Set out at sea Urraca Private Island is located in the calmest, most pristine area of the Bocas del Toro archipelago, on the northern Caribbean coast of Panama. Only 30 minutes away by boat from Isla Colon you will find this secluded paradise.
An adults-only eco lodge on a mangrove island with no actual land, where every structure is built on stilts over the water, connected by docks. Suspended over turquoise crystal clear waters, you will be able to spot amazing wildlife everywhere you turn. Our close proximity to mangrove forests, seagrass meadows, and coral reefs will allow you to easily explore different ecosystems.
Enjoy breathtaking views of the famous Zapatilla Cays, two idyllic islands located right in front of Urraca, and just minutes away by boat. Between Zapatilla Cays and our island there’s a barrier reef that provides us with calm waters, similar to a lagoon, but in the middle of the sea; this translates into mirror-like ocean reflections of beautiful sunrises and sunsets year round. At night the island is surrounded by bioluminescent waters under star-filled skies.
Francine, the French Canadian owner, built Urraca Private Island with a love for nature. She wishes to share her passion for the environment and the monkeys with those who come visit the island. She also wishes to give back to the land, and the native Ngäbe by providing jobs for them and letting them be a part of her dream. Her dream is to live a simple life with nothing other than her beloved monkeys, a plate of fresh lobster and a cold glass of rum.
Welcome to this amazing experience!
ECO-TOURISM, SUSTAINABILITY, AND MORE…
We strive to provide meaningful experiences in a sustainable way. We do so through eco-friendly practices that look after the environment, help decrease our carbon footprint, and benefit the local Ngäbe community.
The island is 100% powered by solar panels, and docks are illuminated by solar lights. Our fresh water resources are collected through a rain catchment system. To avoid the use of plastic only stainless steel straws are available, and we provide guests with unlimited drinking water in reusable glass bottles. To conserve our resources bedding and towels are changed upon request.
Structures were designed to harmoniously blend in with the landscape, while maximizing natural ventilation. Great care was taken to maintain the lush vegetation of the island intact. Red mangroves are what make this island a nursery of life…for all the beauty they gift us and their benefits for the environment, more than our duty, it’s our pleasure to look after them.
Our staff on site is composed by indigenous women from the local Ngäbe village. All our seafood and seasonal fruits are bought directly from Ngäbe fishermen and farmers. All new structures and improvements are done by workers from the village. We have created a variety of tours and activities that involve our neighbors in a meaningful way; providing them with not only economic empowerment, but also a glimpse into the many benefits and opportunities eco-tourism can bring to the area and their community.
