No, no vaccine is required to travel to Panama, including the San Blas Islands.
San Blas is NOT a resort, and that is precisely its greatest magic. It is an archipelago of more than 360 unspoiled islands where luxury is not a 5-star hotel, but a real disconnect, pure nature and authentic Guna culture.
For us at Kuna Yala Adventure, it is very important that you have the best experience with us, so these are the extras and items we recommend you bring to enjoy it even more.
WHAT TO BRING
- Cash, since there are no ATMs
- Documents and valid ID
- Cap or hat and sunglasses
- Comfortable swimwear
- Dry clothes for the way back
- Biodegradable sunscreen
- Light towel
- Free storage on your phone
- Sandals or water shoes
- Power bank.
PROHIBITED
- Photographing Guna people without their permission, especially women in traditional dress
- Using drones
- Bringing in drugs
- Sport or artisanal fishing gear
- Scuba tanks
- Filming in the territory for public use without the proper permit from the Guna General Congress.
- Nudism
- Any alteration of the local flora or fauna is prohibited
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is the accommodation like?
Guna Yala is an indigenous island territory, so accommodation is in cabins with a sand or wooden floor and a bed, with a shared bathroom reserved for tourists only.
Does the cabin have its own bathroom?
We have cabins with a private bathroom, but they are limited, so we recommend booking one week ahead to get one.
What currency should I bring?
The official currency of Panama is the Panamanian balboa, but the US dollar (USD) is accepted throughout the country; we recommend mainly using US dollars in cash.
Can I charge devices in the cabins?
The cabins have no electrical outlets, but you can charge at reception, which is open from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and from 6 to 10 p.m. We recommend bringing a portable charger.
Is there mobile signal on the island?
There is only a weak signal from Mas Movil and Digicel; other carriers have no signal in the territory.
Are there mosquitoes in the territory?
On the island where we run tours and lodging there are no sand flies, but there are at the port because of the vegetation, so we recommend bringing insect repellent.
Do I need any vaccine to visit Panama and the San Blas Islands?
Do the packages include food?
Yes, the day tour includes lunch and overnight stays include 3 meals.
Are drinks included too?
Only day tours include one drink. On overnight stays drinks are at your own expense. They are sold for $2.
Can I bring my own drinks and cooler?
Yes, you can bring your cooler with all the drinks you want and your own ice; ice is not sold in the territory.
What is the menu?
Breakfast is local-style, and lunch is based on the catch of the day: rice or fried plantains with green salad and the catch of the day, which can be fish, mixed seafood or octopus. Lobster costs an additional $20.
What do you offer if I do not eat meat?
We offer what is available, since food is limited: rice with vegetables or a vegetable salad.
How far in advance should I book?
Ideally two or three days ahead for a day tour and one week ahead for an overnight stay.
What happens after I book?
Once we receive the photo of your deposit, we coordinate with you the pick-up details and the meeting point for your trip.
From what age do children pay?
Children from 0 to 4 years old do not pay; if you want them to have their own seat it is an additional $50, and lunch on a day tour is $10. Children from 5 to 9 have their own package, which you can ask us about, and from 10 years old they pay the full package.
Can I bring my pet?
Pets are not allowed in the Guna territory, because there have been accidents involving pets and other tourists in the past.
Can I pay by card?
Yes, of course; card payments have a 7% surcharge on the package price.
What activities are there in the Guna territory?
On the island you can play volleyball, kayak, snorkel (mask), swim in the sea or have a bonfire at night with your group without disturbing other visitors. Scuba diving with tanks and jet skis are prohibited.
