FREQUENT QUESTIONS

FAQ

We’re located in the tropics and close to the equator, with consistent temperatures year-round. Highs typically hover around 92°F (33°C) and lows around 70°F (21°C). However, weather patterns vary over the course of the year and can be divided into three distinct seasons.
Dry Season: Mid-December to mid-April
Green Season: Late April through September
Temporada de lluvias: de octubre a mediados de diciembre
Dry season brings four months of glorious sunshine and almost zero rain. During green season, the island will be mostly sunny or partly cloudy, with an afternoon or evening “warm” storm that typically lasts a few hours. In the rainy season we can get some downpours, but don’t let the rain discourage you – October is the very best month for humpback whale watching in the Gulf.

What’s the electricity and voltage at the hotel?

The electrical current in Panama is 110 volts. The sockets are American-style: standard US two-pronged plugs (or three-pronged if grounded)

How do I pay and do I need local currency?

We do not accept cash. All payments should be made in advance by credit card or wire transfer to settle your account. At the lodge you won’t need any local currency — all additional expenses such as alcoholic drinks or ocean-based tours can be charged to your room.

What’s the cancellation policy?

Our cancellation policy is as follows:

– We accept cancellations up to 60 days prior to the arrival date without any penalty.

-If a reservation is cancelled less than 60 days prior to the arrival date, 100% of the reservation will be charged.

– Cancellation policies may apply to trip modifications or night reductions made less than 60 days prior to the arrival date.

In all cases:

-If there is a “no-show,” 100% of the reservation total will be charged.

-In the event the cancelled room is resold, a full reimbursement will be made.

– Unused prepaid services (such as airport transfers or tours booked in advance) are non-refundable.

Will I see any wildlife around the island?

Yes, Isla Saboga is teeming with life! It’s common to see iguanas, all kinds of exotic birds, and humpback whales and dolphins at the right time of year.

Is the water safe to drink?

Yes. We are privileged to have our own natural aquifer which fulfils all of our water needs. The water that flows from our taps is pure and completely safe to drink.

Are the rooms air conditioned?

Yes. Our rooms have full air conditioning. However, some of our guests prefer to open the door and fall asleep with a gentle ocean breeze.

How early should I book?

This depends on which season you’d like to stay at Saboga Lodge. Generally for high and holiday season (November through April), we recommend booking up to 6 months in advance. Our hotel is small and can get booked up fast. From April to November, we suggest booking a few months in advance to ensure you get your preferred dates.

What if I don’t speak Spanish?

If you don’t speak Spanish, don’t worry! At Saboga Lodge we speak excellent English, and are happy to teach you some Spanish phrases too! Apart from in the most rural areas of Panama, you shouldn’t encounter too many language barriers. Many Panamanians have at least a basic knowledge of English.

What should I pack?

Our dress code is informal. We encourage you to bring lightweight, casual clothing, sunscreen and insect repellent, a bathing suit, and sturdy tennis shoes or hiking boots for our included activities. It never hurts to pack a good book!

Don’t forget sunscreen!

What is included in the room?

All rooms are equipped with: wifi, air Conditioning, a coffee maker, a mini fridge and a minibar. There is no television in any area of the lodge or in the bedrooms.

What do the rates include?

Our rates include accommodation and the use of kayaks and paddle boards.

It does NOT include: food, transportation and tours comida, transporte y tours

Where is Saboga Lodge located?

Our rates include accommodation and the use of kayaks and paddle boards.

It does NOT include: food, transportation and tours comida, transporte y tours

Do I need a visa to travel to Panama?

A visa is not necessary to travel to Panama from most countries in the world. However, Panama law requires you have a return ticket to leave the country in order to enter, and passports must be valid for at least 6 months at the date of entry. You may also be asked to prove that you have at least US $500 – a credit card, bank statement, or cash usually works. Keep your booking for Saboga Lodge handy too, as sometimes visitors are asked to confirm their hotel reservations.

Citizens of the following countries do not require a visa: United States, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Great Britain, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Luxembourg, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Singapore, and Taiwan.

Who owns and operates the hotel?

Saboga Lodge is independently owned, and the resort is operated by Embera Collection. This Canadian-based hospitality management company is dedicated to operating and developing sustainable stays and apartments all over the world.

Can I smoke?

In Panama we have strict no-smoking policies for public places and hotels. Smoking is not allowed in the Saboga Lodge facilities. If you smoke on the beach, please be considerate of our wildlife and do not leave used cigarettes in the sand.

What time is check in / check out?

Check in is at 13:00 pm. Should you arrive earlier at Isla Saboga, we will do everything possible to have your room ready. If you do have to wait for your room, you will be able to start your vacation immediately with full access to the pool or beach.

Check out is at 10 am. If you would like to leave later in the day, please let us know and we’ll be happy to accommodate you.

How close are the beaches? Are they safe for swimming?

Isla Saboga is framed by seven beaches, a number of which are perfect for swimming. In particular, Playa El Coral is mere steps from our rooms.

What’s the bug situation?

We’re lucky to be located amid 400 acres of beautiful tropical jungle. With this in mind, all sorts of wildlife – including insects – can be encountered. Depending on the time of year and day, there may be periods where you’ll see mosquitoes, especially after extended rains. It’s a good idea to apply insect repellent before partaking in activities in the rainforest.

Is there internet or phone service available?

Yes, there is complimentary island wifi at Saboga Lodge and cell phone reception on many parts of the island.

How long should I stay?

The longer, the better! However, given our remote location, we recommend staying at least three nights. This is just enough time to soak up the Saboga Lodge experience and enjoy the island without feeling rushed.

Is the hotel suitable for a honeymoon or romantic getaway?

Our beautiful beaches and natural setting are perfect for post-wedding relaxation, and the small size of our resort makes for an intimate getaway. With so much to do at Saboga Lodge, you’ll create memories to last a lifetime as you start your next chapter together.

House rules

We love animals but sadly at the moment we do not accept pets 🙁

We do not host children at the Lodge – 18 + only.

Events are only allowed when the entire property is rented. Inquire about our “property take over” package for more details.

What can I do when I am there?

Other than relaxing and enjoying the lovely nature and beach around you, we have some tours available, it is important you book them at least 24 hours in advance.

Please view our Experiences page for more details on Saboga Lodge tours.

How does food work on the island and at Saboga Lodge?

One of the main characteristics of the island is how relaxing and peaceful it is, but it is also very difficult to access some products.

We have developed an a la carte menu that is updated often to make sure that our guests feel as welcome as possible. If you have any dietary restrictions or have any special requests please let us know in advance. We also have drinks and snacks available for sale at Saboga Lodge.

Meal Hours:

Breakfast: 7:30 -9: 00
Lunch: 12:00 to 14:00
Dinner: 18:30 – 20:00

Since there is no kitchen available for guests, it is possible to bring some food that does not require cooking or refrigeration. However, we recommend that you eat in the common areas because food and crumbs can attract ants and insects to the rooms.

How do I get to Saboga Lodge

There are three options for transportation to Saboga Lodge

1. Speedboat

Travel Time : 1 hr 30 minutes

Departure Location : Amador, Yates de Balboa Club

When: Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays

Panama – Saboga: 1:00 pm

Saboga – Panamá: 10:00 am

Price

One Way – $35.00 USD

Round Trip – $ 70.00 USD

Note: Please arrive 15 minutes prior to departure. The boat to and from Saboga departs strictly at the scheduled times.