The Journey Begins: From Panama City to the Port of Carti

The day started before the sun had even considered rising. My wife and I, seasoned adventurers that we are, were up and ready to go by 5:30 AM. The streets of Panama City were still cloaked in darkness as we embarked on our journey to the San Blas Islands. The first leg of the trip was a smooth ride along a busy highway, a perfect opportunity to catch a few more winks of sleep. But as we veered off the main road and into the lush jungle highlands, the real adventure began.

We made a quick pit stop at a Texaco food mart, where we met up with other travelers and their 4WD SUVs. The camaraderie among fellow adventurers is always a highlight of these trips. With snacks in hand and spirits high, we continued on a bumpy, curvy mountain road. The views were nothing short of spectacular, with the dense jungle stretching out as far as the eye could see. We passed through several Kuna Indian checkpoints, a reminder of the rich indigenous culture that awaited us on the islands. Remember to bring your passport, as it’s required at these checkpoints.

Finally, we arrived at a rustic parking lot, the gateway to our island adventure. The sight of small, primitive boats bobbing in the water was both charming and exciting. Our boat pilot, a skilled navigator, did his best to keep us dry during the 35-minute ride to the islands. The journey was a bit of a rollercoaster, but the anticipation of what lay ahead kept us all in high spirits.

Island Hopping: Snorkeling, Sunken Ships, and Natural Pools

Our first stop was Isla Perro, famous for its shipwreck just off the white sand beach. As a surfer, I’ve spent countless hours in the ocean, but there’s something uniquely thrilling about snorkeling around a sunken ship. The water was warmer than the Pacific and much shallower, making it an ideal spot for exploring. The vibrant marine life darting around the wreck was a sight to behold, and I couldn’t help but feel a sense of awe at the beauty of it all.

After a morning of snorkeling, we were treated to a fresh, homemade lunch. The meal was simple but satisfying, and the perfect fuel for the rest of the day’s adventures. A word to the wise: you only get one soda with lunch, so if you’re like us and enjoy a little extra kick, consider bringing along some rum.

Next, we headed to the Natural Pool, a sunken island where you can wade in waist-deep, crystal-clear waters. It was like stepping into a postcard, with the sun glinting off the water and the gentle waves lapping at our feet. We spent a blissful hour swimming and soaking up the sun, feeling completely at peace in this little slice of paradise.

A Taste of Guna Culture: Souvenirs and Shack Bars

Our final stop was Isla Nuinudup, a newly opened island that offers stunning views and peaceful beaches. As we approached, I couldn’t help but marvel at the untouched beauty of the place. It felt like we had stumbled upon a hidden gem, far removed from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

We spent some time exploring the island, visiting a shack bar for a refreshing drink and browsing the native-made souvenirs. While the souvenirs were similar to those found in other places, they served as a lovely reminder of the rich Guna culture that permeates the region. The island also had rudimentary hotel shacks, a tempting option for those looking to extend their stay in this idyllic setting.

As the day drew to a close, we boarded the boat for the return journey. The ride back was smoother, thanks to the following seas, and we arrived back at the port feeling rejuvenated and grateful for the experience. The San Blas Islands had lived up to their reputation, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. For anyone seeking a tranquil retreat away from the crowds, I can’t recommend this adventure enough. San Blas Day Tour