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Darién National Park

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description Darién National Park Overview

A UNESCO World Heritage Site inscribed in 1981, located in eastern Panama and covering approximately 5,790 km² of tropical rainforest. The park occupies most of the Darién Gap, the break in the Pan-American Highway between Central and South America, and serves as a critical biological corridor between the two continents. Emberá and Wounaan indigenous communities maintain traditional settlements within and around the park. The terrain ranges from lowland swamp forests to montane cloud forest on the Serranía del Darién.

help Darién National Park FAQ

Why can't you drive through Darién National Park?

The park occupies most of the Darién Gap, which is the only break in the Pan-American Highway stretching from Alaska to Argentina. The terrain is a mix of dense tropical rainforest and treacherous swamps, preventing the construction of a road connecting Central and South America.

What kind of wildlife lives in Darién National Park?

The park is a critical biological corridor home to rare species like the harpy eagle, the national bird of Panama. It also protects thriving populations of jaguars, tapirs, and several types of monkeys across its roughly 5,790 square kilometers.

When did Darién National Park become a UNESCO World Heritage Site?

UNESCO inscribed Darién National Park onto the World Heritage List in 1981 due to its exceptional biodiversity and pristine tropical rainforest. It is located in eastern Panama and serves as a vital bridge for wildlife between two continents.

Is it safe to hike through the Darién Gap today?

The Darién Gap is highly dangerous to cross due to its rugged, roadless jungle terrain and the presence of guerrilla groups and smugglers. While it is a designated national park in Panama, extreme caution is advised, and most governments strongly advise against attempting the crossing on foot.

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