About

Bambuda Lodge: Jungle vibes, big pool and the legendary ocean slide
Voted Best Hostel in Panama at the Hoscars!
Welcome to Bambuda Lodge, a tropical escape surrounded by jungle and ocean in Bocas del Toro. Just minutes from town, we offer the perfect balance between a social hostel atmosphere and a peaceful island retreat.
We are best known for our signature experience, a 150 foot waterslide that goes straight from the bar into the ocean. One ride and you will understand why guests extend their stay.

What you will love here
• 150 foot bar to ocean waterslide
• Large swimming pool with sun loungers
• Coral reef right off the dock for snorkeling
• Kayaks available to explore nearby islands
• Lush rainforest setting with private jungle trails
• On site bar and restaurant
• Multiple hangout areas with incredible sunset views
Our property sits on acres of tropical jungle with more than 30 types of fruit trees including mango, pineapple, banana, lemon and breadfruit. Nature is everywhere and hiking trails start right behind the lodge.

Location and transportation
Bambuda Lodge is located on Solarte Island. The only way to arrive is by a short 7 minute water taxi ride from Isla Colón.
Water taxis run throughout the day and night and we can easily arrange transportation anywhere in the islands. Trips to town typically cost between $5 and $10 per person depending on the time and group size. Scheduled boats leave hourly from 7 AM to 11 PM.

Food and drinks
Due to our jungle location, there are no other restaurants or stores within walking distance and we do not have a guest kitchen. Outside food is not permitted.
Our full restaurant and bar serves breakfast, lunch and dinner daily, plus cold drinks all day long.
Every night at 7:30 PM we host our legendary family dinner. It is a great way to meet other travelers and enjoy a fresh, home style meal together. Please order before 5:45 PM so we can prepare everything on time.

Tours and activities
We can help organize all activities in the area including island hopping, snorkeling, diving, surfing, transportation and local tours.

Good to know
Reception hours 7:30 AM to 10:30 PM
Late arrivals please contact us in advance
Check in from 3:00 PM
Check out by 11:00 AM
Payment by cash or credit card with 3 percent fee
Taxes not included 10 percent
Breakfast $9 unless included
Guests must be 16 or older and 18 or older for dorms
72 hour cancellation policy unless otherwise stated
A temporary hold (preauthorisation, not a real charge) equal to the first night’s rate plus taxes will be placed as a security deposit prior to your arrival.

House Rules

Check In

15:00 - 22:00

Check Out

until 11:00

  • Taxes Not Included
View House Rules

Facilities

  • Free WiFi
  • Free Internet Access
  • Free Luggage Storage
  • Luggage Storage
  • Tours/Travel Desk
  • Housekeeping
  • Reception (limited hours)
  • Internet access
View all facilities

Reviews

8.6Fabulous(1740)
  • Value for Money
    8.0
  • Security
    9.4
  • Atmosphere
    8.8
  • Cleanliness
    8.4
  • Staff
    9.5
  • Location
    8.2
  • Facilities
    8.2
Summary of traveller reviews

Bambuda Lodge in Bocas Del Toro offers a fantastic social atmosphere with friendly staff and volunteers who make guests feel welcome. Enjoy the beautiful jungle setting, pool, and fun activities like the waterslide. While some rooms can be hot and there's no kitchen, it's a great place for travellers seeking relaxation and connection.

Stayed in Jul 2026
8.3
M
Molly
Female, 18-24, England
Loved this hostel!! So beautiful and felt like I was staying at a fancy hotel not a hostel! Staff were so lovely and made an effort to learn your name. Couldn’t fault the staff at all. Constuction going on rn so not as aesthetic as usual. Only thing to note is family dinners are super expensive. You’re looking at least $15 for one dish. Food was nice and dinner was social but food and drinks add up quick here as it’s your only option!
Stayed in Jun 2026
10
N
Nicole
Female, 18-24, USA
10/10, one of my favorite hostels I’ve ever stayed in. My only regret was not staying longer. Everything you need to enjoy the islands is right there, from daily hikes to paddle boards, snorkeling equipment, an awesome pool, the reef just off of the dock, etc. The staff is kind, family dinner was tasty and trivia was so fun. The only thing to note was that there wasn’t air conditioning which was a bit hard for us, but totally the vibe of the place. Just be prepared. Also so much wildlife around!
Stayed in Jun 2026
9.4
A
Aaron
Male, 25-30, England
Lots of construction, when it’s finished I’m sure it will be amazing. Slide is scary!
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Location

Isla Solarte, Bocas del Toro, Panama
3.6km from city centre