CLASS II RIVERS

These two rivers conjoin right in the middle of Tena and continue until they merge with the Misahualli River and eventually with the Napo River. They are great for beginners since there are few obstacles, easy rapids, and clear channels that require basic maneuverability skills.

The part we run begins just a few kilometers outside of Tena and flows into the middle of town.

– GPS Location: 0°58’60” S 77°49’0″ W
– Altitude: 599 meters above sea level
– Difficulty: Low
– Paddle time: 2 hours
– River type: Class I-II. Calm, slow, low volume.

Lower Anzu This is another great river for beginners. The Anzu begins in the Abitahua mountain range and continues until it merges with the Jatunyacu River. Since it’s headwaters are in the jungle, the water temperature is always just right. The river is wide and deep, with pools, beaches, curves, slow currents surrounded by beautiful jungle. It’s common to see fishermen, people panning for gold, and children from nearby communities near the river.

GPS Location: 1°4’0″ S 77°48’0″ W
Altitude: 535 meters above sea level
Difficulty: Low
Length: 17 km
Paddle time: 3 hours
River type: Class I-II. Calm, slow, medium volume.

Middle Anzu This part of the Anzu is 30 minutes from Tena and has several Class II rapids for beginners to practice. There are some nice eddies to practice entering and exiting the river. Some of the rapids have good waves and give newbies the chance to practice paddling. At the different beaches we stop to practice rolling, rescue techniques and just to enjoy the area.

GPS Location: 1°4’0″ S 77°48’0″ W
Altitude: 572 meters above sea level
Difficulty: Low
Length: 25 km
Paddle time: 3 hours
River type: Class II. Irregular, medium speed, medium volume.

Upper Anzu This part of the river is great for learning to read the river. We learn the difference between regular and irregular waves, holes, eddies and the different types of currents that make this a Class III river. The area is full of colorful birds, insects and butterflies.

GPS Location: 1°4’0″ S y 77°48’0″ W
Altitude: 596 meters above sea level
Difficulty: Medium
Length: 30 km
Paddle time: 4 hours
River type: Class III. Irregular, medium speed and volume.

Middle Jatunyacu This section of river has regular and irregular waves, huge granite rocks, and holes of all shapes and sizes. The rapids end in calm pools which make this river a trustworthy choice for beginners to better their technique.
This river is run year-round and the rapids change according to the water level. What doesn’t change are the amazing views of the mountains, the sounds of the jungle and the cool water in the hot jungle.

– GPS Location: 1°4’0″ S 77°48’0″ W
– Altitude: 521 meters above sea level
– Difficulty: Medium-low
– Length: 20 km
– Paddle time: 3 hours
– River type: Class III. Medium speed. High water.

Upper Jatunyacu This section of river is for novice paddlers looking to enjoy some Class III big water. It is located 30 minutes from Tena.

– GPS Location: 1°4’0″ S 77°48’0″ W
– Altitude: 530 MASL
– Difficulty: Medium
– Length: 27 km
– Paddle time: 4 hours
– River type: Class III. Medium speed. High water.

Lower Jondachi Its headwaters come from the Sumaco Volcano and form a long succession of picturesque Class III rapids with small waves, volcanic rocks and bright green vegetation all around. The level of the river varies depending on the rain. It is fed by numerous streams and is attractive year round. The Lower Jondachi is about 45 minutes from Tena.

– GPS Location: 0°54’0″ S 77°43’60” W
– Altitude: 754 meters above sea level
– Length: 38 km
– Paddle time: 4 hours
– River type: Class III+. Medium-high speed. Medium volume.

Middle Jondachi From the bridge above we can see the Class IV rapids that await us. Whitewater rises above waves, holes, curves, and rocks making for plenty of action. The steady gradient keeps the speed of the river constant. We stop to scout out some of the rapids and look for the various lines formed by the river to understand the force of the water we will be running. The Jondachi joins with the Hollin to create a big water experience full of fun.

– GPS Location: 0°54’0″ S 77°43’60” W
– Altitude: 793 meters above sea level
– Length: 45 km (depending on take out spot)
– Paddle time: 4 hours (depending on take out spot)
– River type: Solid Class IV. Medium-high speed. Medium volume.

Upper Jondachi The upper stretch of the Jondachi is short and very fast moving. We recommend this section to experienced paddlers who feel confident in Class V rapids. The pronounced gradient and granite boulders make for flowing currents, speed and several spectacular rapids.

– GPS Location: 0°54’0″ S 77°43’60” W
– Altitude: 829 meters above sea level
– Difficulty: High
– Length: 10 km
– Paddle time: 2 hours (depending on exit site)
– River type: Class V. High speed. Medium volume.