Can We Drive to the San Blas Islands Ourselves?

No — self-driving to the San Blas Islands is not allowed. The entire region of Guna Yala is an autonomous Indigenous territory with strict access regulations. Only licensed tour operators like Sea San Blas are permitted to transport visitors through the Guna checkpoints and into the islands.

Here’s why self-driving isn’t an option:

• Military and Guna checkpoints are located along the road into the region. Private or unauthorized vehicles are typically turned away.
• The road to the port is extremely steep, narrow, and rugged, and only authorized 4x4 vehicles are allowed past the checkpoint.
• Even if you were able to reach the port, boat transfers must also be arranged through licensed operators — there are no public boat options.

The only legal and safe way to visit is by booking your trip with an approved operator who coordinates all ground and boat transportation for you. With Sea San Blas, everything is handled from pickup to drop-off, so you can relax and enjoy the journey.

Updated on: 05/11/2025