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Darien Explorer Trek
Kurt Kutay
This Darien trek is one of the most adventurous trips we offer, not because it is exceptionally difficult, but rather because it is a very remote, wildland region where local conditions vary from one trip to the next. Some of the most variable conditions include:
1) Rainfall varies and may include a temporary deluge any time of year;
2) Streams you walk through and rivers you ride on large dugouts may rise and fall rapidly;
3) Trails will be more slippery and camp/trail conditions more challenging if rain persists for extended periods;
4) Venomous snakes are present and are occasionally encountered, but there has never been a bite among any staff or participants in the history of these treks with our guides. (And, among locals walking barefoot living in the jungle who have been bitten, it is rarely fatal.)
The most challenging aspect of this expedition is usually the heat and humidity. Temperatures hiking in the jungle lowlands on the first few days can be up to the low 90s F with very high humidity. Heat stroke and exhaustion can set in easily, but we hike slowly and drink lots of water and easily avoid such outcomes. However, anyone who is overweight, highly susceptible to heat, or otherwise not in good health should not consider this trip. Medivac helicopter evacuation is available usually within 24 hours. Travelers insurance with emergency evacuation is required for this trip.
In addition to heat and constant sweating, conditions in the Darien jungle can be uncomfortable. Mosquitoes vary from very bothersome (like a bad day camping in the mid-west USA) to very insignificant. Your feet are always wet as you wear the same wet boots all day trekking through mud and rivers. Foot fungus can easily set in without proper care. Athletes Foot caused by a fungus in constant humid conditions can be avoided or controlled by judicious use of anti-fungal foot powder, putting on dry socks when not camping, and letting feet get air during lunch and in camp. Even when boots are well broken in, blisters can easily develop in these conditions so be prepared with tape, bandaids and moleskin.
Although several sets of socks and a few extra t-shirts are acceptable, participants are required to pack light, essentially bringing three changes of clothes, one for hiking each day and the other to pack (in plastic bags) in your soft luggage to keep dry for camp and sleeping. A complete clothing list is provided in our pre-departure booklet. The best pant wear are shorts and trousers made of light-weight, quick-dry synthetic material with a liner (so you dont have to wear cotton underwear which can chafe skin). Ex-Officio brand is recommended (available from Ex-Officio online, REI or TravelSmith in our Pre-Departure dossier).
Tents and all community camping and cooking gear are provided. All meals on trek are included and prepared by cook staff. Pack animals carry your main pack. You carry only a daypack with lots of water, camera, rain gear, snack and another other essential items you need during the day.
A few essential items not to forget:
- Trail mix, granola bars, etc. for your own snacking on the trail
- Moleskin or other blister preventative patches
- Anti-fungal foot powder + dry socks and strap-on, sports sandals
- Small denominations for purchasing crafts in Indian villages (wood carvings, etc.)
- Bring your own Therma rest inflatable pad and light blanket.* Tents are provided.
- Malaria prophylaxis is recommended
- US Army approved jungle boots with Panama mud release soles and drainage holes OR light-weight hiking boots
- Repellent for skin (w/ up to 35-40% DEET) & insecticide for clothing (ie. Duranon)
- Bring large plastic garbage bags and zip-lock freezer bags
- Protect camera and gear in plastic bags in case of heavy rain
Dont skimp on bringing good rain/wind gear. A lightweight polypropylene t-shirt under a rain jacket can help retain heat under the wettest conditions of rain and wind.
Insurance is NOT provided. You are required to purchase your own travelers insurance (which includes evacuation) to participate on this trip. An application is enclosed in your Pre-Departure packet. Please bring your insurance application receipt to Panama and keep a photocopy of your passport title page in a plastic sleeve.
Due to weight limits for pack animals and commercial flights, it is important not to bring unnecessary clothes or equipment. For example, you do not need to bring first aid kits (except for special medications, moleskin or unique, personal items). You do not need to bring heavy bird books or telescopes (the guide is bringing them), but do bring binoculars!
Tips for guide, assistants, cooks, restaurant, lodge and hotel services are also not included. All the local staff and assistants work very hard and deserve to be rewarded as follows (amount to be paid by each group member):
PERSONAL ASSISTANCE: $20 paid directly by you to someone on staff who may give you special assistance (ie. carry your day pack, etc)
PERSONAL FOR PRINCIPLE GUIDE - $50-100 or more if you are moved!
PERSONAL FOR STAFF NOT ASSIGNED TO INDIVIDUALS - $20
If there is a second guide (as a trainee) on the trek participants should plan on tipping him as well $10-$20 each.
Feel free to contact the Panama program director if you have additional questions.
