San Blas Helicopter Tour

Private Daytrip by Air into the Islands of Guna Yala

  • Private Heli-Charter

  • Cultural Experience

  • Beach & Island Exploration

Escape to another world on a private helicopter journey to the San Blas Islands, where the turquoise waters of the Caribbean meet the living traditions of the Guna Yala people. In less than an hour from Panama City, you’ll find yourself surrounded by powdery white sand, swaying palms, and a way of life preserved through centuries of heritage. From walking through vibrant island communities to wading among starfish in the famous natural pool, every moment is designed to inspire, connect, and transform. This is more than a day trip — it’s an intimate experience of culture, nature, and timeless beauty that feels both rare and unforgettable.

Price Per Person:
$720 USD*
*Based on 4 participants

Price Per Person:
$720 USD*
*Based on 4 participants

A canoe resting on a beach in San Blas, Panama.
Catamaran docked on a San Blas island.
A dock in San Blas.
An island in San Blas seen from above.
A canoe resting on a beach in San Blas, Panama.
Catamaran docked on a San Blas island.
A dock in San Blas.
An island in San Blas seen from above.

Tour Information

  • Private round-trip charter from Albrook Airport to Isla Porvenir (San Blas)
  • Saves over 5 hours compared with road travel
  • Native Guna Yala guide fluent in Guna, Spanish & English
  • Visits to authentic island communities, handicraft demonstrations (molas) and local school
  • Swim, snorkel and relax at Isla Gagandup, Isla Pelicano and the famed “Natural Pool”
  • Breakfast, light lunch and all boat transfers included
  • Small, private groups for an intimate, responsible tourism experience
  • Panama City skyline and Pacific coastline (from the air)
  • Aerial crossing of the Isthmus from Pacific to Caribbean
  • Lush jungle landscapes as you cross the Isthmus of Panama
  • Caribbean arrival at Isla Porvenir
  • Wichub Wala community: culture, school, community house, clinic
  • Mamidub community: a glimpse of traditional island life
  • Isla Gagandup and Isla Pelicano: swimming, hammocks, white-sand beaches
  • The famous Panoramic views of the San Blas archipelago
  • San Blas “Natural Pool” with starfish and 360° ocean views

Escape the city for a full-day immersion in Guna Yala — a rare blend of living culture, extraordinary natural beauty, and quietly powerful simplicity. In less than an hour from Panama City you’ll arrive at Isla Porvenir and be welcomed by a local Guna guide whose knowledge and hospitality shape the day. Begin with a relaxed community introduction and light breakfast, then step into island life: stroll through village paths, watch women create traditional molas, visit the community meeting house and school, and hear stories rooted in centuries of tradition.

Board a short boat ride to smaller islands where time slows: hammock naps beneath leaning palms, gentle swims in crystal-clear water, and a light lunch of fresh fruit and local flavors served seaside. Snorkel the vibrant shallows and wade the famous Natural Pool among starfish — a surreal, postcard-perfect moment of uninterrupted sea and sky. Throughout the day your private guide will tailor pacing and activities to your group’s interests, balancing cultural connection, quiet reflection, and active exploration.

This is responsible tourism in practice: small groups, respectful community engagement, and economic benefit directed to local families. The return to Isla Porvenir offers a last chance to purchase hand-made gifts before a comfortable flight back to Albrook — leaving you with memories that feel both personal and transformative.

  1. Starting Location
    Albrook Airport, Panama City
  2. Direct flight to Isla Porvenir, San Blas
    35–45 minutes air time. You fly from the Pacific Ocean to the Caribbean Sea over the lush jungle of Panama.
  3. Landing — Porvenir Airport
    Met by your guide for an introduction to the Guna culture and your day ahead. A light breakfast with refreshments is served.
  4. Boat transfer to Wichub Walaa community
    Time to talk to locals and learn about Guna culture, history and traditions. Visit the local school, Community Meeting House, and clinic.
  5. Tour by boat of Mamidub community
    See how residents live on smaller islands and experience a more traditional pace of life.
  6. Boat transfer to Isla Gagandup and Isla Pelicano
    Swim and relax on pristine island beaches. A light lunch and fresh fruit are served.
  7. Boat transfer to the spectacular “Natural Pool”
    Snorkel and discover starfish on this shallow sandbar with uninterrupted 360° views of the archipelago.
  8. Boat transfer back to Isla Porvenir for return flight to Panama City
    Last chance to buy local handicrafts; freshwater showers and changing facilities available before departure.
  9. Ending Location
    Albrook Airport, Panama City

Itinerary for reference only. Actual itinerary subject to change upon weather and local conditions.

  • Private roundtrip air charter (Albrook ↔ Isla Porvenir) for your group
  • Approximately 5 hours waiting time in San Blas for on-island activities
  • Private Guna Yala guide (Guna / Spanish / English)
  • All boat transfers between communities and islands
  • Community tours, cultural activities and visits (Wichub Walaa, Mamidub)
  • Breakfast and light lunch (fresh, local)
  • Cold bottled water (refillable bottle recommended to reduce plastic)
  • Not Included: $20 per person entry fee to the Comarca (cash, payable on arrival)

Your tour begins at Albrook Airport where you’ll meet your guide and receive a short safety briefing. After boarding, the flight crosses Panama from the Pacific over dense jungle to the Caribbean shore in about 35–45 minutes. On landing at Isla Porvenir you’ll be welcomed by the local Guna guide and served a light breakfast. From there, short boat transfers take you to Wichub Walaa and Mamidub for community visits and cultural demonstrations. Later, you’ll boat to Isla Gagandup and Isla Pelicano for swimming, snorkeling, and a light lunch, then visit the Natural Pool to wade among starfish before returning to Porvenir for a shower and your flight back to Albrook. Expect a paced, intimate day that mixes meaningful cultural exchange with relaxed island time.

Duration: ~7 hours total (approx. 5 hours on-site in San Blas + flights)
Group Size: Private or small groups — up to 6 passengers
Languages: Guna, Spanish, English (guide)
Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 48 hours before departure (*less credit card fees)
Meeting/Return: Albrook Airport (hotel pickup option available)
Accessibility: This tour involves boarding open boats, walking on soft sand and uneven terrain; it may not be suitable for guests with limited mobility or balance concerns. There are no paved walkways or modern restrooms at many stops.
Passport Required: Yes — passport must be presented for Comarca entry.
Things Not Allowed: Large luggage on board, weapons or sharp objects, and items that could damage or compromise local sites. Please dress modestly (light cover-up) when visiting Guna communities.
Suggested: Bring sunscreen, hat, towel, water-resistant bag, refillable water bottle, small cash for souvenirs, and optional school supplies for donation.

  1. Is it safe?
    Yes. Flights follow strict aviation safety standards.
  2. Do I need my passport?
    Yes. Required for entry into the Guna Yala Comarca.
  3. Can children join?
    Yes, children are welcome with an accompanying adult.
  4. What should I bring?
    Passport, sunglasses, sunscreen, towel, refillable water bottle, hat, camera/phone in a waterproof bag, $20 cash per person (entry fee), small cash for souvenirs, modest cover-up for community visits.
  5. What’s not recommended?
    Leather/dress shoes, items that can’t get wet.
  6. Can I bring gifts for the community?
    Yes — school supplies (crayons, pencils, notebooks) are welcome.
  7. How many people can fly?
    Up to 6 passengers per private charter.
  8. What if the weather changes?
    Itinerary may adjust for safety, but your guide ensures a full and rewarding experience.

Flight Details

The flight path to San Blas.

Tour Duration: Approximately 7 hours
Departs: Albrook Airport
Passengers: Max 6

A top down view of a San Blas island.

“An extraordinary experience from start to finish! The islands, the communities, and the natural pool felt like stepping into another world. Víctor’s guidance made the day deeply personal and unforgettable — far beyond a typical tour.”

Diana S. 2025

Book your private San Blas Helicopter Tour today and immerse yourself in the culture, beauty, and tranquility of the Guna Yala islands in the most exclusive of ways.

Tour Photos By Guests

A canoe with a sail.
Water homes in San Blas.
A village in San Blas.
An island in San Blas.