Complete Guide To Visiting San Blas Islands Panama

Our agency has personally navigated the archipelago over the past five years, learning from the Guna communities and listening to the travelers we guide. Unlike overdeveloped resort hubs, San Blas offers true off-the-grid magic—no chain hotels, no nightclubs, just white sand, turquoise waters, and cultural authenticity.

Most visitors start their journey from Panama City, located about three hours away from the launch point in Cartí. To reach the islands, you’ll need a 4WD vehicle to tackle the winding jungle roads, followed by a boat transfer arranged by a licensed operator.

Sea San Blas provides safe and comfortable door-to-shore 4WD transfers with vetted drivers. Our guides ensure that every leg of the journey—from your hotel pickup to your island landing—is smooth, scenic, and stress-free.

We strongly advise booking a San Blas tour in advance to avoid the risks of last-minute travel or unregulated vendors.

Here are a few guest-favorite islands we recommend based on our extensive on-the-ground experience:

• Isla Perro (Dog Island): Home to a shallow shipwreck perfect for snorkeling. Ideal for families and first-time snorkelers.
  
• Isla Pelicano: Known for its crystal-clear lagoon and popularized by the TV series Money Heist. Great for photos and calm swimming.
  
• Cayos Holandeses: A more remote cluster of islands with breathtaking coral reefs and minimal human traffic. Best for travelers seeking solitude.
• Isla Diablo: Often paired with Isla Perro, known for soft white sand and laid-back vibes.

The dry season, December through April, offers the best weather with plenty of sun and calm waters. That said, the rainy season (May to November) has its charm—mornings are usually sunny, and rain tends to fall in short bursts. As a year-round san blas tour operator, we’ve observed that even in the wet season, guests still enjoy snorkeling, sailing, and beach hopping with only minor adjustments to timing.

Unlike other island vacations, packing for San Blas requires a minimalist mindset. Here’s what we tell our guests to bring:

• Lightweight clothing and swimwear
  
• Reef-safe sunscreen and bug spray
  
• Cash (no ATMs in the region)
  
• Water shoes
  
• A dry bag for electronics
  
• Reusable water bottle and eco-friendly toiletries
  

Power on the islands is often limited to a few solar hours per day, so plan accordingly if you need to charge devices.

San Blas accommodations range from rustic cabins to full-island rentals. At Sea San Blas, we offer curated options including:

• San Blas cabins built by local Guna families
  
• Private island San Blas rentals for groups or couples
  
• Budget-friendly tents and communal dorms on shared islands
  

We prioritize working with hosts who respect Guna values and provide safe, clean, and memorable stays.

• Snorkeling San Blas: Explore reefs near Isla Perro and Cayos Holandeses
  
• San Blas boat tour from Panama City: A popular day trip option with island hopping
  
• Sailing San Blas: Ideal for those seeking multi-day exploration on the water
  
• San Blas island hopping: Visit up to three islands in one day
  
• San Blas snorkeling tour: Great for families and underwater photography
  
• Group tours San Blas: Connect with fellow travelers
  

All of our guides are trained in reef-safe practices and first aid, ensuring fun and safety go hand in hand.

The Guna people maintain strong autonomy and preserve their language, clothing, and customs. Travelers are guests in an indigenous territory of Panama, and respectful behavior is expected. In our experience, a smile and basic greetings in Spanish go a long way.



Visitors should not take photos of Guna locals without permission, and women selling handmade molas or jewelry welcome polite interaction. If you’d like a more immersive experience, we can arrange visits to traditional Guna communities and explain the protocols in advance.

Our team compiled this checklist based on real guest experiences:

• Avoid plastic waste—bring reusable items.
  
• Prepare for limited Wi-Fi and no cell service.
  
• Don’t flush toilet paper—use bins provided.
  
• Respect quiet hours after dark on most islands.
  
• Pack snacks or dietary-specific foods if needed.
  

We provide guests with a digital prep guide before every trip to make sure you’re ready.

San Blas is generally safe, but due to its remoteness, you should:

• Bring motion sickness meds for boat rides
  
• Use bottled water
  
• Inform your guide of allergies or medical needs
  

We always carry first aid kits on our tours and remain in contact with emergency services in Panama City.

What makes Sea San Blas different?

• Years of local partnerships with Guna communities
  
• Custom-built guest preparation resources
  
• Seamless booking and transport coordination
  
• Real-time communication and updates before, during, and after your tour
  

Whether you're planning day trips to San Blas, overnight San Blas stays, or multi-day adventures, we’re your direct connection to an unforgettable experience.

This guide was created based on real field experience from our Sea San Blas team and insights from Guna partners we've worked with for years. Have questions? Ready to plan? Let’s start your adventure.