Things to Do in Darien gap

There are not a lot of Darien Gap things to do for an unadventurous heart, but those willing to try and venture into the unknown, will find this little spot in Panama a great place to be.

Bird watching

Bird watching should not come as a surprise to visitors in the Darien Gap area, considering how diverse this place is. The Darien Gap is an area covered by the rainforests that Central America is so famous for, and the area is virtually untouched (save for the attempts of the governments of Panama and Columbia to bridge the gap between the two countries by building a highway through the rainforests; this work has stopped for fear of the spread of foot and mouth disease from the south to the north). The jungles are inhabited by jaguars, howler monkeys and sloths – all indigenous to the area, but these are generally rare and dangerous to spot and watch (and are generally not advisable to seek out).

Those choosing to walk on the safe side can choose the equally wonderful alternative of bird watching. The rainforests are home to more than 900 species of birds, which makes it an ornithologist’s delight. Do not fret about having to buy guide books and risk getting lost in the jungles – there are companies and agents to bring tourists into the safer and explored parts of the Gap in order to spot these seasonal beauties. Those wanting a little something more can opt for a 14-day adventure expedition by Ancon Travels that features stays with the indigenous tribes and a chance to really “rough it out” with Mother Nature.

Crossing the Gap

Crossing the Gap has always been the dream of many explorers, but sadly, this has not quite been accomplished till this day. Very few have attempted and succeeded, given that it is not easy to navigate through the jungles teeming with wildlife and guerrillas belonging to the FARC of neighboring Columbia. Indeed, the rainforests of the Darien Gap are traditionally a route for those dealing with the dangerous side of the law – outlaws, guerillas, terrorists and drug lords are part of the community operating in the Gap. However, tourists and visitors to the area fortunately have a much safer option.

As much as overland foot crossings are virtually impossible, visitors can opt for crossing on a four-wheel-drive, and cross the rainforest within a matter of 6 to 7 hours through the rainforest. This is a great opportunity to experience the wildlife, while traveling through such a wonderful natural habitat safely. Those looking for something even more cushy can opt for the sea route, by which ferries take tourists from the jetty across the Gap.