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Urraca Private Island Eco Resort – Bocas del Toro, Panama

Urraca Private Island Eco Resort – Bocas del Toro, Panama

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Monkey Island Tours

Can't stay at our lodge during your visit to Bocas del Toro? We would still love to see you! Visit our tours website to learn about Monkey Island Tours Monkey Island Tours

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TripAdvisor Reviews

star rating  This Little private Island was for us as close to paradise as you can get. The whole experience was just wonderful. Booking was easy with Francine, she organized a water... read more taxi for us and we left the “normal world behind” to spend a few great days on this little patch of mangroves. The huts are basic, but lovingly decorated and very clean - The view spectacular! Francine is an amazing woman and a wonderful host, she takes care of everything and make sure everybody is happy. She rescued a number of monkeys who also live on the island and are very friendly. Of course, she knows tons about them!
She can also organize a variety of day tours, we chose spearfishing with indigenous fishermen and a trip to the bat cave. Both were great. We wished we had more time to stay longer and enjoy more!
You can also swim, snorkel or kayak around the island, just from the deck of your hut.
The food was also just wonderful, nice choices and very fresh seafood of course. You have to try the lobster!
Make sure you stay a few days to fully enjoy the place.

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JG-Bayern
May 4, 2020

star rating  This place's location was very intriguing and it claimed to have monkeys, so we had to go check it out. Yes, very remote from Bocas del Toro (about 45... read more minutes on a speed boat), but the trip there was wonderful as we were able to see the the beautiful never ending landscape and the ocean. Upon arrival, Francine's warm welcome made us feel right at home as soon as we stepped off the boat. We were promptly greeted by Gigi, an 11-moth old howler monkey. We were startled for a second, but it was all good because we didn't expect to see a loose monkey. She was extremely friendly and calm. Francine then showed us where she kept her other monkeys and that was very interesting. They were all kept behind these very large cages because some of them would cause major chaos if let out on this island, so she had a monkey bridge built connected to one of the cages and those monkeys can choose to be free in a separate island at any time they choose. The other 2 cages don't lead to anywhere, but are kept very clean. She only lets those out when she doesn't have guests because some of them could temperamental or would simply steal items from the guests rooms. Anyhow, after visiting this place, we understand how and why she runs the place. You should ask her about it. Quite an achievement,... This place's location was very intriguing and it claimed to have monkeys, so we had to go check it out.
Yes, very remote from Bocas del Toro (about 45 minutes on a speed boat), but the trip there was wonderful as we were able to see the the beautiful never ending landscape and the ocean.
Upon arrival, Francine's warm welcome made us feel right at home as soon as we stepped off the boat. We were promptly greeted by Gigi, an 11-moth old howler monkey. We were startled for a second, but it was all good because we didn't expect to see a loose monkey. She was extremely friendly and calm. Francine then showed us where she kept her other monkeys and that was very interesting. They were all kept behind these very large cages because some of them would cause major chaos if let out on this island, so she had a monkey bridge built connected to one of the cages and those monkeys can choose to be free in a separate island at any time they choose. The other 2 cages don't lead to anywhere, but are kept very clean. She only lets those out when she doesn't have guests because some of them could temperamental or would simply steal items from the guests rooms. Anyhow, after visiting this place, we understand how and why she runs the place. You should ask her about it. Quite an achievement, if you asked me.
The island itself has many locations for relaxation and the food is very good. Perfect proportions. I don't know how. I eat a lot, but whatever food served for each meal, was enough to hold me off until the next one. The price is on a higher side, say, an American metropolitan city price range. Understandable since it costs a lot to maintain the place, which has no concrete, everything is natural (she's big on energy and flow), employees, foods, etc, and all that came by boat!!!! We were there for 3 nights, so full 4 days of relaxing. We didn't even go anywhere because we were so content with everything there and just focused on relaxing.
This place is an eco lodge, so everything is as eco friendly as it comes, meaning, don't expect your usual hotel amenities. I.e. AC and high pressure shower. There is a fan by the bed. If you are a hot sleeper, get either the honeymoon suite or the family room, because those unites receive very nice sea breeze. The 4 standard bungalows don't receive that breeze because it is blocked by the mangrove, so it could get hot if you are a hot sleeper. The standard bungalows have their own shower and toilet, and the walls are made of bamboo fence. No one really can see you in details, only silhouette. And since the place is extremely quiet , some people might be self conscious with making bathroom noises. Fear not, as there are 2 large detached bathrooms that you will give you the privacy you seek.
The bungalows are just right above the water so you can go swimming at any time of the day. As a matter of fact, there are little access ladders to the water everywhere.
Francine has practically everything and if she doesn't, she might be able to help you get it by next day since she has a captain that makes daily visits to her.
Don't be afraid of the monkeys because Francine only lets out the ones that are used to interacting with the visitors and she will tell you what to do or what not to do. Just follow her instructions and all will be fine.
She rescues these monkeys, and we were lucky that we were there when she received a 2 weeks old bay howler monkey. She let us hold him and it was the best experience in my life! I must go back to visit baby Odi!!!
Anything you need, ask Francine. Don't give low rating to this place because she couldn't guess what you expected or wanted. Always ask. Francine is a very gentle and helpful person.
In summary: go to this place if you are looking to relax and actually interact with monkeys (who are all vaccinated) like you've only dreamed of. And this place is good for people over 16 who are respectful of people and nature. Not good for small kids (mostly unfenced areas). More

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dietrickm2015
May 21, 2022

star rating  We had such a lovely experience at Urraca. Francine is a dream. It is incredible how much she's able to do. She is really charming and a lovely host. The... read more mangrove island was wonderful. I fell in love with Mika. If you are somewhat adventurous, this place is incredible.

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theo922
May 5, 2020
Urraca Private Island Eco Resort – Bocas del Toro, Panama,
 

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