Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Darién Province
POP 47,000 / ELEV SEA LEVEL TO 3478M / AREA 8653 SQ KM
Why Go?
One of world's richest biomes is the 5760-sq-km Parque Nacional Darién, where the
primeval meets the present with scenery nearly unaltered from one million years ago.
Even today in the Darién, the Emberá and Wounaan people maintain many of their tradi-
tional practices and retain generations-old knowledge of the rainforest. In a stroke of
irony, the Darién has remained so pristine because of its volatile reputation.
But while the southern Darién is home to Panama's most spectacular rainforests, the
north is home to scenes of habitat destruction. Safety is a real concern here, yet the re-
gion's issues are complex and require careful consideration. It is not for everyone, but
with careful planning and the right destinations, the Darién offers spectacular opportunit-
ies for intrepid travelers yearning for something truly wild.
When to Go
»
Travelers to the Darien should always check on current security issues before going.
»
Dec-April
Less precipitation makes dry season the best time to hit trails that will turn
muddy and unstable during rainy season. Travel connections are also more reliable.
»
May, Oct-Nov
With rivers running high and heavy rainfall, these months are generally
the most difficult time to visit the region.
»
Year-round
Multiday sailboat charters and backpacker boat shuttles between San Blas
and Colombia touch down in Puerto Obaldia for border crossing.
Best Off-the Beaten Path Spots
»
Parque Nacional Darién (
Click here
)
»
Sambú (
Click here
)
»
Pacific Coast (
Click here
)
»
Río Sambú (
Click here
)
