Panama: Sandy Beaches & San Blas Sunsets

Arrive at any time. Get ready to explore the life and energy of Panama City where each neighbourhood promises something new. Choose to check out the impressive skyline and beauty of the bay. You could learn about the country’s history by checking out Casco Antiguo and discover fun exhibits at the Biomuseo. Metropolitan Natural Park also offers a green oasis for nature lovers. Join a welcome meeting in the evening to get to know your newest travel family and opt to grab a meal at a local restaurant or rooftop afterwards as a way to break the ice and get the party started.

It’s time to bid farewell to the mainland as the group travels early this morning to catch the ferry to the magical and largely untouched San Blas Islands. The islands are governed by the local Guna indigenous community and the archipelago is made up of 365 islands, of which only 50 are inhabited by the Guna community. The islands’ well-protected natural beauty make them a top destination to experience while in Panama, especially before word gets out about this wonderful paradise. Arrive to the community of Carti and pay a visit to the chief at their local Congress House for a brief welcome. Then, continue by boat to Ariyaladub Island, where you will have free time to relax on the beach and explore the underwater world of snorkelling. Gather round with the group after an included dinner this evening and listen to stories about Guna culture for a truly unique introduction to the San Blas Islands.

Remember, a trip to the San Blas Islands won’t look like an island experience you’ve had before. So embrace the local customs and cuisine, and keep in mind there’s no internet access. You will be completely unplugged for a few days. It’s paradise without the everyday creature comforts, and you’ll be surprised by how much you enjoy the simple things in life. After breakfast visit a natural pool and check out the starfish lounging beneath the surface. Then, visit another island for a slight change of scenery. Relax more on the beach here, play some games in the water with your travel pals and go snorkeling. Arrive back to Ariyaladub Island and your cozy huts there for more free time. Kick back in the common area and take it easy, there’s nowhere to be but here.

Today, learn more about the prevalent traditional practices of the Guna. In the morning travel by boat to the Aguadub Community for a presentation and cultural session highlighting Guna tradition. This includes the art of crafting Molas, a traditional textile made from layers of colored fabric created to form patterns and pictures inspired by their universal beliefs. Listen as a member of the community discusses the significance of beadwork and ancestral medicine shared by a local healer. Return to Ariyaladub with a great appreciation for the indigenous community that calls these islands home and how they are working to protect and preserve its untouched beauty. This afternoon take advantage of free time to swim, snorkel, and maybe play a game of beach volleyball as a group. End the day feeling far more connected to this immensely special place.

Spend a leisurely morning on the island and soak up the magical connection you have built by visiting. Then, wave goodbye to the palm trees swaying in the breeze and the small waves crashing in the white sand as you board the boat back to Puerto Carti. From here, travel back to Panama City by private vehicle. Enjoy free time to explore the vibrancy of this city and if you desire, dance the night away with your new close friends. A rooftop bar seems like the perfect vibe for tonight’s night out on the town. The choice is all yours.

Depart at anytime. Or perhaps consider spending a few extra days in the lively Panama City. Before you go, make sure you swap information with your newest travel family because someday maybe you'll meet up in another part of the world.