Bocas Guru

Your Private Travel Guide to
Bocas del Toro

The Bocas Guru is a bespoke travel & tour guidance and concierge service to help you make your experience in Bocas unique, unforgettable and authentic.

Hola, I'm
Ariel Stephenson,
the Bocas Guru

I am originally from Bocas del Toro and left the islands when I was 17 to embark on a career in the hospitality industry. I have over 25 years’ industry experience spanning work on cruise ships, in food & beverage, as well as in 5* hotels, primarily based in London, where I lived for over 18 years.

Customer service and guest experience is my passion. Throughout my career, I have strived to ensure that travellers and guests have a unique and unforgettable experience tailored to their needs, wherever in the world that might be. Now I have the opportunity to do this in my home country and home community.

Bocas del Toro is a slice of paradise in the Panamanian Caribbean

But it can be a difficult place to navigate. Having honest advice, guidance and support from someone with strong local knowledge and connections, who understands local customs and who is a consummate industry professional who knows how to meet guests’ needs and exceed expectations, can take your trip from average to being a visit of a lifetime.

This is where the Bocas Guru comes in!

How we can
help you

We work directly with and provide a variety of services to Travellers, Groups, Travel Agencies and Local Accommodations.

Airport pick up & luggage storage

We will meet you at the airport or at the water taxi station to greet you and ensure your smooth arrival to Bocas! Safe and secure luggage storage is also available.

Bocas orientation

Learn the dos and don'ts, about the local culture, customs & traditions, and emergency contact information.

Recommending & organising excursions & adventures!

The Bocas Guru can put together an unforgettable day, tailored to your tastes. We prioritise working with companies that promote sustainable practices and community led projects.

Trip planning

Bocas del Toro is a complex travel destination, let us simplify it for you by helping to plan the boring stuff - your trip logistics! We'll help with arrivals to & departures from Bocas, as well as onward travel.

Private guiding

Hire us as your professional, local guide for all aspects of your adventure in the islands. Our local knowledge will ensure you have an authentic experience and get to know the real Bocas.

Let's plan an exceptional trip

Get in touch with us for more information and to find out how we can work with you to take the stress out of your travel arrangements – so you can lie back and truly enjoy all that our slice of paradise has to offer.