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The Gorge Run
5 Day Rafting Tour

A journey down the Río Upano is a very special experience. Rafting the Upano we witness the many moods and changing character of a jungle river. We set off on a shallow and braided river having to choose a route where the waters divide into numerous channels. The pace steadily increases until the river plunges into the magnificent Namangosa Gorge. Here we tackle rapids up to grade IV+ in the midst of virgin rainforest and the spectacle of dozens of waterfalls cascading from the lip of the gorge. Finally, the river broadens and deepens to become a calm but powerful giant on it’s way to meet the Río Amazonas. One of the highlights of this trip is the night we spend camped by a Shuar settlement. Here we have the opportunity to visit a traditional farm and learn about the Shuar way of life.

What to bring:

For on the river: swimsuit/shorts, T-shirt, tennis shoes/river sandals, sunglasses (with retention strap), baseball cap, sunscreen and lip balm, insect repellent, water bottle (1litre), thermal top, light rain jacket.

For off the river: long-sleeved shirt, long pants (not jeans), light jumper/fleece jacket), shoes/boots, personal items (i.e. toiletries/medication), sleeping bag, Thermorest or sleeping pad, headlamp or torch, small towel, plastic bags for wet gear.

Day 1:

Fly Quito-Macas (14.00). Drive to our put-in and first night camp. Orientation briefing from the trip leader and meet the guides.

Days 2 – 3:

We begin with a comprehensive safety briefing and instruction in paddling techniques. Then we’ll launch our rafts - laden with camping equipment and fresh supplies - onto the jungle waters. During the days we’ll take time out from the action to explore the edge of the jungle, venture up to cascading waterfalls or simply drift through the calmer stretches in awe at our surroundings. At night we’ll camp on sandy beaches by the side of the river and enjoy an excellent meal in this most extraordinary ‘restaurant’.

Day 4:

After a relaxing morning in our final camp we raft a short distance to the take out point and drive back to Macas. Overnight in Macas.

Day 5:

In the morning you can explore this small jungle town that offers great views across the Upano valley and also the local market which is the center of commerce for the valley. Afternoon flight back to Quito (15:00).