Monkey Island
Punta Laurel, Panama
About Monkey Island
Monkey Island is the local name for Isla Urraca, a small private island in the Bocas del Toro archipelago on the Caribbean side of Panama, near Punta Laurel. It is a sanctuary for rescued monkeys, which live free-ranging on the island - howler monkeys, white-faced capuchins and Geoffroy's tamarins, all native to Panama. It is reached only by boat, roughly half an hour from Bocas town, and most visitors arrive on a day tour that pairs the island with snorkelling at Cayo Coral. Entry to the sanctuary is paid on arrival and is normally not included in the boat tour price.
Parking is available near the Monkey Island Riverside Resort. It is recommended to check for any parking fees, as they may vary. Arriving early can help secure a good spot, especially during peak visiting hours.
- The island is accessible 24/7 for visitors.
- Food and dining options are available at the nearby Monkey Island Riverside Resort.
- Visitors can observe the monkeys from various vantage points along the shore.
- It is advisable to bring a camera for capturing the playful antics of the monkeys.
- Check for any special events or activities that may be happening during your visit.
- Home to a lively group of playful spider monkeys.
- Originally created to address a navigational hazard in the Homosassa River.
- The monkeys were brought to America to assist with polio vaccine research.
- Features a lighthouse and landscaped structures for the monkeys.
- Visitors can observe the monkeys from the shores or waterfront dining areas.