Escudo de Veraguas, Caribbean island in Bocas del Toro Province, Panama
Escudo de Veraguas is a Caribbean island with sandy beaches on its southern side and high clay cliffs facing east. The island has a rectangular shape and supports only a handful of year-round residents.
The island remained uninhabited until 1995, when Ngöbe-Buglé fishermen from nearby areas established settlements there. Since then, it has served as a fishing base for both seasonal and permanent operations.
The small community here belongs to the Ngöbe-Buglé indigenous group and depends on fishing for their livelihood. Daily life revolves around the sea and its rhythms.
Getting here requires a multi-hour boat ride from the nearest port and takes careful planning. Bring all supplies you need, as the island has no drinking water, no lodging, and very few services.
The island is home to two animal species found nowhere else, including the tiny and vulnerable three-toed sloth. These rare residents make the island important for nature conservation.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
