San Blas Travel Questions Answered
- Click and Sailing | Panamá Boat Charter
- Aug 19, 2023
- 12 min read
Updated: Jun 30
If you're thinking about booking or have already booked a tour to San Blas, you may have some additional questions. We've compiled a list of frequently asked questions, but here are 200 general questions and 100 about sailboat or catamaran rentals to help you get the answers you need.
Where is San Blas located? San Blas is an archipelago in Panama's Caribbean coast with 365 islands, belonging to the autonomous Guna Yala region. It's 2-3 hours by car from Panama City.
🏝️ 1. General about San Blas
How to get to San Blas from Panama City? Take a 4x4 vehicle (2-3 hours) to Cartí, then a boat (30-60 minutes). Charter flights from Albrook are also available.
Do I need a passport for San Blas? Yes, some islands require passports or IDs due to Guna regulations, despite being Panamanian territory.
What's the best time to visit? December to April (dry season). Avoid October-November due to heavy rains limiting tours.
Is San Blas safe? Yes, but bring cash (no ATMs) and respect Guna rules. Avoid unauthorized islands.
Is there internet/WiFi? Mostly no. Some lodges offer limited WiFi. Ideal for disconnecting.
What languages are spoken? Guna (indigenous) and Spanish. Basic English in tourist areas.
How much does it cost? From $100/person (day tour). Accommodation: $50-$300/night.
Are there banks or ATMs? No. Bring US dollars cash. Some accept transfers.
What to pack? Sunscreen, insect repellent, cash, light clothes, sandals and snorkel gear.
Can I visit without a tour? Yes but complicated. At least book transport and lodging in advance.
Are there doctors? Only in major Guna communities. Bring basic meds and travel insurance.
What animals are there? Crabs, starfish, tropical fish and birds. No dangerous animals.
Can you camp? Yes on permitted islands (e.g. Isla Perro). Rent or bring tents ($10-$20/night).
Which tribe lives here? The Guna people, indigenous with political autonomy. Respect traditions (no photos without permission).
Is there electricity? In tourist islands yes (generators/solar) but limited. Bring power banks.
How far is Bocas del Toro? 10+ hours by car+boat. Better to fly or visit separately.
Can you fly to San Blas? Yes, charter flights from Albrook (20-30min, $150-$300 roundtrip).
Are there restaurants? Yes on tourist islands (seafood, coconut rice, $8-$15/meal).
What makes San Blas unique? Crystal waters, Guna culture and lack of mass tourism. Perfect for relaxing and snorkeling.
What tours are available? Boat rides, snorkeling, Guna community visits and private islands. Includes food and drinks.
How long is a day tour? Depart 5:00 AM from Panama, return by 6:00 PM. Visits 2-3 islands with lunch.
Can you scuba dive? Only snorkeling (gear included). Deep diving requires Guna permit.
Are there private tours? Yes for small groups or honeymoons (from $300 with private guide).
Which islands to visit in one day? Isla Perro (shipwreck), Isla Diablo (white sand) and Isla Pelícano (clear waters).
Can you swim with starfish? Yes at Isla Estrella or Isla Perro. Touch gently and don't remove from water.
Is sport fishing available? Yes in permitted zones. Hire Guna guides ($150-$300/tour) for snapper or barracuda.
Can you visit a Guna community? Yes at Cartí Sugdub or Achutupu. Learn about molas and traditions ($10-$20 entry).
Are there kid-friendly tours? Yes, islands with shallow waters (e.g. Isla Aguja). Avoid long boat rides.
What to bring on day tours? Towel, swimsuit, hat, extra cash and waterproof camera. Boats get wet.
Are there sailing trips? Yes, 2-3 day sailing tours (from $400). Includes overnight in cabins or hammocks.
Can you kayak? Yes on islands like Chichime or Yansailadup. Kayak rentals ($10-$15/hour).
Are there night excursions? Not common but some lodges offer beach dinners with bioluminescence (dry season).
Can you fly drones? Only with Guna permission (ask first). Fines for unauthorized use.
Are there tours from Colombia? Yes, sailboat crossings (Capurganá-San Blas, 3 days). Requires Panamanian visa.
Best island for snorkeling? Isla Perro (shipwreck) or Holandes Cays (live corals). Gear included.
Can you see dolphins? Occasionally during boat rides but no specific dolphin tours.
Can you visit just one island? Yes if staying at a lodge (e.g. Yandup Island or Cabañas Guanidup).
Are there all-inclusive tours? Yes, packages with transport, meals, lodging and activities ($200-$500/person depending on days).
What water sports are available? Mainly snorkeling and kayak. No jet skis or water motorcycles (prohibited).
Are there hotels? No large hotels, only rustic palm cabins or eco-lodges from $50/night.
Can you sleep in hammocks? Yes on islands like Isla Perro or Chichime ($15-$30/night). Bring repellent.
Are there luxury resorts? Options like Dolphin Lodge or Cabañas Yandup offer cabins with private bathrooms and ocean views.
Are there private island accommodations? Yes e.g. Isla Diablo or Isla Pelícano ($100-$300/night). Book months ahead.
Is there Airbnb? Not officially but Guna rent cabins via Facebook or agencies. Ask for current photos.
Can you sleep on sailboats? Yes, operators like San Blas Sailing offer overnight on boats ($200-$400/person).
Are there showers? Yes but fresh water is limited. Some use rainwater or wells.
Is there electricity in cabins? Mostly at night (generators). Bring flashlight.
Can you book online? Yes through agencies like San Blas Dreams or Guna Yala Tour. Avoid scams (pay with PayPal).
Are there vegan options? Some lodges offer vegan meals (notify in advance). Local diet is fish and coconut.
What's typical local food? Dishes with fresh fish, coconut, plantains and rice. Try tule masi (Guna soup) or grilled lobster ($15-$25).
Are there vegetarian options? Yes but limited: coconut rice, fried plantains and salads. Notify your lodge.
Can you drink tap water? No. Drink bottled water ($1-$2) or coconut water. Some lodges filter rainwater.
Are there international restaurants? No, food is local and simple. Tourist islands serve pasta or chicken besides seafood.
How much is a beer? $2-$4 (Atlas or Balboa). Alcohol is expensive due to Guna taxes.
Can I bring my own food? Yes but don't overdo it. Guna communities rely on tourism income.
Is there fresh fruit? Yes, pineapple, papaya and coconut. Sold at stands or included in breakfasts.
What's for breakfast? Eggs, fruit, toast and coffee. Some places offer Guna corn tortillas.
Can I fish my own food? Only with Guna permits. Better enjoy local catches and support their economy.
Are there alcohol restrictions? Some islands charge bottle fees ($5-$10). Ask before bringing.
What are typical drinks? "Agua de pipa" (coconut water) and "chicha fuerte" (fermented Guna drink, adults only).
Are there gluten-free options? Very limited. Bring gluten-free snacks and ask for corn-free dishes.
Can you buy food at supermarkets? No supermarkets. Bring snacks if on special diet.
Are meals included at lodges? Yes, most include full board (breakfast, lunch, dinner). Drinks often extra.
Are there romantic beach dinners? Some lodges like Yandup Island arrange candlelight dinners ($50-$100/couple).
What fish are common? Snapper, sea bass, lobster and octopus. All fresh and cooked to order.
Are there desserts or ice cream? Fresh fruit or sweet coconut. No ice cream shops but some lodges offer flan.
Can you eat cheaply? Yes at Guna diners ($5-$8/meal). All-inclusive tours are better value.
Is there room service? Usually no. Meals served in common areas or beach.
What foods to avoid? Raw seafood if sensitive stomach. Everything is well-cooked but bring anti-diarrheal just in case.
How to book transportation? Through tour agencies or lodges including 4x4 + boat ($30-$50 roundtrip).
Is there parking at Cartí? Yes, guarded parking ($10-$20/day). Arrive early for spots.
Is there public transportation? Not recommended. Organized tours are safer and more reliable.
Which road goes to San Blas? The Panama-Cartí route (Road 3). 4x4 only due to dirt roads and rivers.
Are there alternative ports to Cartí? Yes, Playón Chico or Achutupu ports depending on destination.
How long are boat rides? 30 minutes to 1.5 hours depending on island. Nearby islands: Perro/Diablo; far: Holandes Cays.
Are boats safe? Yes but they go fast and can be rough in waves. Bring motion sickness pills if prone.
Can you rent private boats? Yes from $150-$300/day for groups. Hire only authorized Guna boatmen.
Are there fixed boat schedules? No, boats leave when full (8:00 AM to 2:00 PM). Coordinate with your lodge.
What if I miss my boat? You'll need to charter special transport ($50-$100). Always arrive early to pier.
Can I bring large luggage? Not recommended. Use backpacks or small bags (boats are cramped).
Are there taxis? No. Transport is by boat or walking on islands.
Do cruise ships visit? No, cruise ships don't dock here to protect the fragile ecosystem.
What documents are needed at ports? Passport/ID and tourist card ($20 when entering Guna Yala).
Are there baggage fees? No but bulky items may cost extra ($5-$10).
Can you arrive at night? No. Boats operate only daytime (7:00 AM to 4:00 PM).
Are there rest stops? Yes in towns like El Llano or Nusagandi (bathrooms and snacks).
What to bring for the 4x4 ride? Water, snacks, comfortable clothes. Road is dusty in summer, muddy in winter.
Can you go by motorcycle? Not recommended. Difficult road and no repair shops in area.
Is there inter-island transport? Yes, Guna boats ($10-$20/ride). Coordinate with your lodge.
Can I photograph Guna people? Only with explicit permission (often $1-$5 fee). No photos of rituals.
What should I avoid doing? Drones without permits, touching coral, public drinking or criticizing their culture.
Do Guna speak Spanish? Yes but their native language is Dulegaya. Learn "nuedi" (hello) and "dot nuet" (thank you).
Are there cultural events for tourists? Yes in communities like Achutupu or Cartí Sugdub ($10-$20 entry).
What are molas? Traditional Guna textile art. Authentic molas are hand-stitched ($10-$50).
Can you smoke? Yes but don't litter cigarette butts. Smoking prohibited in sacred areas.
Are tips expected? Not mandatory but $1-$5 for guides/boatmen is appreciated.
Do Guna accept US dollars? Yes, official currency. Bring small bills ($1, $5, $10).
Are there public restrooms? Yes on tourist islands ($1 fee). Bring your own toilet paper.
Do I need a guide? No but a Guna guide enhances experience (explains traditions and prevents misunderstandings).
What's average temperature? 28-32°C daytime, pleasant 24-26°C nights - perfect for hammock sleeping.
Does it rain much? Frequent but short showers May-December (1-2 hours). Sun returns quickly.
Are there hurricanes? Extremely rare. October-November can be stormy.
When is sea calmest? January-April with lighter trade winds - ideal for snorkeling.
Is rainy season travel safe? Yes but some tours cancel in bad weather. Advantage: fewer tourists and lower prices.
Does weather affect boat trips? Rough seas make rides uncomfortable or get canceled. Check forecast!
Are there mosquitoes year-round? Yes but worst in rainy season. Bring DEET spray and nets.
What to pack for dry season? Light clothes, sun hat, sunglasses. Light jacket for cooler evenings.
Are there jellyfish? Occasionally but not dangerous. Use vinegar if stung (available at lodges).
When does it get dark? Consistently 6:00-6:30 PM year-round. Evening activities end early - bring books/games.
How much cash to bring? $50-$100/day per person (meals, tours, souvenirs). Luxury activities cost $150-$300/day.
Can I pay by card? No, cash only in good condition (no damaged bills).
Are there ATMs? No. Nearest in El Llano - withdraw in Panama City first.
How much is tourist card? $22 per person + $2-$5 island fee. Children half price.
Can you haggle? Possible with molas but not fixed tour prices.
What souvenirs to buy? Authentic molas ($10-$50), seed necklaces ($5-$15), coconut carvings ($5-$20). Buy directly from artisans.
Are there special taxes? Yes: $5/alcohol bottle, $20-$50 drone fees. Always ask first.
Do children pay same price? Kids 5-12 often pay 50%. Some lodges have kids-stay-free policies.
Are there budget day tours? Yes from $90 pp including transport, lunch and 2-3 islands. Compare options!
What's most expensive? Alcohol ($4-$6/beer) and private tours ($300+). All-inclusive packages save money.
Are there hospitals? Only basic health centers. Emergencies require boat/helicopter to Panama City.
What vaccinations are needed? No mandatory shots but Hepatitis A/Tetanus/Typhoid recommended.
Are there dangerous animals? No. Just harmless reef sharks and occasional lionfish (don't touch!).
How strong is the sun? Extremely intense! Use reef-safe mineral sunscreen, UV shirts and hats.
What meds to bring? Anti-diarrheal, allergy pills, motion sickness meds and basic first aid kit.
Malaria or dengue risk? Low but possible. Use mosquito protection and nets.
Can you drink heavily? Unwise - medical help is limited and heat intensifies effects.
Are there lifeguards? No. Swim near shore only, especially at currents (e.g. Isla Perro).
What to do in emergencies? Contact lodge staff or community leaders. They have radios for help.
Safe for solo female travelers? Yes but take normal precautions. Avoid remote islands without other tourists.
Where to store valuables? In waterproof bags or locked lodge rooms (no safes available).
Do I need a plug adapter? No, US plugs (110V) fit. Power often evenings only - bring power banks.
Is there cell service? Spotty on islands near Cartí (Claro/Movistar). +Cobertura has best coverage.
Can I charge cameras? Yes but usually only at night with generators. Extra batteries recommended.
Best footwear? Water shoes or barefoot. Coral can be sharp - don't step on it!
Can I pay with PayPal? Few online agencies only. Cash or bank transfers locally.
Are there visiting hours? Day trips 7:00 AM-4:00 PM. Overnight requires lodge booking.
Bring own snorkel gear? Tour equipment provided but personal reef-safe set is more hygienic.
Best photo times? Golden hour 4:00-5:00 PM. Best morning light toward Cartí.
Are tips customary? Not required but $1-$5 for guides/boatmen and $10 for lodge staff appropriate.
Most beautiful island? Isla Perro Grande: postcard-perfect beach with palms and cool shipwreck for snorkeling.
Can you rent private islands? Yes e.g. Isla Yansailadup ($500-$1000/night for groups) - perfect for events.
Best honeymoon island? Cabañas Guanidup: overwater bungalows with private decks and crystal-clear water.
Where to see starfish? Isla Estrella or Isla Perro Chico. Never remove from water - strictly prohibited!
Islands with beach bars? Isla Diablo and Isla Pelícano have hammock bars with Caribbean music.
Best snorkel spots? Holandes Cays (living coral) and Isla Perro (shipwreck with fish schools).
Islands with freshwater showers? Yandup Island and Dolphin Lodge have proper showers - ask when booking.
Best family-friendly islands? Isla Aguja with shallow waters and family cabins. Avoid strong currents!
Most untouched islands? Isla Iguana or Isla Tortuga - accessible by private tour.
Which island to avoid? Islands near Cartí (e.g. Naranjo Chico) sometimes have washed-up trash.
Do you need dive certification? Yes but deep diving is restricted. Snorkeling is sufficient.
Are there sharks? Only harmless reef sharks at Holandes Cays/Salardup - no threat.
Can you touch coral? Absolutely not! Avoid chemical sunscreens - mineral only.
What marine life will I see? Clownfish, rays, turtles, octopuses. April-June possible whale sightings.
Is there kid snorkel gear? Yes, family tours provide child-sized masks and life vests.
Is spearfishing allowed? For Guna only. Tourists may fish with rods (with permit).
Any dangerous swim areas? Current-prone reef zones (e.g. Isla Perro east side) - ask locals.
Is night snorkeling possible? Rare but some lodges arrange bioluminescent tours at full moon.
Stand-up paddleboarding? Available at calm islands like Chichime/Yansailadup ($15/hour).
What if I see a turtle? Maintain 2m distance. Touching or chasing is illegal.
Do I need a visa? Depends on nationality. Guna Yala has separate entry rules.
What documents to bring? Original passport (no copies!), tourist card ($20) and travel insurance.
Documents for children? Passport/birth certificate. Notarized consent if one parent only.
Is there immigration control? No formal checks but Guna inspect documents at ports.
Can I bring pets? No - prohibited to protect ecosystem.
What if I lose my passport? Immediately contact embassy in Panama City. No passport = no return boats.
Customs inspections? No standard customs but Guna may search bags for unauthorized alcohol.
Can I extend my stay? Yes, tourist card valid 30 days. Notify lodge about extensions.
Is travel insurance required? Not mandatory but crucial for possible medical evacuations.
Drone registration? Yes with Guna council ($50-$100). Confiscation/fines without permit.
What if I get sick? Go to nearest health center (Cartí/Playón Chico). Serious cases evacuated to Panama City.
Are there pharmacies? Only basic meds in larger communities. Bring your own medications.
How to contact my embassy? By phone (if service) or ask lodge to radio for help.
What if there's storm warnings? Tours cancel and wait it out. Bring extra money for unplanned overnights.
Missed return boat - now what? Arrange private transport ($80-$150). Always confirm boat times carefully.
Theft risk? Minimal but don't flash valuables. Communities are poor but honest.
What if I get lost? Stay on nearest island and ask for help. Small communities know everyone.
Political unrest? Rare and doesn't affect tourists. Check news before traveling.
How to avoid scams? Book only with reputable agencies like San Blas Dreams and pay via PayPal.
Emergency numbers? No 911. Save lodge contacts and tourist police in Cartí (+507 1234-5678).
Is it wheelchair accessible? No. Boats, cabins and sandy paths are unsuitable. Bocas del Toro is better.
Accessible restrooms? None available. Toilets have steps and uneven access.
Possible with mobility issues? Yes with assistance. Lodges like Dolphin Lodge have beachfront cabins.
Tours for seniors? Yes with frequent breaks. Avoid islands with rough waves.
Are strollers practical? No. Baby carriers better. Boats lack luggage space.
Allergy-friendly? Limited. Notify special diets and bring emergency meds.
Good for asthma? Yes but bring inhalers. Dusty roads and humidity may trigger symptoms.
Sign language interpreters? No. Communicate via writing or gestures. Guna are patient.
Safe while pregnant? Yes but avoid long bumpy boat rides. Islas Perro/Diablo are close and calm.
Visually impaired access? No special facilities. Companion and grippy footwear essential.
Cell reception? Limited on islands near Cartí. Claro has best coverage.
Lodge WiFi? Some like Cabañas Yandup offer slow WiFi ($5/hour). Better to unplug.
Can I work remotely? Not recommended. Unstable connections and limited electricity.
Where to charge devices? At lodges with generators (usually evenings). Solar power banks ideal.
Do GPS work? Yes but maps inaccurate. Local guides more reliable.
International calls? Expensive. Use WhatsApp when signal allows (mornings best).
Drones allowed? Only with Guna permit ($50-$100). Confiscation otherwise.
Outlets in cabins? Yes (110V) but few. Bring multi-plug for multiple devices.
Helpful apps? Maps.me (offline maps) and basic Guna-Spanish phrasebook.
How to contact lodge without signal? Via community radio. Ask about emergency channels on arrival.
