What is the Comarca Kuna Yala?
Kuna Yala is an autonomous territory or comarca in Panama, inhabited by the Kuna indigenous people. The name means “Kuna-land” or “Kuna mountain” in the Kuna language. The area was formerly known as San Blas. The capital of Kuna Yala is El Porvenir.
How many Kuna Indians are there in Panama?
The beloved San Blas Islands of Panama are home to the native people known as Kuna Indians. A small, tight-knit group of indigenous people, the community is only made up of around 300,000 in total, with 50,000 living on the 49 major islands of San Blas.
How do I get to Guna Yala?
Air Panama flies from Albrook airport to the five airstrips that exist in the region. It can also be reached by sea along the entire coast above Colon, or go by land to the town of Miramar, where you take a boat to the island of Gaigirgordub, capital of the Comarca Guna Yala.
Are the San Blas Islands part of Panama?
The San Blas Islands of Panama is an archipelago comprising approximately 365 islands and cays, of which 49 are inhabited. They lie off the north coast of the Isthmus of Panama, east of the Panama Canal. A part of the comarca (district) Guna Yala along the Caribbean coast of Panama is home to the Kuna people.
What are the houses in Kuna Yala made of?
The Kuna are impressive craftsman. Kuna communities are tidy and homes consist of small thatched, bamboo and palm leaf huts, constructed from nature’s own materials. Kuna living within these communities work together to construct a large gathering hut where village events can take place.
How many islands are there in Guna Yala?
This is Guna Yala, also known as San Blas: an archipelago off Panama’s eastern coast that contains more than 300 islands, 49 of which are inhabited by the indigenous Guna people.
Where did the Kuna people come from?
Kuna, also spelled Cuna, Chibchan-speaking Indian people who once occupied the central region of what is now Panama and the neighbouring San Blas Islands and who still survive in marginal areas.
What are the Kuna famous for?
The Guna are famous internationally for the traditional “molas”, often used to make the blouses of the traditional dress, still used today by Guna women. These are colourful fabrics made with the techniques of appliqué and reverse appliqué.
Is Guna Yala open?
The San Blas Islands are re-opening to foreign tourists as of August 14, 2021. Here’s what you need to know: What is this? Anyone entering Guna Yala must present a negative RAPID ANTIGENIC Covid-19 test done within 48 hours, even if you are fully vaccinated.
Which San Blas Island is the best?
San Blas is made up of many islands, and there is something for everyone. If you want to stay on the most popular Island, then I recommend Isla Diablo. If you are thinking of staying on an island in San Blas that has cabins over the water, Isla Wailidup is ideal for you, just remember to bring insect repellent.
Are San Blas Islands safe?
San Blas is a crime free, totally secure and safe destination for your next sailing holidays in the Caribbean. Choose your catamaran experience in San Blas, choose sailing San Blas and the many islands.
How did the Kuna people survive?
The Kuna mainly survive by fishing and harvesting fruits, especially coconuts. The Kuna’s also create art on their bodies and clothes that they call Molas.
Who are the Kuna’s of Panama?
The native people living on the Islands of San Blas call themselves Kuna’s or Guna’s. The district/region in Panama where you can meet the native inhabitants is officially named after them; Guna Yala or Kuna Yala.
Where do the Kuna Indians live?
Since the last headcount of all the Kuna Indians an estimated 300.000 live in Panama, Costa Rica and Colombia, only 50.000 live on the San Blas Islands. When you visit the San Blas Islands don’t forget to try some of the traditional Kuna food.
What to do in Guna Yala region?
Boat Rentals in Guna Yala RegionSpeed Boats Tours in Guna Yala RegionKayaking & Canoeing in Guna Yala RegionScuba & Snorkelling in Guna Yala RegionFishing Charters & Tours in Guna Yala RegionStand Up Paddleboarding in Guna Yala Region Taxis & Shuttles in Guna Yala Region
Where are the San Blas Islands in Panama?
San Blas Islands of Panama The San Blas islands are a group of islands in the archipelago de San Blas, located in the Northwest of Panama facing the Caribbean Sea. There are 378 islands within the archipelago and they are scattered around in an area of about 100 square miles.