Is it safe to drive from Texas to Panama City?

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Dr Fred

I did the trip in 2004.

I made it safely, the only problem was a camera and a few CDs taken out of my vehicle one night in Guatemala.

It can be safe, but no travel is 100% safe.

Parts of any of the countries can be dangerous, but others can be quite safe. It is often difficult to learn which cities/places are "bad" without spending some time in the area.

Generaly one can get a feel if a place is dangerous or just poor. If a place looks like it has a lot of accumulated trash and little local pride, just keep driving. Other places may be just as poor, but the locals clean up the worst of the trash and such places are generally much safer.

The main danger is theft, but anything is possible. Dont worry too much and have a good time.

Flashing too much wealth for the locals to see is a good way to get robbed, but the vast majority of the people have no interest in robbing or hurting you. BUT it only takes one.

Likely the only "crime" you will encounter is being forced to bribe some officials at the border crossings allong the way. Total say $200-300 in bribes total for the trip. You can probably get away with less if you look latin or are very fluent in spanish.

Remember many of the people in central america live on about $1000 a year or less. Don't tempt them too much by being an easy victim. Don;t get drunk alone, or try to meet people involved in other forms of crime (like drugs). Run with the "bad" crowd too much and you will likely get hurt, just like in the usa.

rivkarut2004

There is a book a retired couple wrote about driving to Panama in a RV from the states. I don't remember the name of the book, but how many books on the subject can there be out there? Anyway, in the book the said they only drove during day light hours. They old slept in large major cities. They had no major happenings as a result. If a old couple can do it safely I would say anyone could with proper planning. And yes, it is physically possible.

southernpal4u

No....You would have to drive thru Salvador....They don't like anyone there. We were stranded in Panama on 9-11 for 6 days and many thought of driving out.....All were advised not to.

thcwby

Yes, if you're going to the one in Florida.

cool.panamania

I doubt it very much.You would have to drive through Mexico,Guatemala,and El Salvador,and that's dangerous.Hop on a plane,it safer and probably cheaper also.

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