Traveling from Bocas del Toro, Panama, or the border town of Sixaola to Puerto Viejo is quick and easy. Many travelers combine these two Caribbean destinations in the same trip, making this one of the most popular international routes in the region.

 

Whether you’re crossing the border on foot or continuing from Bocas del Toro, Puerto Viejo is less than an hour from Sixaola and offers a relaxed Caribbean atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and easy access to Cahuita and Manzanillo.

 

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Quick Facts

 

From Bocas del Toro

 

Distance: Approximately 70 km (44 mi), including the boat and border crossing

 

Travel Time: 2.5–4 hours

 

From Sixaola

 

Distance: 18 km (11 mi)

 

Travel Time: 25–30 minutes

 

Best Option: Shared Shuttle, Rental Car (from Costa Rica), or Taxi

 

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By Rental Car

 

If you’re already in Costa Rica, renting a car is a convenient way to reach Puerto Viejo.

 

From Sixaola

 

• Follow Route 36 south.

• Continue along the Caribbean coast directly to Puerto Viejo.

 

Good to Know

 

• Rental cars from Panama generally cannot cross into Costa Rica.

• If you’re arriving from Bocas del Toro, you’ll usually cross the border on foot and pick up a rental car on the Costa Rican side if needed.

• The road from Sixaola to Puerto Viejo is fully paved and easy to drive.

 

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By Public Bus

 

Public buses are inexpensive and operate several times a day between Sixaola and Puerto Viejo.

 

If you’re traveling from Bocas del Toro:

 

1. Take a boat to Almirante.

2. Continue by shuttle or bus to the Sixaola border.

3. Complete Costa Rica immigration.

4. Take a local bus or taxi to Puerto Viejo.

 

The bus ride from Sixaola to Puerto Viejo takes approximately 30 to 40 minutes.

 

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By Shared Shuttle

 

Shared shuttles are one of the most popular transportation options.

 

Benefits include:

 

• Convenient border transfers

• Comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles

• Hotel pickup and drop-off in many locations

• Assistance with the border crossing on selected services

 

Advance reservations are recommended, especially during the high season.

 

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By Private Transfer

 

Private transportation is the most comfortable way to travel between the border and Puerto Viejo.

 

Ideal for:

 

• Families

• Small groups

• Travelers with luggage

• Visitors seeking a direct, hassle-free transfer

 

Private transfers can also be arranged from nearby destinations on the Costa Rican side of the border.

 

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Travel Tips

 

• Bring your passport and check entry requirements before traveling.

• Allow extra time for immigration procedures, especially during holidays.

• Keep some cash in both U.S. dollars and Costa Rican colones for small expenses.

• Cross the border during daylight hours whenever possible.

• If you’re traveling from Bocas del Toro, book your boat and ground transportation in advance during the busy season.

 

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Frequently Asked Questions

 

Can I drive a rental car from Panama into Costa Rica?

 

In most cases, no. Rental cars from Panama cannot be driven across the border into Costa Rica.

 

How far is Puerto Viejo from Sixaola?

 

Puerto Viejo is approximately 18 km (11 miles) from the Sixaola border crossing, about a 25 to 30-minute drive.

 

Is there a bus from Sixaola to Puerto Viejo?

 

Yes. Local buses operate several times a day and provide an affordable transportation option.

 

How long does it take to travel from Bocas del Toro to Puerto Viejo?

 

The journey usually takes between 2.5 and 4 hours, depending on boat schedules, border crossing times, and your onward transportation.

 

Is crossing the border at Sixaola easy?

 

Yes. The Sixaola border crossing is straightforward, although waiting times can vary depending on the season and the time of day.

 

What is the easiest way to travel from Bocas del Toro to Puerto Viejo?

 

Most travelers take a boat to Almirante, continue to the Sixaola border, cross on foot, and then take a shared shuttle or taxi to Puerto Viejo.

 

From Sixaola Border Crossing

 

The Sixaola Border Crossing is the main gateway between Panama and Costa Rica’s Southern Caribbean. Once you’ve completed immigration and customs, Puerto Viejo is just 18 km (11 miles) away, making it one of the quickest transfers in the region. 

 

Transportation Options

 

🚌 Public Bus

 

Local buses run regularly between Sixaola and Puerto Viejo throughout the day. The trip takes approximately 30 to 40 minutes and is the most affordable option for travelers. 

 

🚖 Taxi

 

Taxis are available just outside the border crossing and provide a direct ride to Puerto Viejo in about 25 to 30 minutes.

 

🚐 Shared Shuttle

 

Several shuttle companies offer transfers from the Sixaola border to Puerto Viejo. This is a convenient option if you’re traveling with luggage or continuing to a hotel or vacation rental.

 

Before You Travel

 

• Have your passport and immigration documents ready before leaving the border.

• Keep some Costa Rican colones or a credit card for transportation and small purchases.

• If you’re arriving from Panama, remember that Costa Rica is one hour behind Panama, so adjust your watch or phone accordingly.

• Whenever possible, cross the border during daylight hours for a smoother travel experience. The border crossing generally operates from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Costa Rica time). 

 

Travel Tip

 

If you’re continuing from Bocas del Toro, many travelers choose a combined boat-and-shuttle service that includes transportation to the border, assistance with the crossing, and a transfer to Puerto Viejo. It’s one of the easiest and most popular ways to travel between these two Caribbean destinations.