The Guna people live on coral islands off the Atlantic coast of Panama, south of the Panama Canal. The molas of Panama are magnificent handmade fabric works of art that are part of the Guna indigenous culture. In this workshop a representative of the community will explain the technique and how the molas are made and provide a little history on them. Molas are made entirely by hand where several layers (usually 2 to 7) of different colors are sewn together. The design is then formed by cutting different parts of each layer. The edges of the layers are then sewn together. You will gather around two Guna women who will teach you how to layer the fabrics and the meaning of each one. You will also be able to see several processes for the making of the molas as well as the design and choice of materials. You will interact in the making of the molas, under the supervision of these patient artisans.
 
Please note: Wear light clothes, insect repellent and sunscreen.  Bring your camera and cash.
 

 

The San Blas Archipelago is home to the Kuna, the first Latin American indigenous population to achieve autonomy. There are 378 islands located here, near the border with Colombia. Only about 50 islands are inhabited by Guna communities, the rest are uninhabited or simply have a tourist function. The Guna value their culture very much and make an earnest effort to maintain it and not let it be corrupted by Western culture, although it is not easy for them. They are the owners of the islands and manage them, and they have not allowed anyone other than Guna to build resorts or buy islands. They live mainly on fish, seafood and coconuts that they obtain from these lands, and with which they trade, both with the rest of the country and with neighboring Colombia. Most Guna women dress like their ancestors, so they are easily identifiable, with brightly colored fabrics for their skirts and blouses, and colorful bracelets and bracelets covering their ankles, legs and arms. Men, on the other hand, already dress like Westerners.  Guna are known for their Molas, which consist of patterned cotton pieces of clothing, a skirt, scarf or t-shirt, but also a piece of arm or leg covering. The quality of a Mola is determined by the number of layers of cotton that is used and the fineness of the stitching. Cheerful color combinations and zigzag borders are almost in every piece. These days the Kuna Indians sell their Molas to tourists but not as clothing because they don’t want tourists to wear the traditional clothing. You can buy patches of Molas for wall decoration or for pillows. These days you can only buy Molas in Panama or Colombia, but they are not allowed to sell Molas outside these countries because they are of cultural heritage and the Guna’s forbid it.  A 15-minute boat ride will take you to the Guna community where you will spend 2 hours experiencing their culture and can shop their handicrafts.
 
Please note: Wear light clothing, a hat or visor, sunscreen, insect repellent, your swim suit and bring a towel and a change of clothes. Lifejackets will be provided.
 

 
 

In the Golfo de San Blas you will find one of the most untouched coral reefs on earth. The reef has held its beauty for decades since people do not pollute the waters around it.  You will have an opportunity to experience the beauty of an untouched reef. The Kuna Indians live from the sea and hunt the reefs and sandbanks by using simple snorkeling gear and do not over fish their own waters because they only take what is needed to stay alive. San Blas are pretty shallow and just beneath the sea surface you’re still able to experience the beauty of the coral reef by gearing up in simple snorkeling gear. The rich sea life and the crystal clear water will give you plenty of time to drift away from the world above the water. One of the easy places to get in touch with this sea life is the shipwreck near Isla Perro. A 10-minute boat ride will get you to the site where you will have approximately 90 minutes to explore and appreciate the beauty of the reef.
 
Please note: Wear light clothing, a hat or visor, sunscreen, insect repellent, your swim suit and bring a towel and a change of clothes. Lifejackets and snorkeling equipment will be provided.
 
 

Colombia is home to some of the most diverse music and dance in the world and this cultural event showcases some of the different musical styles with a focus on the unique music of Vallenato which involves vocals, accordions, drums and dance. Departing from the port you will walk along the seafront before taking a short walk to “Lovers Park” and the air-conditioned venue for the cultural event. You will see an authentic live vallenato show presented by “The Batey All-Stars,” where you will get a taste of classic vallenato music. After the show, there will be a short explanation of the music and also of each instrument used to create the sounds of vallenato, and other Latin musical styles such as Son, Puya, Merengue, and Paseo. During this lively and fun experience enjoy a refreshment of traditional Caribbean food of fried green banana pancakes with a savory topping, washed down with a fresh tropical fruit cocktail. There will also be the opportunity to learn to some of the dance steps and play different musical instruments. Then take a short, guided walk through the historic and colorful city streets of Santa Marta with a visit to the Gold Museum, which houses an impressive exhibition of gold and other artifacts from the pre-Colombian indigenous cultures. Afterwards, take a short walk to the port entrance to board the shuttle service for the 5-minute drive to the pier. Music and dance are an integral part of Colombian society and this experience is a very special opportunity to become a part of that society if only for a few hours, but the memory will last much longer.
 
Please note: Wear light clothing, comfortable shoes, a hat or cap, sunscreen, and bring pocket money or credit cards.