Might be worth quoting this part from a trip report received by the
AMCS for next newsletter. Cavers from Arizona drove down to Michoacán.
Parts of Michoacán are frequently said to be under the control of drug
gangs. -- Mixon
This was our ninth fantastic cave mapping expedition to the
Coahuayana area of Mexico. The Coahuayana valley is on the border
between Colima and Michoacan near the coast.
Now that we’re back, the questions that Kent, Josh, and I are most
often asked are, “Did you find any cool caves?” and “Did you have
any scary experience with drug violence?”
Yes, we explored and mapped nine super caves. We did a lot of
rigorous hiking up steep mountains through dense and beautiful
jungles. We also met a lot of friendly people who were anxious to
help.
No, we didn’t have any scary experiences with drug violence, but
were continually careful where we went and what we did. We passed
two clearly visible marijuana fields and no doubt others, sheltered
from view by dense vegetation. Once we were stopped by the army,
interrogated and searched.
If you are planning a trip to Mexico there are two major points to
remember.
• Don’t be out at night.
• Personally know the people in your immediate area. It is their
“territory”.
The importance of territory can’t be over emphasized. Mexicans are
anxious to help if they know who you are, but if you’re in the wrong
area, and they don’t know you, you may get shot. Don’t go on
other’s property without asking permission. Don’t go into the back
country without a local escort who personally knows the people where
you will be caving.
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A fearless man cannot be brave.
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