The Archipelago Manifesto
An exhaustive atlas of the 365 islands comprising Guna Yala—the last sovereign Caribbean frontier.
01 • ANATOMY
365 ISLANDS • 200 MILES • 50 COMMUNITIES
To understand San Blas is to understand silence. While the maps show 365 islands, the reality is a living, breathing 200-mile coastline scattered with coral cays that exist outside of standard time.
Only about 50 islands are inhabited by the Guna people, maintaining a matrilineal society that has protected this land for centuries. From the mainland ports of Cartí to the deep eastern borders with Colombia, the archipelago transitions from social hub to wild, untamed frontier.
Islands
365
SOVEREIGNTY
GUNA YALA
INHABITED Islands
±50
LENGTH
200 MILES
02 • THE ZONES
THE NOMAD SAILING ROUTE
"We divide the archipelago into three distinct zones. The further you sail, the deeper you enter the heart of the Guna Yala."
03 • DIRECTORY
CATEGORIZED BY EXPEDITION TYPE
BEST FOR SNORKELING
Isla Perro Chico Zone 1
Home to the famous sunken gunboat shipwreck covered in coral.
Cayos Holandeses Zone 2
Vast reef gardens with turtles and eagle rays.
BEST FOR SECLUSION
Coco Bandero Zone 3
Tiny islands where yours is often the only boat in sight.
Cambombia Zone 3
A remote paradise far from the day-trip crowds.
BEST FOR CULTURE
Narganá Zone 1
A glimpse into Guna community life with small local shops.
Corazón de Jesús Zone 1
Traditional Guna architecture and handicraft markets.
BEST FOR PHOTOGRAPHY
Isla Pelicano Zone 1
The iconic minimalist island seen in "Money Heist".
The Swimming Pool Zone 2
Bioluminescent waters and perfect sand bars.
04 • QUESTIONS
THE SAN BLAS FAQ
How many islands are there in San Blas?
There are 365 islands and cays in the Guna Yala archipelago, one for every day of the year. However, only about 50 are permanently inhabited.
What is the best zone for a 3-day trip?
For shorter trips, Zone 1 (Lemon Cays) is best. It minimizes sailing time and maximizes time at iconic spots like the Shipwreck.
Can I visit Zone 3 in a day?
No. Zone 3 is a deep frontier. It requires an overnight charter to truly appreciate the distance and seclusion it offers.
READY TO
DEPART ?
Our atlas is just the beginning. The true archipelago must be felt through the hull of a boat.