World ARC 2015-16 crews took time out from their provisioning and Panama Canal preparations today to visit a remote village of Embera Indians on the banks of the Chagres river. It was a very special day as crews observed the fascinating way of life of the Embera people; a people proud to share their cultures and traditions with visitors.
The Embera people are an indigenous group from Panama and Columbia and many still live in a traditional way in villages deep in the Panamanian rainforest. The village World ARC visited today is located on the Chagres River, the main tributary to the Gatun Lake & Panama Canal. It is so remote that it can only be accessed by boat.
Participants were taken to the village in long dugout canoes expertly piloted by young Embera men. The canoe trip up the river was spectacular with a vast array of birdlife and some participants spotting turtles, iguanas and even a river otter.
Upon arriving on the shores of the village, crews were greeted with traditional music played on handmade flutes and drums. The Embera people are warm, friendly and all wear their traditional dress which for men is a small loin cloth and for the women a knee length skirt. All the materials are bright and colourful and both men and women wear many beaded necklaces, sashes and flowers. The 'look' is also characterised by decorative tattooing on the thighs, upper body and arms. The tattoos are temporary requiring them to be reapplied every 8 days and they are known to act as an excellent insect repellent as well - very helpful in the jungle!
In the village World ARC were sincerely welcomed by the village chief who took pride in explaining some of the Embera culture and aspects of village life. Participants were then treated to a traditional lunch of fried fish (locally caught) and plantain, all served in a clever bowl made from banana leaf. Refreshing fruits were served for desert.
Following lunch, crews had the opportunity to watch some celebration dances, have free time to interact with the Embera villagers and to take photos. A number of participants also had their own traditional tattoos applied before the group headed back down to the river for some to have an enjoyable swim.
World ARC 2015-16 is now looking ahead to the first transit of the Panama Canal,which for Group 1, commences tomorrow (1st Feb) afternoon. For friends and family following the event, live webcams are available online to view the fleet passing through the canal. The first group are expected to be at the Gatun Locks from 1900 local time (UTC -5) before overnighting in Gatun Lake and then arriving at the Miraflores Locks the following afternoon around 1300 local time.
Visit the Canal Webcams here