(^84) The Darien Gap is an undeveloped jungle that links Panama and Colombia on paper.
In real life, however, the lack of roads, the jungle, guerrillas and drug traffickers
make it virtually impassable overland. But those looking to travel from Panama to
Colombia have other viable options. Direct air travel is the traditional method, but
there are also five-day boat trips through the San Blas islands, known locally as the
Kuna Yala, and a series of plane and boat rides that allow for a stop right at the
border.
Traffic and Road conditions
Most of the roads in Panama are in good condition. There are very few roads in the
Darian, and boats are the only way of getting around.
Health and safety hazards – (please check the CDC website)
The dengue virus is a leading cause of illness and death in the tropics and
subtropics. As many as 400 million people are infected yearly. Dengue is caused by
any one of four related viruses transmitted by mosquitoes. There are not yet any
vaccines to prevent infection with dengue virus, and the most effective protective
measures are those that avoid mosquito bites.
Inoculations
Infectious diseases are a rare cause of serious illness in Southeast Asia. However,
becoming ill on the way is relatively common and may include respiratory
infections, diarrhoea, and dengue fever. Most of these illnesses can be either
prevented or treated locally. Always pack personal medication. Getting a rabies shot
before going on a cycling holiday may be a good idea. If we encounter a rabid dog,
he will most likely go for those pedalling legs! Under normal circumstances, a
chasing dog will soon lose interest when you stop pedalling.
Recommended Vaccinations
Specialised travel medicine clinics can advise which vaccines are recommended for
your trip. Some vaccines require multiple injections spaced out over a certain
period; start the process six weeks before departure. The World Health
Organization (WHO) recommends the following vaccinations for travellers to
Southeast Asia:
Adult diphtheria and tetanus
Hepatitis A & Hepatitis B
Measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR)
Polio
Typhoid
Varicella
The following immunisations are recommended for long-term travellers (more than
one month) or those at particular risk:
Japanese B encephalitis, Meningitis, Rabies and Tuberculosis (TB)
I'm no medical expert, but I best follow the above ideas as we don't want to be
sick; we want to cycle.
leana
(Leana)
#1