About the island
Discover our Panama island retreat: natural harmony and sustainable elegance, all in one.
An enchanting tropical island with bungalows built on stilts above the Caribbean water.
Located in a pristine and secluded area of the Bocas del Toro archipelago on the northern coast of Panama, Urraca Island is accessible via a 35-minute boat ride from Isla Colón.
Discover hidden gems as you wander through Urraca Island, from mangroves to picturesque swings over the water and a hammock-therapy terrace with panoramic views. The private island offers multi-use decks for sunbathing, yoga, and more, as well as a shallow natural pool with a volleyball net. The dining area can be customized for events, and there’s even a lobster garden where you can catch your own dinner.
As night falls, Urraca transforms into a magical realm with bioluminescent waters glowing under star-filled skies, a phenomenon that can only be experienced a few days per year, before and after the new moon.
Just minutes away by boat, the stunning Cayo Zapatilla Islands await, offering pristine beaches and some of the clearest water in the Caribbean.
Urraca Monkey Island
Founded in 2011, Urraca Monkey Island is popular among travelers looking for adventure and a deep connection with nature.
Our friendly Eco Resort honors Mother Earth by being one of the few fully autonomous resorts in the area, and we actively foster partnerships with the local Ngäbe community in all our operations.
Sustainability
We prioritize ecotourism and sustainable living, striving to protect the environment and support our neighboring Ngäbe community.
The island is 100% powered by solar energy, and freshwater is collected through a rainwater harvesting system, significantly reducing our carbon footprint. We avoid plastic use, provide unlimited drinking water in reusable glass bottles, and change bedding and towels upon request.
By staying with us, you also help decrease your carbon footprint and contribute to our sustainable efforts.
Local craftsmanship and natural harmony
We focus on ecotourism and sustainable practices, aiming to protect the environment while supporting our neighboring Ngäbe community.
Our Mission & Values
At Urraca Island, our goal is to connect our guests with nature through a full immersion in the biodiversity that surrounds the island, creating unforgettable memories.
We inspire people to discover a unique and enchanting private island, providing a serene and peaceful retreat for those seeking tranquility.
Our Eco Lodge
Our buildings blend harmoniously with the landscape and are built using local timber. We maintain the island’s lush vegetation, with red mangroves that provide numerous environmental benefits.
Inspired by traditional Ngäbe architecture, the local Indigenous community built the resort with love. The rustic décor and furnishings celebrate the island’s natural beauty. Everything on this island is authentic and handmade locally.
Our Biodiversity
We are deeply committed to preserving the biodiversity of Urraca Monkey Island. Our vibrant red mangroves, the very heart of our island, sustain a unique ecosystem.
We invite you to witness the magic of bioluminescence and explore the wonders of this special place.
Our Staff
Our friendly staff consists of Indigenous people from the Ngäbe village. All seafood and seasonal fruits are sourced from Ngäbe fishermen and farmers, and we hire local workers to build and improve our facilities.
Moreover, we create tours and activities that involve our neighbors, providing economic empowerment and showcasing the benefits of ecotourism.
About the Monkeys
Expect an authentic Bocas del Toro experience, filled with endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation. Share your visit with a dozen rescued monkeys who now call this tropical paradise home.
Urraca is home to a dedicated Monkey Rescue Center, where we provide lifelong care for monkeys rescued from the pet trade. We ensure their physical, emotional, and psychological well-being and offer daily educational tours to raise awareness about the harmful effects of keeping monkeys as pets.
About Francine
Francine, the French-Canadian founder and owner of Urraca Monkey Island, built her eco lodge with a passion for nature and a desire to create a sanctuary for rescued monkeys.
She is eager to share her commitment to the environment and her fondness for the monkeys with every visitor. She also seeks to give back to the land and the native Ngäbe community by providing job opportunities and making them a part of her dream.
Her vision is to live a simple life surrounded by her beloved monkeys, enjoying a plate of fresh lobster and a cold glass of rum.
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