Day Tour in San Blas Islands All Included Visiting 4 Islands
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Panama City, Panama
- 14 hours (approx.)
- Pickup offered
- Mobile ticket
- Offered in: English
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Overview
Take a break from Panama City and head to the Caribbean coast of Panama, to the beautiful San Blas Islands. Traveling by boat, check out a shipwreck and natural swimming pool, and enjoy the tropical scenery and atmosphere. Your tour includes activities—kayaking, paddle boarding, snorkeling, and more—and round-trip road and boat transport, with hotel pickup and drop-off. Refuel with a tasty included lunch, too, such as fresh fish and rice.
- See the best of the San Blas Islands on a day trip from Panama City
- Explore independently with provided kayaks and snorkeling masks
- Visit several islands in one day to make the most of your time
- Choose to get active or relax with beach chairs and umbrellas provided
What's Included
- Snorkel MASK
- Shared transportation from Panama City – Port – Panama City for 6 passengers
- Shared Boat transportation from Port – Islands– Port
- Tours to Perro Chico, Diablo, Misdub and Natural Swimming pool (4 Islands)
- Welcome Snack (fruits)
- Traditional Lunch (Fresh fish with salad and rice)
- 1 Drink (Beer, Bottle wáter or soda)
- Kayaks & Paddel board to share
- Beach toys, pickle ball, mini golf, water bed exclusive for our clients
- Pick in Dreams or Westin Playa Bonita $10USD pp. both ways.
- Entrance fee - San Blas Islands$25.00 per person
Meeting and Pickup
Pickup points
Select a pickup point
Pickup details
We pick up in all hotels in Panama city. Just leave us a note with your hotel in Panama city if you dont see your hotel. Its not needed to call to confirm. We need also your room number once you make check in. Hotels in Playa Bonita has additional cost of 10USD per people to be paid to the driver in cash. Other hotels outside Panama city, please contact us to know the additional fee, we do not pick up in hotels in Playa Blanca, Summit or Gamboa Rainforest, or others hotels more than 30min far from Panama city. Pickup from your lodging is scheduled between 5:00 AM and 5:30 AM, although in some cases it may be as late as 5:45 AM. To ensure a smooth experience for all guests, please be ready and waiting in your hotel lobby by 5:00 AM. If you are not at the designated pickup point, the driver will try to locate you, but cannot delay transportation for more than 10 minutes.
Operating hours.5:00 am
Itinerary
Go island hopping in the San Blas Islands, and have all your logistics taken care of, with this full-day tour from Panama City. Relax with all transfers, water toys, beach equipment, lunch, snacks, and a beverage included.
Be picked up from your Panama City hotel early in the morning, with a stop to purchase snacks and drinks or to get cash. Soak up the scenery on the 3-hour drive to the port, where you board your boat and meet your guide.
Visit several islands throughout the day. Spend the day making use of the provided beach chairs, umbrellas, kayaks, paddleboards, and snorkels.
Then it’s back to the port for the drive back to Panama City and drop-off at your hotel.
Be picked up from your Panama City hotel early in the morning, with a stop to purchase snacks and drinks or to get cash. Soak up the scenery on the 3-hour drive to the port, where you board your boat and meet your guide.
Visit several islands throughout the day. Spend the day making use of the provided beach chairs, umbrellas, kayaks, paddleboards, and snorkels.
Then it’s back to the port for the drive back to Panama City and drop-off at your hotel.
1
San Blas Islands
1 hour • Admission Ticket Not Included
2
Guna Yala (san Blas)
45 minutes • Admission Ticket Not Included
3
Guna Yala (san Blas)
45 minutes • Admission Ticket Not Included
4
Isla Perro
1 hour • Admission Ticket Included
5
San Blas Islands
40 minutes • Admission Ticket Not Included
Panama City (Pass By)
Additional Info
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Infants must sit on laps
- Infant seats available
- Most travelers can participate
- Pickup from your lodging is scheduled between 5:00 AM and 5:30 AM, although in some cases it may be as late as 5:45 AM. To ensure a smooth experience for all guests, please be ready and waiting in your hotel lobby by 5:00 AM. If you are not at the designated pickup point, the driver will try to locate you, but cannot delay transportation for more than 10 minutes.
- You are allowed to bring additional beverages.
- PLEASE DO NOT FORGET TO BRING YOUR ORGINAL PASSPORT. WITH OUT IT, YOU WILL NOT BE ALLOWED TO ENTER TO SAN BLAS.
- Please notice San Blas is an Indian protected zone. All the services are basic and rustic, only kuna people are in charge of all tourist’s services such as food, ground and water transportation, lodging, etc, we work with them to support the local economy. Please take this into consideration, the services are not as in the city, the waiting time can be long, and kunas are more informal. We have provided hospitality train to them, but they are still working on it, their culture is different, they are never in a rush, this is part of the adventure to San Blas. Food is basic such as fresh fried fish with salad and rice.
- The vehicle is 4x4 for 6 passengers plus the driver. Pick up time is between 5:20am to 6:00am depending on the route, you can be first ones of last ones. Please be ready at 5:00AM to avoid any delays to other passengers. No Show – or Mayor delays will incur in a penalty – cost of reservation fee. In case you will be pick up in Costa del este or near to the airport, pick up time is between 5:45 and 6:00am
- Day tour return is at 3:30PM. You will arrive in Panama City between 6:30PM and 7:00PM.
- We recommend you bring your personal hygiene items, towels, sunscreen, mosquito repellent. You can bring a cooler with your own drinks, potable water, snacks and beverages (fruit juice or alcohol) you can by on site or bring it yourself.
- The driver will make a stop in a super market where you can buy a disposable cooler, ice etc.
- In San Blas Islands there are no ATMs, only cash in received. You can buy drinks there, snacks, souvenirs etc.“+Movil” and “Digicel” are the cell phone companies which works in San Blas Islands.
- There is no power electricity in the huts, only light.
- Transport time is 2.5 hours way in and 2.5 back. Then 40 minutes to the island in boat. Real time in Islands is around 6 hours.
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 20 travelers
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Cancellation Policy
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
Traveler Photos
Featured review
Shadrick_L
The best tour i ever been on in my life would definitely recommend. Educational and very fun .. the most beautiful water and views in the world
Reviews
4.4
based on 1,519 reviews
Chris_B, Mar 2026
Incredible experience!! My family and I did this day tour and were very impressed. The islands are absolutely beautiful, the hospitality was great, and everything was very well organized! Would recommend 10/10!!
StevenCo_W, Mar 2026
This is a beautiful trip! Pristine Caribbean waters and lots of sunshine! 4 islands is a lot, but we would do it again. Lunch was delicious! Saw dolphins on our ride back.
Shanice_A, Mar 2026
Even though if started really early it was totally worth it. The drive from our hotel was pleasant, our driver was on time. Panama has some nice landscapes throughout the drive..the boat ride was good and I felt safe, the waters on each stop was so blue, crisp and clean and we saw so many different fishes and we some huge star fishes. I recommend it to anyone visiting Panama.
Zuyi_W, Mar 2026
the islands are BEAUTIFUL but the weather can be highly variable so definitely bring a rain jacket (it was pouring rain when we got to the dock/during the ride to the islands but the weather was perfect on the islands). the drive there is also very windy and up/down hills. at the islands you have the opportunity to see starfish, lay on the beach, and snorkel. overall a great trip!
Olabusayo_K, Mar 2026
Islands were beautiful. Commute was long and uncomfortable since I was seated in a middle seat with no headrest. Lunch wad delicious. Overall a great trip but not sure if I'd go with the same tour provider if I return
Martin_B, Mar 2026
We had a great experience!
The natural pool and sunken ship snorkeling were particularly memorable.
Food was great as well (fish was really tasty). Got some juicy melon and pineapple before the lunch. 👌
Asia_J, Mar 2026
Our tour guide took great care of us and kept us informed the entire trip. This trip was long but he made sure to keep track of all 16 of us and was so professional. The drive to San Blan is long too, but it’s well worth the fun in the sun! Our driver stopped for snacks going and coming! Really appreciate all
the effort in getting us to and from our hotel safely!
Marta_J, Mar 2026
Amazing trip. For me last island was the best so Id love to stay there longer. The only thing horrible was the driver. Crazy driving trough the mountains
Bethany_L, Mar 2026
Tour is well organized and they keep in contact with you before picking you up at your hotel. The guide kept us informed of details throughout the trip. The driver speaks very little English but he was able to communicate the basics. I definitely would recommend doing this tour, beautiful islands and people.
Ella_P, Mar 2026
This tour is for those who LOVE beaches as the drives and boat rides are long and uncomfortable. The SUV is way too cramped for 6 people even though we did not have anyone large in size in the car. Please take precaution if you get motion sickness. Our guide did not speak any English which was very inconvenient even though we booked an English tour. We were also delayed for an hour as our boat went to do errands after we arrived at the last island. The beaches are beautiful and the lunch was good. However, there are many other beaches that are much easier to get to and with more comfort.
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Thank you for your feedback and for highlighting the beauty of the islands and the lunch experience.
San Blas is a remote and protected indigenous region, which is part of its unique charm, but it also means that access involves a 2.5-hour drive through mountainous roads and boat transfers operated by local Guna communities. We understand that this journey may feel long or uncomfortable for some travelers, especially those sensitive to motion.
Regarding transportation, we offer optional upgrades such as front seats, middle-row seats for couples, or private vehicles for added comfort, and we always recommend these for guests seeking a more spacious experience.
We sincerely apologize if the English-speaking guidance did not meet expectations. Due to local regulations, only Guna guides can operate in the islands, but we continuously work with our team to improve communication for international guests.
As for the delay, operations in the islands are coordinated locally, and occasional waiting times can happen. That said, we truly appreciate you bringing this to our attention.
San Blas is not a luxury destination, but rather an authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience focused on nature, culture, and simplicity. We completely understand it may not be for everyone, and we appreciate your honest perspective.
Clay_S, Mar 2026
Absolutely worth the time. Beautiful beaches and a bit of history. Only wish our tour would have gone to the Guna village as others had and it was advertised to go there yet we didn’t.
loucretia_a, Feb 2026
first island is the best island and thats where you eat lunch. There is no party activity , DJ etc. its just sun and beach , quiet relaxation. The water is so clear and warm its pure bliss. For party goers this may not be the best option
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Thank you for your feedback.
San Blas is a protected indigenous territory managed by the Guna community, and the experience there is intentionally simple and focused on nature. The first island we visit is usually the largest one, where guests have lunch and the most time to relax on the beach.
There are no party activities, DJs, or entertainment. The idea of San Blas is simply to enjoy the sun, the beach, snorkeling, and the incredibly clear and warm Caribbean water in a quiet and natural setting. Many travelers appreciate this peaceful atmosphere.
For travelers looking for parties or a more activity-packed experience, San Blas may not be the best option. But for those who want to disconnect, relax, and enjoy untouched nature, it can be a truly special place. Thank you again for sharing your perspective. 🌴
NIKOLAOS_T, Feb 2026
Due to bad weather (rain, high winds, and rough seas), we were forced to return to Panama City without visiting the islands. Many others did the same; we weren't the only ones. I don’t know how other agencies handled it, but ours refused to refund the $149 per person (there were six of us in the jeep), using the typical excuse that we were the ones who cancelled. It is true that some boats did go out, completely disregarding the danger. Based on what I saw, I wouldn't recommend it, given that there are many other islands in the Caribbean that one can visit for the same, if not a better, experience.
Response from Host, Feb 2026
Thank you for your message.
Weather in San Blas can be unpredictable, and while navigation was still permitted by local authorities that day, we fully understand that rough conditions can make the experience uncomfortable.
When a tour cannot be completed as planned, we do not provide full refunds, as we must still cover transportation, boats, permits, and services with our indigenous partners. However, if the tour was not completed in full, we can review your specific case to evaluate the possibility of a partial refund.
Please feel free to contact us directly with your booking details so we can look into it carefully.
Brendan_M, Feb 2026
Absolutely stunning islands to visit and enjoy the beauty of the carribbean - well worth the investment of time.
Pickup was seamless at our VRBO, transportation to the boats was well organized (albeit a loooong drive from PC), and all guides throughout the process were kind, helpful and informative.
Travelled with myself and (2) teenagers - all had an amazing experience.
Highly recommend for anyone looking to get out of Panama City for a day and experience these beautiful islands and the culture. Be forewarned though - it is an early pickup and long day of driving (2.5 hours each way) but well worth it!
Patricia_W, Feb 2026
The island was a great experience, and I’m glad I had the opportunity to visit. However, the travel to get there was not very pleasant. There are six people per ride, so it’s not very comfortable for the length of time you’re in the truck, especially with all the twists and turns. If you experience motion sickness, you will definitely feel it.
Climbing in and out of the boats may also be difficult for someone with mobility issues. I’m not sure if that is mentioned on the website, but it’s something travelers should be aware of.
Janelle_D, Feb 2026
Really enjoyed this experience, an easy day full of relaxation. We went to three different islands which all had a different vibe as well as the natural pool. Staff was professional and punctual. Suggest bringing a few basics with you (towel, hand sanitizer, toilet paper) as amenities were limited on some islands. Keep in mind that the boat is travelling on the ocean, so be prepared for some big bumps (not specific to this tour, all tour companies seem to use the same boats). Overall, would recommend!
Dion_M, Feb 2026
The Drive out is early in the morning, the road is very windy (curvy), and when we arrived at the dock, there was a good 45 minute wait before we got into the boat. We went to 4 islands, they were all nice, but by the third one, we were repeating ourselves too much and we felt we were wasting time. On the other hand, each island was beautiful, they took very good care of us. The included lunch was good, and although I have been to the Caribbean before, I had never seen something quite like the San Blas Islands. They are small (even the big ones), and they are picturesque. The drive is also beautiful, and the breakfast stop was good I thought.
Jameka_J, Feb 2026
This was well worth every penny. We had a blast and Naidi and his crew took great care of us. Everyone was so nice and helpful.
Barry_M, Feb 2026
This experience is well worth it, but be prepared for some travel time. The islands are beautiful, each slightly different from the last. I liked Diabolo/Devil's Island best. Natural pool was cool as well, but it is very popular, so each boat can only stay 20 min. The trip itself involves about 60-70 minutes of highway travel, and then 37 kilometers of windy mountain roads that is best described as a roller coaster ride. Our driver, Luis, was fantastic. Best driver I've ever had.
Krystle_G, Feb 2026
Let's start with the good. The driver, José was timely and caring when we got a little car sick. The overall trip touched on all the places they said we'd go. The islands are beautiful.
The bad.
This trip does NOT cater for vegetarians, despite saying that in the description. Lunch was awful- plain rice, a boiled carrot, a half of a boiled potato, 12 pieces of fries, a bit of a cabbage like salad. It was honestly disgusting, the meal looked like they gave us what nobody wanted and it was dry. While everyone else's meal looked appetizing, ours was a hard pass.
Lack of communication from the tour guide, we had to pick up some other persons from another island but we didn't know so we sat in the boat confused for 15 minutes not understanding why we were docked there.
The facilities at the port need proper development and cleaning.
The road to the port is long and winding so be weary of car sickness. The boat that takes you is basically small fishing boat, be prepared to get wet. Get a water proof bag for this trip. It's worth it if you want to experience the islands and like a long beach day.
Response from Host, Feb 2026
Thank you for your detailed review and for highlighting the positive aspects of your experience. We are very glad to hear that you enjoyed the beauty of the islands and that José provided timely and caring service during the drive. We will be sure to share your kind words with him.
Regarding the vegetarian meal, we would like to clarify that the food served on the islands is traditional local cuisine prepared by the indigenous Guna community. Vegetarian meals are adapted using the ingredients available on the islands. The majority of our guests appreciate and enjoy this authentic culinary experience, as it reflects the culture and way of life of the local community.
Additionally, the boats used in San Blas are traditional local boats operated by indigenous captains. This is an essential part of the authentic experience, allowing visitors to explore the islands in the same way the local community has done for generations. While they may differ from commercial tourist vessels, they reflect the true nature and cultural identity of this protected indigenous territory.
Thank you again for your feedback and for visiting San Blas.
Crystal_S, Feb 2026
Overall the experience was wonderful from beginning to end. Edwin was an excellent driver, as well as the other staff. Food and drinks were really good. Especially the fish and pulpo.
Jalon_H, Feb 2026
Really enjoyed this experience. The car ride is long and the roads are curvy so if you get motion sickness prepare accordingly. The islands we visited were beautiful and we met some cool people along the way. The tour part is a little misleading it’s more so just a water taxi taking you from island to island. Overall I would recommend this experience
Sarah_D, Feb 2026
If you love gorgeous beaches then this tour is a must. I got picked up at 5am and we reached the port around 8am (slept during the drive). you get in a boat with rows of seating and they take you to 4 different islands. 2 of the island we stayed for and hour each, and the other 2 we stayed for 30 mins each. The weather and views were perfect
Denise_G, Feb 2026
This is an experience you do not want to miss. We’ve traveled to other countries and have not experienced such a beautiful place like this. It is breathtaking. You do not want to pass this one up.
DrAngie_B, Feb 2026
This is a well organized tour. Everything is on time and as described. Our Edwin was great and safe. The guide on the islands was great, making sure we are on time. The islands are beautiful. We got to swim a lot, walk on white sand. The shipwreck is our highlight. Beautiful fishes and ecosystem. Most of all, just enjoy the beautiful small islands in the middle of vast ocean.
The downside are: this is a very touristy activity. Although they did a good job dispersing tourists to different islands so each stop are not too crowded, it still feels very touristy. For people looking for local authentic experience, this is not it.
2. The lunch included is not very good.
Shadrick_L, Feb 2026
The best tour i ever been on in my life would definitely recommend. Educational and very fun .. the most beautiful water and views in the world
Celeste_P, Feb 2026
Phew! Where do I begin- I’ll get the good stuff out of the way first! The islands, are AMAZING. Clean, crystal clear blue waters, and beautiful views. Picture perfect scenery, can’t get a better beautiful background for those instagram shots if that’s what you’re into. Lunch is provided at the first island. Once you dock you’re given some lounge chairs, and you’re able to explore and enjoy the sun, the beach, etc., until lunch time, then afterward you still have some time to kill before you set off on the next island. They’re all pretty close together so it’s just a few minutes in between the islands at the most. The smallest of the 4 islands didn’t have somewhere you could get food or a drink, which is understandable, besides that the rest of them had somewhere you can get a drink, or some food, tables etc. We got very lucky with the weather, nothing but blue skies, shining sun, and calm waters at the beaches.They had scuba gear available if that’s an activity you’re interested in. Overall the islands themselves were incredible, breathtaking, amazing.
Now the only downside to this is the travel it took to get to the islands themselves. We were picked up from our hotel, made a few stops to pick up other passengers, and the DRIVE alone was about 3 hours. You make a stop about half way to a store to get to get cash, snacks, etc and our driver made one more stop for about 5 minutes before the last rough stretch on the road. It is a pretty windy ride through the jungle, they stress to bring or purchase Dramamine if you’re prone to getting car sick. After the 3 hour car ride to the dock, there was a bit of a wait to get on our boat, but we were forewarned about the lines and long waits, due to it being high season. Once we got on the boat it was about 45 minutes of VERY, bumpy, choppy waters, we were “lucky” and got to sit toward the front of the boat, which was the bumpiest spot to be. But if you’re into that, you might enjoy it. From being picked up at 530am, it was almost 5 hours before we actually got to the first island. Overall it was quite a journey getting there, but worth it in my opinion. It was pretty much an all day excursion, we were dropped off at our hotel just before 7p. If you’re willing to endure a rather long travel time during high season to get to the islands I’d recommend this excursion. If it’s not worth it to you for about 5ish hours of beach time then I’d skip this. The total hours we got on the beach was enough for me, and I didn’t mind the initial 45 minute bumpy ride to the first island. All comes down to personal preference.
Kevin_D, Feb 2026
The trip was amazing! The sea was pretty rough but that not something that can be controlled. The islands and the color of the water were beautiful!
Elizabeth_B, Feb 2026
It is a long day, but worth every second of this gorgeous, fascinating and rare experience to witness this indigenous culture and the beauty of the Islands in the archipelago. A must-do when in Panama!
Sanjif_V, Feb 2026
DO NOT GO ON THIS TOUR! 0 REGARD FOR HUMAN SAFETY AND LIFE.
The drive to San Blas is the worse especially when you car is fully packed with no space to breathe or move. We had 7 people packed in a tight small 7 passenger SUV for a 3.5 hour drive with so much bumps turns twist uphill and down hill driving which was not comfortable at all.
Once we got there the waters were so rough and dangerous but they still took us on the tour with no regard for human safety or life. We had 6-8ft waves constantly hit our boat non stop and water hitting us inside the boat where you could not see or breathe. They have no radio on the boat incase of an emergency rescue. The captain could not see half the time where he was going because that's how bad the waves were hitting the boat. The people doing the excursion are uneducated fools who do not care about safety. The boat ride took literally 1.5 hours. I do not understand how the Panamanian government, coast guard or Viator allow such unsafe tours. If you have small children I do not recommend this excursion. I own a boat and go boating all the time I have been on many boat tours but this has to be the most unsafe and near death experience I have faced.
Response from Host, Feb 2026
We’re truly sorry that this experience felt frightening for you. It’s important to clarify that this was an exceptional and isolated situation caused by a tropical storm that arrived unexpectedly that same day.
Following this event, local authorities closed the San Blas islands for three consecutive days due to sea conditions. This decision alone confirms that safety protocols were activated and that operations are always subject to official authorizations, not personal discretion.
San Blas is a remote indigenous territory (Guna Yala) where access involves mountain roads and open-sea navigation. These conditions are clearly stated in our tour description, along with explicit disclaimers indicating that the experience is not suitable for small children, pregnant women, or travelers sensitive to rough seas.
All transportation is operated by licensed local drivers and boat captains, with mandatory life jackets for every passenger. On the day in question, departures were allowed until the sudden change in weather, after which all activities were suspended.
We sincerely regret that the conditions changed so abruptly and caused distress. While weather events in the Caribbean are beyond anyone’s control, we always prioritize safety and comply strictly with local authority decisions.
From $149.00
per personup to 24 hours before the experience starts (local time)
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Day Tour in San Blas Islands All Included Visiting 4 Islands
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