Private Day tour in San Blas Islands in Panama City, Panama
Panama City, Panama

Private Day tour in San Blas Islands

Outty Ranking 61 4.7 · 18 traveler reviews13 hoursFrom $455
Instant mobile ticketSpots available today

Outty Ranking

61/100

Solid Choice. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

4.7/5

Based on 18 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Private Day tour in San Blas Islands worth booking?

Private Day tour in San Blas Islands is a 13-hour experience in Panama City, Panama, from $455 per person. It scores 61 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 4.7/5 rating across 18 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
61 / 100
Rating
4.7/5 (18)
Duration
13 hours
From
$455 per person

Visit the amazing paradaise of San Blas Islands by your own time and rules. You will have a PRIVATE Comfortable car 4x4 only for you. Once you arrive to the port you will have your own PRIVATE capitan and panga boat (local boat), you can choose the time you want to spend in each of the 3 islands. Options Islands: Perro grande, Perro chico, Pelicano and natural swimming pool. Kayaks, Snorkel mask, life jacket will be provided. Self guided tour. Once you book we will provide all info needed so you can explore by your own, please notice there are no english-speaking guides in this tour. Under request we can provide towels, beach chairs ** limited quantity.** Minimum 2 people

What you get

    About this experience

    Visit the amazing paradaise of San Blas Islands by your own time and rules. You will have a PRIVATE Comfortable car 4x4 only for you. Once you arrive to the port you will have your own PRIVATE capitan and panga boat (local boat), you can choose the time you want to spend in each of the 3 islands. Options Islands: Perro grande, Perro chico, Pelicano and natural swimming pool. Kayaks, Snorkel mask, life jacket will be provided. Self guided tour. Once you book we will provide all info needed so you can explore by your own, please notice there are no english-speaking guides in this tour. Under request we can provide towels, beach chairs ** limited quantity.** Minimum 2 people

    What's included

    Included

    • Private Car only for your group.
    • Private Boat from 1 people in advance. You can choose your time in each island.
    • Life jacket
    • Umbrella, beach chair and towels.
    • Visit to 3 Islands (Wailidub, Perro Chico and Natural Swimming pool)
    • 1 Drink (Soda, beer or bottled water)
    • Snorkel Mask
    • Kayaks and paddel board to share.

    Not included

    • Lobster lunch (+$20USD)
    • Admission fees
    • Entrance fees

    What you'll see and do

    1. Panama City

      Start your journey with pick up around 5:20am in your hotel in one of our best cars 4x4 only for your group. Make a stop in the supermarket if you need to buy drinks (wine, beers, water, and snacks). Around 1 hour and a half after pick up you will enter to the San Blas hills, the roads are bumpy so please take medicine if you suffer of nauseas. Around 8:30am arrive to Carti port, a very rustic port with lot of pangas around. You guide Naidi will introduce him self and help you with your luggage. Time to ride some waves!! Arrive to your first island Perro Grande after 30 minutes of boat, where we will welcome you with fruits, chairs, kayak and paddle boards exclusive for our clients.

      Pass by without stopping

    2. Isla Pelicano

      Visit the tiny but beautiful Pelicano chico island, known by their hammocks in the ocean and great place to take a selfie! There is bar in this area if you want to order a drink.

      Pass by without stopping

    3. San Blas Islands, Panama

      Then Arrive to the famous Perro chico island where you will have a delicious lunch fish with patacones and rice or chicken, or any other catch of the day available (octopus, sea snails, shrimps etc). Once you finish luch ask for your snorkel gear and jump in to the ocean to find the sunken boat. The best spot to make snorkelling in san blas, full of tiny colored fishes.

      60 minutes here · Admission included

    4. San Blas Islands

      Visit natural swimming pool. Where water arrive just to your chest or hip, just walk all round and try to find your starfish! Enjoy the beauty of this place, also very famous!

      60 minutes here

    5. San Blas Islands

      Back to the port around :330p - 4pm

      Pass by without stopping

    6. Panama City

      Back to your hotel in Panama city

      Pass by without stopping

    Where it starts and ends

    Hotel pickup

    Pickup is included for all travelers.

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    en, es
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Every day
    Group size
    Up to 15 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Panama San Blas Tours

    Know before you go

    • Specialized infant seats are available
    • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
    • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
    • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
    • The car will make a stop in a minisuper, so you can buy snacks, drinks, ice, desserts, fruits and everything you want to take to San Blas. Its is a long drive 2.5 hours way in and 2.5 way back, then 40minutes in boat. Total time in Islands around 5hours.
    • Please notice San Blas is an Indian protected zone. All the services are basic and rustic, only kuna people are in charge of all tourist’s services such as food, ground and water transportation, lodging, etc. Please take this into consideration, the services are not as in the city, the waiting time can be long, and kunas are more informal. We have provided hospitality train to them, but they are still working on it, their culture is different, they are never in a rush, this is part of the adventure to San Blas.
    • Day tour return is at 3:30PM. You will arrive in Panama City between 6:30PM and 7:00PM.
    • We recommend you bring your personal hygiene items, towels, sunscreen, mosquito repellent. You can bring a cooler with your own drinks, potable water, snacks and beverages (fruit juice or alcohol) you can by on site or bring it yourself. The driver will make a stop in a super market where you can buy a disposable cooler, ice etc. In San Blas Islands there are no ATMs, only cash in received. You can buy drinks there, snacks, souvenirs etc.“+Movil” and “Digicel” are the cell phone companies which works in San Blas Islands. There is no power electricity in the huts, only light.

    Photos

    Private Day tour in San Blas Islands in Panama City, photo 2Private Day tour in San Blas Islands in Panama City, photo 3Private Day tour in San Blas Islands in Panama City, photo 4Private Day tour in San Blas Islands in Panama City, photo 5Private Day tour in San Blas Islands in Panama City, photo 6Private Day tour in San Blas Islands in Panama City, photo 7

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 18 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    Small groups

    5 mentions

    The group size is repeatedly described as intimate rather than packed.

    The guide

    4 mentions

    Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Value for money

    4 mentions

    Travelers feel they got more than they paid for.

    Food and drink

    4 mentions

    The tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.

    Pace and timing

    4 mentions

    Several reviewers found the schedule tight or the day long.

    Photo opportunities

    3 mentions

    The views and photo stops come up again and again.

    Traveler reviews

    18 verified traveler reviews for Private Day tour in San Blas Islands. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    15
    4 star
    1
    3 star
    1
    2 star
    1
    1 star
    0
    Sort
    edalomia · October 2026

    Great experience with great tour guides.

    Trip and guides were excellent very respectful punctual friendly, explain in detail everything always making sure we all were good. This team was ex Elle t from when I was pick up to the guides

    via Tripadvisor

    Stacey_W · September 2026

    6 star

    Private is the way to go. Visited the Natural Pool and 3 other islands. Snorkeled, kayaked, swam, and relaxed on the beaches. Never felt rushed. Beat the crowds. Highly recommend! Many thanks to the Kuna community for sharing their beautiful islands with us!

    via Viator

    Shara_K · June 2026

    Read the description and you will have and amazing time!!

    San Blas Islands Tour Review TLDR - Amazing! Would do it again! Private is the way to go, can choose when to move on to the next island. Weekends there are more people. Not for the easily motion/seasick to get to the islands. The facilities were fine. The people were friendly and welcoming. It is a really long day but worth it. We started at 5:00 am. The ride from Panama City is 2.5 hours and the road can be curvy. You will have the best time on this trip if you read the entire description! They tell you everything you need to know. If you are looking for a five star resort, this is not the trip for you. If you are looking for a beautiful environment with breathtaking views and lovely people along with modest facilities and a bumpy boat ride to get there, you will love it! Be sure to support the Guna/Kuna women by purchasing molas. The only thing we would do differently is try going during the week. There were more people on the weekend. We just moved to a different island and got a prime spot before others arrived. The beauty of a private tour. Otherwise, I cannot recommend it enough.

    via Viator

    angela_c · April 2026

    The car ride is long and...

    The car ride is long and at the end bumpy. Make sure to bring your passports as you’ll need them at the border. The day we went the weather was rough so that made for a very painful non relaxing boat ride. Once we got to the islands it was calmer and weather was a little better. We were given fruit immediately and our own table and chairs in the shade. The water was perfect. Lunch was good and a drink included. We went to two other islands and the swimming pool. It would have been nice just to stay at one location though. Our guide was great, so kind to help carry our drinks and bags at each stop. We headed back early cuz it started getting windy and we were just done at that point. The ride back was smoother. Try not to have to use the restrooms at the dock. They are not very nice and yell at you to pay them.

    via Viator

    Patricia_R · March 2026

    San Blas was a blast and a must do when visiting Panama!

    I was quite nervous about this trip due to the reviews about the roads and boat ride. I believe thise reviews are exaggerated. The last hour of the car ride was through the mountains so yes it was winding but the roads were paved and I felt extremely safe. If you get motion sickness so I would recommend taking a Dramamine. The boat ride was fine and sooo worth it once you get to the islands. We visited white sands where we had a tasty lunch and the clearest waters I’ve ever seen. We visited the natural pool island which was a sand bar in the middle of the ocean where we saw starfish. We visited two other islands which were just as beautiful. San Blas is a must do when visiting Panama. Our group did a few excursions during our 7 day visit and this was everyone’s favourite.

    via Viator

    Good to know

    Duration
    13 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Every day
    Hotel pickup
    Included for all travelers
    Booked in 30 days
    6
    Verdict
    Solid Choice

    Who runs this experience

    Operated by Panama San Blas Tours, who run 22 experiences we rank across 3 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 58.4.

    See everything Panama San Blas Tours runs

    Why this scores 61

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)78
    Review evidence (18% weight)43
    Booking momentum (14% weight)33
    Value for money (12% weight)36
    Listing quality (10% weight)85
    Local standing (8% weight)52
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Private Day tour in San Blas Islands: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Panama City.

    How much does Private Day tour in San Blas Islands cost?

    +

    Prices start at $455 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Panama City usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does Private Day tour in San Blas Islands take?

    +

    Plan for about 13 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Panama City is not rushed.

    Is Private Day tour in San Blas Islands worth it?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 61 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.7/5 across 18 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Panama City, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Private Day tour in San Blas Islands?

    +

    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is Private Day tour in San Blas Islands suitable for kids and families?

    +

    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 13-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Private Day tour in San Blas Islands?

    +

    Around 6 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Panama City can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

    +

    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Panama City and add a light layer if any part of the 13-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Private Day tour in San Blas Islands start and how do I get there?

    +

    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Panama City within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Panama City?

    +

    On Outty we rank every Panama City experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Tour to a waterfall and Embera village with lunch included, Ocean to Ocean Combo: Canal Boat Safari, Agua Clara & Gatun Locks, Half day of Panama city and canal tour: shared and private. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Panama City?

    +

    Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Panama City?

    +

    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

    +

    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

    What is included in Private Day tour in San Blas Islands?

    +

    Included: Private Car only for your group; Private Boat from 1 people in advance. You can choose your time in each island; Life jacket; Umbrella, beach chair and towels; and Visit to 3 Islands (Wailidub, Perro Chico and Natural Swimming pool). Not included: Lobster lunch (+$20USD); Admission fees; and Entrance fees. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Does Private Day tour in San Blas Islands include hotel pickup?

    +

    Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 9 listed pickup locations in and around Panama City. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.

    What languages is Private Day tour in San Blas Islands offered in?

    +

    It is offered in English and Spanish. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.

    Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Private Day tour in San Blas Islands?

    +

    Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.

    Is Private Day tour in San Blas Islands wheelchair or stroller accessible?

    +

    The operator notes: Specialized infant seats are available; and Not recommended for pregnant travelers. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to Private Day tour in San Blas Islands if the weather is bad?

    +

    This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.

    What do travelers say about Private Day tour in San Blas Islands?

    +

    Across 18 reviews averaging 4.7 out of 5, recurring themes include small groups, the guide, value for money. The group size is repeatedly described as intimate rather than packed. One thing to know: Several reviewers found the schedule tight or the day long.

    Ready to lock in your spot?

    Pick a date, choose your group, and see the exact price for Private Day tour in San Blas Islands.

    Pick your date