The Embera
and the Wounan indigenous peoples of Panama are often
thought to inhabit only the Darien Province. Because of
historical circumstances traditional borders and boundaries
have disappeared and these two distinct cultures have
migrated and moved to different areas within Panama and
Colombia. The Darien is no longer the only home to to
these cultures. Members of the Kuna Yala also inhabit the
Darien although many think that they primarily live on the
San Blas Islands.
Regardless of why these peoples have moved the Embera and
the Wounan have joined together in many instances in order
to simply survive. Their languages are different as are
their customs. But they know that for their culture to
survive there must be continual adaptations and development.
The Embera and the Wounan found closest to Panama City and
Colon are those that inhabit land along the Rio Gatun, not
far from the highway between the two cities. They are very
hospitable and eager to show outsiders how they live.
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