Traveling from Canada or the USA to South America by taking the overland route through Central America is one of life's great adventures. Some people even take a year or two off to travel all the way between Alaska and Patagonia and encounter everything from high mountain ranges, deep jungle, desolate deserts and bustling cities along the way. For many travelers the trip also involves sailing from Panama to Colombia.
It may sound silly to want to sail between two countries that are neighbors. However, this is the option that most travelers choose when they make the trip south. The reason is that they can then avoid having to cross the Darien Gap.
The Pan American Highway covers the entire length of North and South America. The only exception is a stretch between Yaviza in Panama and Turbo in Colombia, less than 100 miles further. Because it's so difficult and expensive to build a road through the dense jungle, there are only small dirt tracks here instead of highway. This gap lies in the Panamanian province of Darien, hence the name. If you're really adventurous, you can traverse this stretch by land. Some intrepid travelers have even walked across.
Crossing the Darien Gap can be downright dangerous and foolhardy, though. You run the risk of contracting tropical diseases like malaria or of veering off the trail and losing your way. The real danger though is that the area is rife with bandits, narcotics traffickers and armed guerrillas. Statistically there is a great risk of being robbed, attacked, kidnapped or even killed by people who really don't want you in 'their' territory.
A wonderful way to minimize the risk and have an extra adventure is to make the journey between North and South America by boat. One option is to charter a yacht. More economical and less risky for people with no yachting experience is to book passage on a boat that's already going to make the crossing. Several companies offer this service and their packages range from the luxurious to the type of shoestring package that's perfect for the budget traveler.
Most yachts sail via the San Blas Archipelago. Only 49 of the nearly 380 islands of San Blas are inhabited, mostly by Kuna people. There are no hurricanes here, making these waters perfect for sailing. In addition, you get to experience the unspoiled beauty of the islands with their pristine beaches and clear waters where you can go snorkeling. At the same time you can also learn more about traditional Kuna culture and admire the women's gorgeous appliqued outfits.
Not all companies offer the same quality of package. Before booking, it's wise to check what each package involves. Safety should be your first concern, so check that the captain is qualified, that the boat and its radio are in good working order and that there are enough life jackets on board. Find out where you will be sleeping too, since comfort should be your second concern.
Before going on board, stock up on extra water and toilet paper. These items can quickly run out in the middle of the ocean. It's also a good idea to take some snacks for a little variety in your diet. If you've done proper research, know what you're in for and come prepared, sailing from Panama to Colombia may be a highlight of your journey.
It may sound silly to want to sail between two countries that are neighbors. However, this is the option that most travelers choose when they make the trip south. The reason is that they can then avoid having to cross the Darien Gap.
The Pan American Highway covers the entire length of North and South America. The only exception is a stretch between Yaviza in Panama and Turbo in Colombia, less than 100 miles further. Because it's so difficult and expensive to build a road through the dense jungle, there are only small dirt tracks here instead of highway. This gap lies in the Panamanian province of Darien, hence the name. If you're really adventurous, you can traverse this stretch by land. Some intrepid travelers have even walked across.
Crossing the Darien Gap can be downright dangerous and foolhardy, though. You run the risk of contracting tropical diseases like malaria or of veering off the trail and losing your way. The real danger though is that the area is rife with bandits, narcotics traffickers and armed guerrillas. Statistically there is a great risk of being robbed, attacked, kidnapped or even killed by people who really don't want you in 'their' territory.
A wonderful way to minimize the risk and have an extra adventure is to make the journey between North and South America by boat. One option is to charter a yacht. More economical and less risky for people with no yachting experience is to book passage on a boat that's already going to make the crossing. Several companies offer this service and their packages range from the luxurious to the type of shoestring package that's perfect for the budget traveler.
Most yachts sail via the San Blas Archipelago. Only 49 of the nearly 380 islands of San Blas are inhabited, mostly by Kuna people. There are no hurricanes here, making these waters perfect for sailing. In addition, you get to experience the unspoiled beauty of the islands with their pristine beaches and clear waters where you can go snorkeling. At the same time you can also learn more about traditional Kuna culture and admire the women's gorgeous appliqued outfits.
Not all companies offer the same quality of package. Before booking, it's wise to check what each package involves. Safety should be your first concern, so check that the captain is qualified, that the boat and its radio are in good working order and that there are enough life jackets on board. Find out where you will be sleeping too, since comfort should be your second concern.
Before going on board, stock up on extra water and toilet paper. These items can quickly run out in the middle of the ocean. It's also a good idea to take some snacks for a little variety in your diet. If you've done proper research, know what you're in for and come prepared, sailing from Panama to Colombia may be a highlight of your journey.
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