🏝️ If you’re visiting Panama and dreaming of a quick escape to a tropical paradise with crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches and an authentic island experience, a San Blas Day Trip is the perfect adventure. Located on the Caribbean coast and home to over 365 islands, the San Blas Islands (also known as Guna Yala) offer the perfect gateaway for a day trip from Panama City.

In this guide, you’ll learn exactly what to expect from a One-Day San Blas Islands tour, including how to get there, what’s included, and why this is our best-selling tour package.

Morning Pickup from Panama City

Your San Blas adventure starts early with a 5:00 AM hotel or residence pickup in Panama City. You’ll ride in a comfortable, air-conditioned 4×4 vehicle for about 2.5–3 hours through scenic countryside until you reach the port in Guna Yala. 

On the way to Guna Yala, we’re happy to make a couple of optional stops if you need anything. There’s a supermarket right along the highway where you can grab some snacks or use the restroom before we head deeper into the drive. A bit further along, there’s also a gas station where we can stop if needed—this is the last chance to stretch your legs before we hit the more remote road that leads to Guna Yala. From there, the drive gets a bit more adventurous as we head into the jungle. The road can be winding and steep in some parts, but no worries—our drivers know it like the back of their hand. If you’re lucky, you might spot a sloth chilling in a tree or even crossing the road. Every now and then, we even catch a glimpse of a toucan!

Important: Bring your passport, as it’s required at the Guna Yala checkpoint when we enter the Guna Yala territory.

and introduce you to your tour guide, who will be with you for the rest of your island adventure. From there, you’ll hop on a speedboat with twin 75-horsepower engines that will take you straight to your first island  in the Caribbean Sea of Guna Yala San Blas.

The boat ride takes around 30 to 40 minutes and is part of the experience itself—you’ll cruise past a handful of postcard-perfect islands with crystal-clear water and white sand beaches. It’s the perfect way to kick off your time in paradise.

Island Hopping Itinerary – What’s Included in Your San Blas Day Tour

Our San Blas day tour package includes visits to 3 spots: 2 beautiful islands and a stop at the famous natural swimming pool. 

🌴 Stop 1: Relax on a Postcard-Perfect Island

Swim, snorkel, or just relax under a palm tree – ideal for disconnecting.

We usually spend the first half of the tour on the first island, then head to a second island around midday for lunch and some extra time to relax on the beach.

🐠 Stop 2: Lunch & Local Culture

On the second island, you’ll get to enjoy a traditional Guna Yala-style lunch—usually fresh grilled or fried fish served with coconut rice or plantains and a side of salad. Vegetarian options are available too, just make sure to let us know about any dietary preferences or restrictions in advance so we can plan accordingly.
Learn about the indigenous Guna people, and check out the Mola, a local crafts –  perfect authentic souvenir from San Blas.

🐚 Stop 3: Natural Swimming Pool

This shallow sandbar in the middle of the sea is a must-see. Wade through crystal-clear water, spot starfish, and take surreal photos that look like you’re standing on the ocean. 

What to Bring on Your San Blas Islands Day Trip

• Valid passport
• Swimsuit & towel
• Sunscreen
• Snorkeling gear (optional, we  provide it on the tour)
• Waterproof bag for electronics
• Cash in USD (for entrances fee, drinks, snacks, or souvenirs)

A Quick Note About Starfish:

We know it can be super tempting to pick up a starfish for a photo—especially when you see others doing it, even some locals. But please don’t lift them out of the water. Starfish are incredibly sensitive, and taking them out, even for a few seconds, can seriously stress and harm them. Let’s help keep the ocean life safe and thriving by just 

admiring these beautiful creatures where they belong—in the water.

A Friendly Reminder About Trash

We kindly ask that you help keep the islands clean by not leaving any unnecessary trash behind. Waste management is a big challenge here—there are no recycling facilities, and all trash has to be transported back to Panama City. So please try to minimize what you bring and take any waste back with you whenever possible. Every small effort makes a big difference in protecting this beautiful environment.

Return to Panama City

Around 3:00–3:30 PM, you’ll head back to the port on the mainland and return to Panama City around 7:00 PM — just in time to rest and look back on an unforgettable day.

End the Day in Style 🍹

Wrap up your day on a rooftop terrace with a refreshing mojito—on us! As a little thank-you, we’ll send you a voucher for a free drink once your trip is booked and confirmed.

Why Book Our San Blas Day Tour with Abisua Travel?

• All-inclusive price – no surprise fees
• Reliable transportation from Panama City by air conditioned 4×4 vehicle and experienced driver
• Guided by local Guna experts
• Transfer to the island by speedboat (max 24 passengers)
• Best way to see San Blas in just one day
  

Is a San Blas Day Trip Worth It?

Absolutely! A day trip to the San Blas Islands is one of the top-rated experiences when visiting Panama for good reason. Whether you’re short on time or want to dip your toes in island life, this tour gives you a taste of paradise — all in a single day.

👉 Book your San Blas One-Day Trip Now

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👉 Why We Recommend 2 Islands Instead of 3 or 4 – Check out our blog post