Paradise Won't be Sold to Foreigners: San Blas Land Prohibitions

No Land Sales to Non-Guna People

Check out our latest post: "Islands for Sale in San Blas"

Strict land sale restrictions in the autonomous region of Guna Yala—including the more than 365 islands that make up the San Blas archipelago—make it impossible for non-Guna individuals or foreigners to buy or lease land. Fewer than 50 of these islands are inhabited, while the rest remain untouched, surrounded by coral reefs and turquoise lagoons. Ownership is exclusively reserved for members of the Guna community, preserving both the land and its cultural integrity.

Pristine San Blas waters and islands, where tradition and nature remain untouched.

A Short History: How the Guna Secured Their Land Rights

The Guna’s control over San Blas is not a coincidence — it’s the result of a long and determined struggle for autonomy. In the early 20th century, outside pressures threatened Guna culture, land, and traditions. Missionaries, traders, and government authorities attempted to impose new laws, clothing styles, and social norms that conflicted with their ancestral way of life.

In 1925, the Guna rose in the Guna Revolution to defend their land, customs, and identity. The uprising resulted in a peace treaty recognizing their rights and establishing the Comarca Guna Yala — an autonomous territory governed by its own traditional councils.

Since then, Guna Yala has remained a self-administered region under Panamanian law, where all islands and land belong exclusively to the Guna people. This autonomy has preserved their social fabric, language, and environment — making it one of the most successful examples of indigenous self-governance in the Americas.

Guna men, proud guardians of their ancestral land in San Blas.

Family-Owned Islands and Coconut Markers

All islands in the region are owned by the Guna people, with many individually managed by extended families. Property boundaries are often marked with painted signs on the abundant coconut trees—a natural and traditional method of demarcation.

Territory sign on Maoqui Island, belonging to one of the three families who live there.

We’ve encountered small islands shared by just a few families, who often rotate every three to four months to manage and care for their land. During their stay, each family benefits from the coconuts harvested on the island and the small “beach access fees” collected from visitors—an important source of income for the time they inhabit it. When their rotation ends, the next family takes over, continuing this traditional cycle of stewardship and sustainability. These modest fees—usually just a few dollars per person—are common throughout the region and play a crucial role in helping the Guna preserve both their environment and traditional way of life.

Cultural and Environmental Significance: No Resorts, No Overdevelopment

The San Blas land prohibitions are far more than legal restrictions — they embody the Guna people’s philosophy of autonomy and deep respect for nature. By forbidding land sales to outsiders, the Guna have safeguarded their coral reefs, mangroves, and marine ecosystems from overexploitation and mass tourism.

Unlike places such as Las Perlas, where sprawling resorts dominate the coastline, San Blas remains untouched by large-scale development. The Guna’s firm protection of their territory has prevented overinvestment, preserving the region’s pristine landscapes and cultural integrity.

These prohibitions are not just about ownership; they represent a balance between people and the environment — a living example of how traditional values can sustain both biodiversity and community well-being. As a result, San Blas stands today as one of the Caribbean’s last authentic paradises, where nature and culture remain perfectly intertwined.

No Resorts, No Overdevelopment — Guna land protections keep San Blas pristine and free from mass tourism.

Limited, Guna-Owned Accommodation

There are very few hotels in San Blas, and all are Guna-owned. These are typically located on the more populated islands close to the mainland. In contrast, the outer cays—like Coco Bandero and the Dutch Cays, where we usually sail—remain beautifully undeveloped, offering a more exclusive and authentic experience.

The Pool at the legendary Dutch Cays — a breathtaking natural saltwater infinity pool and a must-visit stop on 5-night (or longer) San Blas sailing itineraries.

San Blas Land Prohibitions: You Can’t Buy Paradise — But You Can Sail It

While San Blas land is not for sale, its beauty is meant to be shared respectfully. The best way to experience this paradise is from the sea — aboard a catamaran that lets you explore its hundreds of paradise islands without leaving a footprint.

Sailing through San Blas offers the rare privilege of waking up each day to a new island, a new horizon, and the vibrant presence of Guna culture. You’ll anchor in secluded beaches, swim in turquoise waters, and—if you wish—visit Guna communities that have preserved their traditions for centuries.

Unlike owning property, sailing here gives you access to paradise without altering it — a floating home that moves with the rhythm of the sea, honoring the Guna philosophy of balance between people and nature.

Experience the untouched beauty and rich culture of San Blas for yourself — contact us today to start planning your unforgettable catamaran adventure.