Taboga Island Panama

This is a small group of Pacific Islands located just off the west coast of Panama City and can be reached in approximately one hour by boat from the City. Isla Taboga at 571 hectares is the largest island, and is known as the “Island of Flowers” by its inhabitants. The fragrance of Hibiscus, Oleander and Jasmine permeates throughout this region.

It is a popular weekend destination for residents of Panama City who are looking to enjoy the slower pace of island life, the flowers, the beaches, and the water sports. Taboga has its own area of protected rain forest and is home to one of the largest breeding colonies of brown pelicans in the world.

These Panamanian islands original name was “Aboga”, which means “an abundance of fish”. Taboga became a very important location, as it was frequently used as a loading and unloading port, in particular for the North American and English fleets which used the islands of Panama as a base for their operations.

Modes of Transportation

In this oasis of tranquility there are no cars, and tropical flowers are the only ones jostling for position. However, there are well maintained paths, many of which are lined with colorful orchids in a variety of colors; this is most evident on the main path which runs parallel along the beach front. Small eateries and grocery stores line the main path where you can purchase soft drinks and a variety of food dishes. The roads are narrow, and were not designed to accommodate automobiles; therefore, there are very few vehicles to mention.

Taboga’s Interesting Attractions

Some of these islands interesting attractions are the Church of San Pedro, Museum, and altar honoring the Christ of Buga, which contains a small garden exhibiting a profusion of flowers in different colors and species.

On the Backside of the island lies the Taboga Island Wildlife Reserve, containing various species of sea birds that use the island as a refuge for their reproduction during the months of December-July.

Also in Taboga, Panama there are beautiful beaches of cool, crystal clear waters and soft sands and a green mountain rising out of the sea. On this beautiful island in Panama, it is not uncommon to see humpbacks during August to October when migrating whales can be seen from the shores. Kayaking, swimming, snorkeling and scuba diving can be enjoyed.

Tourism Has Become a Hugh Commodity

Taboga a quaint but beautiful Town, is a huge tourist attraction. It is the perfect place for those visitors who enjoy engaging in long strolls, visiting magnificent flower gardens, swimming or sun bathing in one of its crystal clear beaches, hiking or simply enjoying the tranquility and sheer beauty of its nature. Tourism has become such an enormous commodity in Panama that in 2003 it was considered the country’s top revenue earner.