How to Get to the San Blas Islands

The complete guide to your transport. Choose the classic 4×4 jungle adventure or a fast and scenic charter flight. We handle all the logistics.

San Blas Transportation Options: 4x4 vs. Flight

San Blas Transportation 4x4 Jeep to Carti Port

Classic 4x4 & Boat

The Adventurer's Choice
  • Total Time: ~4 Hours (One Way)
  • Departure: 5:00 AM
  • Cost: $$ (Affordable)
  • Luggage: Flexible
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Private Charter Flight

Premium Comfort
  • Total Time: ~50 Minutes (One Way)
  • Departure: Flexible
  • $$$$ (Premium)
  • Luggage: Strict Limit
Learn About Flights
Popular

The Classic 4x4 Jungle Adventure

This is the most common and traditional way to reach San Blas. The journey is part of the adventure! We coordinate everything for you, from your hotel door to the island’s shore.

Your 4x4 Journey: What to Expect:

1. Hotel Pickup (5:00 - 5:30 AM):

We pick you up from your hotel in a 6-passenger 4x4. Please be ready in your lobby at 5:00 AM.

2. Jungle Road & Guna Border (7:35 AM):

A scenic 2.5-hour drive. You must have your original passport (no copies) to present at the Guna Yala border checkpoint. You will also pay the $20 entry tax here.

3. Arrive at Port (8:20 AM):

Arrive at Puerto de Cartí. Here, you will pay the $2 port tax. Our boat captain will be waiting for you."

4. Water Taxi to Your Island or Charter Boat (9:00 AM):

Board your shared boat for a 45 - 55 minute ride to your island. (Tip: Protect your bags from water spray).

5. Arrive in Paradise (10:15 AM):

You've made it! You will arrive at your chosen island or charter boat, ready to relax.

The Fast & Scenic Charter Flight

For those with limited time or who want to travel in maximum comfort, a private charter flight is the best option. You’ll avoid the long, early-morning drive and be on the beach in under an hour.

Your Flight: What to Expect

1. Go to Albrook Airport Private Hangars:

You will take a short taxi/Uber to Albrook 'Marcos A. Gelabert' Airport (PAC) private hangars, the domestic airport in Panama City. Arrive 30 minutes before your flight.

2. Flexible Departure:

Your flight leaves at the time you choose. No 5 AM wake-up call! You must present your original passport to board.

3. The Scenic Flight (~50 Mins):

Enjoy a stunning, low-altitude flight over the jungle and the archipelago. Have your camera ready for incredible aerial photos of the islands.

4. Island Airstrip Arrival:

You will land at a Guna-operated airstrip. From there, a short water taxi will take you to your final island or charter boat.

San Blas Transport: Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, 100%. Copies, photos, or driver’s licenses are not accepted at the Guna Yala border. You will be denied entry without your physical passport.

Only 4×4 vehicles are permitted on the final road. Regular rental cars are not allowed and will be turned away. We highly recommend using our transport service to avoid any issues.

The road is safe and paved, but the last 1.5 hours are very steep and have constant curves. If you are prone to motion sickness, we strongly recommend taking medication before you are picked up.

Yes. There are NO ATMs in San Blas. You must bring enough cash (US Dollars) to pay the $20 Guna entry tax, the $2 port tax, and any other purchases (drinks, snacks, souvenirs).

Book Your San Blas Transport

Ready to go? Fill out the form below to reserve your spot. For the fastest reply (or for charter flight inquiries), chat with us directly on WhatsApp.