Driving the Pan-American Highway to Mexico and Central America

We have not yet driven the Pan-American highway, but were given the Pritchard's book as a gift in preparation for an eventual trip; therefore, I can't comment on the traveler tips. I was, however, amused and distracted by the incredible number of typos on each page (coastal is consistently spelled "costel"). The book seems very basic and at times naive (toilet paper discussion). I had the feeling that my grandfather was explaining the ropes to me... That said, the book seems to have some helpful information and tries to be specific regarding border crossings, the roads, etc.

I've made the trip from the U.S. to Panama by car four times. Each trip has been different and a real adventure. Although this guide should be updated it contains some good tips and many anecdotes. One of the best parts is where others share their experiences while making the journey. I also liked all of the essential Spanish vocabulary the book contains to help non-Spanish speakers in case they get in a jam. The part about border crossings is also helpful. They can be a real drag and very frustrating. This book helps prepare people for them.I really wish the publisher would come out with a newer edition. I'plan to contact them and see if they'll let me share my experieces in the next edition. In short, if you plan to make the trip to any Central American country this book can help you.

Having just driven from the U.S. to Panama, I can say without a doubt this guidebook really helped me from Guatemala to Panama City. There are better guides for driving through Mexico but none comes close to this book when making the journey through Central America. The AAA recommends this book since they offer nothing on motoring through Central America. The section on Central American border crossings in the best part of this book. It will help you save time and a lot of hasstles. The section on Spanish is also excellent.