that you have an idea of what makes Coiba National Park so unique; and what you might expect to see both above and below water, you might be trying to decide if you'd prefer to go on a snorkel tour or dive tour. You might also be wondering about costs, what to bring, what to expect on the tours etc. Let's get started:
Park Check-in & Permit
We can start with commonalities of both dive and snorkel tours: Most tour agencies will ask you to fill out a general form. Checking in the day before the tour is advised in order to at least pick up your form and confirm for the following day. To access the park, you'll need a park permit.
The fee is $20 for visitors and $5 for Panamanians and residents. The tour group will always get this for you, but it's good to know that you're supporting the park.
What to Bring
For your tour, it's recommended that you pack some sunscreen, sandals, take a tight fitting hat (wind on the boat) and have a dry bag where you can store any electronics and your passport (you'll need it for park ranger check in). If you plan on taking one of the hikes you'll also need some walking shoes and bug repellent.
If you have an extra hungry or thirsty group, it's a good idea to bring snacks and extra beverages. You can take a cooler or the boat crew can usually put cold products on ice in one of their coolers.
Equipment for Diving & Snorkeling
For diving or snorkel equipment, you are welcome to bring your own or the tour company will provide whatever equipment you need...included in the price. With divers, a wet suit is important.
Temperatures near the surface are always warm, but the fluctuations below in some of the currents are impressive. Even from site to site this can widely vary from pleasant to bone-chilling cold.
Captain and Guide
All tours come with experienced guides. Usually there are two in the crew, the captain and the guide. Many times for diving, there can be more in the crew...especially if it's for multiple days. Nowadays, the pangas (local-style tour boats) also all come with canvas tops to help protect you from the sun. The boats always have enough life jackets for everyone on board.
The Boat Ride
The boat ride to the park from Santa Catalina is slightly over an hour. The ride can be very calm and live up to its name (Pacific) or, at times, you can feel like you're getting pounded. Sitting towards the back of the boat really helps on a rough day if you're not into that full experience.
Lunch Choices
Lunch is similar for most Coiba diving and snorkeling tours as well. All guides offer lunch included that is usually a choice of fish, chicken, veggie or vegan. You can always expect some seasonal fresh fruit and plenty of water.
If you want different beverages, the crew can always pack it in with their coolers or you are welcome to bring your own. If you have a hungry group, you may want to also pack snacks. Either water activity burns plenty of calories.
Best Time of Year to Visit
You're going to see incredible marine life any time of the year...but seeing a certain preferred creature is really mostly a matter of luck. However, dry season (December-March) is when whale sharks are more frequently spotted. Whale season (June-October) is also popular. You'll also tend to have a better chance to see dolphins on the boat ride during these months.
Dive Tour Costs
Diving can be two or three tanks/dives depending on your appetite. Two tanks is usually around $150/person. The additional cost for a third tank is usually around $20/person. The park fee of $20 (non residents) is an additional cost.
Snorkel Tour Costs
Your snorkel tour is usually $65-75 per person. When you add the park fee, you're still under $100 per person. To see a wonder like Coiba National Park with a full day of guided adventure...you're doing pretty good!
Land Tour Tips
If you would like to spend more time hiking the trails or hanging near one of the beaches it's good to note that you'll have an advantage if you sign up with a snorkel tour. Not only are your costs lower, but the boats are usually more flexible. Dive boats with all of the equipment and resources are usually focused on...diving. Snorkeling boats can accommodate more options.
Private Tour Boats
If you have a group of 6 or more... or you just want to go at your own pace, opting for a private boat may also be a good choice. That gives your tour the most flexibility and with plenty of people, the costs work out to about the same. Birders may want this option to get to more specific birding locations.
The prison tour is another likely reason. Also for the occasional die hard surfers, the Southern end of Coiba Island has some incredible waves. If you are in communication with Lago Bay, ask them to help...or just get in contact with one of the tour groups directly for details.
Age Restrictions
The dive shops don't offer tours for children. Snorkel tours are fine for kids two years and up. For seniors, the only restrictions are based on an adventurous spirit.
First-Time Divers or Snorkelers
For divers, multiple dive shops offer Classes for Certification. Coiba Dive Center, for example, offers the following: $550 for certification process. Two days of diving: 2 dives/day + one lesson-based session (all with personal instructor)18m depth limit (around 60 feet) Your four dives vary from 36 possible dive sites.lunch and snacks both days with all equipment included.
Currents & Visibility
Fair warning, Coiba is not the docile Caribbean. There are plenty of underwater currents that can be unpleasant if you aren't prepared to 'go with the flow'. Divers have many options on sites that are geared towards less experienced to very challenging. Once company is aware of everyone's experience level, the captain can figure out the best strategy for the group.
Underwater currents also apply to the snorkel groups (although much less). In both cases, the boat will gauge the best route so that you dive or float with the current and arrive at the boat when you're finishing up.Visibility can also vary greatly. Conditions can be great one day and challenging the next.
This can also be the case from one dive site to another on the same day. Luckily tour operators communicate among each other and help to find the best visibility for their groups.
Popular Stops in Coiba National Park
Your first stop will usually be on or around Isla Canales. Pristine white beaches and relative calm water and location make this area a natural first stop...
Where is Lunch?
Depending on your guides, your group will usually have lunch on Coiba Island at the Ranger Station or nearby on Rancheria Island...
Final Thoughts
Even after going to Coiba for many years, the experiences are always unique... Hopefully after all of the information, you're ready to put Coiba National Park on your Panama travel itinerary.
Ready to Make the Most of Your Trip?
Book your Coiba Tour Pack directly through Lago Bay and focus on what really matters: seeing whale sharks, swimming with turtles, and getting that once-in-a-lifetime feeling of being out there... surrounded by raw nature.
✅ Choose your tour style – Day tour with snorkeling, diving, or even sport fishing — you decide what kind of adventure you want.
✅ Charter flight to Lago Bay – Skip the 8-hour drive and arrive in just 45 minutes, landing minutes from the launch point.
✅ Stay at Lago Bay – Spacious, fully equipped homes surrounded by nature. Private, peaceful, and just 10 minutes from the boat.
Marine Life that makes Coiba spectacular
The following is a short list of some of the main marine life attractions at Coiba National Park. There is a good chance that these are some of the animals that you'll encounter on your visit to Coiba:
🐋 Humpback Whales
From June to October it's Humpback time at Coiba. For Marine Life at Coiba National Park the Humpback whales are perhaps the most incredible spectacle that you may encounter. These majestic creatures migrate thousands of miles from the cold polar regions until they reach destinations like Coiba for warmer waters for mating and having their offspring. Coiba has become an important breeding ground for the Humpback.
Humpback whales, both male and female, have a difficult mating ritual. It's called the 'heat run', which is basically a fierce competition where various males chase a female jostling and fighting for a dominant position.
Males often get injured as a result of the competition which involves ramming and slapping competitors. On a more romantic note, the males also use songs that are very individualized in order to attract females. There is a lot of work involved in both mating rituals and at the end of the feat, males usually shuffle off to find other companions.
Preganancy usually lasts for 11 months. The female will then stay with her calf for about a year. Females choose different mates every few years fro a new heat run...and the cycle begins again.
Outside of mating seasons, humpback whales are usually very gentle and playful. If you hear one underwater, you'll never forget not only the variety and complexity of their songs, but also the incredible reverberations. These sounds not only contribute to communication among whales, but also spatial awareness.
Humpback whales grow up to 60 feet and can weigh upwards of 80,000 pounds. You may witness a whale leap out of the water in a breach. They may follow up with a tail slap or some other show of playfulness. Scientists still haven't figured out why whales do this.
Humpback whales have baleen plates which act as a sieve... instead of teeth. Their diet consists of mostly krill and small fish. These giant creatures live a long life of 80 to 90 years.
If you're lucky enough to encounter a whale during your visit to Coiba, you're sure to witness a nature experience that is both profound and inspiring.
🦈 Whale Sharks
Perhaps the biggest tourist draw underwater at Coiba National Park is the whale shark. If whale sharks happen to be on your bucket list aspirations, it's recommend that you plan your visit to Coiba sometime between December and April. The whale shark is the largest fish in the world. If you notice the tail...its vertical. It also has gills. It may look like a whale...but at the end of the day it classifies as a big toothless shark.
Whale sharks are known for their docile behavior even though they reach lengths of over 40 feet (with a reported maximum length of 59 feet) and weigh around 20 tons. They inhabit all tropical oceans, preferring water temperatures above 70°F, and are known to dive to great depths (over 3,000 feet).
Whale sharks are migratory by nature. They migrate long distances, sometimes thousands of miles, in search of food They are filter feeders that primarily eat zooplankton, phytoplankton, mollusks, and fish They follow plankton blooms that are ever changing with currents and water temperature.
Whale sharks are slow swimmers, averaging around 3 miles per hour. As they glide through the water, they continually filter out the water and filter in their food.
One striking physical characteristic of the whale sharks is their spots. These spots form patterns that act as a sort of unique fingerprint for every whale shark.
Whale sharks are fairly elusive and mysterious when it comes to mating. Rituals are practically unknown due to the depths that the whale sharks apparently go to get some privacy. Some facts, however, are well documented.
Unlike many fish, whale sharks have internal fertilization. The male's sperm fertilizes the female's eggs inside of her body as opposed to externally like most. Then, she gives birth to live young as opposed to laying eggs. Unlike most creatures on our list of spectacular wildlife, the whale shark female is typically significantly larger than the male. Amazingly, Whale sharks are believed to live for over 100 years. Hopefully you'll encounter a whale shark on your visit to Coiba National Park.
🐢 Sea Turtles
It's almost certain that you'll encounter a sea turtle during one of your dives at Coiba. There are several types of sea turtles that you're likely to see including: green, hawksbill, leatherback, olive ridley, and loggerhead.
They can often be found grazing near the corral eating seagrass and sponges. They are facinating creatures that have been around for over 100 million years. There is something very wise and 'zen' about a sea turtle. If you do see one, take some time to watch how they hold their breath. It could be an inspiration to snorkel down deeper or better conserve your air in your tank.
The best of the divers of sea turtles is the leatherback. These guys are capable of reaching depths of up to 4,200 feet. It's good that they can hold their breath for up to an hour and 25 minutes.
If you have ever observed a sea turtle that appears to be crying..you're not imaging things. Sea turtles have special glands near their eyes that help them to excrete salt water. This gives the impression of crying.
Sea turtles migrate long distances between their feeding and nesting grounds. The leatherback wins this title as well. Sometimes leatherbacks migrate distances up to 10,000 miles.
Coiba serves as an important breeding ground for a great many sea turtles. Luckily there are several beaches in which the turtles nest undisturbed. At night, female turtles spend several hours digging nests in the sand with their flippers. They deposit up to 200 eggs, and then return to the ocean. Interestingly, the temperature of the sand where the eggs are buried determines the sex of the baby turtles.
Warmer temperatures equate to more females. After 45-75 days, the tiny baby turtles break out of their eggs and start scurrying towards the ocean. These guys work hard but it's a game of numbers and chance. Luckily many of the turtles make it to start the cycle again.
Sea turtles have a long lifespan with many living over 80 years.
🐬 Spinner Dolphins
Spinner Dolphins are another crowd pleaser at Coiba. Often times these guys swim up to your tour boat and give a short performance. They live up to their names often leaping and spinning around. Dolphins in general spend most of their lives playing.
The Spinner is a prime example.
Spinner dophins are very social animals living in large pods. They exhibit complex social structures that shows incredible intelligence. They have high communication skills with over 1,000 different vocalizaitons that mostly involve whistles and clicks.
Coiba National Park serves as an ideal habitat for Spinner Dolphins with its abundant supply of fish and safe breeding grounds. These guys feed primarily on small fish and squid and hunt in a coordinated fashion as a team.
Unlike most creatures, dolphins don't have a particular mating season. They engage in playtime for most of their waking life and that includes the brief but frequent ritual of mating. When females do have their calves, they are usually responsible for nurturing the young dolphin. This is a long process which lasts from 18 to 24 months.
The way in which dolphins sleep is intriguing. A dolphin will swim using half of its brain while the other half sleeps...then switch. This is known as Unihemispheric Slow-Wave Sleep. Becasue they have a support system with the other members of the pod...this sleeping method is relatively safe.
Spinner dolphins live a good life. Their lifespans are usually around 50 years
and much of that time is spent...playing.
🐠 Other Spectacular Marine Creatures
There are so many more creatures that you may encounter at Coiba. The park has 33 species of sharks and almost 800 species of other fish including rays such as eagle, manta and sting. The giant lobsters are impressive. There are also many eels and urchins. Hopefully our short list of spectacular marine creatures has been motivating enough to get you out and explore your own list of incredible ocean encounters.
Exploring the Island: Coiba on Land
Hiking Coiba
Your experience at Coiba National Park will most probably focus on the marine life. The under-water experience is certainly the most popular. But, if you're a landlubber, Coiba National Park is also a wonder to explore hiking.
The Terrestrial Wildlife at Coiba National Park
For wildlife enthusiasts the dense forests of Coiba have an incredible variety of flora and fauna. Well over 1,000 species of trees and plants cover the islands with hundreds of terrestrial animals including: 42 mammal, 35 reptile, and 147 bird species. Much of the wildlife is found only at Coiba National Park.
Trails at Coiba
There are several well marked trails on Coiba that are great opportunities to find a variety of terrestrial wildlife. The three that are the most accessible are:
Hot Springs Trail
This trail is located on the SouthWestern end of Coiba Island. It's bordered by primary forest to the South and mangroves to the North. It's a relatively flat walk of about 750 meters that takes you through some great wildlife territory. At the end of the trail are thermal springs where you can relax before the hike back.
The Gambute Peak Trail
Just to the side of the Ranger's Station this is a short but steep trail. It has an amazing panoramic view of Coiba Island facing to the North.
The Monkey Trail
Also near the Ranger station is the longer path of Monkey Trail. The hike is approximately 1 kilometer but is much flatter than the Gambute Peak Trail. As the name suggests, you're highly likely to encounter Capuchin or Howler monkeys.
Howler Monkey
Once you get near the Ranger station... if you're not looking for monkeys you'll almost always hear some. The Howlers got their name because...they're noisy.
These primates are most known for their deep and loud 'howls' that travel through the jungle up to three miles. Usually the males are howling the most in order to mark their territory. They usually do the most during the early morning hours or around dusk.
One clear benefit that the Howler Monkeys contribute to the park system is seed dispersal. The monkeys spend most of their day moving through the dense jungle canopy eating the fruits and vegetation and leaving behind many seeds in the process. The forest is naturally propagated as a result which contributes to the health and diversity of the many trees and plants.
Howler monkeys are daytime animals that are very social within their 'troop', but tend to be very territorial. They use their long tails like a fifth limb in order to balance, grab branches and even hold their entire body weight. These guys have a lifespan of 15 to 20 years. The Coiba Howler Monkey is a subspecies that...you guessed it...only is found on Coiba.
White-faced Capuchin Monkey
The other type of monkey that you'll probably come across if you choose one of the wildlife trails is the Capuchin Monkey. They are easy to identify with their white chest and face contrasted with their black body.
They get their name, 'Capuchin' from the fur around their heads as it resembles the hoods worn by the Capuchin friars from the Franciscan order. Although you're more likely to cross paths with a group of Howlers, the Capuchin troops are definitely worth seeking out.
Like the Howlers, a dominant male leads the troop maintaining territory on the island.
Capuchin monkeys, however, have a more complicated social structures than the Howlers. Their diverse vocalizations have a broader range of communication. They usually have about double the numbers in their group (up to 40). Their high intelligence supports use of tools for a variety of tasks.
They can be found using sticks to flush out insects or stones to crack nuts. Interestingly, they are known to use certain kinds of plants as bug repellent. Capuchin monkeys are graceful, agile and...curious.
Coiba Agouti
The Coiba Agouti is also an endemic species to the island. At the Ranger station you can usually spot one and might think that you just came across a capybara. Like capybaras, agoutis are also rodents. Although they look very similar, agoutis are smaller and live in small familes or in pairs. Agoutis spend much of their youth alone...but when they do mate, it's for life.
Like squirrels and chipmunks, they can be found hiding food in various places. Burying seeds helps with seed dispersal so the agouti is considered a vital part of the ecosystem helping the propagation of a vast array of plants and trees. They are fast and agile and are excellent jumpers and swimmers. They have a keen sense of smell and hearing and if startled they can quickly get to their burrow to hide from potential danger. An Coiba Agouti lifespan is up to 20 years.
The Crested Eagle
Crested Eagles are rarely seen on Panama's mainland. Coiba is one of the few places where you can catch a glimpse. Similar in appearance to the Harpy Eagle, it is also known for its large size and agility. It gets its name from the impressive crest of feathers on its head that can be raised or lowered, giving this bird quite an imposing presence.
Crested Eagles can grow up to 35 inches long, with a wingspan up to 69 inches, and weigh up to 6.6 pounds. These eagles have primarily dark coloring with a white throat. They also have a distinctive mask across their eyes and a dark spot on their crest.
The lifespan of the Crested Eagle is anywhere from 20 to 30 years. Crested Eagles mate for life, usually raises their young every other year. The juveniles are typically dependent on their parents for up to 16 months.
The Crested Eagle is classified as 'near threatened' because of habitat loss. Coiba, with most of the island as primary forest, is still a thriving environment for the Crested Eagle.
Scarlet Macaw
With its vibrant red, blue and yellow plumage, the scarlet macaw is a grand prize for birdwatchers and most any nature enthusiasts visiting Coiba. This signature parrot is one of the most intelligent in the bird kingdom. It's estimated that Scarlet Macaws have an intelligence similar to a 4-8 year-old child.
They can mimic sounds and even learn a broad range of words (up to 50). These parrots have good memories and have problem-solving skills. They are able to learn a variety of puzzles...even those that may require some tools. One striking example is their ability to pick locks.
The Scarlet Macaws is also very social and have a good spectrum of communication within their flock. They use specific calls to identity one another. They are also able to learn skills from fellow members of the flock. Their spacial awareness is excellent as is navigation and foraging capacity.
The Scarlet Macaw breeds for life. They engage in behaviors like mutual preening and bill caressing to strengthen their pair bond. Typically they lay their eggs every other year in the hollows of trees high above ground.
Scarlet Macaws are some of the largest parrots reaching 33 inches of height. Their beaks are incredibly strong in order to crack nuts and assist in climbing. They also eat a variety of fruit, seeds, and some small insects and snails. Interestenly, this parrot also consumes clay. It's believed that certain clays help to neutralize toxins found in seeds and unripened fruit.
They must be doing something right... the Scarlet Macaw lives up to 90 years. A truly amazing creature! Although their vibrant colors stand out...in the jungle canopy, the same red, blue and yellow coloring acts as a camouflage. If you're lucky, you can spot a Scarlet Macaw on your visit to Coiba National Park.
Coiba Island Iguana
Another animal found on Coiba with striking colors is the Coiba Island Iguana. With vibrant greens and various shades of brown, this reptile is able to blend into its surroundings. Another distinctive physical characteristic is the spines that run along its back, giving the Coiba Island Iguana the look of a small dinosaur.
The Coiba Island Iguana can be found in many of the park habitats. They are often found in rocky terrain but also are commonly spotted in the mangroves or even on the beach. They like to bask in the sun in order to regulate their temperature...which makes it easier to spot one on the island. The Coiba Iguana has a primarily vegetarian diet consisting of flowers, leaves and fruits but will occasional add a bug or two to their menu.
The males are much larger (sometimes as much as double) than the females. When it's mating time, the male can be seen bobbing its head up and down trying to win the female's affection. Bites on the neck and tongue flicking are also parts of their mating ritual. Afterwards, the female will travel to communal nesting sites laying up to 30 eggs in her 'clutch'. The Coiba Island Iguana has a typical lifespan of around 12 years.
American Crocodiles
If you ask your guide to point out an American Crocodile while on your Coiba adventure... chances are that you're in luck. There are several points on Coiba Island and Rancharia Island where these huge reptiles are chilling with a warm smile.
The mangroves, often near river mouths are where you'll find the American Crocodile. Here they are the apex predator. Males are typically larger than females with lengths of 13 to 16 feet and weigh around 880 pounds on average. The American Crocodile,however, can reach up to 20 feet and over 2,000 pounds. The largest American crocodile ever recorded was 7 meters (23 feet) long.
The American Crocodile plays an important role in controlling the population of other species on the island. Their diet consists mainly of fish, birds, turtles and small mammals, helping to maintain the health of the ecosystem. They usually live to be 75 years old and some living past 100.
One interesting fact of the crocodile is that they can continuously regenerate lost teeth throughout their lives. Like alligators, they also have the famous 'death roll' that when they latch on to their prey...usually results in removing a limb or whatever they happen to have clasped in their powerful jaws.
Unlike their alligator cousins, the American Crocodile can tolerate saltwater. This is due to a specialized salt gland on their tongue. These animals are considered ancient and are often called 'living dinosaurs' because their makeup hasn't changed much for millions of years. Luckily they are fairly timid and don't like much interaction with humans.
Tito is an exception. Crocodile Tito, the Ranger's mascot, can be found in the estuary near the Ranger's station where you sign in. If Tito isn't around, it's very likely that you can spot a close cousin on a stop to Rancheria Island. Just ask the guide.
The Dark History: Coiba Island as a Prison Colony
Another option for a land experience is to explore the dark history of Coiba Island. There are several tour operators that will include the ruins of the prison in your tour. The old prison is found on the East side of the main island of Coiba.
Coiba's History as a prison colony
Probably the single most important turn of events for Coiba Island for its lasting preservation is the fact that in 1919, Coiba was turned into a penal colony by the Panamanian government. It became the world's second largest island prison (after Australia).
The most dangerous criminals were sent off to the most feared prison system in the country. The penal colony had a terrible reputation that kept locals far away from its shores. Torture, murder and gang violence were prevalent.
Rumors of death kept Coiba pristine from encroachment. Estimates of 300 murders are noted by many historians that have researched the issue. The penal colony was divided into a prison and various agricultural camps.
The prison, on the East side of the island had horrible conditions. Some of the cells had a tendency to fill with water and provide an element of torture. Constant violence among Panama's most notorious gang members also fostered an element of torture.
The guards handled 30 camps. 3,000 inmates was the approximate number at the height of the island's criminal population. Most of the camps had a degree of freedom to roam about the island and clash in the form of tribal groups.
Rumors of guards killing prisoners were also common. The prisoners that were killed were referred to as the 'disappeared' who usually ended up in unmarked graves.
Many among the disappeared were political prisoners during the dictatorships that came during later years. Most notably were those during the years of Manuel Noriega (Pineapple face). With harsh conditions and so many sharks and crocodiles around the island, Chances of escape were very slim.
Although a dark history, the tale has a great ending. The net result of creating a prison colony at Coiba was that over 80% of the islands primary forest has been preserved. The agricultural camps had both produce and cattle ranching on the island, but the activity was always relatively low as far as environmental impact.
In 1991, the Panamanina government created plans to convert the notorious prison into a national marine park. Coiba prison was phased out over the next 13 years. In 2004, the last inmate was released.
What Remains Today?
Coiba remained intact with its wealth of distinct flora and fauna. One year later in 2005, Coiba National Park was dubbed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In total, 39 islands (Coiba plus 38 smaller islands) and 377,064 hectares of marine area was included in the total area of protection. From the most notorious remote island prison to the #1 dive and snorkel tourism attraction in Panama, Coiba Island has come a long way.
Stay at Lago Bay: The Smart Base for Your Coiba Tour
Located just outside of Santa Catalina, Lago Bay has recently opened its airstrip to support tourism to Coiba National Park. The setting at Lago Bay is filled with its own species of wildlife that is highly accessible on short walks just outside its vacation homes.
The Mangrove Black Hawk, alligators, parrots, herons, cranes and iguanas are always present. Nature walks along the beach are certain encounters for the Magnificent Frigate, Brown Pelicans and a variety of sea birds. At Lago Bay, there are four distinct habitats...all on short walks on well manicured trails: grasslands, beach, lake system and mangroves.
To find out more about available charter flights to Lago Bay Airstrip visit here
To see the Lago Bay selection of vacation houses available visit here
Lago Bay can help you and your group organize ground logistics if you decide to fly in. Supply services for your vacation home is also available. Lago Bay will also organize the best selection of tour operators for you Coiba National Park excursion. The tour launches from the town of Santa Catalina which is 10-15 minutes from Lago Bay.
Santa Catalina #1 Surfing in Panama
Today in the small town of Santa Catalina, business is booming. Santa Catalina has a variety of restaurants and activities that make for a great combination with your Coiba tour. Santa Catalina has gone through its own changes of being a remote fishing village until the discovery of the best wave in Panama.
Due to rock formations channeling a consistent and powerful wave to its 'Point', Santa Catalina is considered the best surfing destination in the country. After being 'discovered' by the international surfing circuit in the 90's it slowly developed into an expat village with several former champions as residents.
When an asphalt road was built in 2004 in conjunction with the prison becoming a park, Santa Catalina was able to boast the best of two major tourism attractions. Santa Catalina has the best surfing wave in Panama.
It is also the best launching town for the Coiba National Park. #1 in both surfing and diving? That's quite a change of events! Read about Santa Catalina's transition here.
Ready for your Coiba Island Dive or Snorkel Tour?
Regardless of whether you decide to drive in or take advantage of a charter flight, a Lago Bay vacation home is a good option. Santa Catalina is the best launching site for the islands, but can get slightly crowded these days with backpackers coming in to surf. Lago Bay has created a nature sanctuary surrounding modern, spacious and comfortable homes complete with fully equipped kitchens, grill, plenty of living and dining space and ample bedrooms. All with plenty of privacy.
'Lago' means lake in Spanish. Lago Bay has a beautiful lake system that attracts an incredible variety of birds. With thousands of food producing trees in Lago Bay's orchids and well manicured gardens, there is an abundance of flora and fauna to complement your Coiba National Park experience.
Coiba was incredible. We arrived in Santa Catalina via the Lago Bay airstrip. The next day, we went to Coiba and saw dolphins, whales, and sharks. We highly recommend it.