The San Blas Archipelago is a group of islands, known as the San Blas Islands, located in the north-western part of Panama. They are spread over 160 kilometers of the Caribbean Sea and administered by indigenous people called Guna, also known as Kuna. The archipelago attracts a large number of visitors for its world’s most remarkable beaches and underwater life!
Sounds like a heaven on Earth, hm?
The incredible view of perfectly shaped small islands, hugged by crystal – clear, turquoise water just made me feel like being in another World. The archipelago is still not touched by modern World, what makes this place so extraordinary and phenomenal.
The perfect word that comes to my mind when I keep thinking about the description of this small paradise is simplicity. Simple pleasure, simple happiness and simple life are the core values to follow in the community.
INTERESTING FACTS
Even though, the archipelago contains more than 350 islands, the Guna people inhabit less than 20% of them and only few islands are available for visitors. The rest, are virgin islets with palm trees are protected by community. The native inhabitants run the San Blas Islands based on their own law and rules with a very little involvement from the Panamanian government. Even the archipelago belongs to the Republic of Panama, the Guna have absolute authority over all archipelago.
It is one of the best preserved indigenous cultures, as the Guna people take seriously the protection of the cultural and natural heritage.
Women hold the primary power positions and control of property, as the obligatory social system is matriarchy. I had the impression that men are absolutely fine with that, moreover, they are happy to just be, help and admire the women.
In the World, where we have been fighting for the equal rights for generations and we are still being considered as second to men, the San Blas Islands just stands out from the crowd. I was completely shocked and at the same time very happy to experience this unique culture.
ESSENTIALS TO PACK TO THE SAN BLAS ISLANDS
Passport – it is essential to enter the San Blas Islands.
Cash – remember to withdraw your money from a cash machine in Panama City or any other big city. You will not find any ATM in San Blas Islands, all purchase are payable in cash.
Snacks – the meals on the island are small and simple (rice with fish or chicken). You can get hungry in the evening, especially if you are a big eater. Take with yourself some snacks like nuts, dried fruits, nutrition baton or chocolate. There is a shop selling food, water or alcohol, however the prices are quite high as all products are imported by boats. You can also order some extra food like hamburger or lobster.
Flashlight – during the night, it can be very useful as there is not electricity on the way to bathrooms or a hut.
WHAT TO EXPECT ON THE SAN BLAS ISLANDS
Accommodation is very rustic and primitive, so don’t expect any luxury. You can stay in a simple bungalow made of natural materials or sleep in a tent. There is a Coral Lodge at one of the islands, for those who need a normal room with AC.
There is no WiFi or very weak one, so disconnect with the World and take a moment of wonder. This is a place to relax, drink coconuts, snorkeling and sleeping in the hammock.
HOW TO GET TO THE SAN BLAS ISLANDS
When you are in Panama City
The most common way to get from Panama City to San Blas Islands is book a transport in your hostel. The most popular ones are Mamallena or Luna’s Castle. You book a jeep which picks you up early in the morning and drop you off at the coastal city called Golfo de San Blas. The round trip costs $60. Then, you need to take a boat which takes you to the island you picked. The member of the family will be waiting for you next to the boats. The round trip by boat is about $20. To the costs mentioned above, you need to add:
$22 entry tax to Guna Yala
$25 a night per person includes 3 meals a day
When you are in Colombia – sailing boat
Very unique and exciting way to cross the Panamanian border with Colombia is to do it by the sea. From Cartagena de Indias, you can charter a sailboat with a captain and spend unforgettable 4 or 5 days on the boat and the San Blas Islands. It might be your best choice, if you are looking for a great adventure! It is one of the most expensive options, because the price is between $450 and $550, but remember that you also pay for accommodation, food and all expenses. By choosing this option, you need to be ready to spend 2 days on the open water where the conditions can get rough.
When you are in Colombia – speed boat
The boat trip starts in Capurgana and takes around 3-4 days. The company San Blas Adventures arranges tours on this route. The price is about $400 includes food, accommodation and all expenses. It is a great option, if you want to save your time on the boat and spend more time exploring the islands. In addition, you will meet lots of fellow travelers during the trip.
When you want to fly to the San Blas Islands
The only airlines flying to the San Blas Islands is the Air Panama. The most popular route is between Panama City and El Porvenir. However, there are also small airports on Rio Sidra, Achutupu, Garti, Playon Chico, de Jesus and Corazon islands. Prices are between $50 and $150.
