
San Blas, Guna Yala
Clear crystal water and far far away is a destination that you cannot miss out on. San Blas, located in the Guna Yala district is an archipelago that consists of approximately 365 cays. So imagine all of the little islands and cays that you could visit! Oh, and I have to mention that the crystal waters are because San Blas is located in the Caribbean, which only means best beaches in the world! Ok so let's get started on the basics:
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1) How to get to San Blas?
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If you are traveling from the City you could either go by car (must be a 4 by 4 car, otherwise they will not enter), the distance is approximately 130 km and can take you around 3 hours. Let me warn you that the roads are a bit curvy, so if you are not into this then your other option could be to go by plane through Air Panama. If you do not have a car you could choose from various travel agencies that offer San Blas Tours which probably include transportation from the City to San Blas and some trips to some islands.
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2) What to do once you get to Guna Yala?
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Once you get to Guna Yala you will have to pay the entrance fee depending on whether you are a tourist or resident. If you are a tourist the fee will be $20, and if you are a resident or Panamanian the cost is $5. So be sure to bring some change and your identification (if you are a tourist you MUST bring your passport, and resident/Panamanian your ID Card, otherwise they will not let you in, and trust me because it has happened to one of my friends). Then once you get to the port, if you have not arranged any tour, there will be various people offering you their transportation to the most visited and popular cays of San Blas. The price that they will charge you will be based upon how many islands you want to visit during the day. Normally they will take you to around 3 different islands and the price will be around $30-$40 per person. After you have arranged this transportation you are ready to go and enjoy yourself.
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3) What should I bring to San Blas?
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Apart from the obvious (swimming suit, sunblock, sunglasses, hat, etc), you must bring cash with you in order to pay the entrance fee to Guna Yala, the water transportation, as well as the small entrance fees to each island (around $2-$3 per person). As I mentioned before, be sure to bring your form of Identification, the best would be passport, just to be on the safe side. If you wish you can also bring your own cooler with food and beverages (although they do charge approximately $3 for it once you arrive). In some islands there are some restaurants whilst others don't, so at the end of the day it is much easier to just have your cooler.
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And...Finally, have fun and enjoy this paradise. If you have any questions or concerns do not hesitate to contact me!
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