Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Isla Iskardup
This picturesque private island features minimal infrastructure. Gorgeous
molas
and tra-
ditional handicrafts bring the clutch of thatched waterfront cabins at
Sapibenega
(Kuna
Lodge; 215-3724, 215-1406;
www.sapibenega.com
; s/d/tr all inclusive US$185/260/315)
to life.
Yet, lovely as it is, it is not so different from other options half the price. They also fea-
ture plank floors and bamboo walls. Solar-powered electricity and composting flush toi-
lets provide creature comforts. The breezy bar-restaurant serves scrumptious seafood
spreads and cocktails made to order.
Guests should fly into Playón Chico, from where it's a 10-minute motor canoe ride to
the island.
TOP OF CHAPTER
Achutupu & Nearby Islands
Achutupu
With regular air connections to Panama City, Achutupu (like Playón Chico to the west)
serves as a popular gateway to San Blás, especially since it's located near the ar-
chipelago's second most expensive hotel (on Uaguitupo).
Although the densely populated island of Achutupu isn't set up to receive overnight
visitors, it's a popular day trip for visitors from Uaguitupo who are interested in seeing
Kuna village life. Of particular interest is the community gathering house at the center of
the island, which often hosts important meetings, rituals and celebrations.
Uaguitupo
Although it's a mere 100m from Achutupu, the grassy isle of Uaguitupo is a private and
pristine island aimed at high-rolling travelers. Visitors can fly into the nearby airport of
Mamitupu.
Much more relaxed and traditional than its upmarket brethren,
Dolphin Lodge
(Uaguin-
ega Lodge; 6090-8990, 396-4805;
www.dolphinlodgesanblas.com
; s/d/tr all inclusive US$155/
250/300; )
receives rave reviews and many repeat visitors. Taking up virtually all of
Uaguitupo, it features a clutch of handsome thatched cabins with wooden floors and
wicker furniture. Rooms feature cold-water showers, 24-hour solar electricity and
environmentally-friendly flush toilets.
