A migrant caravan left Honduras on Saturday, bound for the United States, but fell apart once it reached Guatemala; however, a small group continues their trek, according to an official source.
“The caravan disbanded,” reported Alejandra Mena, a spokesperson for the Guatemalan Institute of Migration.
On Saturday, Mena mentioned that Guatemalan police detained about 200 migrants who entered the country in the eastern Izabal department, near the Honduran border, intending to travel to the United States.
Now, Mena says around 80 people managed to progress in small groups due to having migration permits for transit through Guatemala. In contrast, the others had to return to Honduras. This caravan set out from Honduras on Saturday with over 500 people, primarily Venezuelans.
Local media reported that the migrants departed from the Honduran city of San Pedro Sula, in the north, heading towards the Guatemalan town of Corinto, near the Honduras border.
This marks the first migrant caravan from Honduras to Guatemala in 2024, according to Mena. “This is a mixed migratory flow comprising various nationalities,” Allan Alvarenga, executive director of the National Institute of Migration of Honduras, explained via Twitter on Saturday.
Since 2018, thousands of Honduran migrants have formed caravans to journey across Guatemala and Mexico on foot, aiming to reach the United States. South American migrants also join these groups as they search for the so-called “American dream.”
Some migrants have traversed the forbidding Panamanian Darien jungle bordering Colombia – a path over half a million migrants took in 2023, driven by poverty and violence in their home countries.
1. Be aware of the changing circumstances: The text highlights how the migrant caravan disintegrated upon arriving in Guatemala. This serves as a reminder to travelers that situations can change quickly and it’s important to stay informed.
2. Understand the immigration policies and requirements: The small group that continued their journey had the necessary migration permits to transit through Guatemala. Make sure to research and understand the immigration policies and requirements of the countries you plan to visit to avoid any issues.
3. Plan your route carefully: The migrants in the caravan were heading towards the United States and planned to travel through Guatemala and Mexico on foot. When planning your own travel route, consider factors such as safety, accessibility, and immigration policies to ensure a smooth journey.
4. Consider joining a group or travel agency: Traveling in a group or with the assistance of a travel agency can offer added security and support. They can provide guidance on the best routes, help with logistics, and keep you updated on any changing circumstances along the way.
5. Be prepared for potential challenges: The text mentions how migrants have previously crossed the inhospitable Panamanian jungle of Darien. This serves as a reminder that travel can be challenging, especially in remote or difficult terrain. Be prepared for potential challenges such as harsh weather conditions, limited resources, and physical exertion.
6. Have a contingency plan: In the case of the disintegrated caravan, many individuals had to return to Honduras. When embarking on a journey, it’s important to have a contingency plan in case things don’t go as planned. This can involve having extra funds for unexpected expenses, knowing alternative routes or modes of transportation, and keeping emergency contact information readily available.
