Breathtaking San Blas

The breathtakingly beautiful Islands of the San Blas Archipelago are nestled away on Panama’s eastern Caribbean coast and are surrounded by postcard like scenic white-sand beaches, coconut trees and turquoise water. It is said that the circumnavigators consider the San Blas archipelago as one of their top three destinations in the world.

Inhabitants of the Islands

There are approximately 357 small islands inhabited by a proud and self-reliant group of Native Americans know as the Kuna. Although it is a twenty minute plane ride from Panama City, a flight to the islands will transport you 20 centuries into the past.

The Kuna Indians, who run all the islands as an autonomous province, with very little interference from the national government have maintained their own economic system, language ,customs and culture, with distinct dress, legends, music and dance.

They are considered an attentive host, preparing wonderful meals of lobster, crab and fish freshly harvested from the sea, and guiding tourists in dugout canoes to small, uninhabited Islands with gorgeous beaches and pristine coral reefs.

The Economy of the Islands

The economy of the islands is based on coconut sales, fishing and tourism. The men rise early to fish or tend their farms on the mainland. Fresh crab, lobster, octopus and fish, caught with nets or spears are exported to Panama City. On their farms, the Kuna men raise vegetables, fruit, coffee and the all-important coconut, 15 million of which are exported each year to neighboring Colombia.

Most Interesting Islands of San Blas

Some of the most interesting islands are Achutupu, Kagantupu and Coco Blanco. You can either reach these destinations by flight from Panama City or you can catch a ride with Kuna merchant ships from Colon, who will help find the perfect island for your sunbathing and snorkeling pleasure.

Beyond cultural tours and snorkeling, visitors may also accompany Kuna men to fish, or trek rainforest reserves on the mainland, where birds and other wildlife are abundant. There are hotels on many of the islands, which provide meals for guests. Most Kuna communities have an airstrip, either on the island or the mainland nearby, and are easily accessible by light aircraft.

Coming to one of these beautiful islands, set like jewels in the turquoise water of the Caribbean, will be one of the most memorable experiences of your visit to Panama.