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1515

3-days San Blas Islands Hopping Tour

(7 Reviews)
  • 3 Days
  • Group size: ~6-14
  • Start/End: P.C.
  • fixed dates

The ultimate San Blas Islands Tour

Experience the best of the Archipelago with our popular tour to the San Blas Islands, designed to take you beyond the highlights to quieter, lesser-known islands. Our three-day island hopping adventure immerses you in the local island culture while exploring the archipelago’s stunning natural beauty. Discover picturesque white sandy beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and lush tropical landscapes that will take your breath away.

Our days will be spent exploring various islands in a small group, fully embracing the laid-back island lifestyle. Each night, we will retire to a new island, allowing you to appreciate the unique ambiance of each location and soak up the stunning views of the starry night sky.

Book now for the journey of a lifetime with this tour to the San Blas Islands!

Choose your date on the booking formular at the right!

Choose your date on the booking formular at the bottom!

Price (per person)

Shared Dorm Cabin
$260 USD
mixed, max. 6-8 people
Private Cabin
$305 USD
For 2-6 people of the same reservation
Additional night (dorm/private cabin)*
$55/75 USD
  • Discounts for children 8 years and younger
  • * Extend to 4-days/3-nights. Tour ends Day 3, afternoon. Stay +24h on the final island to relax & unwind.

Price Includes

  • Transport from Panama City to San Blas & back (shared 4x4/SUV)
  • Island visits incl. island fees
  • 2 nights accommodation (in two islands)
  • Boat transport between islands (speed boat)
  • Meals (vegetarian/vegan options available)
  • Breath-taking nature & laid-back island life
  • Knowledgeable, local guide
  • 3 full days - max. island time
  • Snorkel & mask (limited number)

Price Excludes

  • Governmental entrance & port fee to Comarca Kuna Yala ($22 USD adults, $5 USD children 9 or younger)
  • Beverages, drinks, snacks (bring or buy)
  • Towels and personal items

What to Expect

We’ve listened to your feedback and have relaunched this trip with your suggestions, our own expert guides and an updated itinerary.

Expect an active island-hopping adventure with plenty of islands to explore throughout the day, short boat rides in between, a glimpse into our indigenous Kuna culture, and charming traditional cabins on the beach for the night. Plenty of time to relax in a hammock, swim in the crystal-clear waters, snorkel, for kayak/SUP and stargazing at night. Private and dorm cabins available. Solo travelers, couples, families, and groups are all welcome.

Join us on this exciting island-hopping adventure, the ultimate San Blas Islands Tour!

  • Small groups (ca. 6-14 guests)
  • Discover 6+ pristine islands
  • Explore a sunken ship on Isla Perro
  • Visit an indigenous Kuna village
  • Sleep in traditional cabins on the beach
  • Freshly caught sea food, lobster on demand (during season)
  • Snorkel the third-largest coral reef in the world
  • Visit a natural pool with starfish

Islands

Possible Itinerary

Our San Blas Islands tour follows a rough itinerary that brings you to the highlights of the San Blas Islands. We try our best to stick to this route but at times we have to adapt it to the season, island crowds (weekdays vs weekend), weather conditions, and temporary island closures. 

Island Visits

Which islands do we visit

Island Itinerary (subject to change):

  • Day 1:  Isla Perro and the sunk shipwreck, one or two close-by islands and Piscina Natural, a pool in the middle of the sea. Arrive on island for the first night.  
  • Day 2: if wind, waves & weather permits, we visit the Cayos Holandeses, the most beautiful &  remote islands of the Archipelago (min group size: 5). Alternatively, some equally beautiful, virgin islands in the Cayos Limones or the Narganá region. Arrive on island for the second night.  
  • Day 3, visit to Anmardup and a Kuna village before heading back to the port & Panama City. 

Accommodation

Where do we sleep

We sleep on two different islands, usually out of the following: Isla Iguana, Isla Naranjo Chico, Isla Tubasenika, Isla Aroma, Isla Miriyadup.

Cabin styles differ by island: simple, thatched huts with sand floor or upscale wooden cabins. All cabins with western-style bed with mattresses, pillow, sheets. Private cabins: 2-6 people. Dorm cabins: mixed, up to 8 people.

Shared bathrooms with simple, western-style shower & toilet, no warm water.

Our new boat San Blas Frontera - perfect for our trips from Panama to Colombia or from Colombia to Panama and to access remote islands

Boat transfer

Typical local speed boats (lancha) with outboard motor, equipped with safety vests for all guests. Short rides between islands (ca. 10-30min).

Wailidup Island in the San Blas Islands, Panama

Meals

Freshly prepared local cuisine (seafood or chicken), vegetarian & vegan options available. Langosta on demand  (except: March-May)

Itinerary San Blas Islands Tour

Itineraries of this San Blas Islands Tour are subject to change in case of island closures, overcrowding, weather/sea conditions, etc. Below island itineraries are examples and can be adapted (other islands, order, more/less islands)

Day 1 - Welcome to Paradise!

Start your San Blas adventure with an early morning pickup from your Panama City hotel (5-5:30am). Drive through the scenic San Blas hills in a shared 4×4 taxi and board a boat at the port in Carti. Your guide will take you directly to the first of several more islands. Enjoy lunch and ample time on pristine beaches throughout the day. In the afternoon, arrive at the island for the night, where you can relax, enjoy dinner, socialize with the group or other guests. Finally, fall asleep with the sound of the ocean in our ears.

Day 2 - A new day, new islands

Wake up to a stunning view of the turquoise Caribbean and enjoy a delicious breakfast prepared by the island’s crew. Get ready for more island hopping and island fun today.  Alternatively we might decide to spend some more time on our current island and depart later to explore the surrounding islands and enjoy the crystal-clear waters. We’ll arrive at the new island for the night in the afternoon. Relax, enjoy the sunset, have dinner together and enjoy a peaceful night under the stars. Maybe the island owners even light a bonfire for the night?

Day 3 - Last Day of Island Hopping Adventure

Are you up early for a stunning sunrise and a swim in crystal-clear waters? Enjoy breakfast with a sea view. Pack up and say goodbye to the island. Visit one final island for last-minute beach time and a Kuna village before heading back to the mainland. Take in the stunning island views one last time before arriving at the port in the mid to late afternoon. Say goodbye to your guide and fellow travelers before a shared taxi takes you back to Panama City, arriving at your hotel in the early evening (ca. 7pm). We hope you had an amazing time exploring San Blas!

Day 4 (Optional) - Extend your stay

OPTIONAL – Extend your San Blas adventure with an optional extra night on the last island for total relaxation. Depart on Day 4 after breakfast (return to Panama City 12pm/1pm) or in the afternoon (return to Panama City 7pm). Enjoy island bliss to the fullest!

FAQ San Blas Island Hopping

Which Islands will we visit?

We plan to visit at least 6 islands incl. a natural swimming pool during the 3-day trip, often times visiting 10 and more. The exact itinerary depends on the weather, season and availability of the islands. You can find a potential itinerary above. 

How do I book & pay for the trip?

 

You can book via the homepage (pick your desired date in the calendar and choose package option) or through email at reservaciones@sanblasfrontera.com.

Payment is in cash on the day of the tour (US Dollars only). If this is not possible, we also accept payment via PayPal or bank transfer for an additional fee. Please reach out for details.

What should I pack?

For a full day out on the water and in the sun, please dress accordingly and bring the following:

Mandatory:

  • Passport: checked by police upon entering the Comarca of Kuna Yala (San Blas)
  • Sufficient cash: in US Dollars to pay for the trip in cash, to buy drinks, snacks, souvenirs on the island (small bills of 1 USD and 5 USD recommended) – no credit cards, no ATM in San Blas

Recommended:

  • Sun protection: for the island and the boat ride (sun blocker, hat, T-shirt with sleeves, towel)
  • Towels
  • Drinking water: please bring sufficient or purchase on the island
  • Snacks
  • Swimming gear
  • Sandals, flip flops
  • Wetbag or plastic bag for your valuables in case of a wet boat ride or rain
  • Flash light
  • Clothes (to change if you get wet on the boat ride + it might get chilly/windy at night)
  • Snorkeling equipment (we have a few snorkels but we recommend bringing your own for full comfort)

Wrap sensitive items and put them in a waterproof bag during the boat ride. Keep your passport and cash with you during the car ride for the passport check and entrance fee payment.

How much luggage can I bring? Can we store luggage with you?

We regret to inform you that we are unable to provide luggage storage facilities in Panama City or at the dock in Cartí, San Blas. Therefore, you will be required to carry all your luggage with you for the entire duration of your visit to the San Blas Islands. 

This is why we advise you to bring only as little luggage as necessary on the trip because space in the cars and the boat is limited. We recommend a maximum of one luggage item plus a small carry-on. While suitcases are not impossible, they can be harder to handle, especially when navigating sandy terrain. 

Often, you can make arrangements with your hotel/hostel  in Panama City to leave your luggage there. If this is not possible, you can of course bring your luggage with you on the trip. 

Is this trip suitable for children?

Yes, this trip is absolutely suitable for children and they usually love it! The San Blas Islands are a great place for families to enjoy a fun and adventurous vacation together. Children can explore the beautiful beaches, go swimming and snorkeling in the clear waters, and learn about the unique Kuna culture. Kuna people are very welcoming and love to interact with children, making it a great cultural experience for kids.

For the this 3-day Island Hopping trip, we recommend that children be at least 6 years old. This is because we will be out all day, hopping between islands, and only arriving at the main island in the afternoon to relax. However, rest assured that children can take naps on the boat or find shady spots on the islands throughout the day.

Alternatively, we have a special recommendation for families with small children. We suggest opting for an overnight stay on one of the islands where you can spend most of your time in a single location. This allows for a more relaxed experience, and in the afternoon, you can go on a ca. 3-hour tour to explore nearby islands. This option is ideal for families with young kids, providing a balance between exploration and relaxation.

It’s important to bring sunscreen, hats, and other protective gear to keep children safe from the sun and sufficient water to stay hydrated. We prioritize the safety and well-being of our young guests, and we want to ensure they have a memorable and enjoyable experience in a comfortable and protected environment.

Overall, the 3-day island hopping trip is a wonderful experience for families with children, and we highly recommend it! Don’t forget to check out our discounted offers for children who are 9 years old or younger. If you have any specific questions or concerns about bringing children on the trip, please feel free to contact us. We are here to assist you and make your family’s adventure in San Blas unforgettable.

 

Do you provide snorkel equipment?

Yes, we have snorkels and masks available for you to use, although we suggest that you bring your own to ensure a comfortable and safe snorkeling experience.

What about the weather?

The San Blas Islands experience a tropical climate with relatively consistent temperatures throughout the year and is worth a visit year-round! The weather is mainly influenced by the Caribbean Sea and the trade winds and can vary between sectors and islands. Generally speaking: 

  1. Dry Season (December to March/April): lower humidity, little rainfall, plenty of sunshine & clear blue skies, strong winds (trade winds). Temperatures: 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F). Best time for visiting the San Blas Islands, but on the downside more crowds and worse visibility for snorkeling in case of rougher seas from the trade winds. 
  2. Transition Season (May & June, November): transition from dry to rainy season. Slightly more unpredictable weather, mix of sunny days with occasional showers (30-60min usually), mainly in the afternoon. Temperatures similar as in dry season.
  3. Rainy Season (July to October): more frequent showers & thunderstorms, usually in short bursts  (30-60min usually, mainly in the afternoon) followed by sunshine, little wind, temperatures 25°C to 31°C (77°F to 88°F). Off-season with less crowds, better visibility for snorkeling with calmer seas. 

It is possible that outside of the dry season you will experience some rain during this trip. That doesn’t mean that it rains nonstop. Instead, there are good chances that it might rain every day, but if so then most likely in the afternoon as a quick downpour followed by sunshine. Since temperatures will still be warm, even when it’s raining, and you’ll still have sun, visits to the San Blas Islands will still be enjoyable. In fact, that’s what Panamanians do – visit the beach all year long. 

This trip operates throughout the year, and our primary concern is the safety and well-being of our guests. We closely monitor weather conditions and follow the guidance of the local maritime office to ensure the utmost safety during the tour. In the rare event of extreme weather conditions, it may be necessary to cancel or modify the itinerary.

If there are rains or storms, we are prepared to adapt our itinerary as needed. Our experienced team will assess the situation and make adjustments, such as changing the order of our planned activities or visiting islands in more protected areas (e.g. closer to the coastline). 

 

 

Do you also offer 4-day trips?

We offer the option to stay for an additional night after the official tour has ended. The guided part of the tour ends on Day 3 in the afternoon. You can stay for an additional night & day on the island where you slept the second night, allowing you to enjoy a leisurely and relaxed experience to unwind and fully relax towards the end of your stay after 3 days full of activities. If desired, there is also the option to join one of the afternoon tours offered & run by that island on Day 4 (not by us), participation is entirely optional. 

This additional day is $55/75 USD per person (dorm cabin/private cabin) and includes 3 meals, departure will be on Day 4 in the afternoon with return to Panama City at around 7pm. Alternatively, departure in the morning after breakfast with return to Panama City at around 1pm. 

You can add the additional nights in the booking process (add 1 night per person) or via email at reservaciones@sanblasfrontera.com

Read this before booking your trip

A visit to the San Blas Islands promises a unique experience unlike any other vacation you’ve taken. The local Kuna people own and operate all businesses in San Blas by law, foreign investments are prohibited and foreigners/Panamanias are not allowed to conduct any business or work in San Blas, so you’ll have a chance to engage with the community and support their economy. Most of the cabins are managed by large families, providing livelihoods for many locals who have lived on the islands for generations, with limited exposure to the hospitality industry.

However, reaching the islands is a challenging journey as they are situated far from the mainland, making it difficult to import essentials such as building materials, gasoline, and food. All supplies must be sourced in Panama City, transported via 4WD to Carti, and then redistributed to smaller sellers and cabins for an additional fee. The islands have no infrastructure, including electricity or running water, and locals live in harmony with nature.

As you can imagine, great effort is required to provide a basic service to tourists and the locals do it to the best of their knowledge, and we ask that you leave behind any expectations that you may have from mainland life. The simplicity of the cabins reflects a blend of traditional lifestyles and expensive material sourcing as external funding is prohibited. Likewise, the meals served are mostly based on local food patterns such as fish or seafood with rice, with limited access and attempts to cater to foreign tastes with some sides and salads. Drinking water is a luxury, that needs to be imported from Panama City, and electricity and fresh water require great effort to provide, with usage times sometimes limited. Bed linens are either washed by hand in the river on the mainland or sent to Panama City. There is no communal trash collection or recycling system, and only a few locals speak English, with some not even speaking Spanish.

Nevertheless, we collaborate closely with cabin owners to ensure that your stay is remarkable, with clean and functioning facilities and outstanding service.

With this in mind, be ready to jump into your island adventure! Once you arrive on the island, you will most likely discover that modern-day luxuries are unnecessary in such a beautiful environment, and that the simple and relaxing lifestyle that the Kuna people live has its own charm. 😊

Group Discount 10% Off*

Traveling in a group? Enjoy a discount of 10% if you are traveling in groups of 5 adults or more. 6+ islands in 3 days, this San Blas Islands Tour is the perfect mix of popular destinations & hidden treasures!

*automatically subtracted during booking process, not valid for other tours

7 Reviews
Sort By:RatingDate

Nadine & Andreas

Solo Traveller

Wir sind unglaublich froh, dass wir unsere Tour auf die San Blas Inseln mit „San Blas Frontera“ gebucht haben. Luis und sein Teamkollege haben uns 3 wundervolle Tage geschenkt und uns wunderschöne Inseln gezeigt. Es hat sich für uns angefühlt, wie mit Freunden unterwegs zu sein.
Uns hat besonders gut gefallen, dass die Gruppe klein war und wir auf den Inseln genügend Zeit zum Baden und Entspannen hatten.
Die Unterkunft war sehr schön und gepflegt. Moskitostiche hatten wir gar keine. Die Atmosphäre war super.
Wir sind uns sicher, dass wir ohne „San Blas Frontera“ nur halb so viel gesehen hätten.
Wir empfehlen diese Tour auf jeden Fall weiter und würden jederzeit wieder mit „San Blas Frontera“ die Inseln erkunden.
Wir wären gerne noch länger auf den Trauminseln geblieben.
Vielen Dank für die traumhafte Erfahrung!!
Liebe Grüße
Nadine und Andreas

April 16, 2023

Paula

Solo Traveller

Me and other 3 people ( I didn’t know before) had a 3 days/2 nights trip with San Blas Frontera that was extremely exciting, fun and relaxing thanks especially to Luis our guide.
We visited various islands (crowded or not) and Luis managed to show us the best San Blas has to offer – from idyllic sandy white islands, interaction with friendly Guna people, bonfire at sunset and lots of fun! We had the opportunity to do snorkeling as well as kayak on the second island we slept.
The accommodation and food while basic, were perfectly sufficient and had a certain rustic charm.
It was such a nice experience. Louis and his from San Blas Frontera team were so nice and friendly. We had a great time.

April 15, 2023

Mihaela

Solo Traveller

Me and other 3 people ( I didn’t know before) had a 3 days/2 nights trip with San Blas Frontera that was extremely exciting, fun and relaxing thanks especially to Luis our guide.
We visited various islands (crowded or not) and Luis managed to show us the best San Blas has to offer – from idyllic sandy white islands, interaction with friendly Guna people, bonfire at sunset and lots of fun! We had the opportunity to do snorkeling as well as kayak on the second island we slept.
The accommodation and food while basic, were perfectly sufficient and had a certain rustic charm.
I searched a lot on internet before I booked this trip with San Blas Frontera and I’m very pleased I got more than expected. Luis a beacon of positivity, energy, and laid back vibes really made our trip special. Thank you!

April 5, 2023

Hannah

Couple Traveller

We have no words left for our experience with San Blas Frontera. This was by far the best experience we had during our travels from Costa Rica to Panama.
Luis and his friend, Federico, were taking care of us & showed us the most beautiful islands of San Blas. Now we know, how paradise looks like 😍 In the evening, they took us to some places of local Kuna people & we had so much fun together.

We’re still so happy for this trip and would recommend it every time 😍

Thank you again Luis and Federico for making this trip so special.

March 22, 2023

Denisa

Solo Traveller

Perfect choice
The best communication from the agency. In this part of world is not easy to organise something fast or with sure. This agency is special. The guide Luis is amazing and nice person 🙂 100% recommendation!

March 19, 2023
1
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