I read about a Wounaan village called Puerto Lara and decided to check it out. It is a small town on the Lara River in the Darien Province. I drove through town and found a spot, Campo Laurel, where it seemed that I could camp for the night. It was a handful of nice huts, but it did not appear that anyone lived there. I parked and after awhile a nice young lady came by and said that I would have to ask the head person if I could camp there. The huts are a cultural center that hosts travelers and introduces them to their culture. They said I could camp there for free, but would I like to have a visit in the morning and see their art wares. Of course, I said yes. It is a way for them to make some money as well as preserve their culture.
They usually have some larger tour groups from nearby eco-lodges, and were surprised to see me. They were so kind and hospitable. More and more peope started showing up. Turns out that many of them sleep in the huts, rolling out their sheets and insect nets (no mosquitos but biting no-see-ums). I had a nice evening visiting with them, sharing pictures and stories of family with the head person, Americo, and another "abuelo." They really liked Hank. When I woke up in the morning and crawled out of the Jeep in the morning I was greeted by five women who all shook my hand. I shared coffee with them, and after a while, I went on a nice walk with Americo. Then the women put on a dance for me, and broke out their baskets and other art work. I bought three beautiful baskets, a Tagua nut carving, and some jewelery. The Wounaan are world-renowned for their fine basketry with intricate designs of geometric patterns and the natural world around them. I first saw them at an art gallery in Sante Fe and thought they were beautiful. Of course, I wanted to buy some! (and at about half the price of those in Panama City).
A very special visit.
Happy dancing!!