UJ #9 - Adventure in Peru

IMPORTANT
If you are going kayaking you need to
choose a level of difficulty that suits
your possibilities, physical condition and
experience. These are the official standards
(Source: Guide to Cusco Region
by Rafo León, Editorial Planeta). The
agencies should provide a safety boat
to accompany every expedition.
• Level I-II. Rapids that offer some excitement
but are easy and with little
risk.
• Level III-IV. Exciting and with a certain
degree of risk.
• Level V. High risk - for experts only.
• Level VI. Extreme risk: No serious
company should offer this level to
travellers who are not specialists.
Carlos Conan Muñiz
EXPEDITION BY KAYAK
Kayak expeditions on the rivers of Cusco are well known. Today though, let us suggest three alternatives
that could give you a different view of the rest of the country. For example, near to Lima let
us return to Huancaya and the Nor Yauyos Scenic Reserve, six hours by road from Lima, where
trips are available on several lakes, including Valley of the Rapids (with its colonial-era bridge) that
continually challenge explorers. You may also see Lakes Atao and Mayo, and descend the Cabracancha
rapids. More practice: San Jose Cove, a hidden paradise in Quilca, on the Arequipa
coast, where just getting there is an adventure. Paddle in a calm sea and visit the caves and many
unusual rock formations in the area. You will need a couple of days for this trip: in this case, location
is everything; the kayaking is a bonus. Finally, for the more adventurous there are assisted but very
safe programmes on the Colca, in the Cotahuasi Canyon (Arequipa) and on the River Apurimac.
Check the rapid classification on the table included here
WHAT CLOTHES TO WEAR AND WHAT TO
TAKE ON A KAYAKING EXPEDITION
Lycra or nylon shirt (not cotton), swimming
costume or shorts (lycra, synthetic fibre),
trainers or special Lycra shoes, sunglasses
with straps, sunblock, insect repellent, camera
with waterproof cover; safety equipment,
though this is generally provided by
the agency.
Duilio Vellutino
Above: Adventure in the
water. The River Apurimac
is a favoured destination
for lovers of canoeing and
kayaking.
Left: Kayak expeditions,
in which travellers paddle
by day and rest in the
afternoon on the peaceful
beaches at Quilca, on the
Arequipa coast.
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