Islands in Guna Yala, Panama
San Blas Islands
Indigenous Guna-run islands off Panama's Caribbean coast, with white sand, clear water and basic huts. Cash-only, few services and limited comfort; the classic sailing route between Panama and Colombia.
At a glance
- Safety4/5Safe with normal careDetails
- Monthly budget$1,500–2,500Comfortable, one person · $1,500–2,500Details
- Value for money47/100Better value than 46% of places we coverDetails
- Best time to goDec–AprWarmest: May, 29°CDetails
- Internet233 MbpsFixed broadband, Panama medianDetails
- Tap waterNo, drink bottledNo safe tap water; lodges supply bottled water.Details
- LGBTQ+3/5Tolerant, but be discreetDetails
- Solo travel3/5English: limitedDetails
- Getting around4x4 and boat from Panama CityVery walkableDetails
- Cash or cardCash onlyCash only: bring US dollars in small bills.Details
Apps that work in San Blas Islands
No ride-hailing apps work here; see the taxi note below.
- Maps: Google Maps, Waze
- Messaging: WhatsApp
- Taxis: No roads or taxis between the islands. Boats and 4x4 pickups are arranged through lodges or tour operators.
Cash, cards and tipping
What to carry and how to pay. Money in Panama.
- Cash only Cash only: bring US dollars in small bills. There are no ATMs on the islands, and island entry fees must be paid in cash.
- Currency: Balboa (PAB). US$1 ≈ $1.00 on 03 Oct 2026.
- ATMs: ATM fees for foreign cards are among the region's highest, several dollars per withdrawal; use machines inside banks or malls.
- Tipping: About 10% in sit-down restaurants, sometimes added to the bill. Taxis aren't tipped; tip guides and boat crews.
- Paying by phone: Contactless and Apple/Google Pay are common in Panama City. Yappy, the local transfer app, needs a Panamanian bank account.
Before you go
Visa and entry
- Fill in the digital immigration and customs declaration before arrival; paper forms are being phased out.
- Officers may ask for an onward ticket and US$500–1,000 or a credit card as proof of funds.
- Fingerprints and a facial scan are taken on entry; make sure your passport is stamped.
Emergency numbers
Police 104 · Fire 103 · All emergencies 911
Plugs
Type A, B · 120 V, 60 Hz. Do I need an adapter?
SIM and eSIM
+Móvil and Tigo sell prepaid SIMs at the airport and in malls with your passport; monthly data plans are affordable. eSIMs work for visitors.
More places in Panama
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Sources
Prices are SoloSquare estimates; climate, air, safety and visa figures come from the sources listed. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.