From Panama City: 4 San Blas Islands Day Trip with Lunch
Panama Province, Panama
Admire the turquoise seas and white sandy beaches of the San Blas Islands on a day tour from Panama City. Savor a fresh lunch, and enjoy snorkeling, kayaking, and swimming. Visit total 4 islands!
This full-day tour from Panama City visits four San Blas Islands, including the remote Misdub Island, and suits travelers seeking nature, snorkeling, and local culture.
Highlights
- Visit 4 islands, including the remote newly discovered Misdub Island
- Snorkel at Perro Chico Island’s sunken boat on one of San Blas’ best reefs
- Exclusive activities for guests: kayaks, paddleboards, mini golf, and more
- Enjoy a local lunch featuring catch of the day with vegetarian options
- English-speaking guide and welcome fruits provided
Description
Your day begins with pickup from your Panama City accommodation, followed by a 2.5-hour drive to San Blas Port in Cartí to meet your guide. From the port, a local panga boat takes you to the first island. Note that drivers do not speak English; only the local guide communicates in English.
The first stop is Misdub Island, a newly discovered and remote island reserved exclusively for your group. Arrive early to explore its quiet, pristine beaches, swim in the clear waters, or relax surrounded by untouched nature.
Next, visit the natural swimming pool, a sandbank in the ocean where you can walk, swim, or snorkel among starfish in crystal-clear waters.
The third stop, Perro Grande Island, offers lunch with fish, chicken, or vegetarian dishes. The island features a bar, beach chairs, and exclusive access to recreational activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, beach racquets, volleyball, and mini-golf.
The final stop is Perro Chico Island, famous for its sunken shipwreck, one of the best snorkeling spots in San Blas. Your guide can provide snorkeling gear to explore the coral reef around the wreck before or after lunch.
Return by boat to the port and then back to Panama City in the evening.
This tour supports local communities through fair pricing and sustainable practices.
Includes
- Welcome fruits
- Shared transportation from central Panama City in a 4WD vehicle (for up to 6 passengers, if selected)
- Shared boat transfers to Misdub, Perro Grande, Perro Chico, and the natural pool
- English-speaking local guide
- Snorkeling gear (mask and snorkel)
- Beach chairs (subject to availability)
- Paddleboards and kayaks available for sharing
- Lunch including fish or chicken with rice and salad
- One drink served at lunch
Excludes
- Pickup from hotels outside Panama City Playa Bonita area ($10 USD per person)
- Infant car seat ($50 without seat, $100 with seat)
- San Blas Islands entrance fee ($22 per person)
Important Information
- Pickup is scheduled between 5:00 AM and 5:30 AM; please be ready in your hotel lobby by 5:00 AM to ensure timely departure.
- San Blas Islands are an Indigenous territory where only local Guna people are permitted to work, supporting cultural preservation and the local economy.
- Meals are simple but prepared with fresh local ingredients.
- Facilities on the islands are rustic, reflecting traditional island life.
- This is a shared tour, so some waiting may occur during pickups or at the port.
- The English-speaking guide is based at the port and accompanies you on the islands; drivers may share cultural insights but are not guides.
Easy Cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
For the best experience, bring sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, waterproof camera, and cash for the San Blas Islands entrance fee. The tour is best enjoyed in dry season months for calm seas and clear skies.