San Blas Panama

Guna Yala is an indigenous territory governed by the Guna indigenous group. The territory consists of a narrow strip of land on the Caribbean side of the country, as well as an archipelago of 365 islands, of which only 49 are inhabited by Guna people. The islands in Guna Yala are also known as the San Blas Islands, which are considered a top destination in Panama due to their well-protected natural beauty and the native Guna people.

The Gunas are known for crafting the famous Molas, a traditional textile made from layers of colored fabric crafted to form patterns and pictures inspired by their cosmogenic beliefs. The molas, which recreate the Guna vision of a colorful and mythological world, make incredible, one-of-a-kind souvenirs.

Things to do in San Blas Panama

Visit the Islands
Go swimming in the beautiful crystal clear, turquoise waters of the San Blas Islands. Consider stopping at El Porvenir, the capital of Guna Yala, Isla Perro for amazing snorkeling or take a day trip to other stunning islands like Banedup Island or Robeson Island.

Location and Map

There are three ways to get to San Blas Islands from Panama City: via sailboat charter, flying and with a boat taxi or taking a 4x4 ride to Cartí . The last one is a scenic 2 hour 30 minute drive across the central mountain range. From Cartí, you can access the individual islands by boat in about 20 minutes.