Types of Accommodation in the San Blas Islands, Panama: Which One Is Right for You?

Traveling to the San Blas Islands, located in the Guna Yala region, is not just a cultural and natural experience—it's a return to the essentials. Unlike conventional tourist destinations, lodging here is rustic, locally managed, and operated by indigenous Guna families. In this blog, we’ll explain the different types of accommodations available so you can choose the one that best fits your travel style.

1️⃣ Overwater Cabins

These are the most requested by travelers who dream of waking up to the Caribbean Sea.The cabins are built with palm leaves and wood, standing on stilts over the water.

📌 Features:

🔅 Direct sea views🔅 Some include hammocks and a private porch🔅 Shared or private bathroom (depending on the island)🔅 Perfect for couples or small families

🏝 Examples: Isla Misdub, Isla Yanis, Guasirdub, Waili 2, Yanngasailadub

Guasirdub island

2️⃣ Beachfront Cabins (on land/sand)

Also built with traditional materials, but located directly on the sand.These are ideal for those looking for comfort without being over the water.

📌 Features:

🔅 Just steps from the sea🔅 Usually more spacious🔅 Shared or private bathrooms🔅 Great for families or groups

🏝 Examples: Isla Perro Chico (Assudub Bipi), Isla Diablo (Dad Igwa), Chichime (Wissidub), Icodub (Aguja), Franklin (Tubasenika), Gorgidub (Pelican)

Wissudub- Chichime Island

3️⃣ Traditional Guna Cabins (sand + palm)

For travelers who want a genuine, cultural experience.These cabins are simple, with sand floors, palm roofs, and no glass windows.

📌 Features:

🔅 Fully rustic🔅 Shared bathrooms🔅 Solar lights or candles at night🔅 Recommended for cultural travelers and backpackers

🏝 Examples: Isla Perro Chico (Assudub Bipi), Isla Diablo (Dad Igwa), Chichime (Wissidub), Icodub (Aguja), Franklin (Tubasenika), Gorgidub (Pelican)

Sand Floor Cabin in Tubasenika- Franklin

4️⃣ Shared Dormitories

Some islands offer hostel-style rooms, ideal for budget travelers.🏝 Examples: Isla Franklin (Tubasenika), Isla Chichime (Wissidub)

📌 Features:

🔅 Single beds or bunk beds🔅 Shared bathrooms🔅 With or without electricity🔅 Great for meeting other travelers

5️⃣ Beach Camping

For the more adventurous, camping in San Blas is possible.Some islands allow tents right on the beach, or offer tents already set up.

📌 Features:

🔅 Designated camping zones🔅 Access to shared bathrooms🔅 Hammock area and basic showers🔅 Bring your own gear or check availability

🏝 Examples: Isla Misdub, Isla Chichime, Tubasenika, Assudub Bipi, Assudub Dummad

🤔 Which Option Should You Choose?

It depends on your travel preferences:

🌴 Comfort + privacy? → Overwater cabin with private bathroom💫 Authenticity? → Traditional Guna rustic cabin💸 Low budget? → Shared dorm or camping👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family with kids? → Beachfront cabin with private bathroom

🔐 Safe Booking with San Blas Explorer Trips

All our accommodations are managed by Guna families.We guarantee clear information, honest service, and 100% secure reservations.

📲 WhatsApp: +507 6415-0049

📩 Email: sanblasexplorertrips1@gmail.com

🌐 [www.sanblasexplorertrips.com

San Blas is rustic, real, and beautiful.Choose the lodging that fits you best and live the experience the way it should be—close to the sea, the culture, and the simple life.