9-Day Panama Sea Kayaking Adventure: San Blas Kayaking and Cultural Experience
Kayak, Snorkel & Camp on tiny white sand Caribbean Islands surrounded by Turquoise Water
AVAILABLE:
ACTIVITY:
ACCOMMODATIONS:
GROUP SIZE:
January-April
Intermediate- Advanced
Comfortable Hotels,
Camping
4-10 Guests,
Min Age: 15
AVAILABLE:
January-April
ACTIVITY:
Intermediate- Advanced
ACCOMMODATIONS:
Comfortable Hotels,
Camping
GROUP SIZE:
4-10 Guests,
Min Age: 15
Join us for a 9-day intimate discovery of the San Blas Archipelago in the heart of the autonomous territory of Kuna Yala, also spelled Guna Yala. The San Blas Archipelago consists of 365 tiny tropical islands set in the Caribbean Sea right off the coast of Panama. Experience the true meaning of paradise while paddling from one deserted island to the other. Protected by the outer reef, we will paddle the warm, crystal clear waters crossing canals, along stretches of mangrove forests, and into freshwater rivers flowing down from the jungle mountains that dominate the coastline. In a single or double, enclosed, sturdy kayak we’ll navigate through shallow parts, looking for passages between the reefs and corals. We’ll meet the Kunas, an indigenous people who live in this politically autonomous reserve. You will be introduced to one of their communities, including the House of Congress, schools, churches, and homes. Besides the trip’s cultural aspect, we will enjoy paradise as we’ve all imagined it! Deserted islands with palm trees surrounded by white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters; swimming whenever you like and snorkeling the incredible coral reefs only steps from your tent. Relax and read your favorite book from your hammock, with the best views in the world. On this trip, you’ll forget anything outside this wonderland!
Highlights
- Beach camping in paradise.
- Beautiful kayaking destinations.
- Cultural immersion! Not only in Panama but with the semi-autonomous indigenous Kuna people of the San Blas.
- World-class snorkeling.
- Fully inclusive travel once you arrive in Panama City
- Seafood, seafood, seafood prepared by the indigenous Kuna
Itinerary
DAY 1. A REP WILL MEET YOU AT PTY AIRPORT
Today is designated as your International Travel Day. A company representative will greet you at the international airport and take you to your hotel. Upon your arrival, you’ll have the chance to relax and unwind from your international travels. In the late afternoon or early evening, you will meet your guide, who will take you to a nice restaurant for a local dish and the trip briefing.
Accommodation: Radisson Panama Canal Hotel (or similar)No meals included on this day
DAY 2. SEA KAYAKING ORIENTATION AND PADDLE
Right after breakfast, we’ll leave the city early this morning and cross the Continental Divide to San Blas (a 2.5-hour drive). You are now in the Kuna people's semi-autonomous territory; the location's remoteness and authentic culture will give you the feel of a National Geographic expedition. From there, we will hop into our support boat for a drive to our first island. Upon arriving on the Island, you will become familiarized with your kayak by paddling along the rainforest mainland, and perhaps we’ll enter a cute little river if time and water level allow. This way, we get the opportunity to test and adjust our boats and make sure we feel comfortable before committing to any long stretches of paddling in the coming days. In the later afternoon, we’ll walk into the Kuna village for an introduction to their culture and meet the women who will be showing their traditional outfits called ‘Molas.’ During our walk, we’ll be greeted by the many adorable, ever-smiling Kuna kids. In the evening, we’ll have our first Kuna dish, whereafter they’ll perform a local dance in the moonlight. Surely, you’ll all be ready for our first night´s sleep in your cozy tents.
Accommodation: Digirdup Island Tent CampingMeals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
DAY 3. CROSSING TO REACH DIADUP ISLAND
This morning, after packing our camp, we begin a 4–5-hour paddle to the uninhabited island of Diadup. The paddling includes two open-channel crossings. Our motorized support boat will carry our dry bags (luggage) and camping equipment, so our kayaks will be light and maneuverable. Additionally, our support boat can assist paddlers in need or if tired. We’ll stop on a lovely island somewhere along the way for lunch and then continue to today’s destination: a marvelous little island with just a local family living on it. The afternoon will be at leisure to relax in your hammock or play in the ocean. We provide a hammock for each of the participants.
Accommodation: Diadup Island Tent CampingMeals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
DAY 4. PADDLE ALONG CAYS TO REACH SICHIRDUP ISLAND
Today, we break camp and paddle along sand cays and across open channels to the magical uninhabited white sand island of Sichirdup. This small island will be our home for the next two nights. The coral reef surrounding the island offers fantastic snorkeling opportunities. Be sure to bring your snorkel and mask! (We have masks and snorkel available; however, we encourage you to bring your own).
Accommodation: Sichirdup Island Tent CampingMeals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
DAY 5. LAYOVER AT SICHIRDUP ISLAND
Layovers are great!! This morning sleep-in, you do not need to pack your tent and belongings; instead, relax! At mid-morning, we are taking a day trip to the nearby mainland, where we will paddle our kayaks upstream through the gentle Rio Paloma, looking for wildlife and the best swimming holes. This is a beautiful opportunity to bathe in the fresh, clean river water. Once we can’t paddle any further upstream, we will continue our exploration on foot on the trails parallel to the river. On our way back, we will stop for a picnic lunch at the shore of the river! After lunch, we’ll paddle back to Sichirdup for an afternoon snorkeling session along the ‘wall’; a drop outside the reef offering spectacular marine life sightings!
Accommodation: Sichirdup Island Tent Camping Meals included:
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
DAY 6. ANOTHER STRETCH OF AMAZING KAYAKING
Today, we set off on another amazing stretch of tropical sea kayaking to reach the amazing Island of Bidirdup. The 3–4-hour paddle necessary to get there will have us initially island hopping and eventually making one open crossing. Bidirdup is a small island, with the acreage of a football field and with only one native family being the only inhabitants and caretakers of the island, so the fine white sands, turquoise water, and picture-perfect setting will likely be yours, and yours alone during your visit. Great snorkeling here, too!
Accommodation: Bidirdup Tent CampingMeals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
DAY 7. PADDLE TO REACH DOVE ISLAND
This morning, we will jump in our kayaks and head west with the predominant wind and current for approximately 3 hours, island hopping to Nube Sibu Dup (or Dove Island), another tropical atoll paradise. This beautiful island evidences our transition from the remote areas of the Guna Yala Archipelago to the areas slightly tainted by the recent growth of tourism spurred by the road's paving. Formerly a footpath and, for many years, a 4x4 challenge, this paved road provides the only vehicle access to Guna Yala.
Accommodation: Nube Sibudup Tent CampingMeals: Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
DAY. 8 MOTORBOAT & DRIVE BACK TO THE BIG CITY
This morning, we will jump in our kayaks and head west with the predominant wind and current for approximately 3 hours, island hopping to Nube Sibu Dup (or Dove Island), another tropical atoll paradise. This beautiful island evidences our transition from the remote areas of the Guna Yala Archipelago to the areas slightly tainted by the recent growth of tourism spurred by the road's paving. Formerly a footpath and, for many years, a 4x4 challenge, this paved road provides the only vehicle access to Guna Yala.
Accommodation: Radisson Panama Canal Hotel (or similar)Meals: Meals included: Breakfast
DAY 9. DEPARTURE DAY
All good things must come to an end, and this day we have arranged for your transportation to the international airport in Panama City to catch your flight home. You will leave Panama with a new understanding of the tropics and with a unique insight into the simple lifestyle and worldview of the Kuna People. To you, we say “nu-edi,” or thank you, in the Kuna language.
Accommodation:N/AMeals: Breakfast
Dates & Prices
The earlier you book, the more choice of available dates you’ll have, and once you book, your price is guaranteed. Our current trip dates for 2024 are as follows:
- February 3rd – February 11th
- March 2nd – March 10th
You may also inquire about your preferred travel dates or time window, and we’ll get back to you with available dates. Do not book flights until your trip details are confirmed.
The earlier you book, the more choice of available dates you’ll have, and once you book, your price is guaranteed. Our current trip dates for 2025 are as follows:
- January 25th – February 2nd
- February 8th – February 16th
You may also inquire about your preferred travel dates or time window, and we’ll get back to you with available dates. Do not book flights until your trip details are confirmed.
Our PANAMA SEA KAYAKING ADVENTURE – 9-Day San Blas Kayaking and Cultural Experience is priced at:
- US$ 3099 per person (based on double occupancy)
This price includes all taxes and fees; single supplement is US$250.
- Bilingual Sea Kayaking Guide
- Kuna Sea Kayaking Guide
- Local support staff including professional cook preparing meals on location
- Support boat with licensed captain and mariner
- All transportation from arrival on day 1 through departure from Panama City on day 9
- 2 nights hotel in Panama City with breakfast included
- 6 nights camping in Kuna Yala
- Meals as outlined in the itinerary
- All activities and equipment as outlined in the itinerary
- All transportation from arrival on day 1 through departure from Panama City on day 9
- Detailed Packing List
- Sea Kayaking Costa Rica provides wine at select meals
Not Included in Your Trip Cost
- International flights to and from Panama
- Single supplement ($250)
- Insurance of any kind, including travel or mandatory medical evacuation insurance
- Alcohol (except wine at select meals) and personal items (an equipment list will be provided)
- Guide gratuities – the standard is 10-15%, the trip leader will gladly distribute this amongst the support staff
- Sleeping pads
Gather your favorite travel companions to share a Sea Kayak Costa Rica Adventure on an easy-to-book Private departure. We offer private departures for groups of 6+ people), we can offer this trip as private; please get in touch with us to discuss options.
A down payment is required at the time of reservation. We charge a down payment of US $500 per person and the balance 45 days prior to your arrival date. We accept all major Credit Cards, International Bank Wire Transfers, and PayPal payments. Once a participant is ready to submit their payment, they can contact us directly so we can send them a secure payment link.
We offer a 5% discount for bank wire payments. If so, we will send you our bank details by email.
Activity Level
This trip is suited for intermediate-level paddlers due to the ocean and weather conditions. A regular fitness level is required to paddle distances up to 16 km (10 miles) in open waters with mild currents and swells. If the participant has no kayak experience, they must be athletic, comfortable on the water, and have good upper body strength and balance. The ability to swim is a must for all participants.
| DAY 2 | 1.5 hours/ 5 km (3 miles) of sea kayaking |
| DAY 3 | 3.5 hours/ 13.5 km (8.4 miles) of sea kayaking |
| DAY 4 | 4 hours/ 14 km (8.7 miles) of sea kayaking |
| DAY 5 | 2 hours/ 5 km (3 miles) of sea kayaking |
| DAY 6 | 3.5 hours/ / 18 km (11.2 miles) of sea kayaking |
Accommodations
This trip features a 4-star hotel near the Panama Canal for your arrival day and the eve of your departure day. The remaining six nights are in expedition-style camping.
Radisson Hotel Panama Canal
This comfortable 4-star hotel is strategically located at the entrance of the Panama Canal. It features 159 comfortable rooms, some with balconies and excellent views of the ocean and the Bridge of the Americas. Relax and recharge by the hotel swimming pool or in your room with air conditioning, in-room coffeemaker & Wi-Fi. The hotel is conveniently located at walking distance from the famous Causeway, the Bio-Museum designed by Frank Gehry, the Smithsonian Aquarium, Figali Convention Center, and also near downtown, Old Quarter Casco Viejo, Albrook Mall, and the main transportation Hubs of the City such as Marcos A. Gelabert Domestic Airport, Panama Rail Road and The National Bus Station.
Expedition-style Camping in Kuna Yala
This is an expedition-style trip where you will be backcountry camping, with some of the locations we visit offering few or no amenities such as running water, electricity, or restrooms. We carry a water filter and a potable foot pump wash station with antibacterial soap throughout the trip. Abundant potable drinking water, tents, tarps, hammocks, chairs, and tables are provided in all camps. Most locations have access to fresh water (non-potable) to rinse your body sparingly at the end of the day. Meals are hot, fresh, and served on proper height tables with chairs for all participants. Meals are prepared by a professional cook and support staff, who also takes care of clean-up after meals and breaking camp. Cutlery, plates, glasses, and condiments are used for all meals. Personal dunnage and camping equipment are transported by a support boat, so guests must carry only what they want in their kayaks.
Weather
For Panama City, you can expect daytime temperatures in the 80°s and 90°s Fahrenheit, with evening lows in the 80°s. While in Kuna Yala, daytime temperatures are in the 70°s and 80°s Fahrenheit, with evenings anywhere in the 70°s. February and March are consistently the driest months; some rain can be expected during the months of December, April, and May.
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FAQ's
The trip starts with a Sea Kayaking Costa Rica Representative meeting you at PTY airport and providing transportation to the hotel on Itinerary Day 1. After hotel check-in on Itinerary Day 1, you will meet your trip leader that late afternoon for dinner & trip briefing. The following morning, we will be driven to Kuna Yala. On Trip Day 8, we provide transportation back to the Hotel in Panama City to check into the same hotel for your last night of the trip. The following day, we will provide transportation to Tocumen International Airport in time for your flight home. If you arrive in Panama City before Itinerary Day 1, your trip with us begins with your check-in at the hotel featured on Trip Day 1, followed by a trip briefing with your guide that evening. The trip concludes on Day 9 with your check-out and transportation to the international airport.
No particular vaccination is required, not even COVID-19; however, for Panama, the World Health Organization recommends Typhoid, Hepatitis A & B, Yellow Fever, Rabies, and Influenza.
Guests rarely complain of mosquitos on these trips as there are none, if any. Malaria medication is not necessary.
Yes, we will carry water holding tanks and refill and filter water so it is readily available to all trip guests and staff throughout the trip.
People from all walks of life and all ages join our tours. We get a mix of couples, singles, families, and friends, usually between 45 and 65 years of age. Though not often, we’ve previously had families with children as young as 12 (minimum age), and we’ve taken many guests well into their 80s. A few have never been sea kayaking before, but most are active kayakers with extensive paddling experience. Without exception, everyone comes to have a good time, and the variety of people and interests found on each trip makes it all the more fun.
Yes! Lots, both terrestrial and marine. Sea turtles, reef fish, rays, and dolphins to macaws, monkeys, toucans, and sloths
Actually, insects are generally fine if you bring long pants and insect repellant (a thorough packing list is provided).
Our fleet comprises 14.5- and 15-foot sit-inside sea kayaks and 18-foot double kayaks.
More photos from our San Blas Kayaking and Cultural Experience
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