More than a million people from over 100 countries have crossed the treacherous terrain of the Darién Gap in Panamá since 2021. Many seek safety, opportunity, and a new life in the United States. Through jungle, rivers, mountains, mudslides, and the constant threat of violence and exploitation, migrants– including a growing number of families with children—undertake an uncertain journey with little more than the possessions they can carry.
The global migration crisis, driven by political instability, economic hardship, climate change, and conflict, converges dramatically in the Darién Gap—one of the world’s most dangerous migration routes, stretching across 100-kilometers of dense, roadless jungle between Colombia and Panama.

Federico Ríos Escobar, is a recognized freelance photographer, and a frequent contributor to The New York Times. Throughout his career he has focused on themes such as armed conflict, migrants, the environment and its relationship with society. His photographs have been published in international media such as National Geographic, Stern, Geo, and Times Magazine. His work has been recognized with several international awards. Seen here, are photos from Federico Ríos’ compelling documentation of the extraordinary passage through the Darién Gap, revealing the universal human stories of survival, loss, hope, and the search for a better future.