What the price actually covers
The published day-trip price covers door-to-door 4x4 transport from your Panama City hotel, the boat ride between islands with life jackets, a traditional lunch (fresh catch of the day, coconut rice), and a bilingual guide from the local Guna community. It is "all-inclusive" in the logistical sense — you don't need to arrange transport or food separately.
What no operator includes
No San Blas tour — ours or any legitimate operator's — includes the Guna Yala community entry tax. That charge is collected directly by the Guna authority at the comarca border, not the tour agency: $22 for foreigners and $7 for Panamanians or residents, in cash. If an operator advertises a price that "includes everything" without mentioning this tax separately, it's worth asking.
Quick comparison of our options
- Classic Excursion — from $125: 1 island + the Natural Pool.
- VIP Excursion — from $145: more islands, snorkeling, and a Guna community visit.
- Isla Diablo — from $135: Starfish Pool and Isla Hierva.
- Cayos Holandeses (private) — from $225: the most remote, pristine reef.
Looking for something more exclusive
If your budget is bigger and you want San Blas without sharing a boat or schedule with anyone, the option is a private yacht or sailboat charter — see how it works and what's included in the San Blas Tours Panama private yacht charter guide.