Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

In San Blas Islands there are no ATMs - please bring cash. You can buy additional drinks, snacks, souvenirs etc.

Departure time is between 5:00am and 5:45am from your Panama City lodging. If staying at Playa Bonita area, your departure time is between 5:00am and 5:15am.

The boat transfer from the port to the islands may be bumpy with some sea spray. If you are sensitive to motion sickness, please prepare accordingly by bringing appropriate medication. You may also get wet, so please bring some water protection for your luggage and yourself

We will check the availability of the cabin and will send you a confirmation mail.

We recommend that you bring your personal hygiene items, such as towels, sunscreen, hats, mosquito repellent.

Check out from your cabin on the island is at 8:00am and you should be back in Panama City between 6-7pm

You are welcome to bring a cooler with your own drinks, potable water, snacks and beverages (fruit juice or alcohol). The driver will stop at a supermarket on the way to San Blas in order for you to purchase additional items.

There are no electrical outlets in the bedrooms, only light. You can recharge your phones and cameras in the main house.

PLEASE DO NOT FORGET TO BRING YOUR ORIGINAL PASSPORT. WITHOUT IT, YOU WILL NOT BE ALLOWED TO ENTER THE KUNA TERRITORY AND THE SAN BLAS ISLANDS.

Please be advised that San Blas is in the Kuna territory, which is an autonomous, Indian zone. The services are very basic and most cabins are minimalistic. The Kunas will be providing all touristic services, such as meal preparations, car and boat transportations, lodging, and tour guiding. We are proud to be working with this friendly tribe and with each booking we give back to the community, supporting their customs and their traditional way of life. We kindly ask you to respect this beautiful culture and their simple way of life, leaving your expectations behind and learning about their innocent culture.

Aside from using generators for electricity, there are no amenities and utilities as you are used to from the city. Food is basic, yet freshly prepared such as fresh fried fish, mixed seafood, chicken or lobster (at extra chrge) with salad, rice or plantains.

“Tigo” is the cell phone company that has the best reception in San Blas.

The use of drones has been made illegal in the islands of San Blas. Heavy fines have been imposed on those who ignore the law. Please don’t do it!

PLEASE BE PREPARED FOR A 2.5 to 3 HOUR CAR JOURNEY EACH WAY OVER CURVY ROADS! THERE IS ALSO A 25-30 MINUTE BOAT RIDE TO YOUR FIRST ISLAND WHICH CAN GET QUITE BUMPY AND WET. We feel that the islands are worth the long drive, but some travelers have complained about the drive and the fast boat ride from and to the port. While we strive to provide our guests the best service and an unforgettable experience in San Blas, we are not responsible for road and ocean conditions, and we would like you to be aware of this fact :)

️ What to Expect on Yansailadup Island Accommodation No A/C; limited electricity (6:00 pm–6:00 am). No WiFi (local SIM may work, not guaranteed). Bathrooms are basic & shared; showers may have slight salt content. Water is precious; supply may be limited. Beds and sheets may be worn or uncomfortable. What looks like “clutter” is often reused items by Kuna families — please respect their way of life. ️ Meals & Dining Meals freshly prepared by the host family. Simple dishes: fish or chicken, rice, salad, patacones. Vegetarian options may be accommodated, but no dedicated vegetarian menu. Additional food, drinks, and snacks can be purchased before departure. Transportation Car ride: 2.5–3 hrs from Panama City on curvy mountain roads; shared 4x4 SUVs (6 passengers). Extra seat = extra cost. Pick-up: 5:00–5:30 am — drivers cannot wait more than 10 minutes. Port check-in: may feel busy or informal, but the Kuna maintain an organized system. Boat ride: 20–40 min; can be bumpy and wet. Boat transfers may stop at other islands, offering a glimpse of authentic Kuna island life. Tours & Activities Tours are not guided, and not all host family members speak English. Open communication and collaboration with the family is encouraged. Snorkeling and other activities may be canceled in the event of rain or strong winds. Guests will be informed of changes during their stay. Nature & Environment Ocean currents may bring plastic debris; the Kuna clean regularly. Garbage may wash ashore despite cleaning efforts — guest cooperation is appreciated. Sandflies common during rainy/windless season (April–Dec) → bring insect repellent. Weather is unpredictable — rain is possible anytime (no refunds for rain). Health & Safety Very limited medical care on the islands. Serious issues require evacuation to Panama City (guest covers cost). Final Note Yansailadup Island is not luxury — it’s about disconnecting, embracing a unique culture, and enjoying paradise. Come with patience, flexibility, and respect. The Kuna may be reserved, but they are kind and welcoming. With the right mindset, you’ll leave with unforgettable memories. If you have questions, suggestions, or concerns during your stay, communicate them immediately — this helps us assist you and improve your experience in real time.

Shower water on Isla Yansailadup is filtered from from ocean water and has a high salinity level

The check-in process at the port can feel busy and informal, but the Guna community has an organized system and all guests are well taken care of. During the boat ride, your lancha may make brief stops at nearby islands to pick up or drop off other travelers.

Boat transfers may stop at other islands to pick up or drop off guests, offering a glimpse of authentic Guna island life.

The road to San Blas is very curvy. If you are sensitive to motion sickness, please prepare accordingly by bringing appropriate medication.