The San Blas Islands Of Panama. A Great Adventure Destination

In 2001 I was fortunate enough to go on a sailing adventure that started in Texas and ended several years later in Panama. The best part of the trip were the San Blas Islands of Panama, home to the indigenous Kuna people.

The San Blas Islands, also known to the inhabitants as the Kuna Yala, are a series of low lying islands numbering around 360 that stretch from near Porvenir Panama, to the Columbian border. Only a few of the larger islands are accessible by air travel from Panama City. The Kuna Yala includes not only all of these amazing islands but a narrow band of pristine rain forest that stretches along the Caribbean sea.

If you have the time and can afford it there are some charter operators that offer sailboat tours of the smaller islands. The conditions can be primitive but the rewards of getting to see native culture and unspoiled islands outweigh the hardships of getting there.

If you plan on visiting by air there are regular flights to Nargana and Rio Sidra out of the international airport in Panama City. Flights often depart in the very early hours of the morning so you may need to be at the airport before the sun comes up.

Tours and Lodging In The San Blas Islands Of Panama

There is some lodging available in the San Blas islands, including everything from huts with hammocks, to modest hotel rooms. Find a reputable tour company that offers adventure tours of the San Blas. The trip may not be as easy as some other vacation travel, but will be well worth it.

You might want to take along a little extra cash with which to to buy local crafts. The Kuna women sew beautiful embroidered cloth called molas. They are sought out worldwide by collectors for their extraordinary detail and craftsmanship.

Also be advised that the Kuna don't really like their photos taken. They, like many other indigenous people feel that you are taking a part of them or part of their soul when you take a photograph of them. I don't blame them, the San Blas is their home, not a zoo, and you are a guest there.

What To Take On A Trip To The San Blas Islands

There are few stores or tourist shops in the smaller islands of the Kuna Yala. Don't forget to bring along a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent and cash, since there are not that many ATM machines available. Bring your good manners and your respect for the culture of the Kuna people and their amazing home.

You'll find the islands of the Kuna Yala to be some of the most unspoiled left on earth. Remember to take only photographs (when appropriate) and leave only footprints.

Related Hubs About The San Blas Islands And Art Of The Kuna People

Here is a related Hub (warning, it is opinionated), about the effect of missionaries on the Kuna people of the San Blas. When Religious Missionaries Destroy An Ancient Culture
Here is another about the unique art of Molas From The San Blas