San Blas Archipelago
The Kuna Yala territory which includes the San Blas Archipelago is exclusively owned and ruled by the indigenous group the Kuna Indians. The Kunas are a revolutionary tribe who rejected ‘civilisation’ by the Spanish in the 18th Century and have been independent ever since.
Although their territory incorporates a strip of coastline the majority of Kuna people inhabit just 45 of the 365 San Blas Islands. While fishing is the mainstay of the traditional Kuna economy, they also cultivate food crops on the mainland and trade coconuts with Colombian ships. Their intricate embroidery and traditional dress provide colourful handicrafts that have created an additional commodity to sell to visiting tourists to the islands.
The San Blas islands are not only a wonderful cultural experience, but their white coral sands and clear turquoise waters provide a stunning beach and snorkelling destination for those in search of the ultimate rustic Robinson Crusoe experience.