San Blas Islands
San Blas Islands
4.5
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4.4
1,218 reviews
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DaniloNikiti
Rio de Janeiro, RJ390 contributions
Jan 2025 • Family
This tour is spectacular but has some sacrifices: if you are staying in Panama City (Pacific Ocean) and have contracted the Panamanian Caribbean trip from San Blas then you need to be ready at the reception at 5am for the SUV transfer that takes you for 2h to the port of Kuna Yala people, already in the Atlantic Ocean. The path is quiet until the stop for bathroom and breakfast, from there begins the mountain climb that crosses part of the Amazon jungle for 1h on a road with good asphalt but very winding, if you get sick better take a Vonau before. In the port you take a bimotor boat that goes against the waves through the open sea until you arrive on the islands, the ride can be perrengue if the sea is moved but the return is always calm and favorable to the wind. Each tour costs U$120 per person counting on land, boat, lunch on the island and also the fees charged by the Indians of U$20 per foreigner to enter the reseva and U$2,50 per boat trip. We left 9h, we went to Isla Gato, natural pools and Isla del Diablo, where lunch was served, we returned at 15h and at 18:30h we arrived at the hotel. Do not fail to bring sunscreen. We did the whole tour with the service of José Sepúlveda, indicated by the hotel and went all right, I recommend! It's very worth it.
Automatically translated
Written 28 January 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
brad h
2 contributions
May 2024 • Friends
We found that the San Blas Islands of Guna Yala offer an unparalleled experience of natural beauty. The pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters create postcard-perfect memories that are truly priceless.
One of the most captivating aspects of Guna Yala is its vibrant communities and rich cultural heritage. The colorful traditions and way of life of the Guna people could add a unique value to the experience.
However, while the beauty of the islands is undeniable, there were moments where we felt disconnected from the local culture. Despite our eagerness to learn and understand, we found it challenging to fully engage with the community. At times, interactions felt rustic, and there were instances where we encountered unfriendliness.
Nevertheless, we remain firm in our belief that the San Blas Islands are absolutely worth visiting. To truly appreciate the depth of this destination, we recommend going with a knowledgeable guide who can bridge the gap between visitors and the local community.
One of the most captivating aspects of Guna Yala is its vibrant communities and rich cultural heritage. The colorful traditions and way of life of the Guna people could add a unique value to the experience.
However, while the beauty of the islands is undeniable, there were moments where we felt disconnected from the local culture. Despite our eagerness to learn and understand, we found it challenging to fully engage with the community. At times, interactions felt rustic, and there were instances where we encountered unfriendliness.
Nevertheless, we remain firm in our belief that the San Blas Islands are absolutely worth visiting. To truly appreciate the depth of this destination, we recommend going with a knowledgeable guide who can bridge the gap between visitors and the local community.
Written 28 May 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jim T
Cleveland, OH125 contributions
Feb 2025 • Couples
We really debated about going to San Blas Islands given some of the reviews we read. We were glad we did the day trip but were surprised by several things. First, if you go on a weekend during the “dry season”, be prepared for a long wait to cross into the Guna Yala district extending the 2 hour car ride by an additional hour. The 3 step entry process takes time and backs up traffic a long way. Maybe during the week would be better.
Second, we didn’t realize the islands were as far from the shore as they are, and they took over an hour to reach by boat. In calm seas, no problem but there were 3-5 ft swells with whitecaps, and it was a very rough ride. Hard to predict since winds in the area are so variable. Luckily, we are seaworthy, but others may experience seasickness.
Third, the small boats are difficult to get in and out of making it a challenge to climb up onto high concrete docks or to get out of the water when swimming even using small portable, metal ladders.
We were happy that the tour group we used for the 4 islands in one day delivered on that promise and that the water around the islands was calm.
It does help to have a driver who speaks English or at minimum, a tour guide who does once you reach where you are loaded on the small boats. A “translate” app can help but an English speaking driver would be far better. Luckily, we had a fellow tourist in our group who saved our day translating for us in the car and while visiting the islands.
All in all, if your expectations are realistic, it is a memorable, worthwhile adventure.
Second, we didn’t realize the islands were as far from the shore as they are, and they took over an hour to reach by boat. In calm seas, no problem but there were 3-5 ft swells with whitecaps, and it was a very rough ride. Hard to predict since winds in the area are so variable. Luckily, we are seaworthy, but others may experience seasickness.
Third, the small boats are difficult to get in and out of making it a challenge to climb up onto high concrete docks or to get out of the water when swimming even using small portable, metal ladders.
We were happy that the tour group we used for the 4 islands in one day delivered on that promise and that the water around the islands was calm.
It does help to have a driver who speaks English or at minimum, a tour guide who does once you reach where you are loaded on the small boats. A “translate” app can help but an English speaking driver would be far better. Luckily, we had a fellow tourist in our group who saved our day translating for us in the car and while visiting the islands.
All in all, if your expectations are realistic, it is a memorable, worthwhile adventure.
Written 4 March 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jason C
11 contributions
Dec 2024 • Couples
My wife and I have just returned from a three-night sailing trip around the beautiful San Blas Islands. We booked a private charter on a catamaran, and the crew, who were local Guna Yala, were fantastic and clearly knowledgeable about the region. I specifically requested that we visit islands without tourists, and they took us to some stunning, unspoiled locations.
Since it was a three-day charter, they were able to take us to some remote islands that you wouldn’t typically see on day trips. It’s rare nowadays to experience untouched, pristine islands like these, and we felt truly privileged.
Every day, they caught us fresh fish and lobster, which was amazing. If you are planning to visit the San Blas Islands, I highly recommend staying for at least three days to fully appreciate the sheer beauty of the outer islands.
Since it was a three-day charter, they were able to take us to some remote islands that you wouldn’t typically see on day trips. It’s rare nowadays to experience untouched, pristine islands like these, and we felt truly privileged.
Every day, they caught us fresh fish and lobster, which was amazing. If you are planning to visit the San Blas Islands, I highly recommend staying for at least three days to fully appreciate the sheer beauty of the outer islands.
Written 18 December 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
ro o
London, UK217 contributions
Dec 2024 • Couples
Beautiful unspoilt islands. We chartered a catamaran for 3 days island hopping. The crew were great but didn’t speak English so glad my husband did. Fresh seafood on the menu and decent Chilean wine. The boat ride to our catamaran was 5 mins but cost $80 so be prepared to pay that. We swam from the catamaran to some of the islands and also kayaked around a bit. Great for chilling and plenty of sun.
Written 19 December 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Leandro Albino
Santos, SP1,544 contributions
Jan 2025 • Friends
The islands are amazing with a crystal clear water .
I just found the one-day walk very exhausting and stressful.
We bought the tour on indication at the Novohotel and did not give any instructions on what to take or the route.
The driver asked to wait for 4:30 and arrived at 5:15 for after 40 minutes standing in a stop on the road with some nasty coffee options that do not accept card and then stands in a queue of cars to enter.
It would be best to leave around 6:15 for coffee at the hotel and arrive at the place shortly after the queue.
Arriving there you wait even more for the boat that takes the people who will stay on the other islands and finally leave you in your area.
To sum up, I woke up at 4 a.m. to land on the island literally at 10:40 a.m.
At 15:30 we left the island to arrive at the hotel at 18:50.
I find it pretty, but it's really tired.
That without counting the road full of curves with rise and descent.
I just found the one-day walk very exhausting and stressful.
We bought the tour on indication at the Novohotel and did not give any instructions on what to take or the route.
The driver asked to wait for 4:30 and arrived at 5:15 for after 40 minutes standing in a stop on the road with some nasty coffee options that do not accept card and then stands in a queue of cars to enter.
It would be best to leave around 6:15 for coffee at the hotel and arrive at the place shortly after the queue.
Arriving there you wait even more for the boat that takes the people who will stay on the other islands and finally leave you in your area.
To sum up, I woke up at 4 a.m. to land on the island literally at 10:40 a.m.
At 15:30 we left the island to arrive at the hotel at 18:50.
I find it pretty, but it's really tired.
That without counting the road full of curves with rise and descent.
Automatically translated
Written 4 January 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Bernardo Q
4 contributions
Apr 2024 • Solo
I've always wanted to visit San Blas, and the experience was incredible, even though I woke up early, it's part of the reason why you have to get to the pier before 10 am due to the schedule. I decided to spend just the day, we visited 2 islands and the natural pools. On the first island, we had typical local food for lunch, fish with coconut rice, and pineapple for dessert. The other places were for visits and baths. I want to thank the charismatic and hospitable Kuna people, thank you very much
Written 14 April 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
marialuis2018
Avanca, Portugal69 contributions
Mar 2024 • Couples
We stayed four days on the island Aguja territory of the Kuna Yala Indians, our accommodation was comfortable made only with boards, we had private bathroom with freshwater shower, we already knew we would not have the comfort of a hotel but the beauty of the island surpasses everything, We had electricity 2 hours in the morning and another 2 at the end of the day, with outlets in the room. Meals are based on fish and chicken but well cooked. The island was wonderful in relation to others we visited, blue sea, great for snorkeling. Do not expect luxuries and forget the phones, enjoy nature. Kuna Yala people are helpful and friendly.
Automatically translated
Written 26 August 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Paolo B
Turin, Italy8 contributions
Feb 2025 • Solo
Three beautiful days sailing in the archipelago of San Blas on board SEALAB. Two wonderful hosts who pampered and spoiled me beyond all expectations. An experience to recommend and of a much different level than the alternative bungalow holiday
Automatically translated
Written 11 March 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jeremy K
Teaneck, NJ69 contributions
Jan 2023
To reach the 'port' from panama city there first is an hour and a half ride to get to the turn off into the reservation. Then there is a 2 hour, pothole-ridden ride which needs to be done in a 4 x 4. Somewhere in the middle of the ride you have to present passports and pay money to continue (apparently because it's a reserve and it's run by the indigenous people (Gunas) and because some backpackers/travelers use that as a means to get to Colombia?).
When you finally get to the shore its very 'third world' with gross bathrooms that you have to pay money for yet they do not necessarily have soap or toilet paper.
The port is, again, run by indigenous people and seems disorganized. The boats you get on are very rudimentary wood and fiberglass skiffs. The 35 - 40 minute boat ride on the ocean to our first island was very uncomfortable with wooden seats getting pelted most of the time with seawater so that I was soaked by the time I reached the first island. The first small island was decent with nice sand beaches and they had snorkel equipment there (initially they charged us $5 per set but we reached our tour operator by phone and he clarified that this was supposed to be included in the cost of the trip which was not cheap.)
The next island was not very picturesque but there were primitive cabanas.
The boat ride back was even more harrowing. We had to switch to a larger boat so that they could ferry some of the indigenous people to their islands. They repeatedly had engine trouble as well. All of this got us back to the 'port' an hour and a half late so our poor driver who had been waiting for us had to make the harrowing drive through the pothole-infested roads of the mountains mostly in the pitch dark.
I would recommend that if anyone is considering going to the San Blas islands they should find an operator that at least has a more comfortable boat or catamaran. rather than using the indigenous people's transportation.
When you finally get to the shore its very 'third world' with gross bathrooms that you have to pay money for yet they do not necessarily have soap or toilet paper.
The port is, again, run by indigenous people and seems disorganized. The boats you get on are very rudimentary wood and fiberglass skiffs. The 35 - 40 minute boat ride on the ocean to our first island was very uncomfortable with wooden seats getting pelted most of the time with seawater so that I was soaked by the time I reached the first island. The first small island was decent with nice sand beaches and they had snorkel equipment there (initially they charged us $5 per set but we reached our tour operator by phone and he clarified that this was supposed to be included in the cost of the trip which was not cheap.)
The next island was not very picturesque but there were primitive cabanas.
The boat ride back was even more harrowing. We had to switch to a larger boat so that they could ferry some of the indigenous people to their islands. They repeatedly had engine trouble as well. All of this got us back to the 'port' an hour and a half late so our poor driver who had been waiting for us had to make the harrowing drive through the pothole-infested roads of the mountains mostly in the pitch dark.
I would recommend that if anyone is considering going to the San Blas islands they should find an operator that at least has a more comfortable boat or catamaran. rather than using the indigenous people's transportation.
Written 19 January 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Buenas noches. Voy a estar viajando en Octubre y quería saber qué isla es la mejor para hospedarse. Gracias
Written 12 September 2022
Hi All, does anyone know about covid restrictions at San Blas Islands
Written 21 August 2021
Hello, my plan is to go by my rented car to Certí and sort everything out even at the place without planning it in advance. I hope in 2 nights/3 days trip to some small iconic islands. The car is not 4x4, but is SUV and I am experienced driver. Is my plan doable and does it make sense? Thank you!
Written 8 March 2021
Ciao certo allora lui si chiama Damiano è italiano +507 6374 6569 ti chiedono 100 dollari al giorno io ho soggiornato per 3 notti nn so se hai visto le foto della capanna ..comunque isola molto bella ma sporca con bagni che te lo spiego ...una signora è andata via da chichimi ed è andata sull’isola del diablo ha detto che l’ha trovata più pulita ...comunque su queste isole bisogna adattarsi ..bisogna portarsi cibo e acqua lì c’è ben poco e si mangia tutti i giorni pesce e riso ammeno che tu nn ti prenda una aragosta molto buona appena pescata a 15 dollari ..mi hanno detto che isola grande è molto bella e più civile ...ciao
Written 6 February 2020
Hola. En breve estare por San Blas. ¡ Alguien tiene algún contacto de alguna familia Guna para poder contratar alojamoento directamente con ellos en alguna de las islas de San Blas?
Written 1 January 2020
Hola 800nuryn, nosotros somos el contacto directo de varias islas en San Blas, con mucho gusto. Saludos
Written 3 January 2020
Curious which island you stayed on? We are trying to decide for an upcoming trip.
Written 19 October 2019
Hi KKDW. I technically didn’t stay on any island, since we were on the boat on hopped from island to island. We did anchor and slept close to several islands, and although I have the coordinates, I don’t recall their names. These are extremely small islands and they have little to none infrastructure; only locals living there. The captain decided where to go and stay each night depending on the weather and what we wanted to do that day.
This is where we met the captain and boarded the boat.
(9.5868726, -78.8806742)
This is where we slept at nights
(9.4758540, -78.7110252)
(9.5627331, -78.8641501)
(9.5083577, -78.7936248)
If you are looking to stay in a hotel/hostal, the options are limited and I am sure you can find the names online.
Hope this helps!
Enjoy!
Dan
Written 21 October 2019
Hi, when is the best time to visit San Blas when there is not too much rain and the trade winds aren't bad? Thank you!
Written 24 July 2019
Hi,
Dec–Apr During trade wind season there’s little rain. It can get hot in the thatched huts, but conditions are ideal for sailing, with winds from the north and northeast.
Oct Digir Dubu (Isla Tigre) communities celebrate traditional dance at the Nogagope, which brings communities together for a week of dancing as well as canoe races and an art fair.
May–Aug There’s good visibility for snorkeling.
Written 8 September 2019
Hi,
We would like to charter the catamaran on our own to sail San Blas islands.
Is there any company that does that near San Blas Islands?
Written 6 July 2019
I’m not sure that there is an option to rent a catamaran in Panama (maybe they have it at Bocas del toro but it’s a bit far from the islands), but in the Colombian side you can for sure
Written 7 July 2019
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