BLISS in San Blas Islands Panama Includes Tour & Transport from Panama City
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14h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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About this experience
Discover the magic of the San Blas Islands on a full-day adventure from Panama City. This experience combines everything travelers dream of in the Caribbean—crystal-clear waters, untouched beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and the authentic culture of the indigenous Guna Yala people.
Snorkel the famous shipwreck at Isla Perro Chico, swim in a natural pool in the middle of the sea, and enjoy a freshly prepared island lunch on the stunning shores of Isla Chichime. With stops on multiple islands, including Isla Diablo, you’ll experience the variety and beauty that make San Blas one of Panama’s most sought-after destinations.
Perfect for travelers looking to escape the city, this San Blas day trip offers the right balance of adventure and relaxation, with roundtrip transport from Panama City included.
✅ Explore 4 unique islands in one day
✅ Snorkel gear available (request from crew)
✅ Fresh lunch with fish, chicken, or vegetarian option
✅ Seamless transport from Panama City
Available options
Pick up from Playa Bonita
Duration: 14 hours<br/>Lunch + Drink: Fresh fish or chicken with rice and salad. Vegetarian option available. Choice of beer, water, or soda
<br/>San Blas Day Tour: Pick up from your lodging - Port of Carti - Isla Perro, Isla Nuinudup, Isla Diablo, Natural Pools (itinerary may vary)<br/>Shuttle from Playa Bonita: Roundtrip transportation from Playa Bonita area in a shared SUV with max 6 passengers. Pick up at your address 5:00-5:30am.
<br/>Pickup included
BLISS in San Blas Islands Panama!!! - Includes Tour & Transport from Panama City
Duration: 14 hours<br/>Lunch + Drink: Fresh fish or chicken with rice and salad. Vegetarian option available. Choice of beer, water, or soda
<br/>San Blas Day Tour: Pick up from your lodging - Port of Carti - Isla Perro, Isla Nuinudup, Isla Diablo, Natural Pools (itinerary may vary)<br/>Shuttle from Panama City: Roundtrip transportation from Panama City area in a shared car with max 6 passengers. Pick up at your address 5:00-5:45am
<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Fried fish or chicken with rice and salad. Vegetarian options available.
Island Taxes
Shared roundtrip transfer from your hotel in Panama City to Port of Carti
Shared Mask & Snorkel (Please request from your boat crew. Guests may bring their own)
Air-conditioned vehicle
Tour to Isla Perro, Isla Nuinudup, Isla Diablo PLUS the famous Natural Pool
One beverage: Bottle of water, soda or beer
Shared boat/lancha transportation all day
Detailed itinerary
1
5:00–5:45 AM: Pick-up from your hotel in licensed 4x4 vehicles.
Enjoy a 3-hour scenic drive through jungle highlands, with a 10-20 minute bathroom/snack stop along the way.
2
Arrival at the Port of San Blas
8:30–9:00 AM: Arrive at the port for check-in and boat assignments. While the process may feel busy and a little unstructured, the local Guna community has a well-established system, and all guests are taken care of.
Board your boat for a 30-minute ride across the Caribbean Sea to the first island. Depending on wind and ocean conditions, the ride can be bumpy and you may get splashed. Boats may also stop at other islands along the way to pick up or drop off guests before reaching your destination.
During the boat transfer, the boat may make short stops at different islands to pick up or drop off other travelers.
3
Stop 3
Isla Perro Chico (Shipwreck)
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Spend the morning at one of San Blas’ most popular islands. Relax on white sand beaches shaded by palms, or swim in the calm turquoise waters. Just offshore lies a shallow shipwreck, a favorite snorkeling spot where colorful tropical fish gather. It’s safe and easy to explore, even for beginners, and offers one of the best underwater photo opportunities in San Blas.
4
Stop 4
Natural Pool
12:00 – 12:30 PM: Cruise out to the famous Natural Pool, a sandbar in the middle of the Caribbean Sea where the water only reaches your waist. Wade through the crystal-clear shallows, look for starfish resting on the seabed, and enjoy the surreal feeling of standing in the ocean surrounded by endless turquoise views.
Note: Itinerary may change depending on weather and ocean conditions.
5
Isla Chichime (Lunch Stop)
1:00 – 2:30 PM: Arrive at Isla Chichime, often considered one of the most beautiful islands in the archipelago. Enjoy free time to swim, sunbathe, or walk along its wide sandy beaches. A freshly prepared island lunch (fish, chicken, or vegetarian) is served in a rustic beachfront setting, giving you a taste of traditional Guna-style cooking.
6
Isla Diablo
2:30 – 3:30 PM: Your last stop is Isla Diablo, a lively little island with swaying palms and excellent swimming conditions. Take a refreshing dip, snap your final San Blas photos, or simply relax on the beach before beginning the journey back.
7
Boat Ride Back to the Port
3:30pm - 4:00 PM: Return to the mainland by boat. Depending on the day’s logistics, your boat may stop at other islands to pick up or drop off travelers. While these brief pauses add to travel time, they also provide glimpses of authentic island life as you pass by smaller communities and fishing boats.
8
Drive Back to Panama City
4:00 – 7:00 PM: Meet your 4x4 driver for the return trip through the jungle highlands. The ride takes about 3 hours, with arrival in Panama City around 7:00 PM, depending on traffic and weather conditions.
What's not included
Guna
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.1
33 reviews
5★
17
4★
9
3★
2
2★
2
1★
3
Tripadvisor
4.4
47 reviews
5★
33
4★
6
3★
4
2★
2
1★
2
Important information
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
The boat transfer from the port to the islands may be bumpy with some sea spray. If you are sensitive to motion sickness, please prepare accordingly by bringing appropriate medication. You may also get wet, so please bring some water protection for your luggage and yourself
PLEASE BE PREPARED FOR A 2.5 to 3 HOUR CAR JOURNEY EACH WAY OVER CURVY ROADS! THERE IS ALSO A 25-30 MINUTE BOAT RIDE TO YOUR FIRST ISLAND WHICH CAN GET QUITE BUMPY AND WET. We feel that the islands are worth the long drive, but some travelers have complained about the drive and the fast boat ride from and to the port. While we strive to provide our guests the best service and an unforgettable experience in San Blas, we are not responsible for road and ocean conditions, and we would like you to be aware of this fact :)
SAN BLAS DISCLAIMER - PLEASE READ BEFORE BOOKING: ️ What to Expect on a San Blas Day Tour Transportation 2.5–3 hr ride from Panama City in shared 4x4s (6 passengers). Extra seat available at added cost. Pick-up 5:00–5:30 am — drivers can’t wait more than 10 min. Port check-in may feel informal, but the Kuna run it smoothly. 20–40 min boat ride (can be wet/bumpy). Boats may stop at other islands for guests. ️ Island Experience Rustic facilities: limited shade, basic bathrooms. Beaches often shallow — walk out further to swim. Islands can be busy in high season. Relaxed pace, no fixed schedules. ️ Food & Drinks Fresh meals (fish or chicken, rice, salad, patacones). One drink included (water, soda, or beer). Extra snacks/drinks available at port or on islands. Kuna Culture Only Kuna operate tours; most don’t speak English. Respect traditions: ask before photos, dress modestly in villages. Nature & Environment Plastic debris may wash ashore, though Kuna clean regularly. Sandflies/mosquitoes common in rainy season → bring repellent. Weather unpredictable; rain possible (no refunds). Health & Safety Limited medical care; emergencies require evacuation to Panama City at guest’s cost. Travel insurance strongly recommended: www.taotravel365.tours/travel-insurance Final Note This is not a luxury tour — it’s about disconnecting, experiencing Kuna culture, and enjoying pristine Caribbean islands. Bring patience, flexibility, and respect for an unforgettable adventure.
You are welcome to bring a cooler with your own drinks, potable water, snacks and beverages (fruit juice or alcohol). The driver will stop at a supermarket on the way to San Blas in order for you to purchase additional items.
PLEASE DO NOT FORGET TO BRING YOUR ORGINAL PASSPORT. WITHOUT IT, YOU WILL NOT BE ALLOWED TO ENTER THE GUNA TERRITORY AND THE SAN BLAS ISLANDS.
Please be advised that San Blas is in the Guna territory, which is an autonomous, Indian zone. The services are very basic. The Gunas will be providing all touristic services, such as meal preparations, car and boat transportations, lodging, and tour guiding. We are proud to be working with this friendly tribe and with each booking we give back to the community, supporting their customs and their traditional way of life. We kindly ask you to respect this beautiful culture and their simple way of life, leaving your expectations behind and learning about their innocent culture.
We recommend that you bring your personal hygiene items, such as towels, sunscreen, hats, mosquito repellent.
In San Blas Islands there are no ATMs, please bring cash. You can buy additional drinks, snacks, souvenirs etc.
“Tigo” is the cell phone company that has the best reception in San Blas.
Infants need to sit on laps.
The use of drones is prohibited in San Blas! Heavy fines are imposed on those who ignore the rules.
AGAIN!!! Please be prepared for a 2.5 hour car journey each way (1 hour on a highway and about 1.5 hours through the mountains over curvy roads! Please do not leave bad reviews because of the road. We try to warn you ahead of time ;)
During the boat transfer, the boat may make short stops at different islands to pick up or drop off other travelers. These pauses give you a quick glimpse of everyday island life, from children playing on the beach to fishermen preparing their catch, adding a touch of authenticity to the experience before arriving at your first main destination.
While the check-in process in the port of San Blas may feel busy and a little unstructured, the local Guna community has a well-established system, and all guests are taken care of.
Important notes
Guests who stay in cabins and would like to return earlier than their scheduled departure date must notify our reservation team one day before by 5:00pm via WhatsApp at +507-6172-8682 or at +507-6563-6992 in order for us to arrange your return transfer.
Travel Emergencies: The San Blas islands are located in a very remote region of Panama. We ask all guests to be responsible for their own well being and to be aware that medical assistance can often not be provided right away. The closest medical facility in San Blas is very basic and can only provide assistance for minor issues. Guests with injuries such as broken bones that require more specialized treatment need to be transported to Panama City. Guests are responsible for all charges arising from a medical emergency, such as boat and car transportation and medical care. We suggest all guests to carry a Travel Insurance to cover emergency expenses. For more information, please visit www.taotravel365.tours/travel-insurance/
About Panama City
Panama City, the capital and largest city of Panama, is a vibrant metropolis where modern skyscrapers meet historic colonial architecture. Situated at the Pacific entrance of the Panama Canal, it offers a unique blend of urban sophistication and tropical charm, making it a compelling destination for travelers.
Top Attractions
Panama Canal
One of the most significant engineering feats in history, the Panama Canal connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.
Historical
Half-day to full day
Free to visit locks, tours vary
Casco Viejo
The historic district of Panama City, Casco Viejo is a UNESCO World Heritage site with colonial architecture, vibrant nightlife, and cultural landmarks.
Historical
Half-day to full day
Free to explore, entry fees for museums
Biomuseo
Designed by Frank Gehry, the Biomuseo explores the biodiversity and natural history of Panama.
Museum
2-3 hours
Moderate
Ancon Hill
A popular hiking spot offering panoramic views of the city and the Panama Canal.
Nature
1-2 hours
Free
Panama Viejo
The ruins of the original Panama City, founded in 1519, offering a glimpse into the city's colonial past.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free to explore, entry fee for museum
Must-Try Local Dishes
Sancocho
A hearty chicken and root vegetable soup, often served with rice and corn.
Soup
Contains meat, can be made vegetarian
Ceviche
Fresh raw fish marinated in lime juice, mixed with onions, peppers, and cilantro.
Appetizer
Contains seafood, can be made with various types of fish
Ropa Vieja
Shredded beef stew with vegetables, served with rice and beans.
Main Course
Contains meat
Hojaldres
Fried dough pastries, often served with cheese or jam.
Snack
Vegetarian
Popular Activities
Hiking in Soberanía National Park
Kayaking in the San Blas Islands
Beach day at Playa Blanca
Spa day in a luxury hotel
Exploring Casco Viejo
Visiting the Biomuseo
Snorkeling in the San Blas Islands
Boat tours through the Panama Canal
Best Time to Visit
December to April
This is the dry season with sunny days and minimal rainfall, ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
24°C to 32°C
75°F to 90°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Panamanian Balboa (PAB)
Time Zone
GMT-5
Electricity
110VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Panama City is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas. Exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Use official taxis or ride-sharing apps
- • Be cautious in crowded areas
Getting there
By air
- Tocumen International Airport • 24 km (15 miles) from city center
By bus
Albrook Terminal, Panama Viejo Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Modern, efficient, and air-conditioned. A convenient way to travel within the city.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Didi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Casco Viejo
El Cangrejo
Bella Vista
San Francisco
Day trips
San Blas Islands
300 km (186 miles) from Panama City • Full day to overnight
A group of islands known for their pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and Guna Yala culture.
El Valle de Antón
80 km (50 miles) from Panama City • Full day
A picturesque mountain town surrounded by lush forests and waterfalls.
Soberanía National Park
30 km (19 miles) from Panama City • Half day to full day
A lush rainforest offering a variety of wildlife and hiking trails.
Festivals
Panama Carnival • February (4 days before Ash Wednesday)
Panama Jazz Festival • January
Festival de las Mil Polleras • July
Pro tips
- Visit the Panama Canal early in the morning to see ships pass through the locks
- Explore Casco Viejo on foot to discover its hidden gems and vibrant street life
- Try local street food for an authentic culinary experience
- Use the metro for efficient and affordable travel within the city
- Book tours and activities in advance to secure your spot and avoid disappointment
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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