How to Reach the San Blas islands
How do I get to San Blas and how much does it cost?
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We will take care of all the transfers in and out the catamaran. If you plan on booking transfers yourself, please make sure you are dealing with a trustworthy, licensed and reliable company.
Land transport:
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Pickup: Around 5 AM from your hotel.
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Vehicle: 4x4 only, with up to 4 guests per car. Guna indigenous drivers are the only ones authorized (and we cannot intervene).
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Transfer Info: Non-adventurous, no stops, and the road may cause motion sickness.
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Cost: $75 per person each way.
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Taxes: $20 per person entry tax (paid to the indigenous) and $2 per person port tax.
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Delays: Possible at the border due to high season demand and Panamanian weekend travelers.
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Port Conditions: Basic amenities and undetermined waiting time.
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Water Taxi: Open-air, no cover, rain possible, managed by indigenous staff.
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Total Travel Time: Approximately 5 hours.
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Checkout at 6:00-7:00 AM means you lose about 8 hours in San Blas if not flying in.
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Self drive:
A standard van or car won't suffice; you need a 4x4 to pass the border. This option is quicker than regular transfers since you won’t stop at the supermarket. It’s a cost-effective choice that adds to the experience. You can park your car at the San Blas port for a small fee, and it will be securely guarded during your stay. Contact us and receive the map and instruction on how to get to the port of San Blas. More info in our blog.
What to do in Panama City for Half Day
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Flying:
Is a very interesting option, you bypass all border chaos and will land in the most incredible part of San Blas, far away from the border and the islands filled with day tourists from Panama. Entering San Blas by air gives you the perfect start for your vacation. The plane flies over the jungle and then over the cays of San Blas prior to landing right next to the catamaran. No need for long tedious water taxi transfer. You can depart from Albrook local airport or Tocumen international at whichever time we agree on.
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Whether you arrive by plane or land, paradise awaits you!
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Flight prices:
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2 passengers for $700/way, maximum carrying weight including people and luggage of 450 lbs
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up to 5 passengers for $900/way maximum carrying weight including people and luggage of 750 lbs
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up to 5 passengers for $1250/way maximum carrying weight including people and luggage of 1000 lbs
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up to 9 passengers flying in 1 single private turboprop plane for $2400/way, maximum carrying weight including people and luggage of 1800 lbs
Prices shown are one way for the whole cost of the plane carrying the indicated guests, 8,5% tax not included.
Mandatory $20/guest airport tax paid to the indigenous.
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*** Flights from Panama City to San Blas: Ultimate Guide
*** Direct Flights from Tocumen International Airport to San Blas
*** What to do in Panama City for Half Day
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