Discover the San Blas Islands on this day trip from Panama City. Visit Isla Perro, Arena Blanco, and Isla Diablo to swim in the warm ocean, relax on tranquil beaches, and have a freshly cooked lunch.

About this activity

Free cancellation: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
Reserve now & pay later: Keep your travel plans flexible — book your spot and pay nothing today.
Duration 14 hours: Check availability to see starting times
Host or greeter: Spanish, English
Pickup included: Pickup from your lodging is scheduled between 5:00 AM and 5:30 AM, but can sometimes be as late as 5:45 AM. Out of respect for all others in the car, please wait in the lobby of your lodging at 5:00 AM. If you are not at the designated meeting point, the driver will make an effort to locate you, but they cannot delay the transportation by more than 10 minutes. No refunds are awarded to guests who don’t show up on time.

Highlighted reviews from other travelers

Nicole – United States

EXCELLENT! Javier our driver made this trip worth while! He was an excellent driver & host, & very considerate, driving slower on the downhill drive to the beach when some of us became nauseous. ADVICE-take your nausea meds when you stop at the gas station! Not later! Trust me! He also made the tour extra special when he spotted a sloth, toucan & a monkey in the trees & stopped to allow us to take pictures & see them up close. He has the eyes of an eagle! Don’t know HOW he spotted them while driving! Regarding the San Blas Island tour- BREATHTAKING! Absolutely LOVED this tour. If I had one negative comment it would be to skip the last island (unnecessary) & allow guests to enjoy the island where we had lunch. Getting in/out of the boat is NOT easy. 2 islands+sand bar is enough for this tour! Also, 6 people don’t fit “comfortably” in these SUV’s! Let guests know they have the option to purchase the extra seats! So grateful we requested only 4 in our SUV & paid $110 extra ($55 per seat)!

Amanda – United States

This was such an amazing experience and the tour company was more than accommodating. it was a beautiful tour worth every penny and more!

Itinerary

Pickup location:
Panama City
Jeep / SUV
(3 hours)
San Blas Islands
Lunch, Swimming, Snorkeling, Self-guided tour, Scenic views on the way (6 hours)
Jeep / SUV
(3 hours)
Arrive back at:
Panama City

Main stop

For reference only. Itineraries are subject to change.

Highlights

Walk on soft sand beaches and dip your toes into the waters of a paradise
Explore San Blas Islands with a guide and have the chance to meet locals
Spend time relaxing on the beach or snorkeling over a sunken shipwreck
Enjoy a freshly cooked lunch of chicken or fish with salad and plantains
Take in views of idyllic landscapes full of palm trees and scenic beaches

Full description

Escape to a tropical paradise on this unforgettable day trip to the San Blas Islands from Panama City. Discover stunning white-sand beaches, swim in crystal-clear waters, and snorkel among vibrant marine life. Visit the breathtaking Isla Perro, the unique Arena Blanca sandbar, and the serene Isla Diablo. Along the way, enjoy a freshly prepared lunch and plenty of time to relax in this untouched paradise.

Tour Highlights:

✅ Isla Perro (Dog Island): Swim and snorkel around a mesmerizing sunken shipwreck teeming with tropical fish.
✅ Arena Blanca: Stand waist-deep in the middle of the ocean on soft, white sand, surrounded by colorful sea stars.
✅ Isla Diablo: Unwind on pristine beaches, meet the local Kuna community, and enjoy fresh water showers before heading back.
✅ Scenic Drive from Panama City: Journey through lush jungle highlands and stop at a local grocery store for any last-minute snacks or drinks.

Your Adventure Itinerary:

Your island-hopping experience begins with an early morning hotel pickup in Panama City. Relax and take in the scenic views as you travel through the lush Guna Yala region to the Port of Carti. Along the way, you'll have a chance to stop at a grocery store to grab any personal items, such as snacks, drinks, or fruit.

Upon arrival at the port, meet your local San Blas guide and board your traditional "lancha" boat. Enjoy the exhilarating ride across the open sea—feel the ocean breeze and occasional sea spray while taking in the stunning coastal views.

Your first stop is Isla Perro, a picture-perfect tropical island with swaying palm trees and turquoise waters. Here, you can swim, relax in the shade, or explore the island. Snorkel around a fascinating sunken shipwreck, where schools of fish dart through the coral-covered remains just a short distance from shore.

Next, head to Arena Blanca, a unique sandbar in the middle of the ocean. Stand knee-deep in crystal-clear waters, spot beautiful sea stars below, and soak up the incredible natural surroundings.

Your final stop is Isla Diablo, a charming island with powdery white sand and a local Kuna community. Take a refreshing dip in the ocean, explore the island, or rinse off in the fresh water showers before your return journey.

As the day winds down, board your boat back to the Port of Carti, where your driver will be waiting to take you on a comfortable ride back to Panama City, arriving in the evening.

Important Notes:
Snorkeling Equipment: While snorkeling gear is available, we have a limited quantity. If you would like to use snorkel equipment, please request it from the boat crew upon arrival.

What to Bring: A swimsuit, towel, sunblock, hat, cash for local purchases, and a waterproof bag for valuables.

Get ready for an unforgettable day in the San Blas Islands—where adventure meets paradise!

Includes

Roundtrip Transportation: Shared transfer from Panama City to the San Blas Islands and back.
Boat Transfers: Shared "lancha" boat transportation between the islands.
Island Hopping Adventure: Explore multiple stunning islands in the San Blas archipelago.
Local Guide: Knowledgeable guide to enhance your experience.
Island Entry Fees: All entrance fees to the islands included.
Snorkeling Equipment: Shared gear available in limited quantity—please request from the boat crew or bring your own.
Delicious Lunch: Enjoy a freshly prepared meal with a choice of fish, chicken, or a vegetarian option.
Refreshing Beverage: Includes one drink (bottled water, soda, or beer).

Guna entrance fee paid to border patrol ($22 for Internationals, $7 for Panamanians)

Not suitable for

Pregnant women
People with back problems
People with mobility impairments

Important information

What to bring

Passport
Swimwear
Towel
Biodegradable sunscreen
Cash

Not allowed

Drones

Know before you go

For last-minute bookings (i.e. less than 12 hours before tour), you need to obtain a verbal confirmation from the activity provider. If you have not received a confirmation or an itinerary, the tour is not confirmed and will be scheduled for the following day
No Lobster meals between March 1 - May 31 (please do not choose the add-on during those dates)
Please be prepared for a 2.5 hour journey each way with 1 hour on highways and 1.5 hours over curvy roads! Please do not leave bad reviews because of the road. We try to warn you ahead of time :)
Transportation is in a shared SUV (1 seat up front, 3 seats in the middle row, and 2 seats in the back row). Seats are assigned randomly. Those who require more space must purchase an extra seat
The boat transfer from the port to the islands may be bumpy with some sea spray. If you are sensitive to motion sickness, bring appropriate medication. You may also get wet
The activity's itinerary may vary depending on ocean and weather conditions

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From Panama City: San Blas Island Hopping Day Tour