San Blas Islands (Guna Yala)

The Basics

Though multi-day island-hopping tours allow plenty of time to explore the islands, you can also take a day trip from Panama City. Day tours typically include round-trip transport from Panama City, a speedboat cruise to the islands, and lunch on one of the islands. It’s possible to visit up to three of the islands in one day, including popular stops such as Fragata island, Perro island, and the Natural Pool.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Accommodations, food, and facilities on the islands are very basic. If you stay overnight, expect to sleep in a simple cabin, tent, or hammock, without electricity, Wi-Fi, or running water.

• Bring everything you need with you to the islands, including water, cash, sunscreen, and your swimsuit.

• The islands are an autonomous region, and visitors to the islands must carry their passport.

• The main language spoken on the islands is Tulekaya, but you will be able to get by in Spanish and English.

How to Get There

It’s possible to reach the San Blas Islands by boat from Panama or from Cartagena, Colombia. Another option is to fly; small planes depart from Panama City to El Porvenir, where water taxis leave for the other islands. To travel by boat, the easiest option is to join an island-hopping tour from Panama City, including round-trip transfers to the port at Puerto Cartí and a speedboat to the islands.

When to Get There

San Blas is a year-round destination. From December to March, sea winds pick up, however, making island-hopping uncomfortable for those who suffer from seasickness. From June to November, expect frequent rains, but don’t let that stop you from visiting the showers typically only last an hour before the sun comes out.

The Kuna people

The San Blas Islands belong to the indigenous Kuna people. The Kuna fiercely adhere to their ancestral traditions and live off the earth, eating homegrown produce and fish, sleeping in simple huts, and creating traditional crafts such as baskets and colorful blouses (molas). The islands make up one of the few regions in Panama that have not been westernized, with no foreign-owned businesses and few tourist amenities.

How many days do you need in the San Blas Islands?

It’s best to spend at least two to four days exploring the San Blas Islands. About 378 islands make up the San Blas archipelago, so there are plenty of opportunities for island-hopping. There are also lots of great water activities, such as snorkeling, scuba diving, deep-sea fishing, and sailing excursions.

Is it worth going to the San Blas Islands?

Yes, it’s worth going to the San Blas Islands—especially if you’re looking to go off the beaten track and explore lesser-known islands with pristine beaches. Even for those visiting on a day trip from Panama City, it’s possible to fit in kayaking, snorkeling, and several islands in a day.

How do you get to San Blas Islands?

To reach the San Blas Islands, start in Panama City. Take a 4WD to the port of Carti and then a boat to specific islands. Alternatively, fly with Air Panama to El Porvenir and transfer via water taxi to other islands. Luxury options include traveling by private helicopter or yacht.

What is the best island to visit in San Blas?

With 378 islands in the San Blas archipelago, it can be tricky to choose a favorite. Some of the highlights for snorkeling include Dog Island with its sunken shipwreck, and Lemon Keys with its colorful coral reefs. Wailidup Island is loved for its over-the-ocean bungalows.

What is the best season for San Blas?

The best season to visit the San Blas Islands is the dry season (summer)—this typically begins in mid-December and lasts until April or May. At this time, it’s rare to get rain. However in the wet season (winter)—between May and December—it can be humid and rainy.

Can you do a day trip to San Blas?

Yes, day trips to the San Blas Islands are possible. These trips often start early in the morning from Panama. After a 2.5-hour drive, you'll take a 30-minute water taxi to one of the nearby islands. From there, you can enjoy beach time, water activities, and island-hopping.