The unique world of the Gunas
A trip to the tiny Caribbean coral islands in the indigenous Guna Yala territory (San Blas) is a total contrast to urban life you should not miss. We recommend to stay ay least two nights and return on the third day, or just come for the day, if you are short on time.
The San Blas Archipelago of Guna Yala consists of 360 coral islands spread along 230 km Caribbean rainforest coast of the indigenous Guna (formerly written Kuna) people. You stay on a small island with traditional built cabins, palm trees and surrounded by a reef. Tours to other small islands give you plenty opportunities for snorkeling, relaxing, enjoying the view to the horizon, the white sand and the turquoise waters. You can visit a traditional village on a small island to learn about the unique culture of the Guna people. Excursions to the rainforest can be organized.
(The Gunas are making efforts to keep their coral reefs as one of the healthiest in the Caribbean. Reserves are being set up and awareness programs of sustainable use for locals and visitors are on their way. To prevent over exploitation of marine resources only free diving is permitted, it is a non-SCUBA area.)
Please don’t leave your garbage on the islands, take it back to the city.
Options:
- Transport by road (3 h)
- Stop on the way to visit the rainforest
- Flight (45 min.)
- Trekking adventure through the rainforest over the continental divide to the coast (2-3 days), cross streams and rivers, camp in tents, visit a Guna village and stay on a coral reef island, return by car (total 4-5 days)
- Small lodge (access only by air) or simple cabins
- Day trip (13 hours)
Since Guna Yala is a remote area, we recommend coming back one day before your international flight.
Simple Cabin
Travel early in the morning by vehicle over continental divide through the rainforest to the coast (3h), transfer to on one of the most beautiful islands, simple traditional cabins (sand floor, shared bathrooms). Transport from the coast to the island, all meals, and daily tours included. Travel back during morning or in the afternoon. If wished, arrangements can be done to make an excursion into the rainforest on the way over the continental divide.(optional private bahtrooms)
Lodge with private bathroom
Travel by plane only (6:00 am, and flying back at about 7:00 am)
Beautiful cabins with private bath. Transport from the coast to the island, local taxes, all meals and daily tours included. Optional: Visit the mainland (mangroves, river, cemetery, rainforest, waterfall).