San Blas Islands

The Kuna are one of only a few indigenous peoples in the world to have successfully preserve their traditional, centuries old, of these interesting culture

This is reflected in a virtually autonomous form of government of the tribes and in formal observances and ancient rituals.The leaders of their local communities,sahilas, also compose regional assemblies and the Congreso General.

They establish community rules and have the responsibility to see they are observed. In socialistic style, both men and women are obliged to perform duties of a communal nature or pay a fine. Achutupu’s airport was built in this way, as was the recent dock extension. Women brush and clean the earthen streets.

There are number of public celebrations throughout the year. Among the most prominent are the elaborate rituals which mark the rites of passage for females, from birth to puberty. All of the community takes part, the fiestas last for several days and much chicha fuerte, a fermented corn brew, is consumed. These are the only times that liquor can be consumed. It is forbidden to bring in alcohol from the outside.

Kuna religious beliefs are based on the teachings of their ancient prophet, Ibeorgum who stressed the need for each individual to contribute to the wellbeing of the whole. The chapman, medicine man, is another revered authority in Kuna society. His power is unquestioned by those who seek his potions to cure sickness, to banish the cause of their fears or to ensure a happy marriage. In Kuna belief, natural objects are endowed with spirits, good or evil; they avoid certain places in the rainforest said to be inhabited by marauding ghosts.

If you are in need of a place to relax, free of pressure from the outside world, then our resorts have the answer

What better than to lie in a hammock among the palms , reading a favourite book or taking time off to savour a cooling drink in the shade of the thatch-roofed bohio.

At sunset take your steps to the shoreline to admire the sky’s brilliantly coloured panorama. After dinner, look up from an inviting hammock and star gaze, there is no ‘light pollution’ here and under a clear night sky the shining fermanent can be seen in all its glory.

The artistic women on the island of Achutupu are well known for the exceptional quality of their world renowned molas

The people visit this community usually on their first morning to witness the inhabitants’ traditional daily life and to see how the molas are made. The womens’ talents are not limited to the mola, additionally their creativity finds expression in the originality of bird and fish-bone necklaces and bracelets.

It is also obvious in the colourful daily dress which distinguishes the Kuna woman featuring the mola blouse, red and and gold head.

Scarves and in the patterns of intricately – beaded winies, leg and arm bracelets.

Both men and women in Achutupu display their prowess in the weaving of “hats” palm-straw and baskets.

Enjoy swimming and snorkeling in the warm Caribbean ocean

Explore the fascinating and colourful underwater world of coral and marine life.

Enjoy this underwater experience in one of the best areas for snorkeling in Panama addition to navigate up on these pristine waters.

A quintessential eco-adventure lodge set in a pristine natural habitat

An isolated totally sustainable lodge that offers a variety of nature related adventures and a place to get away from it all.

You will enjoy a diversity of natural environments, our charming over the water bungalows, a friendly low key service and our proximity to San Blas archipelago with its beautiful unspoiled islands and cultural heritage of the Kuna Indians.