Young Traveler Missing In The Darien Jungle

Jan Philip Braunisch set out on a trip through Central America in early May. He intended to visit nine countries in three months. Those countries were most likely Colombia, Panama, Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Honduras, El Salvador, Guatemala, Belize and Mexico. Philip’s plan was to fly into Bogota, Colombia and hike through the Darien on foot. His last blog post on May 15, 2013 read: “ I’m in Riosucio now, on the Atrato River. From here it’s not far from Panama. There are supposedly quite many paths from here to Panama. We’ll see how it goes.” (http://centramerica.wordpress.com/2013/05/15/update/). While Philip was well travelled, having visited over 50 countries at the age of 26, traveling from Colombia to Panama through the Darian on foot is extremely dangerous.   Philip’s family has not heard from him since his last post. On July 4, 2013, Philip’s little sister contacted Don Winner, as the family began their search.

From reading Philips blog post “Arauca to Quibdo” written May 13, 2013, he seems to have had a good idea of his surroundings. He knew he was in a dangerous area, upon reaching Chocó, when he acknowledged an increased police presence through the area. Don Winner has posted details of what Philip may have been wearing last, a copy of his passport and information that may be helpful in finding Philip. Winner also said "It's somewhat possible - but not likely - Philip might be in an Indian village somewhere in the Darien, studying the Embera Wounaan language. Please spread the word, and if you know anything please contact the local authorities."

Read the full story on Panama-Guide