San Blas Islands Frequently Asked Questions

There’s no single "best" island—they’re all unique. Contact our support team via live chat for help choosing the right one for you.

We accept credit and debit card payments (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, etc.) online for most trips, which must be processed before your travel date. 

For certain trips, a balance must be paid in cash at the port. Credit card payments are not accepted in person during pickup or at the port.

Yes, but use must be discreet. Inform us in advance so we can arrange appropriate locations for drone use.

Yes, but our office is not open for customer visits.

Our Guna family has proudly offered San Blas Islands tours since the late 1990s. In 2020, we took our business online, experiencing significant growth that enabled us to partner with other providers and enhance our services. We see you, our valued guest, as part of this partnership. Your support has been instrumental in our journey. Thank you for being part of our team!

Yes, we are 100% Guna-owned and operated.

Sorry, but pets are not permitted in Guna Yala or the San Blas Islands.

Yes! We’d love to collaborate with video creators, writers, or influencers. Send an email to support@seasanblas.com with the subject line "San Blas Collaboration" and include:

• Your social media channels
• Two recent collaborations (photos, links, or videos)
• Your proposal and audience statistics

Our team will review your submission and respond within 48 hours.

Contact our support team via website chat to check for any promotions.

Read our refund and cancellation policy here: Refund Policy.

Yes, rescheduling is free if requested at least 48 hours in advance. Changes made within 48 hours may incur a fee.

Yes, all prices on our website are in USD.

Yes, adult and child life vests are provided and must be worn at all times.

We provide pickups and drop-offs for accommodations within Panama City, including hotels, hostels, and Airbnbs. Pickup areas include:

• Obarrio
• San Francisco
• Amador
• Costa del Este
• Casco Viejo
• Albrook
• El Cangrejo
• Vía España
• Punta Paitilla
• Avenida Balboa
• Tocumen International Airport

For pickups from Westin Playa Bonita or Dreams Playa Bonita, there’s an additional fee of $10 per person. You can update your pickup location 24 hours before your trip. Changes on the morning of the trip are not allowed.

We can also drop you off at the airport (Tocumen International Airport) after your trip. Just let us know when departing the islands so we can arrange it.

The drive takes about 2-2.5 hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

We offer:

• Day Trips: Perfect for those with limited time, ideal for groups, parties, and families.
• Overnight Trips: Great for extended relaxation, ideal for friends, solo travelers, couples, and families.
• Sailing Trips: A premium option for added comfort and privacy.

The number of islands varies by trip. Visit our booking page for details on specific trip itineraries.

No, extensions are not allowed without prior approval. Changes made without notice may forfeit your return transport.

Yes, some trips include visits to community islands. Check the booking page for details.

The boat ride from the port to the first island takes about 15-30 minutes, depending on weather conditions.

We use dual-engine motorboats, licensed and operated by our team. Most boats hold 15-25 passengers, with larger boats accommodating up to 30.

Yes, we provide adult and child life vests, which must be worn at all times during the trip. This is mandatory for everyone.

No, self-driving is not allowed. Only licensed tour operators like us can access the San Blas Islands. Military checkpoints will turn away unauthorized vehicles.

No, but we only pick up customers within Panama City limits.

Yes, just inform us when departing the islands so we can arrange it.

Depends on traffic or weather conditions. 

• Morning departures: Around noon.
• Afternoon departures: Around 6-7 PM.

We provide round-trip transportation from your accommodation in Panama City to the San Blas Islands and back.

The drive takes about 2-2.5 hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

The Gunas, an indigenous people, have lived on the islands for hundreds of years.

Their diet is seafood-based, with staples like rice and potatoes.

Molas are part of the traditional attire worn by Guna women.

You must book with a licensed tour operator like Sea San Blas.

There are over 300 islands, but only 45 have inhabitants or infrastructure. Our tours include:

Yes, mostly docile species like nurse sharks. Always take precautions around wildlife.

Yes, but we don’t offer flights. You can fly to El Porvenir Airport (PVE) in Guna Yala. However we do not provide this service.

We offer:

• Camping tents
• Group cabins (6-8 people)
• Private cabins with shared bathrooms
• Sailboat cabins

• Original passport (no copies)
• Beach towels and sunscreen
• Bathroom essentials
• Snacks and drinks
• Cash (no ATMs on the islands)
• A good adventurous attitude!

Towels are not provided; bring your own. Beach chairs are also unavailable, but you can bring your own.

No Wi-Fi is available. Some islands have cell service; Tigo and Mas Movil SIM cards work best.

Yes, you can bring alcohol. Islands offer limited beer and rum options.

No recent malaria cases have been reported. Preventive measures are optional.Vaccinations and COVID tests are not required.Only licensed tour operators can access Guna Yala territory.

Meals are included with your trip, and drinks are provided with most meals, with additional beverages available for purchase on the islands. While fish is always available, seafood options like crab, lobster, and squid depend on availability. 

Vegetarian and vegan options are limited, though Franklin Island offers vegan meals, and double portions of sides are provided if no protein is chosen. Bringing extra water, juice, or snacks is recommended, especially for overnight trips.

The San Blas Islands are very safe, and we prioritize guest safety, treating everyone like family. Belongings are secure on the islands—keep them with you during day trips or in your cabin for overnight stays.