MOLA TOUR began offering trips to Kuna Yala (San Blas) and Panama in 1996 at the request of several of our Kuna friends. At that time, the islands were just beginning to open up to tourism, and Kuna leaders were concerned that some of the tourists were unfamiliar or disrespectful to local customs. The Kunas, aware of our interest in their culture and in molas, asked us to help introduce and guide groups of like-minded mergis (the Kuna word for good tourists) through the islands, molas, and smiles that make Kuna Yala a truly memorable place.

The original purpose of MOLA TOUR was to unite American needle workers with their Kuna counterparts, but through the years the tour has evolve into much more. We have hosted anthropologists, birders, octogenarians, wayfarers, naturalists, teenage boys -- anyone with an open mind and curiosity about other cultures and lifestyles. Since most of our time with the Kunas is spent within a community, we become involved in all aspects of their society. Like your hometown, there is always something or someone of interest in a Kuna community, whether you prefer nature, physical activities, art, or just hanging around with friendly people.

Besides our trips to Kuna Yala, MOLA TOUR explores other aspects of Panama, particularly natural history and native cultures. Optional extensions allow participants opportunities to observe the diversity of birds in a secluded cloud forest, sleep in a traditional, open-sided Embera dwelling, swim in cool pools beneath waterfalls -- one time we even were granted an audience with a native king!