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Discover why this adventure to Panama’s San Blas Islands was chosen in the past by National Geographic Adventure and Outside magazines as one of the best trips in the world! We pioneered this trip in 1997, and we remain ardent fans, not only because we love sea kayaking, but also because of the islands’ extraordinarily rich marine ecosystems and the indigenous Kuna who call this place home. Here in their sovereign nation, Kuna Yala, they still spend their days fishing, gathering coconuts, and making molas (the famous reverse appliqué cloth art). Rewards abound as you paddle and snorkel among rich coral reefs, glide through pristine mangroves, and camp on uninhabited tropical beaches or near rarely visited villages where the Kuna welcome our group as honored guests. It’s an experience like no other in the world—and we’re the only company permitted by the Kuna to offer such an intimate trip in their homeland.

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

• Sea kayak in the protected waters of the San Blas Islands, the land of the Kuna—a trip we pioneered!
• Meet the indigenous Kuna in remote island villages unvisited by any other tour company—an MTS exclusive!
• Enjoy wonderful snorkeling among amazing coral reefs

Day 1- Arrive in Panama City, Panama.

Day 2 - Fly to the traditional island community of Digir in the San Blas Islands and meet the island Sahila (chief or community leader). Explore the village and meet new friends, experience some incredible bird watching, have a kayak lesson, and watch traditional dancing in the evening.

Day 3 - By motorboat to a remote outer archipelago, where you’ll board sea kayaks and begin paddling in the protected waters and exploring various reefs. This area has been identified as one of the “hot spot” areas of marine diversity among the coral reefs of Kuna Yala and is also a great place for spectacular snorkeling.

Days 4-5 - Kayak (or travel by motorized dugout canoe) to the magical white sand island of Sichirtupo, whose surrounding reef and deep channel are breathtaking. You may see a variety of rays, moray eels, parrot fish, and many other vividly colored fish that live among the coral, as well as nurse sharks, the occasional porpoise, and perhaps even manatee.

Day 6 - Paddle about three hours and explore mangrove habitats, ending up at the island of Bidirup. This is a great place for snorkeling among the spectacular coral reefs.

Day 7 - Return to Panama City, where you can relax on the banks of the Panama Canal before venturing out for a sunset paddle in the mouth of the Canal, a spectacular way to bid farewell to the Isthmus as we paddle alongside enormous ships from all over the world. Later, stroll through Cascoe Viejo, the old walled city and a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Day 8 - Depart Panama City.

Photo Credits
©Elsa Castellani (MTS guide)