Gypsea Tours opened its tour operations in october 1999 under the auspices of the Sustainable Land Stewardship Institute. We researched the area and planned our tours with much pleasure and great energy since October 1997, and we are confident that they will be an enjoyable experience for people who enjoy nature tours. We love Bocas and we delight in sharing its marvels with others. We realize that you should carefully investigate any tour company you are entrusting with your precious vacation days. Thus, we encourage you to contact Gypsea Tours via the Institute, and we will be happy to answer all of your questions. Come back to this site for updated schedules and information. By the end of the year, you will be able to subscribe to our electronic newsletter, which will automatically send you short, timely updates.
General: Located a half hour boat ride from the mainland, and an hour flight from Panama City, the archipelago consists of six large islands and many smaller ones. The town of Bocas del Toro on Isla Colon, where most residents live, is the commercial center for the islands, and where our tours of the archipelago are based.
History: Bocas possesses a history that sets it apart from any other area in theCaribbean. The legacy of the bananeros acquires a particular fascination when observed through the lens of today's sleepy small town. At the height of banana production early this century, the town of Bocas del Toro had a population of over 20,000 people, while today fewer than 4,000 local residents live here. Many of the Caribbean-style wooden structures from that era, albeit a bit weathered, are still standing today.
As an afternoon alternative to natural exploration, Gypsea offers an historical interlude: A leisurely walking tour of historical structures in the town, during which you will learn about Bocas' heyday as the commercial center for Central America. Although unique, Bocas' history in many ways reflects the colonial past of the Caribbean as a whole.
Jungle Hikes: Hiking is always available as an alternate activity for those who prefer. Our group schedule also includes a hike on Bastimentos, home of the Parque Nacional de Bastimentos. This day hike will take us from our accomodations through jungle and farmland to a secluded beach, where we will spend the remainder of the afternoon relaxing and savoring freshly prepared delights.
Snorkeling: Among the many snorkeling opportunities on these islands we include at least two snorkeling outings in each week-long tour. For those who dive, gear rentals are available through local dive shops.
Hospital Point: Located at the northern end of Solarte, Hospital Point is so named for the hospital that was there in the early part of this century. To see this lush undeveloped island today it is difficult to imagine it as a hospital. The waters surrounding the point are home to some of the most spectacular coral gardens in the area, and countless varieties of brilliantly colored fish. Snorkeling among these exquisite creatures is a truly magnificent experience.
Bocas Del Drago is located at the northern end of Isla Colon, Bocas' main island. After paddling a couple hours along the mangrove shores of the island, we reach Bocas del Drago, where we snorkel among fish and coral, relax on white sandy shores and savor the day's catch offered at the thatch roof, open-air restaurant next to the beach.
Food: You will be kept well fueled for all these activities with delectable local cuisine prepared by the area's best cooks. Our seafood fare is accompanied by traditional plantain, rice, beans and yucca dishes. When we eat 'in' there is always fresh locally grown greens, however not all restaurants offer fresh vegetables consistently. In any event, every meal will include a yummy Caribbean-style alternative for vegetarians.
Lodging: Our different accommodations are located no more than a stone's throw from the sea, and some nights you will be staying on the water in pole-construction cabanas. Nothing compares to falling asleep to the gentle sounds of lapping water under the floor. When camping, we will stay in simple thatch-roofed rancho structures where we sleep comfortably in hammocks.
Tour Dates: Oct. 24 (7, 10, & 14 days options)
Prices Per Person*
(US Dollars)7 days 10 days 14 days $995.00 $1200.00 $1500.00 * This prices does not include air fare to Panama Extended stay options: $30/day, double accommodation - lodging only
Interior and Pacific Coast tours: Contact us for a custom planned trip
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Our trips are kept small, and they fill up rapidly. Before Making your reservation online, please contact us to ensure that we have space.
