Outdoor USA Magazine

An expedition of kayakers is attempting the first descent of the last major un-run tributary of the Amazon River, the Pongo De Aguirre Gorge on the Rio Haullaga, in Peru. The expedition team departed on September 23, 2010.

The team is comprised of experienced Class V+ whitewater paddlers from the U.S., including Kokatat-sponsored athletes Nate Klema, Matt Klema, Ben Luck and Evan Ross. Ryan Casey and expedition leader Matt Wilson complete the team. Wilson has completed many first descents all over the world, including Peru.

Described as the last major tributary of the South American Amazon River, the Pongo De Aguirre Gorge has been previously attempted by two teams of paddlers. Variables such as weather, rising water, low supplies, inept scouting, and huge whitewater forced both teams to abort their mission. Wilson’s crew has implemented an expedition strategy, learning from the experiences of the prior attempts, by making the descent in the height of the dry season and preparing for over two weeks on the water with plenty of supplies and equipment.

“If successful, we will have paddled nearly 100 miles and dropped 4,000 feet from the Andes to the Peruvian Jungle,” said expedition kayaker, Nate Klema.

For more info, check out Kokatat’s blog.

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