Tiny islands
Sand and palms.
Ayaita — CC BY 3.0 · Cotopaxi5897 — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Mónica J. Mora — CC BY-SA 3.0 · Cotopaxi5897 — CC BY-SA 4.0
A self-governing territory on Panama's Caribbean coast, run by the indigenous Guna people under their own laws and customs, with hundreds of small coral islands, many with room for only a few palms and a hut or two on white sand ringed by clear turquoise water and coral reefs. The Guna live in villages on some islands, in houses of cane and palm thatch, keeping their language and traditional dress, including the mola, layered appliqué panels in bright geometric and animal designs that have become one of Latin America's best-known crafts, sold by the women directly to visitors. The western islands, such as Cayos Limón, Chichimé and Isla Perro, are visited via a mountain road to the port of Cartí and boats run by the Guna, staying in simple huts on the sand owned by the islanders, with almost no frills. Each island charges its owners' fee, and photography needs permission and sometimes a fee. The UK government advises against all but essential travel to the Colombian border area east of the territory, so keep to the western islands on organised trips. The sea can be rough and small boats stop in bad weather, so bring seasickness tablets and keep a spare day.
Sand and palms.
Colourful appliqué.
Simple stays.
Western islands via the port of Cartí, about three hours from Panama City
Photographing people and villages needs permission and sometimes a small fee, so always ask first.