San Blas Islands (Guna Yala)

A Caribbean archipelago governed by the Indigenous Guna, where you can stay in thatched huts, snorkel a shipwreck and experience Guna culture.

The San Blas Islands lie along Panama's northeastern Caribbean coast and administratively form the Indigenous self-governed territory of Guna Yala. About 365 small islands are scattered along the coastline, roughly 50 of them inhabited. The Guna govern themselves through their traditional congress, and outsiders cannot buy land. Visitors usually leave Panama City before dawn by 4WD along the El Llano–Carti Road to Carti port, then transfer to a speedboat; you can also fly by small plane to El Porvenir or Playón Chico. The islands around Carti in the west are the most concentrated: the Lemon Cays and Aguja Island are close to port; Chichime, the Dog Island shipwreck and Diablo Island are a classic day-trip combination; and the Holandés Cays lie farther out on the outer edge. Accommodation is mostly thatched huts run by Guna families, including three meals and island hopping. The dry season from December to April has the best sea conditions; May–November sees frequent showers, but fewer crowds and lower prices. Entering the territory requires an entry fee, a dock fee and a landing fee for each island (about US$20–40 in total; confirm on site). Bring your passport and enough cash (most places don't take cards). Electricity, fresh water and internet on the islands are limited. Respect Guna rules: ask before photographing locals, some of whom charge a fee, and do not pick up starfish or shells. Recommended stay: 1–3 nights.

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