An Introduction To Sailing From Panama To Colombia
Saturday, January 11, 2014
By Marissa Velazquez
One of the greatest adventures you can have in your life is to undertake an epic journey. A popular one is to travel southwards from North America to South America through the countries of Central America. A trip like this takes some planning and one option to consider is sailing from Panama to Colombia instead of traveling overland.
Even through Panama and Colombia share a border, it's one that's not easy to cross. In fact, most travelers try to avoid having to make the crossing over land. The reason for this is a notorious area called the Darien Gap.
The Darien Gap is a break in the Pan American Highway between the Panamanian town of Yaviza and the Colombian town of Turbo. The inhospitable terrain makes it difficult and very expensive to build a road here and many people are opposed to the idea because of the environmental damage it will cause. There are rough dirt tracks through the jungle and it's entirely possible to cross the Darien Gap by off-road vehicle, motorcycle, bicycle or even on foot.
The reason why it's better to avoid the Darien Gap altogether, however, is that crossing it can be very dangerous. It's easy to get lost in the dense jungle and illnesses like malaria and dengue fever are a real risk. The danger is increased by the Colombian guerrillas and drug traffickers that operate in the area, with armed robberies and kidnappings frighteningly common.
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.
The most common route will take you to the San Blas Islands first. The San Blas Archipelago is a remote group of Panamanian islands mainly inhabited by the indigenous Kuna people. A visit here will let you experience Kuna culture first hand and will also give you the opportunity to enjoy the region's pristine white beaches.
Different companies offer different trips, so don't book before you've done proper research and compared the packages. The crossing can at times be uncomfortable, so be sure that you know what you're in for. Ask about the number of people that will make the trip so you can avoid crowded conditions and find out what type of sleeping arrangements you can expect on board. Most importantly, check that the captain has the proper credentials and that the boat is safe.
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.
Even through Panama and Colombia share a border, it's one that's not easy to cross. In fact, most travelers try to avoid having to make the crossing over land. The reason for this is a notorious area called the Darien Gap.
The Darien Gap is a break in the Pan American Highway between the Panamanian town of Yaviza and the Colombian town of Turbo. The inhospitable terrain makes it difficult and very expensive to build a road here and many people are opposed to the idea because of the environmental damage it will cause. There are rough dirt tracks through the jungle and it's entirely possible to cross the Darien Gap by off-road vehicle, motorcycle, bicycle or even on foot.
The reason why it's better to avoid the Darien Gap altogether, however, is that crossing it can be very dangerous. It's easy to get lost in the dense jungle and illnesses like malaria and dengue fever are a real risk. The danger is increased by the Colombian guerrillas and drug traffickers that operate in the area, with armed robberies and kidnappings frighteningly common.
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.
The most common route will take you to the San Blas Islands first. The San Blas Archipelago is a remote group of Panamanian islands mainly inhabited by the indigenous Kuna people. A visit here will let you experience Kuna culture first hand and will also give you the opportunity to enjoy the region's pristine white beaches.
Different companies offer different trips, so don't book before you've done proper research and compared the packages. The crossing can at times be uncomfortable, so be sure that you know what you're in for. Ask about the number of people that will make the trip so you can avoid crowded conditions and find out what type of sleeping arrangements you can expect on board. Most importantly, check that the captain has the proper credentials and that the boat is safe.
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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You can visit the website www.bluesailing.net for more helpful information about The Basics About Sailing From Panama To Colombia
Posted byBertie at 3:43 AM
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