Private Tour
A Bocas Mangrove Kayak & Reef Snorkel Eco Tour
Overview
Available languages
4 hours
Mobile ticket
Join me, biologist ecotour guide @stacebird, on a late afternoon paddle out of Isla Colón's Saigon Bay. We'll explore various tropical ecosystems & learn their vital importance to heathy oceans & our planet's future. We'll have opportunities to see sloths, an array of tropical birds, perhaps even monkeys.
We'll paddle out of Saigon Bay for a snorkeling adventure. We will go slow, taking in the rich complexity of the coral reef as I point out & identify marine species & fascinating reef life behavior.
We'll "hop" back into the kayaks; upper body strength is necessary for the this part of the excursion. If guests choose to forego snorkeling, we still can still see the beauty of the reef as we glide over it on our kayaks.
We'll paddle onward through peaceful bays canals while learning about the vital importance of mangrove ecosystems while keeping an eye out for wildlife.
Additional Info
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
We'll enjoy a long but leisurely kayak and snorkel ecotour out of Bocas del Toro's beautiful Saigon Bay here on the main island, Isla Colón. This ecotour is designed to be an educational experience on the tropical ecology and conservation of the various different marine ecosystems of Bocas del Toro. Together, we'll explore marine seagrass beds, beautiful coral reef & complex mangrove forest ecosystems. We'll discuss how and why their conservation is vital to maintain healthy oceans and a healthy planet overall. We'll get back into the kayaks & head out of the bay to find beautiful, peaceful canals and a cathedral-like mangrove tunnel. We will keep an eye out for the commonly encountered three-toed sloth, a variety of tropical birds & perhaps the howler monkey troop will be nearby!
What‘s Included
Kayak rentals are included in the price of the tour.
Mask & Snorkels are available.
Binoculars Provided
Be sure to bring plenty of water, I will bring extra in case it's needed.
Options
Bocas Biodiversity: A Birds & Wildlife EcoTour Experience
Reviews
9 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
The meeting place was from...
Markus L,Mar 17, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00The meeting point was only a few minutes walk from my accommodation and easy to find; partly because of the clear instructions. On site Stacey was already ready to leave, her SUP and my kayak were already waiting for us in the water and so it could start straight away. Less than 500m further we went into the water: In addition to the expected corals, sea cucumbers, a barracuda, rays, the reef gave us a variety of different, colorful fish, an octopus, a small group of squid and much more. Afterwards we went into the mangroves and Stacey could tell not only about the underwater world but also about the animals on land and in the air. Of course, the obligatory sloth shouldn’t be missing either and so we watched it for a little while at dinner before we went back during sunset. I liked the fact that it was a personal tour, not a group tour. This gives Stacey the opportunity to adapt to the needs, to take her time individually.
An incredible tour!
Tracey D,Mar 9, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Stacey was such a wonderful guide and so knowledgeable about all things mangrove, reef, birdlife, ecosystems as well as the local indigenous culture. I would highly recommend this tour to anyone and everyone.
Educational, Beautiful & Rewarding!
Michael C,Feb 21, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00We spent an afternoon with Stacey and learned all about the mangroves and surrounding ecosystem. It was amazing to have a real-life biologist not only identify various coral life, birds and plants, but also explain how they function with each other. And best of all, we saw 5 different sloths, including a mama with its baby!
Fantastic Tour!
Kathryn H,Jan 31, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Stacey was a very knowledgeable and passionate guide and shared a wealth of information with us. We kayaked and snorkelled and she took us to secluded areas that we never would have found on our own. She has a true love of nature and it shows!
Ecotourism at its best
Isaac L,Nov 9, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I’ve participated in ecotourism in several different Latin American countries now, and I keep looking back to Stacey Hollis as the gold standard. She’s always thinking about the big picture, how it’s all fitting together, and sharing that in accessible language, even as she spots and points out details that you’d probably miss. Her intelligence, passion, and commitment to the local Indigenous and Afro-Caribbean population is clear just about from the moment that you meet her. She’s also just fun to spend time with! Bocas is not exactly an ecotourism magnet, but while you are here, don’t miss out—Stacey is a hidden gem.
An amazing experience in Bocas!
alexcQ5576RD,Oct 7, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00My sister and I signed up for the Bocas Biodiversity tour with Stacey and it was by far our favourite thing we did during our visit! Stacey is an incredible guide (and wonderful human!) and it was marvellous to find out so much about the local ecosystem from someone who clearly cares so much about protecting it. We kicked off the tour by snorkelling around a mangrove, learning about the native species and how mangroves house baby fish, helping to preserve the fish population in the region. It was incredible to be able to point out an interesting plant or creature and have someone right next to you who could tell you exactly what it was and how it supports the local ecosystem! Then we ventured further afield in the kayaks, observed countless species of bird migrating from North America, and went sloth spotting in the trees that lined the river. We managed to see five sloths in total, which Stacey assured us was not typical but certainly made for a magical time for us! I cannot recommend Stacey or this tour enough, and would sign up again in a heartbeat when next in Bocas Del Toro.
Awesome day with Stacie!
105jeremym,Oct 6, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We did a full day with Stacie and it was definitely one of the best days in panama. Stacie was super knowledgeable about the birds and all the ocean critters. She was easy to talk to and taught us a lot about the wildlife and history of the area. It was so much fun kayaking and snorkeling around Isla Colon, like hanging out with a friend for the day!
Magical experience
deeannem2025,Oct 4, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Stacey is a fantastic and knowledgeable guide! Not only is she an expert on local wildlife and ecosystems but she is passionate about the community and shared information on the history and culture of the area. She was very gracious about accommodating me for some last minute changes as well. Both my friend and I considered her tours the highlight of our time in Panama. Highly recommend!
Passionate and knowledgeable guide! Highly recommend
Paradise52790872123,Oct 1, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Stacey was so knowledgeable and we had such a great time! She took us out to this beautiful location, was able to point out many kinds of wildlife. She could answer so many questions about the flora and fauna. We got very lucky and were able to see four sloths, including two that were extremely close. We were able to snorkel in a coral reef which had so many different kinds of starfish, coral, tropical fish, shrimp. The tour was physically active - as you are swimming and kayaking, but the pace was chill, and I never felt rushed. Stacey helped us take some really nice photos, and messaged us beforehand and was able to answer our questions. We feel lucky that our guide was able to share her passion for biodiversity with us.
Related Experiences
Operated by Bocas Biodiversity: Birding & Wildlife Ecotours