How Do You Book a Flight to the San Blas Islands and What Is the Cost
- Chris
- Jul 25, 2021
- 5 min read
Updated: 6 days ago
Everything you need to know about flights, prices, timing, and seamless arrival straight to your catamaran
In this guide, we explain how flying to San Blas works, what to expect before and after your flight, where departures and arrivals take place, how much it costs, and how air transfers integrate seamlessly with your catamaran charter experience. You’ll also find practical tips and recommendations to help you plan your journey smoothly and make the most of your time in the islands.
To fly to San Blas, you’ll need to reach Albrook Domestic Airport (PAC), conveniently located within Panama City. From there, and using only your passport, you can board a private flight of approximately 40 minutes to Corazón de Jesús, located in the heart of the San Blas archipelago.
It’s important to note that San Blas is accessible only by private flights—commercial airlines such as Air Panama do not operate routes to the islands.
Private air transfer costs vary depending on the aircraft type, the number of passengers, and the total combined weight of passengers and luggage. These flights offer the fastest and most direct access to the islands, significantly reducing travel time and simplifying your arrival directly into the sailing area.
San Blas islands sailing has never been easier, cheap flights to the best islands in San Blas are now available.
How do You Book a Flight to The San Blas Islands?
Booking your flight is simple when you charter with us. Once you confirm your travel dates with us, we will send you the payment request and take care of the entire flight coordination alongside your catamaran reservation, including:
Selecting your preferred departure time
Confirming passenger and luggage details
Providing all practical flight instructions in advance
This coordinated approach ensures a smooth, stress-free journey to San Blas, allowing you to focus entirely on enjoying your sailing vacation.
Where Do Flights to San Blas Depart From?
Private flights to the San Blas Islands typically depart from Albrook International Airport (PAC) in Panama City.
This domestic airport is centrally located and just a short taxi ride from many hotels and residences in the city.
For added convenience, if you’re arriving internationally, we can also arrange transfers from Tocumen International Airport (PTY) directly to Albrook before your flight to San Blas.
What Documents Do You Need to Enter San Blas?
To board your private flight to San Blas, you’ll need:
A valid passport with sufficient remaining validity.
Any required travel documentation for entry into Panama and onward travel.
In addition, please note the following local entry requirements upon arrival in San Blas:
Guna Yala entry tax (paid in cash only):
$20 USD per person for non-residents
$5 USD per person for Panamanian residents
Credit cards are not accepted in San Blas, so cash is required. U.S. dollars are widely accepted and are the official currency of Panama, meaning no currency exchange is necessary for travelers arriving from the U.S. or most international destinations.
There are no complicated visa procedures for most visitors, and check-in at the regional terminal is straightforward and stress-free, making the entire process quick and easy.
When to depart to the San Blas islands?
We recommend flying in the morning and arriving at the catamaran not later than 8 or 9 am, but it’s up to you to choose the exact time. We will adapt to your needs. Flying back on disembarking date will be at the same time you previously landed.
Flight Time and What to Expect in the Air
Private flights from Panama City to San Blas take approximately 40 minutes, offering scenic aerial views over Panama’s jungles and the striking turquoise waters of the archipelago.
This makes flying the fastest way to reach the islands, compared to the alternative road + water taxi transfer, which can take 4 hours or more.
Private flight prices from Panama City to San Blas (same prices apply for San Blas to Panama City)
Flights to San Blas are 40 minutes and you may book any of the airplanes available on the table below. Be sure to meet the weight requirements.
Prices are for a private plane (8,5% tax not included):
2 passengers for a total cost of $700/way, with a maximum carrying weight (including passengers and luggage) of 450 lbs.
Up to 5 passengers for a total cost of $900/way, with a maximum carrying weight (including passengers and luggage) of 750 lbs.
Up to 5 passengers for a total cost of $1350/way, with a maximum carrying weight (including passengers and luggage) of 1,000 lbs.
Up to 6 passengers for a total cost of $1,550/way, with a maximum carrying weight (including passengers and luggage) of 1,500 lbs.
Up to 9 passengers flying in a private turboprop plane for a total cost of $1950/way, with a maximum carrying weight (including passengers and luggage) of 1,900 lbs.
Where Do You Land in San Blas?
Flights typically land at the Corazón de Jesús airstrip — a small landing strip located deep within the San Blas archipelago.
From there:
Your catamaran captain will be waiting.
A short 2-minute dinghy ride brings you directly to your boat, eliminating the need for long water taxis or crowded docks.
Final Tips Before You Fly
Arrive early at the airport: Plan to be at Albrook at least 30–45 minutes before departure.
Prepare essentials: Bring sunscreen, a hat, and a camera to capture the breathtaking aerial views.
Pack light if possible: Private flights have weight limits, so packing efficiently ensures a smoother boarding process.
A Seamless Arrival That Sets the Tone for Your Journey
Book a flight to the San Blas Islands and discover the fastest, most comfortable, and most seamless way to begin your sailing adventure. Flying saves hours of travel by avoiding the long road journey, border wait times, and water taxi transfers—while still offering spectacular aerial views and a landing just minutes from your catamaran. With simple requirements, coordinated logistics, and direct access to the heart of the archipelago, air travel transforms your arrival into part of the experience—allowing you to step straight into paradise and start enjoying San Blas from the very first moment.
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Check out our latest post San Blas Transfers: Comparison Table and Flights from Panama City to San Blas: Ultimate Guide
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