{"id":217566,"date":"2023-10-04T06:00:33","date_gmt":"2023-10-04T04:00:33","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/test.visit-latin-america.com\/?p=217566"},"modified":"2024-12-26T18:30:23","modified_gmt":"2024-12-26T16:30:23","slug":"the-san-blas-islands-an-unspoilt-paradise-in-panama","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/visit-latin-america.com\/en\/the-san-blas-islands-an-unspoilt-paradise-in-panama\/","title":{"rendered":"The San Blas Islands: an unspoilt paradise in Panama"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Off the Caribbean coast of Panama, the San Blas Islands<\/mark><\/a>, also known as Guna Yala, are a Central American treasure trove. It’s no coincidence that two of the main protagonists in the world-famous series La Casa de Papel go into hiding in this archipelago paradise: these islands offer an authentic experience, far removed from tourist resorts and modern conveniences.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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A trip off the beaten track<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The journey to the San Blas Islands is an adventure in itself. There are several options available to travellers, from flying from Panama City<\/strong> to one of the archipelago’s small airstrips, by sailboat<\/strong> or 4×4 from the capital<\/strong>, then boarding a traditional rowboat<\/strong> to reach the archipelago.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Although only around forty of them are inhabited, the majority of the islands offer immaculate beaches<\/strong> and palm trees swaying in the sea breeze.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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The cultural wealth of the Gunas<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The San Blas Islands are jealously guarded by the Gunas, an indigenous community that has managed to keep its traditions and culture safe<\/strong> from outside influences. The Guna women, proud guardians of their heritage, walk around dressed in molas<\/a>, colourful traditional outfits, and wear multicoloured beadwork around their legs and forearms. At the heart of each inhabited island, the Congreso<\/em>, a large council chamber, regularly welcomes the community for traditional ceremonies and community discussions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Natural beauty and biodiversity<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n
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\"Credit:
Credit: Autoridad de Turismo de Panam\u00e1<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

One of the islands, Pelicano<\/strong>, is a true jewel of the archipelago<\/strong>. Surrounded by an immaculate coral reef<\/strong>, it is home to an abundance of marine life<\/strong>, from multicoloured fish to rays and turtles. The crystal-clear waters<\/strong> and white sandy beaches<\/strong> provide an idyllic setting <\/strong>for snorkelling, swimming or simply relaxing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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When to visit and what to take with you?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n
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\"Credit:
Credit: Azzedine Rouichi<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

The best time to visit<\/strong> the San Blas Islands is during the dry season, from December to March<\/strong>. However, even during the rainy season<\/strong>, the islands are<\/strong> spared from hurricanes<\/strong>. For those wishing to visit the San Blas Islands, it is essential to be prepared for a rustic experience. There is no electricity or internet on most of the islands, and accommodation is simple, often in the form of traditional huts<\/strong>. Travellers are also encouraged to adopt an eco-friendly approach, taking their rubbish with them and using reef-friendly products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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The San Blas Islands offer a unique experience<\/strong>, combining natural beauty, cultural richness and adventure. For those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the modern world and connect with nature and authentic culture, this is a must-visit destination<\/strong> in Panama.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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