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 organise 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(1749)
  • Value for Money
    8.1
  • Security
    9.1
  • Atmosphere
    8.8
  • Cleanliness
    8.4
  • Staff
    9.1
  • Location
    8.3
  • Facilities
    8.3
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 Sept 2026
10
E
Emily
Female, 18-24, Australia
Probably my favourite hostel in CA. Feels more like a hotel; food was so so good although dinner could be slightly cheaper as there is no other option for food. Pool was amazing, tours were good and well organised. Staff were incredible, they all knew your name after one day. Rooms were a bit hot but 2 fans per bed plus one on the ceiling was fine. Would definitely rebook
Stayed in Aug 2026
9.4
D
Danielle
Couple, 25-30, USA
We stayed in the Mambuta Suite- GORGEOUS.We loved being able to lounge on our back porch and enjoy the humming birds and all the wildlife. The staff is the highlight of this hostel, Melanie, Jesus, Melissa and Sheri were absolutely wonderful!! Every meal is well planned out and the handcrafted drinks are delicious! Before you leave Bocas town, get more cash than you think you’ll need for the boat taxis and aventures! STAY AWAY from Gambit tours and book Everything with Cesar At + 507 6516-7785
Stayed in Jul 2026
8.0
I
Isabella
Female, 18-24, Peru
Very good experience, nice and beautiful view, a little far away, but if you go it's to relax !!
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Location

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