From Panama City: San Blas Islands with Lunch and Cocktail
Colón Province, Panama
Experience the best of the San Blas Islands on a tour from Panama City. Enjoy a complimentary cocktail on one of the islands with a personalized guide throughout your tour.
San Blas Islands Day Tour from Panama City
This full-day guided tour explores the San Blas Islands, offering snorkeling, cultural visits, and local cuisine. It suits travelers interested in nature and indigenous culture.
Highlights
- Visit four important sites in one day
- Snorkel at the famous sunken ship and see live starfish
- Lunch featuring a variety of local dishes
- Learn about the indigenous Guna culture
- Welcome cocktail and tropical fruits served at lunch
Description
The tour starts early with a 5 AM shared pickup from your hotel in Panama City. You will travel by 4x4 through 42 kilometers of mountainous terrain, with a brief stop to buy snacks and breakfast. Prepare snacks in advance during high season due to weekend traffic.
At Carti port, board a boat to the islands and enjoy a welcome mojito or cocoloco cocktail. The first stop is Perro Chico, known for its sunken ship where you can snorkel in clear turquoise water. Next, visit the natural pool with starfish, where shallow waters allow safe observation without disturbing the marine life.
Afterwards, the boat takes you to Isla Grass for a Caribbean lunch prepared by a local Guna family. You can explore the island and swim in its turquoise waters before visiting an indigenous Guna community to learn about their culture and traditions.
The tour ends with a boat ride back to Carti port, followed by transportation to your hotel or Airbnb in Panama City between 6 PM and 7 PM. Arrival times for hotels in Playa Bonita range from 6:45 PM to 8:00 PM.
Includes
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Lunch based on the catch of the day
- Welcome cocosolo or cocoloco cocktail
- Light breakfast (fruits)
- Lunch drink
- Mask and snorkel rental
- Local Guna guide
Excludes
- Guna Yala entrance fee ($23 per person)
- Extra drinks
- Tips
Important Information
- Bring medication for motion sickness if needed
- Pickup from hotels outside Panama City (Westin and Dreams Playa Bonita) costs an additional $10 per person
- Between December and February, northern winds can cause waves on the speedboat rides; bring a change of clothes and protect your belongings
- The rainy season runs from March to November; rain does not usually cause tour cancellation
- Lunch varies according to the catch of the day; indicate vegetarian requests when booking
- Guides strive to improve their English for better communication
- The order of island visits may vary depending on weather and group timing, as guided by the local tour leader
Easy Cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Booking Tips
Book in advance, especially during high season. Bring sunscreen, swimwear, a hat, and your camera. Confirm your exact pickup time the day before the tour.
