Making the most of Isla de Coiba
Use these notes to shape a realistic day ashore, then confirm any time-sensitive information for the date of your call.
Arriving at the port
Cruise vessels cannot dock here, so passengers are brought ashore by tender.
Coiba remains an operating penal colony, so visitors need permission before going to the island. Apply through the Directorate of Penal Correction and the National Environmental Authority. The island has retained a very primitive character, which is much of its appeal, with few services or places to stay.
The journey to Isla Coiba is worth making. Its unpopulated beaches are covered in fine, powdery white sand and serve as nesting grounds for sea turtles between April and October. If you want somewhere untouched by modern tourism, consider pristine Isla Coiba and the Coiba National Park there. You will be rewarded with exceptional natural scenery, abundant wildlife and rich marine life.
Food and shopping
Artesian markets are the cheapest place to buy traditional Panamanian crafts. In Panama City, Balboa’s market is the leading choice, closely followed by Panama Viejo market. Panama’s most famous craft is the mola, a detailed reverse-applique work made by the Kuna. Buy molas at either craft market or from sellers along Casco Viejo’s seawall.
Money
Panama’s currencies are the Balboa and US Dollar. The balboa has exactly the same value as the US dollar; in practice, Balboas exist only as coins matching US coins.
Staying connected
Spanish is official. English is spoken by 14%; many Panamanians are bilingual.
Opening Hours and
Opening times vary, but most shops trade Monday to Sunday from 9:00 am to 6:00 p.m., with some continuing until 10:00 p.m.