18th October 2023 • 0 Comment

2023 Highlights: Amazon Expeditions by Canoe

As we wrap up our first season in the Peruvian Amazon, it’s a great time to look back on all our epic adventures here in Peru and our 2023 season highlights. From conquering uncharted waters in Manu, Peru to forging connections with our new community partners, our guests (and our team) have left this year with some incredible experiences that won’t easily be forgotten.

1. The Inaugural Amazon Canoe Challenge

The Amazon Canoe Challenge was the defining moment of our 2023 season. When we first spoke of the idea of launching a canoe adventure in the Amazon, it seemed like a crazy idea. Needless to say, after countless hours and late nights working on launching this one of a kind Challenge, watching the first ever teams take on 300km of the Amazon by canoe was our personal highlight of our 2023 season. They definitely didn’t have it easy – Our intrepid teams on average covered a remarkable 306 kilometers over 6 days, facing wildlife, mosquitoes, wild camping and searing heat. Seeing the first ever teams cross the finish line for the first time, cheered on by our team and local partners here in Manu definitely made it all worthwhile.

2. Pioneering Amazon Exploration by SUP

In 2023, we shattered the boundaries of adventure by introducing stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) to our Amazon expeditions. Navigating the pristine Amazon rivers by SUP was something we were always keen to try, so it was great to see the first Amazon SUP Challenge take off. It was great fun introducing SUP to our local partners, and the teams got on board with a fun filled race day with some of the schools in the communities.

3. Traditional Canoe Expeditions

Not to be forgotten, our new canoe expeditions launched this year as well. We had some great groups this year in Manu, taking more time for wildlife spotting and community stays along the way. Keep an eye out as we will have some great articles coming soon from our guests who joined us on the way!

4. Community Connections

While the thrill of conquering the Amazon’s wild beauty is unmatched, our connections with the local community in Manu remain a pillar of our expeditions and one of our 2023 highlights. Community stays with our local partners is not just a highlight for our team but also a heartwarming and transformative experience for our adventurers. Learning about indigenous cultures, sharing stories around campfires, and collaborating on sustainable initiatives create memories that go beyond adventure. It’s about giving back to the people who call the Amazon home.

As we bid farewell to an extraordinary 2023 season, our excitement for the adventures that 2024 holds knows no bounds. Join us for another year of thrilling expeditions and unforgettable experiences. The Amazon beckons, promising a world of wonder and excitement. Will you be part of the next chapter?

Don’t miss your chance for an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Amazon in Peru. Stay tuned for updates on what’s in store for 2024, and prepare to embark on a journey of a lifetime.

27th July 2023 • 0 Comment

Celebrating Success

The first Amazon Canoe Challenge is well and truly over and what a success it was. It’s been a long 6 months for our crew putting all the last bits together and beyond rewarding seeing all our hard work pay off. With the last-minute route change caused by unrest in the Junín region where the first Challenge was originally to take place, the team had only 60 days to create the new route and it’s safe to say, it’s a winner.

The teams arrived in Manu, Peru for what was the first ever Amazon Canoe Challenge, and the first time that anyone had ever raced down the Amazon by traditional canoe. There were definitely nerves on training day as teams started to realise the scale of what exactly they had signed up for, but nerves quickly gave way to excitement as they set off from the start line.

Our crew this year was 60% Machiguenga from the community of Shipitiari, and we were eager to see what they thought of the whole thing after we finished. For me, the words of Herman, one of our crew, summed it up. ‘We are like family.’ – He smiled after I asked him what his thoughts as we approached the end of the course.

Operationally, this event has been a huge undertaking, and definitely the most challenging project that we have worked on anywhere in the world. It’s also been incredibly rewarding to see the reactions from the local (&international) crew, and from the teams who had the courage to sign up for an event many said we were crazy to even consider running.

To find out more, check our socials @amazoncanoechallenge for our daily round up of this years Challenge.

The dates for next year have been released, and we are already 80% full. A huge thank you from our team to everyone who has supported us this year – We will never forget it.

– Freya

green trees beside body of water under cloudy sky

18th May 2023 • 0 Comment

Packing List for the Amazon

Paddling the Amazon – What to Bring on the Ultimate Amazon Adventure

There is no greater adventure than paddling the Amazon. If you’ve decided to take on the Amazon Canoe Challenge, or signed up to one of our small group expeditions by canoe, you can find everything you need to bring in our Amazon Packing List.

Keep in mind that this packing list is aimed at our range of expeditions – If you are signed up for the Amazon Canoe Challenge, please refer to your specific equipment list as some inclusions may differ.

Camping Equipment

Keeping it light is key – The Amazon is a harsh environment and you don’t want to be dragging around loads of unnecessary gear with you.

For our standard expeditions, we provide:

Individual tent
Sleeping mat

You will need to bring your own personal sleeping bag

If you’re taking on the Amazon Canoe Challenge, you will need to bring your own camping ,cooking equipment and food supplies as you will be self-sufficient along the route.

Safety Equipment

Safety is a must when exploring a remote environment like the Peruvian Amazon by river. We provide the following safety equipment for our expeditions.

Buoyancy Aid
Throw Rope
LED Flare
Satellite Trackers
24/7 HQ to track your progress
Comprehensive first aid kit

Personal Equipment

Everyone has different preferences for what gear they like to bring with them – We’ve put together the below list as a guideline for what to bring when exploring the Amazon.

Clothing

Avoid cotton clothing if you are planning on being in an environment where you think you might get wet. The Amazon is a humid environment and you might experience heavy rain depending on the season you visit. Or you might just take an unexpected dunk from your canoe. Either way, make sure to bring synthetic light-weight clothing that dries quickly.

Mosquitos and the infamous ‘manta blanca’ are ever present and although our checkpoints are designed to keep you as far away as possible from them, it’s a reality of travel in the Amazon. Covering as much as you can keeps you safe(r) from all things that bite.

Climate change is making weather in the Amazon more unpredictable, with changes to the traditional wet & dry seasons. It’s also becoming more common for cold spells which can reach as low as 10C at night.

Long sleeved shirt
Long Trousers
Rain Jacket (100% waterproof)
Spare set of dry clothes
Socks (high ankled)
Quick-dry underwear
Sports gloves for paddling
Lightweight thermals for sleeping
Wide brimmed hat (Even better if it has mosquito netting)
Bandana or Buff
Swimsuit

Toiletries

Sunscreen
Bug Spray (We usually go for DEET expedition strength spray)
Biodegradable soaps
Lip Balm
Biodegradable wet wipes
Quick-dry small towel
Small shovel
Hand Sanitizer
Personal Toiletries

Footwear

Closed-Toed shoes (water-resistant & sturdy)
Sandals or other set of dry footwear

Food & Drink

Finding supplies in a remote location can be tricky. We provide food and water for the duration of your expedition so you can focus on the paddling. The exact menu depends on season and availability as we source our supplies from the communities as much as possible – A typical meal usually consists of meat + rice + fruit. We can cater for vegan / vegetarian diets if we know in advance.

As we are travelling in a remote location, we ask participants to bring the following in the case of emergency:

Water purification system or tablets
Emergency food supply for 24 hours

*Juanes – A typical packed lunch in the Amazon*

Electronics

Electronics and humidity aren’t a great mix. Keep that in mind if you’re planning on bringing expensive camera gear with you. Keep your gear in dry bags and remember that charging opportunities may be limited.

Camera or smartphone
20,000MAh Power Bank(s)
Dry bags for electronics
Spare cables
Solar Panel or other charging solutions

Misc

Head torch
Multi tool
Personal First Aid Kit (Including hydrocortisone cream for bites)
Dry bags for gear
Waterproof backpack for kit
Personal Medication
Passport

Additional Notes

Depending on your expedition or challenge, your packing requirements may slightly differ from those above. Don’t fret – We send you a comprehensive list of gear to bring specific to your trip.

If you’re thinking of visiting the Amazon in Peru, there is no better way than by traditional canoe. Apply now for the Amazon Canoe Challenge or explore our latest expeditions to find out more.

What else would you add to your Amazon Packing List? Let us know in the comments below. See you there!

15th May 2023 • 0 Comment

New Expeditions in Manu

Explore Manu by Traditional Canoe

Unveiling Our Newest Expeditions in the Peruvian Amazon

Are you ready for an extraordinary adventure in the heart of the Amazon rainforest? We are thrilled to announce the launch of our newest range of expeditions by canoe in the captivating region of Manu, Peru. Prepare to embark on an unforgettable journey filled with vibrant culture, breathtaking landscapes, and incredible biodiversity.

Experience the Best of the Amazon with Our Manu 4-Day Expedition

Our Manu 4-Day Expedition is the perfect choice for those seeking a remarkable Amazon experience, even with limited time. Led by expert guides, you will explore the magnificent Manu region by traditional canoe, immersing yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the Shintuya and Shipitiari Indigenous communities. But that’s not all—Manu is also renowned as one of the most biodiverse places on the planet, with nearly 4,000 unique species. Spotting wildlife has never been more thrilling than from the vantage point of a traditional canoe.

Expedition Overview

Our Manu 4-Day Expedition is perfect if you’re short on time and want to experience the best of the Amazon. Explore the Manu region by traditional canoe, visiting the Shintuya & Shipitiari Indigenous communities. Aside from culture, Manu is one of the most biodiverse places in the world – With almost 4000 unique species, it’s the best place in Peru to spot wildlife and what better way to explore than by traditional canoe.

For this expedition, you can expect less time paddling and more time to explore along the route. We paddle using traditional Pitotsi canoes, meaning that you have more chances to spot wildlife along the way.

Authenticity and Sustainability at the Core

At Amazon Canoe Challenge, we are committed to sustainable tourism and supporting local communities. By choosing the Manu 4-Day Expedition, you actively contribute to the long-term preservation of this extraordinary wilderness and the well-being of the indigenous communities. Each trip we organize focuses on providing authentic and immersive experiences that ensure the communities benefit from our visit as much as our guests.

Why Canoe is the Best Way to Visit the Amazon in Peru

Traveling by traditional canoe offers an authentic and intimate experience, allowing you to witness wildlife in its natural habitat and access hidden areas inaccessible by larger boats. With small group sizes, you’ll forge meaningful connections and engage with indigenous cultures along the way.

By choosing canoe travel, you support sustainable tourism and contribute to the long-term preservation of this extraordinary wilderness. Embark on a journey that combines adventure, authenticity, and conservation. Book your unforgettable expedition today.

Book Your Next Adventure

To find out more about our new range of canoe expeditions in Manu, Peru – Click the link below for more information or get in touch at contact@amazoncanoechallenge.com

Find out more

25th April 2023 • 0 Comment

Global Rescue

AMAZON CANOE CHALLENGE PARTNERS WITH GLOBAL RESCUE

We are proud to announce our partnership with Global Rescue as our official insurance partner for the Amazon Canoe Challenge.

If you’re looking at registering your team for the Amazon Canoe Challenge, or joining us one of our bespoke expeditions, you probably already know the value of having comprehensive travel insurance.

It might not be the most exciting part of your trip, but it is one of the most important. When choosing an insurance partner, we wanted to ensure that we are working with someone who has experience working in remote areas, and even better, in the deep Amazon.

Global Rescue is an industry leader, providing medical and security advisory and evacuation services to
travelers around the world. Global Rescue offers field rescue from the point of your injury or illness.

With operations centers staffed 24/7/365 by experienced personnel, when you call Global Rescue you speak to a real person on the first call to get you the help you need.

WHO IS GLOBAL RESCUE?

TRAVEL PROTECTION

Amazon Canoe Challenge partners with Global Rescue to offer the world’s leading travel protection services. Medical and security emergencies happen. When they do, we rely on Global Rescue to provide our clients with medical, security, travel risk and crisis response services. Without a membership, an emergency evacuation could cost over $100,000. More than one million members trust Global Rescue to get them home safely when the unexpected happens. We highly recommend our clients enroll with Global Rescue.

IMG SIGNATURE TRAVEL INSURANCE

IMG Signature travel insurance is the perfect add-on to a Global Rescue membership, providing coverage against a variety of unforeseen expenses while you’re traveling, giving you the added comfort of knowing the value of your trip is protected in case you need it.

GET A QUOTE

FAQS

Q: What happens if I’m injured or have an emergency requiring evacuation?
A: Every situation is different when medical and security emergencies happen. To ensure
you’re protected when things don’t go as planned, we highly recommend our clients enroll with
Global Rescue.

Q: What is included in the Global Rescue medical membership?
A: The Global Rescue medical membership includes 24/7/365 advisory services with medical
professionals, field rescue from the point of illness or injury and medical evacuation to the
member’s hospital of choice.

Q: Are there any limitations on my activities with a Global Rescue medical membership?
A: No. Global Rescue does not put limitations on activities.

Q: What is included in the Global Rescue security membership?
A: The Global Rescue security membership includes 24/7/365 advisory services and security
evacuation from events like unpredicted natural disasters, terrorist attacks and civil unrest—
all supported by a team of intelligence specialists and military special operations veterans.

22nd April 2023 • 0 Comment

We stand with the Asháninka.

PRESS RELEASE 22/04/2023

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Amazon Canoe Challenge Changes Location of June 2023 Challenge in Support of Asháninka Protest.

Satipo, Peru – 22 April 2023 – Amazon Canoe Challenge regrets to announce that we have made the difficult decision to change the location of our upcoming Amazon Canoe Challenge in support of the closure of the region by the Asháninka communities in protest to demand more support and security from the state.

We were deeply saddened by the recent death of Santiago Contoricón, a community elder who was assassinated in Puerto Ocopa in response to his courageous stance to prevent narcotrafficking through the communities along the Tambo river. In response to his killing, the communities have closed access to the region in protest to demand increased support and security from the state. In solidarity with the Asháninka communities, we have decided to change the location of the challenge to another area to avoid escalating tensions and show our support for the protest.

We recognize the importance of supporting the local communities in their demands for more security and support from the state. We stand in solidarity demanding that the Asháninka communities receive the support for which they ask.

‘We want to talk. We want to have a conversation. We want to ask to ask for the advice from the minsters and president, what are the strategic plans for security for the indigenous communities in our region? We just want to have a conversation – Is this so difficult to ask? We want everyone to see what is happening here – Let them come and see the abandonment of the native communities by the state. We don’t have basic services. We don’t have what people have in Lima, or in the big cities, and on top of that, they kill our people. What else can we do but close to get them to pay attention? What else can we do? We want security and basic services for our families’. – Fabian Antúnez Camacho

We want to ensure that our guests have a safe and enjoyable experience while respecting the concerns of the local communities. As a result, we will move the June Amazon Canoe Challenge to a new location in Peru, whilst continuing to work closely with our Asháninka partners in the area for future challenges & expeditions.

We apologize for any inconvenience this change may cause and appreciate your understanding and support as we navigate this challenging situation.

For more information or enquiries, please contact Amazon Canoe Challenge at contact@amazoncanoechallenge.com.

Sincerely,

Amazon Canoe Challenge

17th April 2023 • 0 Comment

Canoeing in the Amazon: Our Top Tips

Our top tips for canoeing in the Amazon

Canoeing in the Amazon can be an exciting and rewarding adventure, but it can also be challenging and risky. With its unique ecosystem and diverse wildlife, the Amazon rainforest offers a one-of-a-kind experience that is unlike anything else in the world. However, it’s important to take certain precautions to ensure your safety and to help preserve the environment. In this article, we’ll provide you with some essential tips for canoeing in the Amazon, so you can have a safe and enjoyable adventure.

Choose the Right Canoe

The first step to a successful canoeing adventure in the Amazon is to choose the right canoe. You’ll want to select a canoe that is stable and sturdy enough to handle the currents and obstacles of the Amazon River. Here are some things to consider when choosing a canoe:

Size: The size of your canoe will depend on the number of people in your group and the amount of gear you plan to bring. Make sure your canoe is big enough to accommodate everything you need.

Stability: Look for a canoe that is stable and won’t tip over easily. A wider canoe will generally be more stable than a narrower one.

Material: Canoes can be made from a variety of materials, such as aluminium, plastic, or fiberglass. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages, so choose one that meets your needs.

In our humble opinion, canoeing the Amazon is best in a traditional wooden canoe – There’s nothing like paddling the Amazon in a Pitotsi!

Pack the Essentials

Water: Bring enough water to last your entire trip. The Amazon River water is not safe to drink, so you’ll need to bring your own. A water purification system is always helpful.

Food: Pack plenty of non-perishable, high-energy snacks and meals. You may also want to bring a portable stove for cooking. Jungle lodges or communities can usually cook you a meal if you need.

Sunscreen: The Amazon region is known for its intense sun, so it’s important to protect your skin with sunscreen. Choose a high-SPF sunscreen and apply it frequently.

Insect repellent: The Amazon is home to many insects, including mosquitoes and biting flies. Bring a strong insect repellent to protect yourself.

First aid kit: It’s always a good idea to bring a basic first aid kit that includes bandages, antiseptic, and any necessary prescription medications.

Waterproof bag: Pack a waterproof bag to keep your belongings dry in case of rain or splashing water. We use a waterproof backpack with additional dry bags inside.

Respect the Environment

Don’t litter: Pack out everything you bring in and dispose of it properly. Leave no trace of your visit.

Follow regulations: Be aware of local regulations and follow them. For example, some areas of the Amazon are protected, and you may need a permit to enter. Other areas belong to indigenous communities and they might not like if you show up unannounced – Just imagine if someone showed up in your backyard without an invitation!

Stay on designated trails: Stick to designated trails to avoid damaging plants and wildlife. It can be easy to get lost in the jungle.

Don’t disturb wildlife: Observe wildlife from a distance and don’t disturb their natural habitat. If taking photos, always be mindful to keep a good distance as some species will attack if they feel threatened. Be especially careful of anything brightly coloured as these are usually poisonous.

Use biodegradable products: When possible, use biodegradable products that won’t harm the environment. We love Sea to Summits biodegradable Wilderness Wash.

Canoeing in the Amazon is tricky (trust us, we know!) but with the right planning it can be an unforgettable adventure. If you want to add canoeing the Amazon to your bucket list, have a look at our range of expeditions, or get in touch for a bespoke expedition with our experienced team. If you want something even more challenging – Check out the Amazon Canoe Challenge where we navigate 260km through the Amazon by traditional canoe.

You’ll be canoeing the Amazon before you know it – See you there!

2023 Highlights: Amazon Expeditions by Canoe

by amazoncanoechallenge 18th October 202318th October 2023

Celebrating Success

by amazoncanoechallenge 27th July 202327th July 2023

Packing List for the Amazon

Paddling the Amazon – What to Bring on the Ultimate Amazon Adventure There is no greater adventure than paddling the Amazon. If you’ve decided to take on the Amazon Canoe Challenge, or signed up to one of our small group expeditions by canoe, you can find everything you need to bring in our Amazon Packing…

by amazoncanoechallenge 18th May 20237th July 2023

15th April 2023 • 0 Comment

ACC IN PADDLING MAGAZINE

We love Paddling Magazine and so are especially excited about our latest feature!

You can check out the full article here

22nd March 2023 • 0 Comment

2024 SPONSORSHIP PROGRAM

We are excited to announce our new Supported Sponsorship Program for the 2024 Amazon Canoe Challenge. This program has been designed to help teams achieve sponsorship to participate on the adventure of a lifetime, as we travel over 250 km along the river by traditional canoe.

The program starts in July 2023, and runs until April 2024. Each step in the program has been created to guide teams through everything they need to secure sponsorship, as well as additional fundraising ideas for our community partners in the Amazon.

The program is free – We ask teams for a £99 refundable deposit to participate, which gets taken off the full entry fee. This includes over 9 months of personalised support, our sponsorship guide, worksheets, templates and whole lot more. Even better, our incredible community of adventurers and paddlers from around the world will be there to help you achieve your goals.

Why do we run this program? We believe that adventure should be accessible for all, no matter what your background.

We will select 5 teams to participate in 2024, who can demonstrate their passion for conservation, creating impact, adventure and perseverance. Aside from sponsorship, the funds they raise will go a long way to improving the lives of those in the Ashaninka communities along the Ene & Tambo river.

You can find out here for more information on the program, and get in touch to book your call with our team today.

15th March 2023 • 0 Comment

Latest Feature – ATTA

We’re stoked to be featured in Adventure Travel news by our friends at the Adventure Travel Trade Association. Check out the latest article here to find out more about our story, our team and our mission in the Peruvian Amazon.

Check out some snippets below from our latest feature.

On 11 June 2023, ten teams will depart on the adventure of a lifetime as they race more than 260 km through the Peruvian Amazon by canoe. Held in the heart of the remote Amazon Highlands, the nine-day challenge is hosted in partnership with the Asháninka communities who live along the Ene and Tambo Rivers.

The first event of its kind, the Amazon Canoe Challenge (ACC) aims to push the boundaries of traditional community tourism while raising awareness of the threats facing the local environment and Indigenous communities. By using the challenge as a platform to support tourism development, the ACC team hopes to boost conservation efforts in this part of the Amazon. The challenge route follows the Ene and Tambo Rivers through Asháninka territory, and participants are hosted by communities along the way.

Worldwide, almost 80% of protected land is cared for by Indigenous communities, for whom land stewardship is a deeply ingrained way of life. This includes the region of the Ene and Tambo Rivers, where the communities have been tenacious in their fight for survival – including winning a lengthy legal battle to halt a megadam that would have destroyed their homes and the surrounding rainforest. Antúnez Camacho explained that for his community, the forest is not simply a resource or place. It is part of their life, which is filled with spirits which need to be respected.

“We are referred to as the guardians of the forest many times,” he said. “But what we also want is educational and economic development for our brothers and sisters.”

Spots for the 2024 Amazon Canoe Challenge will be opening soon with the first challenge soon underway in June – Keep an eye out for some exciting content heading your way soon!

We also have a few remaining places on our supported sponsorship program – You can find out more details here.

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