THE SAN BLAS ISLANDS AND THE KUNA INDIANS
3 days / 2 nights

Without a doubt the best preserved of all of the indigenous cultures of the Americas is the Kuna.  The Kuna people are so determined to protect their heritage that they have maintained their autonomy.  In Kuna Yala (the land of the Kuna), known to the rest of the world as the San Blas Islands, an indigenous independent Congress still rules.  Comprised by some 365 islands, less than 60 of them are inhabited.  Turquoise waters surround white-sand beaches dotted with palm trees and thatched-roof Kuna villages.

2007 Departure Dates: Available on request year around. Please inquire to confirm space availability.

2007 Rates: $315 per person in double occupancy with one night at the lodge; additional night at lodge with all meals and activities is $125 per person; plus 5% government tax.
Minimum of 2 people required for the tour. Prices valid through November 30, 2007.

ITINERARY:
Note: This itinerary can be arranged with Dolphin Island Lodge or Dad Ibe Lodge. Both lodges offer the same activities in the same general area. Dad Ibe is a offers a more private experience with only three cabins on a coral island about 35 minutes by boat from the airstrip.

Day 1 SAN BLAS ISLANDS & THE KUNA PEOPLE
Early this morning we are picked up at the lobby of our hotel and transferred to Albrook Airport.  We depart by small plane to San Blas early this morning and arrive at Achutupu where a representative of Dolphin Island Lodge will meet us. Dolphin Island Lodge is located on Uaguitupu Island by itself, about 15 minutes away from the airstrip via dugout canoe. Owned and operated by a Kuna family the accommodations are basic but comfortable in traditional Kuna-style huts with cozy beds, private bathrooms and a hammock on the front porch.  Family-style meals are served in the Bohio dining room overlooking the Caribbean.  There is no hot water and electricity is available for a couple of hours every day provided by small generator.  After settling in and having breakfast, our first excursion is to the neighboring village in the island of Achutupu providing us with an excellent opportunity to learn about the Kuna way of life and their traditional ceremonies.  Visit the communal house of “Sahilas” (Kuna chiefs) where decisions in favor of the community are made, advice on all aspects of life is offered and the local laws are enforced.  Learn about the construction of the typical Kuna house, the economy, the traditional “mola”, and the processing of sugar cane into the local drink.  Return to the lodge to relax at one of the hammocks before having lunch.  Later this afternoon we will go snorkeling in the crystal clear waters of the Caribbean to see stunning marine life.
Night at DOLPHIN ISLAND OR DAD IBE LODGE (BLD)

Day 2 EXPLORATIONS IN SAN BLAS
This morning we will visit the mainland by dug-out canoe and travel up the mouth of the Achutupu River to the point where outboards are allowed.  We will then hike through scrub-like habitat and fruit trees (mango, cocoa, plantain, and breadfruit) that are excellent for birding.   In the afternoon we will go snorkeling, relax at the beach or stay in one of the hammocks at the lodge.  There will be other tours to choose from.
Night at DOLPHIN ISLAND OR DAD IBE LODGE (BLD)

Day 3 RETURN TO PANAMA CITY
This morning we have breakfast and then will take the short ride aboard a dugout canoe to the airstrip where we board our 7:00 a.m. plane back to Panama City.  We will be met and transferred to your hotel upon arrival (B)

TRIP CLASSIFICATION: Easy walking and hiking for all ages, flat trails with non-slippery terrain.
Hotel or lodge accommodation comfortable

INCLUDED:  Lodging, domestic airport transfers, air transportation: Panama City – Achutupu - Panama City, excursions, meals at Dolphin Lodge, bottled water, all visit fees and the services of a local bilingual guide.

NOT INCLUDED: International airfare, tourist card ($5 per person), Panama City hotel, alcoholic beverages, bottled water, personal equipment, hotel extras or gratuities.

NOTE: Women travelers to the San Blas Islands should wear one-piece swim suits. We suggest bringing you own snorkeling equipment (mask and tube) for a better fit. Weight restrictions apply to luggage in both commercial and chartered flights within Panama. 

A maximum of 25 lbs. per person is allowed.  Arrangements can usually be made at Panama City hotels to store luggage that will not be needed.  Excess baggage charges assessed by commercial carriers are the responsibility of the passenger.

EQUIPMENT CHECKLIST: binoculars (preferably 7x35 or bigger), camera with extra batteries & film, flashlight with extra bulb & batteries, bathing suit, insect repellant, sunscreen, hat, day pack/dry bag, water bottle, lightweight/quick dry cotton clothes, windbreaker, sandals, sneakers/aqua shoes, rain gear, money in small denominations, toiletries & personal medications.