The San Blas Islands: An Excellent Panama Destination for Travelers

Anatoly Gaviria January 17, 2013

The San Blas Islands are scattered throughout the Comarca of Guna Yala area, which is located on the Eastern Caribbean Coast of Panama. It’s an excellent destination for travelers who love a unique adventurous experience that you won’t get anywhere else.

Many of these Islands are designated for travelers who want to learn more about Indian culture while enjoying a tropical Island paradise environment. When you visit these Islands, you’ll stay with the Guna people who will teach you about their history and culture.

What to Expect

To get a better idea of what spending time with the Guna people would be like, think of the Indian Reservations in America because it has a lot of similarities. For example, the Guna people live their lives based on customs and the old traditions of their people, while avoiding new modern technology and amenities. They also have full authority within the borders of their land so their rules apply, not the ones associated with Panama City.

The San Blas Islands consist of powdery white sandy beaches, coral reefs and swaying palm trees. All of this combined with the beautiful blue water surrounding the Islands offers the ultimate tropical experience that you’ll never forget. You can relax on the beach, go snorkeling or enjoy the wildlife and beauty this tropical paradise has to offer. In addition, if you’re an avid fisherman, these islands offer an experience like none other.

Is This Trip Right For You?

One thing to consider carefully when visiting the San Blas Islands is that you won’t be booking your stay in a 5-star hotel. There are no such luxuries here. The Guna live in harmony with nature and when visiting, so will you. However, they do have real beds and mesquite nets on some of the Islands, so be specific when choosing the one you want to stay on.

It’s also very important that you know upfront that the San Blas Islands in Panama is not for everyone. If you enjoy lounging around a pool or dining in fine restaurants, this is definitely not the place for you. In addition, this trip is not recommended for children or anyone with medical conditions. This is because you won’t be near any major hospitals and it would be difficult to care for children in this type of environment.

However, if you have a love for nature and learning about a native culture that only exists within the perimeters of these Islands, then it can be a very eye-opening experience.