Isla Solarte was formerly known as ‘Cayo Nancy’ or ‘Nancy’s Cay’ and is located just 2 km from the town of Bocas. The island is very small and covers just 8 square km. The name ‘Nancy’ came from the local fruit ‘nances’ which was found in abundance on the island.
The island has a rich historical significance as it served as the headquarters of the Colombian Conservative Forces during the time of the Thousand Days War in which they attacked the liberal forces who were stationed at Isla Bastimentos. Before that, the island was also a popular spot for pirates, traders, and foreigners who settled here.
The island does not have perfect sandy beaches like others as most of the shore is lined with thick and wild mangroves. However, the coral around the island is amazing, making it one of the best spots to snorkel and dive.
Hospital Point
The United Fruit Company built a hospital in 1900 to isolate patients who had yellow fever and malaria as they did not know at the time that the diseases were transmitted by mosquitoes and not through human contact. The tropics are known for their huge insect population and mosquitoes especially; this was the reason most workers of the company were affected and why the hospital was built by the company. The hospital was later decommissioned and moved to Almirante.
Today, Hospital Point serves as one of the best dive spots in the entire Bocas archipelago. Most of the dive tours from other islands in the area include Hospital Point. The sea wall begins at three meters from the surface and extends up to twenty meters underwater and is a spot rich in marine life. The turtle grass and lettuce coral break their natural course to accommodate this wall. You can find eels, lobster, trumpet fish, king crabs, turtles, and lionfish in addition to the famous coral and sea sponges. With its rich marine life, this unique location has become a very popular spot. However, there might be reduced visibility as the freshwater joins the sea near here.
Diving and Snorkeling
Given its rich marine ecosystem, the island is a famous spot for diving and snorkeling expeditions. Several visitors have remarked that Isla Solarte has the best coral.
Coral Garden
It is also known as Grandma’s Garden and is located just near the island. The coral here is very healthy and vibrant, making it a great spot for snorkeling. During the right season, you can spot green sea turtles and hawksbill. Several varieties of fish and rays are also found here.
Native Community
The island is home to around two hundred members of the Ngobe community, who survive on fishing. They do not have access to electricity or telephone and live life the old way. The Ngobes are Panama’s largest indigenous group. You can also make arrangements to visit the villages and observe their ancient way of life and traditions.
Getting There
Isla Solarte can be easily accessed by water taxis from Bocas Town, Isla Colon, or Isla Bastimentos. To get to the resorts from Bocas, you might have to pay more as they lie on the far side of the island.
Stay and Food
There are just a few options available here to stay as it is a popular day trip and not many people choose to stay overnight. If you are planning a day trip, then make sure you carry food and drinks as there are no restaurants here. Only the stays offer food for guests.
- Bambuda Lodge: One of the best budget resorts in the entire archipelago, it is set amidst a thick rainforest with views of the coral. There is a pool that sits on a slope as well as a water slide that takes you from reception and lands you directly into the ocean! Apart from private rooms, dorms are also available. Around the place, you will find a fruit garden with mango and custard apple trees as well as beautiful hiking trails in every direction. You will be provided set meals; there is an open bar as well.
- Garden of Eden: As the name suggests, the resort is secluded and cocooned by mangroves with panoramic views of the waters. Guests get free kayaking sessions and can self-serve drinks. There is also a very small white sand beach near the resort. There is an in-house restaurant as well that mostly serves native cuisine.
- Blue Coconut: This resto-bar is located on an island of its own. The massive decks have hammocks and beach chairs where you can relax and soak in the sun. The best part about this place is that the waters here are crystal clear and perfectly blue. You can easily see the floor of the sea and its marine life. The waters are not too deep and you can simply wade in.
Nearby Attractions
Bocas Town
Bocas Town is the capital of the Bocas del Toro archipelago. Although it doesn’t offer many attractions, it serves as the best base for you to explore the entire archipelago. The town has the best nightlife in the area; the streets are filled with bars and clubs offering the best deals on alcohol and amazing parties. You can party from sundown to sunrise! The botanical farm here is also a must-visit place as it houses rich tropical flora and fauna.
Isla San Cristobal
Isla San Cristobal is a small island untouched by commercialization and is home to the native community of Ngobes. Laguna Bocatorito or Dolphin’s Bay is the main attraction of this island. In the perfect blue waters, you can spot bottlenose dolphins and other marine species as well. You can also visit the indigenous Ngobes and learn about their lifestyle and culture.
Isla Bastimentos
It has beautiful beaches like Red Frog Beach, Wizard Beach, and Playa Larga. The island has a rich and never-ending tropical forest through which you have to hike to get around the island. You can spot several tropical birds and animals. The marine park located here was the first in Panama and protects a vast area of land and sea; you can spot exotic species of terrestrial and marine life here.
Isla Carenero
A beautiful, secluded and laid back island where you can relax and refresh, sipping cocktails by the Caribbean. There are some good stays here that are either on the waterfront or directly above the water. A good spot for forest hiking as well.
What’s Nearby?
