Changuinola International Airport (CHX) Car Hire (CHX)

Changuinola International Airport (CHX) serves the Bocas del Toro region in northwestern Panama and has 1 rental company on site for those wanting to explore the Caribbean mainland by car. The airport is 2 km from Changuinola city center and 15 km from the Costa Rica border at Sixaola. By car you can reach Wetlands of San San Pond Sak, a Ramsar-protected area, in just 10 minutes.

Changuinola is the gateway to Bocas del Toro and surrounded by banana plantations run by Chiquita. The region is known for its Caribbean islands, coral reefs and the biologically rich San San Pond Sak wetland reserve with manatees and sea turtles. Combine a rental car on the mainland with a water taxi to the Bocas del Toro islands – leave your car in Almirante 30 km to the south.

Check road conditions during the rainy season from May to December when roads can become difficult to navigate. Book in advance as there is only 1 rental company at CHX. How do I get from CHX to the Bocas del Toro islands?

Drive 30 km south to Almirante and take a water taxi to Bocas Town; the trip takes 25 minutes. Park your car in monitored parking in Almirante. How far is it from CHX to the Costa Rica border?

The Sixaola border with Costa Rica is 15 km west and can be reached in 20 minutes via Carretera Changuinola. What nature reserves can I visit by car from Changuinola? San San Pond Sak (10 min), La Amistad National Park (60 min south) and Bastimentos National Park are accessible by boat from Almirante.

We compare prices from all major providers at Changuinola International Airport (CHX) so you can see the total cost upfront — including insurance, fuel terms and any extras. Most bookings include free cancellation up to 48 hours before pickup, giving you flexibility if your plans change.