How Long Does It Take to Get from Panama City to the San Blas Islands?

The journey from Panama City to the San Blas Islands takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on traffic, weather conditions, and border processing times.

Here’s how the travel time breaks down:

Drive from Panama City to the port – About 2 to 2.5 hours by 4x4 vehicle. The road winds through jungle mountains and includes several hills and curves. Delays are possible due to traffic or road maintenance.
Guna Yala border stop – A brief stop for ID/passport check and registration. This usually adds 15–30 minutes, depending on how many vehicles are in line.
Boat ride to your island – Once you reach the dock, you'll transfer to a motorboat. The ride to your island typically takes 25 to 45 minutes, depending on location and sea conditions.

Total estimated travel time: 3 to 4 hours door-to-door.

We recommend wearing comfortable clothes, bringing snacks, and packing any essentials in a small day bag. It’s a scenic trip — and the reward at the end is pure island paradise.

Updated on: 07/11/2025

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