I am a biologist living in Panama and stayed at Rambala Jungle Lodge while doing some work in the area. Lyn and Eric were the most amazingly accommodating hosts, doing everything imaginable to make my stay pleasant (and my research successful). The grounds are lovely and swimming in the natural stream pools was a daily pleasure. The cabin I stayed in was fantastic - rustic but well built and comfortable, something that can be very hard to find in Panama. Lots of great wildlife to be seen - frogs, birds, slothes, etc. Perhaps the most pleasant thing was how Lyn would cue in on our conversations to create a delicious menu for the next day. When we talked about our mutual love of New Orleans, she made me beignets the next morning! When she and Eric knew I had to get up early, they delivered fresh hot coffee to my cabin! It was great. Definitely recommend this a stop if you are in the Bocas area.

Travelled up to my friends eco resort in the Panama Jungle. A wonderful get away spot. Chance to experience the jungle, wildlife (sloths, humming birds, famous Panama frogs, bats, hawks, maybe even a small jaguar), do some walking, swim in the waterfall pool which is really refreshing and just relax. Eco toilets and spirit lamps. Micro-hydro going in soon. Guest cabanas and options that can be discussed with owners. They also take volunteers to live up here and do maintenance or research with some cost and some parts free. If you are not driving it is pretty easy to bus inexpensively from Panama to David and then Davd to Punta Pena ( on the Bocas del Toro route). I have bused a few times. it is not far from Punta Pena which also has a government airstrip so even though a remote jungle property you are close to town in an emergency. Wireless internet picks up ok. Cell if you are lucky depending on spots. Part or all of the property is up for sale as well now that it has been developed intially from virgin jungle. Off the beaten track a little but well worth it and all part of the adventure. Wonderful river tubing available for 10 kms down the main river past the indigenous villages.

...of a REAL jungle experience? Well, this is it. The property is amazing, the accommodations rudimentary but surprisingly comfortable. The hosts (Lyn and Eric) provide a real tropical wilderness experience...everything from river tubing, hiking and the BEST thing of all is swimming in the little pools beneath the small waterfalls. I felt like I was in a movie! The view of the Caribbean and Isla Popa beyond complete this picture of paradise. The meals were delicious, healthy and the company was fantastic. I love the complete lack of electricity with no lights at night so the view above of the star canopy made me feel like I was the only person on earth. How often does that happen ANYWHERE on earth? Oh yeah, did I mention that I already live in Panama and thought I was in paradise already. But after the short and beautiful hike up to this isolated piece of heaven I realize what paradise really is. It is to be found at Rumbala Jungle Lodge. I WILL be back soon.

I was there for a few days in 2011. Lyn and Eric were great hosts. It is a really nice place for a nature getaway. Just doing without electric changes how we operate and feel. If connects you to your surroundings so much quicker. If nothing else, it allows you to hear the subtle and glorious sounds of nature.

Sitting in a little valley with a distant view of the ocean, you quickly have a feeling of remoteness even though you are not that far from "civilization". Now I understand they have cell phone service on the property and even internet capabilities, so you can stay in touch with the outside world from what seems like the middle of nowhere.

The accommodations were comfortable in private cabin with big soft bed, nice shower, good food and drink. The nature trails allowed for a look deeper in the rainforest. And the little river flowing through the property not only provided soothing sounds, it was fantastic to relax in. So many different pools among the big rocks to explore and soak - one could spend weeks testing them all.

The bed had mosquito netting and you do need repellent for nature trails, but overall, there were very few biting insects. The middays can get hot (good excuse for a dip in the river and seista), but not extreme and the nights cooled down fine for sleeping.

It would be a great place for a relaxing nature retreat, birding, photography, or even scientific research. If desired, there are many options for day trips in the area. But, just "hanging out" for a few days and relaxing is wonderful. Bottom line - I would (and plan to) go back in a heartbeat.