Because of the Darien Gap at the border between Panama and Columbia, travelling overland from destinations south of this region can be difficult and even dangerous. Between the drug cartels and the dense jungle travellers tend to arrive in the following four ways:
- Flying straight to the Islands
- Sailing from Cartegena (Colombia)
- Speed boat from Capurganá
- By land from Panama City! – Share your travel knowledge for bus travel to San Blas Islands!
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FINE PRINT
We do not 100% guarantee that all schedules, times and prices are exact. The information in this website is based on personal experience. Information has been gathered from station schedules, station managers, bus drivers and driver helpers. We have done our best to get as much accurate up to date information as possible, but prices and times change. Also, remember that you are responsible for your own health and safety. Travel safe and travel smart - and have fun!
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Hello,
I would greatly appreciate ANY information on getting to the islands without a flight. Most of the information online seems to be that you either have your hotel organize transportation or charter a plane or boat. I am interested in the cheapest manner of arriving to the islands. Efficient or quick is not important.
Thank you in advance 🙂
if anyone is planning on doing the boat trip I totally recommend these guys http://colombiapanamasailing.com/san-blas-sailboat-quest/. It is an actual sail boat which is sweet. They are more expensive but you get what you pay for. About 10 people, really comfortable boat and really professional. You leave from Portobelo (el porvenir is where some of the others leave and is harder to reach). Here is another option http://sanblasadventures.com/boat-panama-to-colombia/). I have also heard good things. There are cheaper options too but I wouldn’t recommend just going with anyone. have fun.