From Panama City to San Blas Islands: Everything You Need to Know
Wondering how to get from Panama City to San Blas Islands? I absolutely loved my two days in the San Blas Islands, and the journey there, though doable, can be tough! However, I do think it’s worth visiting these remote islands in the Guna Yala territory of Panama!
I’ll review what the journey is like if you book a tour, other options to get from Panama City to San Blas and why it’s worth the effort to visit these beautiful islands!
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Where Are the San Blas Islands?
The San Blas Islands are a stunning archipelago located off the Caribbean coast of eastern Panama. San Blas is part of the Guna Yala autonomous region, governed by the indigenous Guna people. Over 300 islands and cays run along the northern edge of the Isthmus of Panama, not far from the Colombian border.
Despite how remote they feel, the San Blas Islands are surprisingly accessible from Panama City. In just a few hours, you can find yourself in a stunning paradise that feels off the grid all while being exposed to a new culture! It’s one of the most unique destinations in Central America.
The islands are known for their natural beauty, laid-back atmosphere, and lack of commercial development—there are no high-rise resorts, chain restaurants, or cruise ports here. I loved the experience because of its lack of commercial buildings and infrastructure, but it’s important you go with the proper expectations!
How Far is San Blas from Panama City?
While the San Blas Islands feel like a world away, they are actually close enough for day trips from Panama City! The drive from the city to the Caribbean coast (specifically the port of Cartí) is roughly 2.5 to 3 hours, covering about 120 kilometers (75 miles).
The drive from Panama City to the border crossing checkpoint of Guna Yala isn’t bad! It’s mainly driving along the highway until we stopped at a gas station before heading east towards the islands. I distinctly remember the moment of waiting at the border crossing because I had read the drive was rough, but sitting in the SUV I thought to myself “this wasn’t bad!” Well, I had thought that a moment too soon!
Once you pass the border checkpoint, the drive is ROUGH! The drivers do this at minimum twice a day (likely more) so they whip around the corners and navigate potholes at speeds that will leave you feeling nauseous! Thankfully, we arrived just as I was starting to feel queezy and I quickly recovered.
The journey to the checkpoint is easy, but once you cross the border things get interesting! Thankfully, the craziest part of the drive is relatively short by comparison. However, once you arrive you will then be on a boat for another thirty to forty-five minutes (or on and off all day if you choose the San Blas day tour option).
Despite the bumpy ride and early wake-up call, most travelers agree: the effort is 100% worth it once your toes hit that white sand. Honestly, I think the journey is part of what makes the experience so special and memorable! If the journey was easy, would you still feel as off the grid in the San Blas Islands?
Transportation Options: How to Get from Panama City to San Blas
Getting to the San Blas Islands is easiest by booking a tour, but you’ve got a few solid options depending on your budget, comfort level, and sense of adventure. Here’s a breakdown of the most common ways to make the trip from Panama City to San Blas.
Organized Tour | Most Popular Option
This is the option I chose and definitely the most common choice among tourists! Most tours will bundle everything from transport to and from the San Blas Islands accommodation, excursions and meals!
- Pros: Stress-free, everything arranged for you, great for first-time visitors
- Cons: Less flexibility, may feel touristy or rushed on day trips
Good to know: Most tours leave around 5:00–5:30 AM and return late in the evening or the next day. Be sure to confirm what’s included—some don’t cover the $22 Guna Yala entrance fee or omit meals. You will also want to take extra water or snacks (my tour stopped at a grocery in Panama City to let us get supplies).
DIY Trip: 4×4 Drive + Boat Transfer
I love the sense of freedom and happily choose this option when it makes sense! You’ll either need to rent a 4×4 or hire a driver with a 4×4 to reach the port and then you will need to have organized a boat transfer.
The best way to approach this method is to start by booking and coordinating with the accommodation of choice in the San Blas Islands. They will offer a transfer price for car and/or boat and will outline what is and is not included in the price!
If you still plan to drive yourself, check with your accommodations on the process. Consider that you will need to confirm which port, cost to park a vehicle per day, and the boat transfer price and time of pickup.
Also everyone crossing the border has to pay a fee, which is currently set to $22 for foreigners and you will need your passport! Some accommodations in the San Blas Islands have websites and/or are on hotel booking sites, which makes planning easier! Others you will have to call, and knowing Spanish will likely be necessary.
- Pros: More flexibility, great for longer stays or independent travel
- Cons: Requires more planning, road can be rough and winding
Some Accommodations in the San Blas Islands on booking sites:
Flying | Least Common but an Option
While flying is less common, it is possible if you’re short on time or if you’re prone to carsickness. The planes are small and subject to the weather. The time saving aspect could definitely be worth it, and you won’t be sacrificing the adventure aspect on a small plane!
- Departure Airport: Marcos A. Gelabert Airport (Albrook)
- Arrival Airports: El Porvenir (PVE) or Corazón de Jesús (CZJ)
- Flight time 30 to 45 minutes approximately
- Book in advance as space is limited
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Tips for the Journey
The journey to the San Blas Islands isn’t bad if you’re prepared, but it does provide a great start for the adventure and off the grid vibes. Early wake up call, wild roads, and an uncomfortable boat ride all contribute to the unforgettable experience!
Be Ready for an Early Start
Most tours and transfers leave between 5:00 and 6:00 AM, so get to bed early the night before. You might want to pack breakfast snacks or a coffee thermos to take with you. However, the tour I did stopped at a grocery in Panama City and again at a gas station before heading east on Carr. Hacia San Blas.
Pack Light and Waterproof
You’ll need to hop in a relatively small boat once you reach the port, so pack light and bring a waterproof bag or dry bag to protect your belongings. A small backpack is usually enough for day trips or overnights.
They will do their best to keep your luggage dry, but for any belongings you want with you will need to be protected.
Don’t Forget Your Passport
Even though you’re staying in Panama, the Guna Yala region is autonomous and requires a valid passport at the border checkpoint. Keep it accessible for inspection.
Bring Cash
There are no ATMs in San Blas, and most islands don’t take cards. The tour I did outlined what cash to pay and when. I paid the driver, the fee at the border, and lastly what I owed for the accommodations on arrival.
I also paid for a late checkout with cash and a fresh coconut!
Bring enough cash for:
- Anything stated by your tour or accommodation
- The Guna Yala entrance fee (about $22 USD per person)
- Any extra snacks, drinks, or tips
- Souvenirs or add-on activities like snorkeling
Prepare for the Drive
The road to the port is steep, curvy, and often bumpy, especially toward the end. If you’re prone to motion sickness, take something before the ride. The drive wasn’t bad until after the border crossing and then it was a series of turns and dips at what felt like too high of speeds!
The drive from Panama City to the gas station was mainly highway driving and the portion from the gas station to the border crossing wasn’t bad. Thankfully, the third part which is also the hardest part of the drive isn’t too long. I started feeling a little queezy, but then we arrived!
Expect Limited Connectivity
Once you leave Panama City, cell service drops off fast—especially in the Guna Yala region and on the islands. Download maps or offline info ahead of time and let people know you’ll be off-grid for a bit. Being off the grid is such a nice change of pace and it’s worth embracing!
Keep Essentials Handy
I wore my swimsuit and prepared for being in the sun before I even left! You will likely have some time at the port to put on sunscreen, but I’d recommend being in the clothes for the boat before you get in the SUV.
Your overall packing list will be different based on whether you’re going for the day or overnight, but consider having the below items handy:
- Passport
- Sunscreen & sunglasses
- Water bottle
- Towel
- Snacks
- Motion sickness meds (if needed)
- A change of clothes (good to sit on because the seat on the boat is hard and have them in case)
Choosing the Right Island or Tour
Not all San Blas experiences are the same—and that’s part of what makes it such a special destination. With over 365 islands and a range of tour styles, the key is finding the right fit for your travel vibe, budget, and time frame. Here’s how to narrow it down:
Day Trip vs. Overnight Stay
Day Trips
- Great if you’re short on time or just want a quick island escape
- Typically include transport, a visit to one or two islands, snorkeling, and lunch
- You’ll spend a lot of time in transit (up to 8–10 hours round trip), so it can feel rushed
Overnight Stays
- Highly recommended for a more relaxed experience
- Includes meals, basic lodging (usually rustic huts or eco-cabins), and multiple island visits
- You’ll have time to enjoy the sunset, stargazing, and maybe even meet locals or fellow travelers
Tip: If you can spare at least one night, go for it—the islands are even more magical when the day-trippers leave. Read about my experience here: Two Days in the San Blas Islands: A Caribbean Paradise I’ll Never Forget
Popular Islands to Consider
I spent two days in the San Blas Islands and stayed on Chichime. The accommodations were campground like, but the island is beautiful! We also visited Isla Perro as part of our excursion. The accommodations range from rustic cabin to tent.
Here are a few of the most visited and traveler-friendly islands in San Blas:
- Isla Perro (Dog Island): Known for the sunken shipwreck just offshore, perfect for snorkeling
- Isla Chichime: Chill vibes, clear water, and a backpacker favorite
- Isla Diablo: Close to Isla Perro with good facilities and calm waters
- Franklin Island (Isla Franklin): Popular with tour companies; offers good food and beach hammocks
- Cayo Holandés: A bit farther out and less crowded, great for a peaceful escape
Choosing a Tour or Accommodation
Here are a few factors to help you decide:
- Budget: Most islands offer basic lodging—think sand-floor huts and shared bathrooms. If you want a bit more comfort (like private cabins or solar-powered showers), check reviews carefully or ask your tour provider.
- Travel Style: Some islands are better for groups and party vibes, while others cater to couples or solo travelers looking for peace and quiet.
- Activities: Want to snorkel, kayak, or learn about Guna culture? Check what’s included in your tour or ask your host directly.
- Food: Meals are usually included and simple—expect fresh fish, rice, fruit, and veggies. If you have dietary needs, I’d suggest asking the tour before booking and also packing extra food for the tour.
Booking Options
There are dozens of tour providers in Panama City, but quality varies. Look for:
- Clear communication
- Transparent pricing
- Good reviews from recent travelers
- A focus on sustainability and respect for Guna culture
Directly with a Tour Operator
I booked with San Blas Dreams and had a great experience! There was a booking fee, but the rest of the price was paid in cash on arrival. Even though it felt like a gamble, they were quick to respond to my emails and it was only a small fee to book.
Directly with an Island or Accommodation
If I spoke Spanish, I’d consider this option as I think it could be the best experience! It could also be the worst, but that’s part of the adventure of it. You can book directly with an accommodation and organize all transfers with them as well as any excursions.
This option gives you the freedom and control, but also requires the most planning. There are a lot of accommodations you can contact directly by phone, so knowing Spanish is a must as the Guna people speak their native language and Spanish.
There are options on booking sights, which is a good option if you don’t speak Spanish well. You can rely on message translation and other reviewers can offer that peace of mind.
Tour Sites
If both of the above make you nervous, this option is probably best! Viator has numerous tour options you can book. Having verified reviews, a free cancellation policy (within a certain time-frame), and customer support can provide a lot of peace of mind.
When I’ve used Viator, I’ve had great experiences. The tour itself will communicate with you directly and Viator is just a middle man. However, having that middle man can help ease some of the anxiety when booking.
Some well rated options with Viator include:
My Experience from Panama City to the San Blas Islands
On this trip, I spent 3 days in Panama City, Panama and 2 in the San Blas Islands. I chose the overnight option in the San Blas Islands and I’m so glad I did. It was clear in my research that it would be similar to camping, and I wasn’t sure I could handle more than one night. So I chose the overnight option and late checkout which was perfect for me!
The SUV picked me up from my accommodation in Casco Viejo around 5:30AM! I was the last to be picked up so the vehicle was full and thankfully the seat left was in the back and not the third row (you’ll know why I was grateful later).
Grocery Stop
Our first stop was a grocery store where we could buy whatever snacks or drinks we want for our stay of two days in the San Blas Islands. While meals are included in the tour, snacks and drinks would cost extra and options are very limited in the islands. So I stocked up on water and some snacks, and also grabbed breakfast and coffee because it was a super early wake up call.
After the grocery, we drove for about an hour and made one more stop at a gas station. Here we could use the restroom and grab anything else from the convenient store we may have forgotten in Panama City.
Border Crossing | Guna Yala
The drive from the gas station to the border for the Guna Yala region wasn’t long. There was a lineup of SUVs carrying tourists, but we all have to stop here to pay a fee (about $22 for foreigners) and show our passports. The tour advised in advance of all these details.
I remember , in my research, reading that the drive was rough and as we were waiting at the border crossing I thought “that wasn’t that bad.” Well, that thought came a moment too soon! The drive from the border crossing to the docks was W I L D! I don’t normally get carsick, but I was starting to feel a touch queezy in the backseat and why I was so grateful not to be in the third row of the SUV!
The tours do warn about this drive, but it’s worth noting that if you get carsick, be sure to ask for the front seat! These drivers do this journey twice a day (minimum) and they will whip around those corners like it’s nothing!
Port of the San Blas Islands
Port might be overstating things. The area we were dropped off included a small building and an awning to wait in the shade. It wasn’t the main port of Carti, because we rode the boat down a river to the ocean. They asked us to wait for our name to be called, so I waited in the shade until I was ushered to the boat.
The boat was long with rows built in and we were each handed a life jacket. As we rode down the river, I saw a Guna man on a small, narrow boat fishing. We were asked not to take photos without first asking permission, so I just appreciated this momentary exposure to a new culture.
Our first stop was where the majority of the Guna people live. We didn’t get out of the boat, rather we waited as they added supplies and food to the boat to be transported to the islands. Seeing this packed small island was fascinating as it’s so different to our way of life.
Once they had the supplies, we were off! We stopped at a couple different islands, dropping people off at each one. It wasn’t long into the boat ride where my bum became numb! The bench seat was SO HARD.
About forty-five minutes or so from the mainland and I finally arrived to Chichime! The whole journey from Panama City started at 5:30AM and I finally stepped onto Chichime around 11AM!
Why the Journey from Panama City to San Blas was Worth It
The long, cumbersome and uncomfortable journey all contributed to making the experience that much sweeter. It is the things in life that are tough or costly in a sense that often produce some of the sweetest moments or most valuable perspectives.
I love adventure and I love the ocean, so I knew I’d enjoy this experience on some level. Being off the grid, roughing it a bit, and truly being unable to use my phone proved not only doable but enjoyable as well!
I still think back to this experience with so much fondness and appreciation for the opportunity to see this slice of paradise and exposure to a new culture. Yes, the journey was tough in parts, but in the end it was all part of the adventure and being a little uncomfortable never hurt anyone!
From Panama City to San Blas
If you plan on traveling to the San Blas Islands, I hope this guide was helpful! Regardless of the route you choose, I think these stunning islands are worth seeing! Paradise, exposure to a new culture, and remembering (or experiencing for the first time) a life with less to no technology will be unforgettable. This I’m sure of!
I hope you have an amazing time and feel more prepared for the transfer from Panama City to San Blas!
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