Driving Central America & South America.
Driving from LA to Panama
June 9, 2008 - 11:07pm
Hi guys,
I'm planning on meeting a mate to buy a 4WD and drive down through Central America. He's trying to throw me off because the roads are dangerous (With Bandits) and the paperwork at borders is really thick and not worth the hassle.
I'm a surfer who wants the flexibility of the 4WD to get to the good waves.
Has anyone done this?
What are your thoughts?
Thanks for any help you can offer.
Simon
August 1, 2008 - 7:19pm
#2
Great Idea. The Bandits are nothing to worry about. Just don't drive at night and you should be safe. How long do you have for this adventure? There are plenty of surfing opportunities in El Salvador, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica. If you don't have a minimum of at least 2 or 3 months flying down and renting a 4x4 in one of the countries may be better for you if time and money are limited.
If you choose and time your borders crossings properly they should be no big problem. The only border I had any real problems at is the notorious El Salvador Honduras border and if I had not been in such a hurry, I am sure that one would have seemed easier. Your only question should be do you have the time, money and want the adventure of the road trip? I have both bused and driven though Central America, and driving is better and more fun.
Pura Vida
September 24, 2008 - 9:24pm
#3
So if pulling a trailer is not recommended,do i need a 4x4?We have 3 options,
-new diesel 3 ton flat deck with a full size fifth wheel straped to the deck with winches front and back.{worried about losing it ,its worth lots}
-chevy astro van{nowhere to sleep,not 4x4 but cheap}
-toyota 4-runner{very little room for 4 people}
What do you guys think?
Thanks again.
October 1, 2008 - 12:12am
#4
i've done a 4runner with 4 people from texas to guatemala. it worked!
YOU DON'T NEED 4X4.
If you're a surfer, and you think that SOMEHOW you'll find special roads that are 4x4 only, and somehow you'll get there, then maybe. We went all over the place, and honestly, you don't need 4x4. We used ours ONCE, and it was because we drove into a water-logged swamp. .... No, twice... we pulled a guy out of the sand at a boat ramp, too.
CHEAP car = good.
October 1, 2008 - 8:00am
#5
You don't need 4WD, but extra ground clearance and a skid plate are really nice for potholes and speed bumps. I used 4WD a lot, but I also drove a lot of back roads for surfing and mountain climbing. Toyotas are also really nice to have south of Mexico because 90% of vehicles in central america are toyotas. I'm sure you can get parts for anything if you look hard, but its easier for toyotas for sure.
I'd bring the 4runner with those vehicle choices. I wouldn't worry too much about losing the flatbed as long as you exercise common sense, and you can get insurance for central america if you are really worried about it. I got mine through AIG, though who knows if they will still do that after the market crumble.
Yes, most of us here have done it. Read through old threads to get ideas and then come back with specific questions.
Bandits are nothing to worry about. Border paperwork is a hassle but manageable, and much easier if you speak at least basic Spanish. You'll need the original title to your vehicle. The surfing is fantastic, and you'll have much easier access with your own car. El Salvador, Nicaragua, and Panama are your best bets for surfing.