Puerto Viejo is a vibrant village in the province of Limón, located on Costa Rica’s stunning Caribbean coast. Known for its beautiful beaches and lush jungle surroundings, Puerto Viejo is a part of the country’s rich natural heritage. The village offers a unique blend of Afro-Caribbean culture, reggae music, and delicious cuisine. Its diverse ecosystem includes pristine coral reefs, making it an excellent spot for snorkeling and diving. Visitors can also explore the nearby Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge, which is home to a variety of exotic wildlife and plants.
Bocas del Toro is an enchanting archipelago located on the Caribbean coast of Panama, close to the border with Costa Rica. This picturesque region is renowned for its pristine beaches, lush vegetation, and vibrant marine life. Bocas Town, situated on Isla Colón, is the main hub of the archipelago, offering everything visitors need, from supermarkets and hotels to restaurants and lively bars.
The area is historically significant, with clapboard houses originally built by the United Fruit Company in the early 20th century, now forming a relaxed community of West Indians, Latinos, and expatriates. Bocas del Toro captivates visitors with its unbeatable vegetation, including humid forests, jungles, mangroves, and swamps. This biodiversity hotspot is ideal for snorkeling and scuba diving, with its clear waters teeming with colorful marine life. The San San Pond Sak wetland is also a notable RAMSAR site, crucial for the nesting of marine turtles and home to numerous mangrove species.
Cultural diversity is a hallmark of Bocas del Toro, where indigenous Ngäbe communities live harmoniously alongside Afro-Antilleans and people from various ethnic backgrounds. The island’s laid-back atmosphere and Caribbean charm make it an irresistible destination for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re island hopping, exploring the marine reserves, or enjoying the vibrant nightlife, Bocas del Toro offers a unique and memorable experience.
