Nestled amidst the pristine waters of the San Blas Islands, this all-inclusive package offers a unique escape from the everyday. Guests can enjoy the stunning natural beauty, indulging in fresh local cuisine and snorkeling adventures. The charming over-water cabanas provide a rustic yet comfortable retreat, inviting visitors to unplug and embrace an off-the-grid lifestyle. Whether you’re seeking adventure or tranquility, this two-night getaway promises an unforgettable experience in a true tropical paradise.
Good To Know
- An all-inclusive 2-night package in the San Blas Islands featuring over-water cabanas with shared bathrooms and basic amenities like natural lighting.
- Diverse guest reviews ranging from 5-star to 1-star, indicating a decent overall rating of 4.0/5.0 for the accommodations.
- Includes activities like snorkeling, natural swimming pool access, and free use of paddleboards, as well as three meals per day.
- Requires cash-only transactions and limited connectivity due to the off-the-grid nature of the islands, with no ATMs available.
- Cautions pregnant individuals and those with serious medical conditions about the potential risks associated with the trip.
Overview and Accommodation
The package includes 2 nights in the San Blas Islands, with accommodation in cabanas situated over the water.
These cabanas offer a shared bathroom, and the exact location will be either Island Yani or Island Guasardub.
The package has received mixed reviews, with 7 five-star, 2 four-star, 2 two-star, and 2 one-star ratings across 13 reviews.
The rating is 4.0 out of 5.0, indicating a decent experience for most guests.
Travelers should note that the accommodations are basic, with no electricity in the huts and only natural lighting available.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Panama City.
Itinerary and Activities
The package’s itinerary and activities start with a morning pickup in Panama City at 5:20 AM.
Guests arrive at the Port of Carti around 9 AM and board a boat to the San Blas Islands. Upon arrival around 10 AM, they’ll be assigned their cabana.
The first day includes a snorkeling tour at Isla Perro and a natural swimming pool, with an additional $3 entry fee. Dinner is served at 7 PM on Yani Island.
The second day is a free day to explore Yani Island.
On the third day, the group departs the islands at 8:30 AM, returning to Panama City around 12 PM.
Included Experiences
The package includes several experiences that guests can enjoy during their stay on the San Blas Islands.
Travelers can explore the nearby Isla Perro and visit a natural swimming pool, with an additional $3 entry fee. Paddleboards are available for free use.
Guests receive three meals per day, typically featuring fresh fish, rice, and salad, with the option to upgrade to lobster for an extra $20.
The package also covers shared transportation from Panama City to the San Blas port, as well as the boat ride to and from the islands.
Entrance fees of $20 per person are included in the price.
Recommended Essentials
Travelers visiting the San Blas Islands should pack several essential items to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience. These include personal hygiene products, towels, sunscreen, and mosquito repellent. Don’t forget to bring a cooler for drinks and snacks, as there are no ATMs in the islands, and cash is the only accepted form of payment. Plus, while cell service is available through "Movil" and "Digicel," it’s best to prepare for limited or no electricity in the cabanas.
Essential Items | Description |
---|---|
Toiletries | Personal hygiene products |
Sun Protection | Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses |
Insect Repellent | To prevent mosquito bites |
Cash | For purchases and island taxes |
Communication and Electricity
Connectivity and power availability in the San Blas Islands are limited.
There’s no electricity in the accommodation huts, but only basic lighting is provided. Cell service is accessible via the "Movil" and "Digicel" networks, though coverage can be spotty.
Visitors should be prepared to disconnect from the digital world and embrace the remote, off-the-grid nature of the islands. Cash is king, as there are no ATMs, so travelers need to bring sufficient funds for their stay.
Pricing and Cancellation
Pricing for the San Blas Islands all-inclusive package starts at $399.00 per person. This fee covers shared transportation from Panama City, boat rides, meals, and entrance fees.
There’s an additional charge of $20 per person for hotels outside the city. Travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience starts.
However, it’s important to note that the package isn’t recommended for pregnant individuals or those with serious medical conditions. Visitors should also be prepared to pay $2 per island per person in island taxes and bring their own personal hygiene items, towels, and other necessary supplies.
Pickup and Dropoff
The package includes shared transportation from Panama City to the San Blas port, which departs at 5:20 AM.
The journey takes around 4 hours, with arrival at the port around 9 AM. From there, a boat will take travelers to the islands, with room assignments happening at 10 AM.
On the last day, the boat will depart the islands at 8:30 AM, with a return to Panama City around 12 PM.
Pickup is available from all hotels in Panama City, though an additional charge of $20 per person applies for hotels outside the city.
The transportation is provided in a 4×4 Jeep that can accommodate up to 6 passengers.
Important Considerations
Travelers should be aware that the San Blas Islands offer limited connectivity, as there are no ATMs and only basic cellular service available through local providers.
Cash is essential, as the islands operate on a cash-only basis. Plus, the cabanas lack electricity, providing only basic lighting.
Pregnant women or those with serious medical conditions should carefully consider the remoteness and limited medical resources before booking this experience.
The stunning natural beauty and unique culture make the San Blas Islands a remarkable destination for those prepared to embrace the off-grid lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks. The tour allows you to bring a cooler for drinks and snacks, and there’s a supermarket stop included so you can pick up supplies.
Is There Any Age Restriction for This Experience?
The experience does not have any age restrictions. Travelers of all ages can participate, though it’s not recommended for pregnant individuals or those with serious medical conditions. The tour is suitable for a wide range of participants.
Can I Request a Private Cabin?
Customers can request a private cabin, but it’s not guaranteed. The listings indicate the accommodation is shared cabanas over the water. Private options may be available for an additional fee, subject to availability.
Are There Any Cultural Events or Activities Included?
The itinerary doesn’t explicitly mention any cultural events or activities. However, guests may have opportunities to engage with the local Guna Yala indigenous community during the free day on Yani Island, depending on the tour operator’s offerings.
Is There a Maximum Number of People per Group?
The tour operates with a maximum of 6 passengers per group. The shared transportation from Panama City to the San Blas port can accommodate up to 6 travelers comfortably.
The Sum Up
The San Blas Islands offer a unique off-the-grid experience, immersing visitors in nature’s beauty. The all-inclusive package with overwater cabanas provides a charming and rustic stay, complete with fresh local cuisine and snorkeling adventures. While limited connectivity and electricity may challenge some, this getaway promises an unforgettable escape from the everyday, inviting travelers to embrace an adventurous and tranquil island lifestyle.
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