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San Blas Island Paradise

Escape the Matrix; Escape to San Blas

Soon, you could be here!

Key Words used to describe San Blas are: Pristine, un-crowded, clean, incredible value, memorable, perfect, crystal clear blue waters, paradise, amazing, little paradise islands, relaxing, sacred space, rejuvenating, God’s country, inspiring, unbelievably cool,  better than I expected, remarkable people, predominantly undeveloped, protected, one of the top highlights of Panama and the world!

Activities: traditional Kuna fishing, free dive spear fishing, island hopping, snorkeling, sailing, kayaking ,learn the Kuna Indian cultura, park under a hammock, drink a coco loco, get connected with your true spiritual essence, or rock out on the beach with new friends and hot chicks in bikinis!

San Blas Facts:

There’s an island for every day of the year, 365. The reason for so many tiny little islands is that in this area of the Caribbean the coral reef shelf extends from the isthmus of Panama several kilometers, about 60, before dropping off into deep sea. This explains why there are no big waves in San Blas. As you can imagine, the little waves gently eb and flow forming new islands. This is how you can know which islands are new vs. the older ones. You’ll see 1 Palm Tree Island, then one with a few coconut trees, then a hut, then a few huts, then islands completely populated.

The Comarca of San Blas is a protected area, a reservation, and tightly controlled by the Kuna Indians themselves. For this reason, the region is still undeveloped & pristine in its natural beauty. This further explains why Bocas del Toro is so popular.  Since foreigners are not allowed to build in San Blas, you’ve probably heard a lot about Bocas del Toro, but trust The Panama Insider when we say ‘San Blas is Paradise’.  Most people come to Panama to do business, set up a corporation, create asset protection, and to invest in property. If you want to invest in San Blas, you have to be Kuna, married to a Kuna, or be half Kuna.  Like most things in Panama, it’s always about who you know or whom you are related to. Because of the nature of our relationship to San Blas, extending back to the 1970’s, you’ll find that The Panama Insider is a very powerful contact as it relates to political affiliations with the Comarca. To learn more, schedule a personalized tour with The Panama Insider, come with us to the Kuna museum, and let’s discuss your options over some fresh caught Amber Jack fish.

When is the worst time to visit San Blas? 

That said, any other time is perfect!

 Vegetarians should consider visiting from May through July, as this is mating season for lobsters. Because catching lobsters is prohibited throughout the region at this time, and because there’s more vegetables in season such as mango & avocado, you’ll thoroughly enjoy slurping on a mango seaside while you soak up the scenery.

How do I get there?

Just let us know your hotel information, and we’ll arrange for the SUV to pick you up at 5:00am. (yes that’s early, but the airplane option is no better, leaving at 6am from the airport and costing double.)  Contrary to some outdated information you might read elsewhere, the road to San Blas is 75% smooth now. It still requires the expertise of a good driver, and we use the best, the original Panama Crocodile Dundees whom have been driving this road since it was built 5 years ago, and whom are the professional Survivor called when filming in San Blas.

What’s your favorite thing about San Blas?

The peace and quiet. San Blas is worlds away from the city, the hustle and bustle. It’s really quite a shock to the system to reach heaven and then arrive back in Panama City. For this reason, The Panama Insider suggests you do your touring of Panama City first, go to San Blas, and from there, continue exploring the rest of Panama’s beautiful countryside or 1100 miles of Coastline.

Which islands do you recommend?

Answers to this and more can be found in our Discount Directory, by downloading your 5 free Panama Itineraries, or through an affordable membership starting at just $8.

So what’s the food like normally?

Mostly basic white rice, cabbage & tomato, fresh caught fish, coffee & sugar, or eggs and bread. The majority of islands packages are ‘all inclusive’ meaning meals are provided, and for an average of $20-35 more per day, the quality of island tours and food increases significantly. Insider tip: We always bring a package of mayonnaise, a loaf of bread & peanut butter. Oh, and chocolate! But put it in a Ziploc lest you share with the ants.

I’ve heard people say they didn’t like San Blas, what do you have to say about that?

How much do you have in common with those people?

It’s true San Blas is not for everyone or that certain comforts could be out of your budget such as: tile floors, cushioned chairs, internet, desert, the playoffs, shopping centers, ice.

NO ICE? That’s crazy! Think of it this way, what’s more important?; ice for your rum and coke, or working on your tan with a warm rum & coke in hand surrounded as far as the eye can see with magical little islands covered in coconut trees bordered by the most vibrant blue colors that, until now, you’ve only ever witnessed inside a Crayola box? Priorities priorities!

In San Blas you will find there are certain sacrifices like: sand floors, hammocks, absence of electricity, convenience stores, American-standard toilets, English speaking concierge. Just remember the true definition of sacrifice only means that you’re making space for what’s really important to you. And if you honestly can’t live without internet, flushing toilets, or the playoffs then go to Bocas del Toro.

So do you take the red pill?

Or the blue pill?

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Relax, if you still don’t know the exact dates, things are totally flexible in San Blas.