11 Best San Blas Island Tours In Panama: Discover Paradise

Are you ready to book your San Blas Island Tour in Panama? When I visited these stunning tropical islands, I jumped on a sailboat from Cartegena in Colombia to Panama, fully immersing myself in an incredible five days of sailing.

We visited breathtaking islands (some were inhabited while others were not), met the local inhabitants, made bonfires on the beach, ate fresh seafood, stroked lemon sharks and witnessed crystal clear waters teeming with marine life.

It was one of my best travel experiences ever! 

If you’ve been dreaming about taking this trip, I highly recommend it! I also understand that not every one of you has the time to research which trip is best for you. Therefore, I have spent hours researching the best San Blas Island tours to help you find the ideal one for you.

I’m Going On An Adventure contains affiliate links and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. I will earn a small commission if you purchase through any qualifying links at no extra cost to you.

---

Top 3 Best San Blas Island Tours, Panama

Are You Short On Time? Our 11 picks are below but if you’re looking for the best of the bunch, here are the Top 3 Best San Blas Islands Tours in Panama:

---

11 Perfect San Blas Island Tour In Panama

In this guide, we’ve curated a selection of top-notch tours that cater to different preferences, durations, and budgets. There are options for day trips and multi-night adventures from staying on the island in rustic beach shacks to enjoying private sailboat adventures.

Trips to the San Blas Islands offer a diverse range of tours and experiences, mostly leaving from Panama City. Enjoy your San Blas Island adventure and have a fantastic time exploring this tropical paradise of Panama!

👉 Related Post: Want to know all about our 5-day sailing trip to the San Blas Islands? Click here!

❗Important Note: It is crucial to bring your original passport, as entry to San Blas is not allowed without it. San Blas is a protected zone, and the services provided by the local Kuna people are basic and rustic. There are no ATMs on the islands, Cash is the only accepted form of payment there. 

1. Day Tour in San Blas Islands Panama All Included Visiting 4 Islands

⭐ RATING: 4.5/5 | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: FULL DAY |🧍 GROUP SIZE: MAX 20 | 🏛️ BOOK NOW

👉 In a hurry? These are the highlights:

• A full-day tour of the San Blas Islands
• Transport between islands is via a small boat.
• Islands: Island Perro Grande, Isla Pelicano & Island Perro Chico
• Sunken boat & Natural swimming pool
• Lunch is included

Overview

“It was such an amazing experience. I enjoyed it throughly. I was alone but I made so many new friends along the way. The tour guide was super friendly and supportive as well. I would definitely recommend doing this. Thank you again.“

Viator Review

Embark on an unforgettable adventure with San Blas Tours in Panama! You’ll arrive at the port around 8:30 am, and after a 30-minute ride, you’ll reach the first island: Island Perro Grande. 

Explore with exclusive access to kayaks and paddleboards, and relax on the beach with provided fruits and beach gear.  Next up is Isla Pelicano, a charming island adorned with palm trees.

You’ll have lunch at Perro Chico, offering catch-of-the-day options and vegan choices. This island is perfect for snorkelling as there is a sunken boat turned vibrant reef. The days final stop is a breathtaking natural swimming pool, a sandy bank in the middle of the ocean!

Ticket Options

The ticket includes a snorkel mask, shared transportation from Panama City, a welcome snack of fresh fruits, and a delicious traditional lunch.

Please note that the ticket does not include entrance and port fees, which amount to $25 USD per person. Additionally, for infants requiring a separate seat in the car, there is an additional charge of $50 USD for both ways, while they can travel on an adult’s lap for free.

• Day Tour in San Blas Islands: All Included – Visit 3 Islands in 1 Day

✅ LIKELY TO SELL OUT! Book today and experience the magic of San Blas Tours

2. Panama City: 4-Day Island Hopping San Blas Adventure

⭐RATING: 4.5/5 | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 4 DAYS |🧍 GROUP SIZE: UNKNOWN | 🏛️ BOOK NOW

👉 In a hurry? These are the highlights:

• A 4-day/3-night San Blas Island tour
• Accommodation: Private Cabin
• Island Stay
• Islands Day 2: Ina Island, Ucusubi &  Aguja Island
• Islands Day 3: Perro Grande Island & Perro Chico
• Sunken boat & Natural swimming pool
• Visit a local community
• Meals are included

Overview

“A few great days on the islands. Beautiful nature, warm people, tasty and simple local food. The islands lay out like from another world. There were a lot of activities and they were perfectly balanced with the time available for rest.”

Get Your Guide Review

On this 4-day island hopping tour of San Blas Islands, you’ll have the opportunity to explore different spots each day and immerse yourself in the beauty of this Central American paradise. 

You’ll visit the island in front of Ucusubi for snorkelling and enjoy fresh local lobster for dinner during the lobster season.

On day 2 and after breakfast, you’ll visit a local community to learn about their culture and history. In the afternoon, you’ll return to Ina Island for lunch and then take a boat to the second island, Aguja.

On day 3, you’ll visit Perro Grande Island, where you can kayak around and visit another natural swimming pool. Then, you’ll head to Perro Chico and use your snorkelling gear to explore a sunken boat located in front of the island.

After breakfast on your final day, you’ll take a boat back to Panama City. Breakfast is included.

Ticket Options

Included in the ticket are convenient pickup and drop-off services You will enjoy three nights of comfortable accommodation in a private cabin or room with a shared bathroom, and a delectable dining experience with three breakfasts, three lunches, and three dinners provided. 

However, please note that drinks during meals and other times are not included in the ticket price and can be purchased separately. Additionally, the ticket does not cover the entry fee and port fees of $22 per person, nor the island entry tax of $2-3 per person.

• Panama City: San Blas Adventure with Standard Transport

✅ Enjoy the white sand beaches and turquoise ocean of the San Blas Islands. Book your dream trip now!

3. ALL INCLUSIVE: 2 Days/2 Nights San Blas Island Hopping on Sailboat

⭐ RATING: 4.5/5| ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 2D/2N |🧍 GROUP SIZE: MAX 8 | 🏛️ BOOK NOW

👉 In a hurry? These are the highlights:

• A 2-day/2-night San Blas Island tour
• Accommodation: Private Cabins
• Sailboat stay
• Islands Around: Cayos Limones & Cayos Chichime
• Visit the local community
• Meals are included

Overview

“We had two amazing days sailing in paradise. Fabri and Franci were wonderful, cooking delicious food with fresh bread, lobsters, pasta and lots of fruits. We also enjoyed nice snorkelling, beautiful beaches and interesting conversations. This has definitely been the highlight of our trip and a memory we will keep in our hearts.“

Viator Review

During this San Blas Islands 2-Day All-Inclusive Sailboat Experience, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the stunning San Blas Islands in a sailboat and make the most of your time in this beautiful archipelago. 

On Day 1, you’ll visit Cayos Limones, a picturesque island with white sand beaches and coconut palm trees. There, you’ll also have the chance to interact with the local people, learn about their culture and lifestyle,.

Day 2 takes you to Cayos Chichime, a group of remote and mostly uninhabited islands known for their beauty. With white-sand beaches, palm trees, warm and crystal-clear waters, and impressive coral reefs.

You’ll spend both nights aboard the boat, enjoying the tranquillity of the surroundings.

On Day 3, after breakfast, a speedboat will transport you back to the mainland. If you’ve arranged for a pickup in Panama City, a driver will take you back there. 

Ticket Options

This option includes drinks (moderate alcohol), the use of snorkelling equipment, two breakfasts, two dinners, and two lunches.

Please note that the San Blas Territory Entry Tax of $22 is not included in the ticket price and will need to be paid separately.

• Option 1: Pick-up from Panama City included
• Option 2: No pick-up from Panama City

✅ Escape the ordinary and immerse yourself in the beauty of the San Blas Islands. Book this all-inclusive sailboat experience today.

4. Panama City: Money Heist and San Blas Islands Day Trip

⭐ RATING: 4.3/5 | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: FULL DAY |🧍 GROUP SIZE: MAZ 15 | 🏛️ BOOK NOW

👉 In a hurry? These are the highlights:

• A full-day tour of the San Blas Islands
• Transport between islands is via a small boat
• Islands: Pelicano Island & Ucusubi Island
• Natural swimming pool
• Visit the local community
• Lunch is included

Overview

Experience a unique adventure with the Panama City: Money Heist and San Blas Islands Day Trip! This action-packed tour takes you to stunning islands, including Pelican and Ucusubi, for an unforgettable day of exploration.

You’ll begin your island-hopping adventure at Pelicano Island. This one is renowned for its appearance in the popular Netflix series, Money Heist!

The trip includes breakfast of fresh fruit and coffee. Afterwards, you’ll be given a delicious lunch of fresh fish, rice, and salad.

Also included is snorkel gear and paddleboards which you can use at Ucusubi Island. Here, you can dive into the crystal-clear waters and discover an incredible reef, teeming with vibrant and colorful fish species! 

Ticket Options

This option includes welcome fruits and coffee, shared transportation from central Panama City.

Please note that the ticket does not include pickup from hotels outside Panama City, and the entrance fee to the San Blas Islands ($23 per person). 

• Tour with Panama City Pickup

✅ LIKELY TO SELL OUT! Book your unforgettable experience now!

5. ALL INCLUSIVE: San Blas Day Tour on Sailboat from Panama, Island Hopping

⭐ RATING: 5/5 | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: FULL DAY |🧍 GROUP SIZE: MAX 10 | 🏛️ BOOK NOW

👉 In a hurry? These are the highlights:

• A full-day sailboat tour of the San Blas Islands
• Transport between the islands is via a sailboat
• Banedup
• Surprise Island
• Lunch is included

Overview

Get ready for an incredible day of island hopping with this San Blas on an all-inclusive sailboat tour! With a knowledgeable crew who knows the area inside out, you’ll visit the best islands in the Archipelago.

The first island on the itinerary is Banedup, where you can immerse yourself in snorkelling and marvel at the untouched coral reefs.

Next, sail to another captivating San Blas Island, where you can do more snorkelling and admire the vibrant corals. After an unforgettable day exploring the islands, the speedboat will pick you up from the sailboat at 3 pm and begin your return journey to the city.

⭐ This trip is prefect for those of you who want to experience being on a sailboat while immersing yourselves in the San Blas Islands.

Ticket Options

This option includes lunch, soda/pop, transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, the use of snorkelling equipment, and a shared speedboat. 

Please note that the San Blas Territory Entry Tax of $22 is not included in the ticket price and will need to be paid separately.

• Option 1: PICK UP AND DROP OFF INCLUDED
• Option 2: WITHOUT PICK UP AND DROP OFF

✅ Book Now for an incredible day of island hopping in San Blas on an all-inclusive sailboat tour!

6. 2d/1n Oceanfront Cabin, Private Bath in San Blas INCLUDING Day Tour + Meals

⭐ RATING: 5/5 | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 2 DAYS |🧍 GROUP SIZE: MAX 14 | 🏛️ BOOK NOW

👉 In a hurry? These are the highlights:

• A 2-day/1night San Blas Island tour in Panama
• Accommodation: sea huts
• Island stay
• Isla Diablo
• Guided tour of Isla Perro
• Sunken boats & Natural swimming pools
• Some meals are included

Overview

During Day 1, you will have the opportunity to explore and appreciate the stunning Isla Diablo in the San Blas Islands. Isla Diablo is renowned for its proximity to Isla Perro, where you can witness a sunken shipwreck. 

On Day 2, your adventure continues with a San Blas boat tour. After checking out from your cabin at 8 am, a boat/lancha driver and tour guide will pick you up from the island to embark on the day tour. 

Visit Isla Perro, one of the most famous and visited islands in the Guna Yala region, boasting a sunken shipwreck right off its beach. The tour concludes with a visit to the Natural Pool, where you can swim and marvel at the abundance of starfish!

“What a beautiful place to experience. After a little confusion on the morning of departure with the driver, the rest of the trip was fantastic, including transportation back to Panama City. We’re a family of three with an 11-year-old and all had a great time. Bring a cooler with beverages and water and lots of sunscreen. Definitely recommend this tour.”

Viator Review

Ticket Options

This option includes dinner, breakfast, a San Blas boat tour, and snorkel equipment for use during the boat tour. Additionally, the ticket includes two lunches.

Please note that beverages and the Guna Yala territory entrance fee are not included in the ticket price. The Guna Yala territory entrance fee is $22 for international visitors and $7 for residents.

• Option 1: 2D/1N Private Cabin + Shuttle from Playa Bonita
• Option 2: 2D/1N Private Cabin
• Option 3: 2D/1N Private Cabin + Shuttle from Panama City 

✅ Enjoy your enriching and unforgettable San Blas adventure by booking now!

7. From Panama: 3-Day San Blas Islands Tour

⭐ RATING: 4.2/5 | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 3 DAYS |🧍 GROUP SIZE: MAX 10 | 🏛️ BOOK NOW

👉 In a hurry? These are the highlights:

• A 3-day / 2-night San Blas Island tour
• Accommodation: Private/ 2-bed cabins
• Island stay
• Islands Day 1: Ucusidup, Aroma & Aguja
• Islands Day 2: Perro Chico Island & sunken boat site
• Islands Day 3: Perro Grande Island
• Visit the local community
• Meals are included

Overview

This will be an unforgettable 3-day adventure to the stunning San Blas Islands of Panama. The islands you’ll visit include Ucusidup, Aroma, Aguja, Perro Grande, and Perro Chico, each offering its own unique charm and attractions.

You’ll have access to paddle boards and can explore the tiny island of Ucusubi, renowned for its excellent snorkelling spots.

On the second day, after enjoying a delicious breakfast, you’ll have the chance to visit the Community and gain insights into their daily way of life. On the final day, your guide will pick you up early in the morning for more adventures. 

You’ll have the opportunity to snorkel at the sunken boat site in Perro Chico island, marvelling at the underwater world. Later, you’ll explore Perro Grande island using kayaks and paddle boards, taking in the natural beauty of the surroundings.

“Loved it! Amazing Islands, adventurous time and nice people. Nobody knew whats going to be next but that was part of the fun 🙂 Slept on different Islands every night and got to know people from all over the world. Food was always the same but pretty good. I recommend to avoid bringing too much stuff since it’s easier to handle when you‘re gonna be traveling around different islands. Some of the guides didn‘t speak english but we managed to communicate somehow 😀 the trip from Panama City to the Port was a wild ride so be prepared for bumpy Roads xx All summed up the Trip was unforgettable and a Must See when in Panama!”

Get Your Guide Review

Ticket Options

The ticket options for this tour include hotel pickup and drop-off, all tours throughout the trip, three meals per day, and two nights’ accommodation in a private room or cabin. 

Not included in the ticket price are drinks, entrance fees (which amount to $22 per person), excess luggage charges, and island fees ($3 per person). 

• From Panama: 3-Day San Blas Islands Tour

✅ Prepare to be enchanted by the pristine beaches, clear waters, and vibrant culture of the San Blas archipelago on this 3-day tour.

8. 3-Day / 2-Night in San Blas Islands, Panama, Including a Trip to Cayos Holandeses

⭐ RATING: 5/5 | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 3 DAYS |🧍 GROUP SIZE: MAX 14 | 🏛️ BOOK NOW

👉 In a hurry? These are the highlights:

• A 3-day/2-night San Blas Island tour in Panama
• Accommodation: Variety 
• Island stay
• Islands Day 1: Isla Eneida & Isla Perro
• Islands Day 2: Guided tour of Cayos Holandeses
• Islands Day 3: Isla Yansailadup
• Natural swimming pools
• Meals are included

Overview

Immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of the San Blas islands with this 3-day, 2-night tour departing from Panama City.

The tour begins on Isla Eneida, where you’ll have the opportunity to visit Isla Perro as well. These islands offer pristine beaches and natural pools where you can swim and relax. 

On the second day, you’ll embark on a guided tour of Cayos Holandeses, a remote and pristine archipelago known for its white sandy beaches. Throughout the tour, you’ll have the chance to explore both land and water, enjoying activities such as paddleboarding and snorkelling. 

On the final day, after a relaxing morning on Isla Yansailadup, you’ll embark on a boat tour to explore another island or visit the natural pool, where you can swim and take pictures with starfish. 

Ticket Options

The ticket options for this package encompass a tour to Cayos Limones and a tour to Cayos Holandeses. Accommodation is provided on Isla Yansailadup, where you can choose between a private room, an oceanfront cabin, or an over-water cabin, depending on your preference. 

Additionally, the package includes three lunches, two dinners, and two breakfasts to ensure a satisfying culinary experience during the trip. 

It’s important to note that the Guna Entrance Fee, required by the border patrol, is not included in the ticket price. International visitors will need to pay a fee of $22, while Panamanian residents are subject to a fee of $7. Beverages are also not included in the ticket price

• Option 1: Over Water + Bonita Shuttle
• Option 2: Private Bedroom – no shuttle
• Option 3: Over-Water + Panama Shuttle
• Option 4: Room + Playa Bonita Shuttle
• Option 5: Room + Panama City Shuttle
• Option 6: Private Over-Water Cabin

✅ The tour offers an unforgettable opportunity to discover the natural beauty, serenity, and cultural heritage of the San Blas islands.

9. San Blas Private Sailboat – Island Hopping (3 days / 2 nights)

⭐RATING: 5/5 | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 3 DAYS|🧍 GROUP SIZE: MAX 4 | 🏛️ BOOK NOW

👉 In a hurry? These are the highlights:

• A 3-day/2-night San Blas Island tour
• Accommodation: Private Cabin
• Sailboat Stay
• Islands: customised to suit your preferences
• Lemon Cays
• Meals are included

Overview

On the three-day sailing tour of the San Blas Islands, you’ll have an unforgettable experience in this dream-like destination. This private tour can be customised to suit your preferences.

A typical day in San Blas involves exploring the island, enjoying the beaches, and swimming in the beautiful ocean. The crew will prepare delicious meals for you, and after lunch, you can relax onboard or take part in snorkelling excursions or paddleboarding near the boat. 

On the last day, you’ll return to the arrival point, spending the final night at anchor in the Lemon Cays, known for their beauty. 

Ticket Options

The ticket options for this package offer an array of inclusive features designed to enhance your experience. With the ticket, you will have access to snorkelling equipment and beach toys for your enjoyment. 

All beverages, including alcohol in moderation, are provided, along with snacks to keep you fueled throughout your adventure. You can enjoy in two breakfasts, two lunches, and two dinners.

However, please note that the Guna Yala entrance fee is not included in the ticket price. International visitors are required to pay $22, while Panamanians or residents need to pay $7. Additionally, port taxes of $2 are not included

• Option 1: San Blas Sailboat – Island Hopping (3 days / 2 nights) + Shuttle from Panama City
• Option 2: San Blas Sailboat – Island Hopping (3 days / 2 nights)

✅ This sailing tour offers a slower pace of life, making it ideal for a romantic getaway or a relaxing family trip. Book your San Blas Island tour in Panama today!

10. All-inclusive San Blas Islands Day Tour from Panama City

⭐ RATING: 4.5/5 | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: FULL DAY |🧍 GROUP SIZE: 20 | 🏛️ BOOK NOW

👉 In a hurry? These are the highlights:

• All Inclusive tour of the San Blas Islands
• Transport between the islands is via a small boat
• Isla Perro
• The choice between Isla Arena Blanca, Isla Diablo, or Isla Yansailadup
• Natura swimming pools
• Lunch is included

Overview

Experience the best of the San Blas Islands with an all-inclusive day trip from Panama City or Playa Bonita.

From 9:30 am to 1 pm, you’ll be on Isla Perro, home to one of the most picturesque beaches in San Blas. Indulge in a delicious lunch featuring fresh fish or chicken, accompanied by a refreshing beverage.

In the afternoon, you’ll have the chance to explore one of these famous destinations: Isla Arena Blanca, Isla Diablo, or Isla Yansailadup, and immerse yourself in the beauty of the natural pools. 

At 3 pm, it’s time to head back to the port and start your journey back to Panama City/ Playa Bonita. Expect to arrive back at your hotel around 7 pm.

This all-inclusive day trip provides transfers, meals, activities, and entrance fees to the Guna Yala Territory, ensuring a hassle-free and unforgettable experience. 

Ticket Options

This option includes snorkel equipment, lunch, shared boat/lancha transportation for the entire day, and a tour to Isla Perro and either Isla Arena Blanca, Isla Diablo, or Isla Yansailadup & Natural Pools. 

One beverage, island entrance fees, and shared roundtrip transfer from your hotel in Panama City. The ticket also covers the Guna Yala Territory entrance fee.

• OPTION 1: Pick up from Playa Bonita 
• OPTION 2: Pick up from Panama City 

✅ Escape the city and uncover the wonders of the San Blas Islands on this unforgettable day trip. Book your adventure now and create lifelong memories.

11. Tour the San Blas Islands with Lunch – NO TRANSPORT TO PORT

⭐ RATING: NEW | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: FULL DAY |🧍 GROUP SIZE: MAX 20 | 🏛️ BOOK NOW

👉 In a hurry? These are the highlights:

• A full-day San Blas Island tour
• Excluded – transportation to the port!
• One of the following: Gagandub, Isla Perro Grande, Diablo, Chichime 
• One of the following: Isla Pelicano, Isla Perro Chico, or Isla Perro Grande
• Natural swimming pools
• Lunch is included

Overview

⚠️ It is important to note that driving along the Pan-American Highway and the road to the San Blas Islands requires a 4×4 car, as only this type of vehicle is allowed.

This tour in the San Blas Islands is recommended for families, groups, and couples who enjoy driving to their destinations. 

The tour begins at the Niga Kantule Port, where the tour staff will be waiting for you. From there, you will set sail in shared boats between 8:30 and 8:45 am and head to the first island in the Guna Yala Region. 

During the tour, you’ll have the chance to visit several islands, including Gagandub, Isla Perro Grande, Diablo, Perro Chico, and Chichime. Lunch is included. 

After lunch, you’ll visit the natural pools surrounding the Limones Keys. The last stop of the tour will be another beautiful island in the Limones Keys, which may include Isla Pelicano, Isla Perro Chico, or Isla Perro Grande. 

Ticket Options

You will have access to snorkelling equipment to explore the underwater wonders. Lunch will be provided. 

However, please note that alcoholic beverages are not part of the ticket and can be purchased separately. Additionally, the ticket excludes the transfer by 4×4 car from Panama City (round trip), and there is a regional payment at the Reserve Entrance, amounting to $20 per person. Moreover, parking fees of $3.00 per car and port fees of $2.00 per person are not included. 

• Boat from the Port in the San Blas Islands with Lunch

✅ BOOK TODAY! Tour the San Blas Islands with Lunch Departure from the Port 

---

The Best San Blas Island Tours, Panama FAQs

When should I go to San Blas Islands?

When to go to San Blas depends on your preferences and the type of experience you’re seeking. The region experiences a tropical climate with two distinct seasons:

Dry Season (December to April): This period offers sunny weather, calm seas, and less rainfall. It’s considered the peak tourist season, with ideal conditions for snorkelling, diving, and island exploration. However, it can be busier and more expensive during this time.

Green Season (May to November): This season brings occasional rain showers and slightly rougher seas, but it also offers lush vegetation and fewer crowds. Prices may be lower, and you can still enjoy plenty of sunny days for beach activities. Just be prepared for the possibility of rain!

---

Unforgettable San Blas Island Tours in Panama

If you’ve made it to the end, hurrah! I know there was a lot of information in this guide but I’ve handpicked these San Blas Islands tours because they offer a diverse range of experiences and I wanted to ensure I’ve catered to different preferences and budgets. 

Whether you’re seeking a luxurious private sailboat adventure, a rustic beach shack getaway, or a day trip to explore the stunning islands, there’s a tour for everyone. 

These tours provide opportunities to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the islands, swim in crystal-clear turquoise waters, snorkel among colourful marine life, and learn about the indigenous Guna culture. 

I’m sure you’re going to have a fantastic time while you embark on an unforgettable journey to the San Blas Islands and create lifelong memories in this tropical paradise!