Since I arrived to Panama, I have listened to people enthusing about the picturesque, white-sand beaches and the crystal clear, turquoise water, often comparing San Blas to this paradisiacal desktop background picture you can find on every computer yet you always wonder whether a place like this actually exist. Turns out it does.
The comarca of Kuna Yala, how San Blas is officially called, stretches along the eastern Caribbean coast of Panama and the archipelago is clustered with over 300 stunningly beautiful islands and is home to the indigenous Kuna people.
While only a few hours away from the buzz of Panama City, entering the territory of Kuna Yala is like entering into another world. The Kuna are fiercely maintaining their distinctive culture, and development has been kept to a minimum. The official language spoken is Kuna, though the majority of people also speak Spanish. Basic bamboo huts, traditional canoes and the colorful dresses worn by the Kuna women resemble the slow pace of life embraced by the people of San Blas. The Kuna were the first indigenous people that gained independence, and nowadays enjoy an administration with very limited interference from the Panamanian government. They have their own school, a tiny airstrip, radio program and football league.
Tourists are being charged a fee of 6 Dollars when entering the comarca. After conquering the winding and steep road that leads through the mountainous jungle and requires a 4 Wheel Drive with an experienced driver, we reached the shore where the boats leave for the islands. But choosing the right island is another task. After all, there are dozens to pick from and one is spoilt for choice. The prices start from $15 a night, and include accommodation (usually a bed in a bamboo hut or a hammock, some islands also provide tents and air mattresses for camping), and three meals a day. It is highly advisable to bring water and any beverages you would like to consume, we also felt a shortage on snacks after a day and the prices on the islands are exceeding the usual backpacker budget. So rather bring more than less. Once on the island (based on recommendations by friends we had picked Chichime) I found myself right in the middle of a postcard-perfect scenery and the two days we spent swimming, snorkeling, lazing and kayaking around Chichime Island made me yet again realize how lucky I am to live in a place where paradise seems to be only a three-hour Four Wheel drive away.
I would definitely recommend the experience to every person that lives or travels in Panama. Arranging your trip to San Blas can be done with any hostel, hotel or travel agent in Panama City. Transportation cost $25 each way and the accommodation varies from island to island, starting with $ 15 and there are options that suit every budget. You can the staff to advise you on which island would best suit your idea of paradise.