The Caribbean islands of Panama’s Bocas del Toro resisted the advance of large scale tourism development even before it was fashionable to do so. A relaxed, low-key destination devoid of resorts and high-rise hotels, Bocas is a magnet for naturalists and hikers and is now becoming one of Panama’s key eco-tourism hot spots.

We can incorporate a two-night stay at ‘Punta Caracol Acqua-lodge’, an Eco tourism initiative with superlative credentials, on the island of Colón in the Bocas del Toro archipelago, as part of our tailor-made 15-night Highlights of Panama holiday, departures available throughout the year.

Punta Caracol ‘acqua-lodge’ comprises nine exclusive cabins set over the clear waters of the Caribbean, along a mile of coral reefed coast off the Bocas del Toro archipelago. Each of five handsomely crafted cabins utilising native woods and plants, clays, leafs, bamboo, wild cane natural building materials, is built upon stilts which support a wooden frame over the water and is covered by a palm leaf roof.

From the terrace of each room guests enjoy impressive sunsets interrupted occasionally only by playful dolphins. The lodge combines ancient construction techniques with the most advanced alternative energy systems such as photo-voltaic panels in the restaurant and all suites, gas cooling in all refrigerators and freezers, as well as a waste-water purifying system using state-of-the-art aerobic bio-digestion systems. Land activities include day tours to visit the numerous islands of the archipelago and visits to native Indian villages, natural history tours where highlights include Sloth and the endemic Red Frog. On and under the water, dive or snorkel the local reefs or spend some time fishing for your supper.

The holiday costs from £1,995p/p including scheduled flights from London (BA/AA), 15-nights accommodation with breakfast, some other meals, transfers, boat tours and other guided activities. The itinerary also includes Panama City, the Canopy Tower in Soberania NP, Lago Gatun, La Amistad National Park and Bastimentos National Marine Park.