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Crossing from Costa Rica to Panama: The easy way to reach Bocas del Toro 

From Puerto Viejo to Sixaola

Crossing the border from Puerto Viejo de Talamanca to Bocas del Toro is easier than it looks. The whole journey can be done with public transport, and once you know the steps, it’s actually a pretty straightforward and affordable travel day.

The adventure begins in Puerto Viejo, where you’ll catch a MEPE bus heading to Sixaola, the border town separating Costa Rica and Panama. Tickets can be purchased at the station or directly on the bus, and it costs $3 USD. As the road winds through banana plantations and tropical scenery, you’ll soon arrive at what looks like the end of the road.

Paying Costa Rica’s Exit Tax

From the bus stop, simply walk towards the border bridge. Before crossing, you’ll find a small office where you must pay Costa Rica’s exit tax. The fee is $8 USD and can be paid in cash or by card. If you use a card, you’ll need to scan a QR code and complete the payment on your phone.

Crossing the Border Bridge

With that done, it’s time to cross the famous Sixaola Bridge. The walk only takes a few minutes, but it’s a unique feeling knowing that halfway across you’re literally between two countries. Beneath you flows the Sixaola River, marking the border between Costa Rica and Panama.

At the Panamanian side of the bridge, military officers may ask to see your passport before letting you continue. Once through, you’ll immediately notice people offering taxis and shuttles to Bocas del Toro. Don’t feel pressured to decide right away.

First, head to immigration.

Panama Immigration & Entry Fee

The immigration office is located below the bridge area. If you can’t spot it, don’t worry, there are always travellers, locals, and border staff around who can point you in the right direction.

Present your passport and keep proof of onward travel handy. They don’t always ask for it, but it’s worth being prepared because it is mandatory.

After receiving your entry stamp, you’ll need to pay Panama’s entry fee, another $8 USD. The payment office is a short walk away, up a set of stairs from the immigration building. This fee is usually paid in cash.

Getting to Bocas del Toro

Now comes the final part: reaching Bocas del Toro.

Most travellers take a shuttle, usually advertised for around $10 USD. Prices can often be negotiated, especially if several travellers are heading in the same direction.

For those travelling on a budget, the public transport option is surprisingly simple. Near the border, just across a small bridge beside a supermarket, you’ll find the bus stop for Changuinola. The ride costs only $1 USD.

Once at the terminal in Changuinola, cross the road and look for the bus to Almirante, which costs around $2 USD. Tell the driver you’re heading to Bocas del Toro and they’ll let you know when to get off at the stop known as “Lanchas“.

The Boat to Isla Colón

From there, it’s a short walk to the boat docks. Several companies operate boats to Isla Colón, the main island of Bocas del Toro. One of the most popular is Transportes Valencia, which offers open round-trip tickets for around $10 USD.

Before you know it, you’ll be cruising across the bay towards Bocas del Toro, watching the mainland disappear behind you as palm trees, colourful houses, and Caribbean waters come into view.

And just like that, you’ve crossed an international border using local transport, spent very little money, and added a small adventure to your trip.

Suivez-moi sur @maria.oriol pour plus de conseils de voyage et d’aventures réelles.