The San Blas Islands - An Indian Culture in a Tropical Paradise

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The San Blas Islands offer two unbeatable attractions: Caribbean islands of stunning beauty and an opportunity to visit the villages of the San Blas Indians to learn about their fascinating culture and way of life. This is Caribbean beauty at its best –the 365 picturesque palm tree covered islands of the San Blas Archipelago are set in indescribably beautiful aqua waters. Here you’ll feel refreshingly "away from it all" – far from modern civilization and close to nature.

The San Blas Islands were selected as one of the top two "best cruising destinations in the world" by Cruising World and Le Monde Voyage magazines. CBS’s Survivor program chose one typically idyllic San Blas island, Sapbeinega for a “reward” party for the Survivor competitors. The islands have been the subject of numerous National Geographic articles over the years- indeed this is an experience “right out of the pages of National Geographic.”

Island accommodations consist of simple, yet comfortable native style cabins with roofs and walls of thatched palm trees- "all natural" lodgings that blend in perfectly with the tropical scenery. It’s a real pleasure not to see any cement for a few days.

HOW TO GET THERE: Aeroperlas and Air Panama  have several daily flights from Panama City's Albrook Airport to the different islands. Round trip tickets from Panama City are around $60. Coral Lodge can be reached by road and a lodge boat.

WHERE TO STAY: Two excellent all-inclusive San Blas destinations are Sapibenega Kuna Lodge the new Coral Lodge on the coast near San Blas. See our Panamainfo listings.

If you are not staying at an all inclusive hotel, we recommend you visit San Blas with a tour operator who will arrange lodgings, tours etc.

San Blas Highlights:

Village Tourss: A visit to these Indian villages, right out of the pages of National Geographic, includes buying the famous mola embroideries (colorful reverse applique embroidery featuring tropical designs) directly from the Indian artisans, great photo opportunities of the Kuna women in their colorful regalia and quaint surroundings, and hearing about their unique way of life.
Beaching it: Dozens of beautiful islands with nary a soul in sight, Indian villages and great snorkeling. You are likely to have a whole island to yourself.
Snorkeling: Ask for the best snorkeling spots. Some might be a few feet from your cabin. The snorkeling is good to superb depending where. Coral reefs are gardens in a multitude of colors and shapes where few have been.

Rainforest Tours: Visit the pristine rainforests of the nearby mainland which is part of the Kuna territory:waterfalls, wildlife, dense tropical fauna.

Sea kayaking: The San Blas archipelago is ideal for kayaking due to the calm seas and many places easy to get to by kayak.

You can also see the islands by yacht on a fabulous all-inclusive tour with San Blas Sailing- see their listing below.