Explore the Islands of San Blas, Panama

This best-kept-secret, beautiful location is starting to become more popular, but still remains a low key, relatively secluded area – San Blas is made up of more than 2,000 islands, after all.

You will first need to take a car to Carti, around $25 per seat. At the border, you will be required to show your passport and pay $20 for entrance. Make sure to keep the receipt, or you will be charged again when leaving.

Once in Carti, purchase a permit in the small office, the contract a boat at the dock to take you to an island of your choosing, around $15 to $30. You will likely get soaked on the boat ride, so bring some extra dry clothes.

Some tours include the boat ride, food, and lodging, and most of the inhabited islands have hostels of cheap lodging options, otherwise. You can also camp on the beach at little expense. Whether you choose a guided tour, or venture out independently, this will be an expensive trip – but oh so worth it!