Amazon Expedition Gallery

Photos by Erich Schlegel https://www.erichschlegel.com

The two shots of our camp taken at night in the canyon with the lights of the town of Banos Cortis in the background, was taken by Tino Specht. These pics are located on the bottom of the left hand column.

The shot of West in his sunglasses behind his car was taken by Pam LeBlanc. This shot is located at the bottom of the left hand column.

Amazon Express expedition team members West Hansen, Jeff Wueste and Ian Rolls paddle toward the mouth of Baia de Marajo in Brazil, the end of their four month paddling expedition down the Amazon River toward the Atlantic Ocean. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition leader West Hansen, left, paddles his solo kayak as team members Jeff Wueste and Ian Rolls paddle their tandem kayak after leaving the campsite on Isla de Loreto on the Colombian side of the Amazon River. This was the team's final push through Peru to the Brazilian border. Amazon Express expedition October 27, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition team members from left, Jeff Wueste, Ian Rolls and West Hansen and local guides push their kayak out of their campsite on Isla de Loreto on the Colombian side of the Amazon River. This was the team's final push through Peru to the Brazilian border. Amazon Express expedition October 27, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition team member Ian Rolls at the team's campsite at sunset on Isla de Loreto on the Colombian side of the Amazon River. This was the team's final push through Peru to the Brazilian border. Amazon Express expedition October 26, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition leader West Hansen paddles away from the team's campsite on a raft dock in San Pablo de Loreto on the Amazon River in Peru. This was the team's final push through Peru to the Brazilian border. Amazon Express expedition in Peru October 26, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition team members Ian Rolls, left, and team leader West Hansen bath at sunset on the Amazon River at their campsite on Isla de Loreto on the Colombian side of the Amazon River. This was the team's final push through Peru to the Brazilian border. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition team members from left, Jeff Wueste, West Hansen, and Ian Rolls put up their tents on a raft dock in San Pablo de Loreto on the Amazon River in Peru. This was the team's final push through Peru to the Brazilian border. Amazon Express expedition in Peru October 25, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition leader West Hansen, far right, hangs onto Peruvian Navy boat driver Aroni as he hangs onto Peruvian Navy ensign Emilio Huaco on a boat dock in Tamshiyacu on the Ucayali River in Peru. The Peruvian Coast Guard escorted the Amazon Express expedition through the final phase going into Iquitos, Peru. Amazon Express expedition in Peru October 18, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition leader West Hansen paddles during a heavy rainstorm on the Ucayali River as the team approaches Iquitos, Peru. Amazon Express expedition in Peru October 17, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition leader West Hansen, left, paddles with Jason Jones and John Maika during a heavy rainstorm on the Ucayali River as the team approaches Iquitos, Peru. Amazon Express expedition in Peru October 17, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

The Amazon Express expedition team paddle down the Ucayali River in Peru. Amazon Express expedition in Peru October 16, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

The Amazon Express expedition member Ian Rolls dries his short over the campfire at dawn at a sand beach camp on the Ucayali River in Peru. Amazon Express expedition in Peru October 16, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition members Ian Rolls,, bow, and Jeff Wueste come up on Carlos Magno Hidalgo, 66, and his wife Gertrudis Yenera Paredes, 64, paddling on the Ucayali River in Peru. Amazon Express expedition in Peru October 16, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

The expedition support boat, "The Best" at dawn at sand beach camp on the Ucayali River in Peru. Headlamps light up the inside of the jungle hammocks. Amazon Express expedition in Peru October 17, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition members, from left, Jeff Wueste, Ian Rolls, Jason Jones, and West Hansen toast with ice hold fruit juice aboard the Peruvian Navy vessel "Stiglich" on the Ucayali River in Peru. The Peruvian Navy and Coast Guard provided a security escort through various sections of the Ucayali River where pirates were known to prey on boats. They were invited to spend their lunch break aboard the vessel in air conditioned comfort.. Amazon Express expedition in Peru October 17, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

From left, guide Cesar Pea, Amazon Express expedition members Pete Binion and John Maika rest aboard the Peruvian Navy vessel "Stiglich" on the Ucayali River in Peru. The Peruvian Navy and Coast Guard provided a security escort through various sections of the Ucayali River where pirates were known to prey on boats. They were invited to spend their lunch break aboard the vessel in air conditioned comfort. Above the group is a portrait of Peruvian Navy admiral Miguel Grau, hero of the war with Chile. Amazon Express expedition in Peru October 17, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition leader West Hansen waves goodbye to the people gathered on the bank in Flor de Punga on the Ucayali River in Peru. Amazon Express expedition in Peru October 15, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition member Pete Binion gingerly climbs into his kayak for departure from Flor de Punga on the Ucayali River in Peru. Binion's feet were suffering from jungle rot and he was trying to keep the as dry as possible so they could heal. Binion dropped out of the expedition in Iquitos due to health problems and scheduling with work back home. Amazon Express expedition in Peru October 15, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Surrounded by village children, Amazon Express expedition member Pete Binion gathers his belongings from one of the tandem kayaks upon arrival at Flor de Punga on the Ucayali River in Peru. Amazon Express expedition in Peru October 15, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition leader West Hanen takes a breather upon reaching Flor de Punga on the Ucayali River in Peru. Amazon Express expedition in Peru October 15, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Parrot atop piranhas in front of store at Flor de Punga on the Ucayali River in Peru. Amazon Express expedition in Peru October 15, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Workers unload banana stalks from transport boats at the main port in Pucallpa, Peru. Amazon Express expedition in Peru October 7, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Jason Jones hands out candy to children during a stop in Flor de Punga on the Ucayali River in Peru. Amazon Express expedition in Peru October 13, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Jeff Wueste, back, and Ian Rolls paddle during a calm afternoon near Flor de Punga on the Ucayali River in Peru. Amazon Express expedition in Peru October 15, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

West Hansen dries hit feet out after jungle rot set in due to constant wetness near Flor de Punga on the Ucayali River in Peru. Amazon Express expedition in Peru October 15, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Workers unload banana stalks from transport boats at the main port in Pucallpa, Peru. Amazon Express expedition in Peru October 7, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition at the Miss Pucallpa Pageant in Pucallpa, Peru. Amazon Express expedition in Peru October 6, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition on the Rio Ucayali near Pucallpa, Peru. Amazon Express expedition in Peru October 5, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition camp near Galilea, Peru. Amazon Express expedition in Peru October 4, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition on the Rio Ucayali near Pucallpa, Peru. Amazon Express expedition in Peru October 5, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition camp near Galilea, Peru. Amazon Express expedition in Peru October 4, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition camp near Nueva Italia, Peru. Amazon Express expedition in Peru October 2, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition camp near Runuya, Peru. Amazon Express expedition in Peru October 3, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition camp near Nueva Italia, Peru. Amazon Express expedition in Peru October 2, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition leaves Cuengua, Peru. Amazon Express expedition in Peru October 1, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition leaves Poyeni, Peru. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 30, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition leaves Cuengua, Peru. Amazon Express expedition in Peru October 1, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition leaves Poyeni, Peru. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 30, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition leaves Poyeni, Peru. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 29, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition leaves Puerto Prado, Peru. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 28, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition leaves Puerto Cocos, Peru. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 27, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition leaves Puerto Prado, Peru. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 28, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition leaves Puerto Cocos, Peru. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 27, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition raft guide Juan Antonio de Ugarte of Cuzco, Peru helps some teenagers cross the Rio Mantaro from the village of Mantaro on one side to on the other. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 22, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition member Siabanel Loayza Carbajal watches as the white water team leaves the lower Rio Mantaro jungle campsite. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 22, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition member Daniel Rondon Casos, lays out the pup tent to dry on boulders at sunrise at the lower Rio Mantaro jungle campsite. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 22, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

National Geographic photographer Erich Schlegel reads Joe Kane's book "Running the Amazon" in his jungle hammock at a lower Rio Mantaro campsite. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 22, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express white water kayakers from left, Daniel Rondon Casos, Santiago Ibaez Corpancho, and expedition leader West Hansen coming out of the mountains and into the jungle on the lower Rio Mantaro. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 22, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express white water kayakers from left, Santiago Ibaez Corpancho, Daniel Rondon Casos, and expedition leader West Hansen coming out of the mountains and into the jungle on the lower Rio Mantaro. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 22, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express white water safety kayakers Santiago Ibaez Corpancho, left, and Daniel Rondon Casos fill up water jugs under a waterfall at a campsite spot along the lower Rio Mantaro. The team filled up water bottles with spring water throughout this section. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 22, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express white water safety kayakers Daniel Rondon Casos, left, and Santiago Ibaez Corpancho stand atop a giant boulder at a campsite along the lower Rio Mantaro. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 22, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express white water safety kayaker Santiago Ibaez Corpancho, left, writes in his journal and raft guide Juan Antonio de Ugarte prepares his raft during a lunch break on the lower Rio Mantaro. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 22, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition raft guide Juan Antonio de Ugarte of Cuzco, Peru guides the raft through rapids with Siabanel Loayza Carbajal on the lower Rio Mantaro as white water kayakers follow. From back left, expedition leader West Hansen and Santiago Ibaez Corpancho. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 21, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition raft guide Juan Antonio de Ugarte of Cuzco, Peru guides the raft through rapids on the lower Rio Mantaro as white water kayakers follow. Expedition leader West Hansen swims after capsizing and safety kayaker Daniel Rondon Casos paddles over to help. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 21, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition raft guide Juan Antonio de Ugarte of Cuzco, Peru guides the raft through rapids on the lower Rio Mantaro as white water kayakers follow. From back left, expedition leader West Hansen and Daniel Rondon Casos. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 21, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition raft guide Juan Antonio de Ugarte of Cuzco, Peru at lower Rio Mantaro campsite at dawn. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 20, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Trash at the high water mark at a lower Rio Mantaro campsite. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 21, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition raft guide Juan Antonio de Ugarte of Cuzco, Peru guides the raft through rapids on the lower Rio Mantaro as white water kayakers follow. From back left, expedition leader West Hansen, Daniel Rondon Casos, and Santiago Ibaez Corpancho. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 21, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition raft guide Juan Antonio de Ugarte of Cuzco, Peru guides the raft through rapids on the lower Rio Mantaro as white water kayakers follow. From back left, expedition leader West Hansen, and Daniel Rondon Casos. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 21, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition raft guide Juan Antonio de Ugarte of Cuzco, Peru guides the raft through rapids on the lower Rio Mantaro as white water kayakers follow. From back left, Daniel Rondon Casos (red and blue kayak), Santiago Ibaez Corpancho, and expedition leader West Hansen (far back). Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 21, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition raft guide Juan Antonio de Ugarte of Cuzco, Peru at lower Rio Mantaro campsite at dawn. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 20, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express raft guide Juan Antonio de Ugarte of Cuzco, Peru runs expedition leader West Hansen through white water rapids in the lower Rio Mantaro. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 19, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition leader West Hansen goes over topographic maps with raft guide Juan Antonio de Ugarte, back left, and white water kayakers Santiago Ibaez Corpancho, left, and Siabanel Loayza Carbajal, right, at a campsite on the lower Rio Mantaro. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 19, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express raft guide Juan Antonio de Ugarte of Cuzco, Peru runs expedition leader West Hansen through white water rapids and a splash in the face along the lower Rio Mantaro. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 19, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express raft guide Juan Antonio de Ugarte of Cuzco, Peru runs expedition leader West Hansen through a Class IV rapid in the lower Rio Mantaro. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 19, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition leader West Hansen loads up with fresh water from a waterfall during a lunch stop in the lower canyons of the Rio Mantaro. The team filled up water bottles with spring water throughout this section. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 19, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express raft guide Juan Antonio de Ugarte of Cuzco, Peru and expedition leader West Hansen paddle through the lower canyons of the Rio Mantaro. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 19, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express safety kayakers Daniel Rondon Casos "surfs" a wave after the team stopped for the day in the lower Rio Mantaro canyons. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 18, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

River view en route to Chiqui Bridge put in at the Rio Mantaro. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 18, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express raft guide Juan Antonio de Ugarte of Cuzco, Peru runs expedition leader West Hansen through a Class IV rapid in a box canyon during the last white water section of the Rio Mantaro. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 18, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express raft guide Juan Antonio de Ugarte of Cuzco, Peru runs expedition leader West Hansen through a box canyon during the last white water section of the Rio Mantaro. White water safety team paddles behind the raft. From left, Santiago Ibaez Corpancho, 30, Daniel Rondon Casos, 20, and Siabanel Loayza Carbajal, 22, all from Peru. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 18, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express raft guide Juan Antonio de Ugarte borrows a kayak and runs a white water section after stopping for the day in the lower Rio Mantaro canyons. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 18, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express safety kayakers Daniel Rondon Casos, top, and Siabanel Loayza Carbajal take turns "surfing" a wave after stopping for the day in the lower Rio Mantaro canyons. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 18, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

River view en route to Chiqui Bridge put in at the Rio Mantaro. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 18, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition support van driver Jeff Wueste drives over a questionable bridge en route to the Chiquia Bridge put in at the Rio Mantaro. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 18, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Stop at store for provision en route to last white water put in at Chiqua Bridge over the Rio Mantaro near Surcubamba, Peru. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 18, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition leader West Hansen drags his kayak at dusk while negotiating the Rio Mantaro below Tablachaca Dam. The water is very low in this section of river during Peru's dry season. Water is also low due to the diversion of much of the Rio Mantaro through a tunnel for use in ElectroPeru's largest hydroelectric project downriver. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 13, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition leader West Hansen paddles his kayak in low water while negotiating the Rio Mantaro below Tablachaca Dam. The water is very low in this section of river during Peru's dry season. Water is also low due to the diversion of much of the Rio Mantaro through a tunnel for use in ElectroPeru's largest hydroelectric project downriver. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 13, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition leader West Hansen climbs through boulder fields while negotiating the Rio Mantaro below Tablachaca Dam. The water is very low in this section of river during Peru's dry season. Water is also low due to the diversion of much of the Rio Mantaro through a tunnel for use in ElectroPeru's largest hydroelectric project downriver. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 13, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

With fresh flowers in her hat, Lucia Asurza washes clothes in the Rio Mantaro upstream from Anco, Peru. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 13, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition leader West Hansen tries to jump a two-log bridge at a bridge construction site over the Rio Mantaro as project engineer Idben Chavez tries to make the bridge lower. The water below Tablachaca Dam is very low in this section of river during Peru's dry season. Water is also low due to the diversion of much of the Rio Mantaro through a tunnel for use in ElectroPeru's largest hydroelectric project downriver. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 13, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Bridge construction workers play a soccer game after work on a gravel bar along the Rio Mantaro near Anco, Peru. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 12, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition leader West Hansen climbs through boulder fields while negotiating the Rio Manraro below Tablachaca Dam. The water is very low in this section of river during Peru's dry season. Water is also low due to the diversion of much of the Rio Mantaro through a tunnel for use in ElectroPeru's largest hydroelectric project downriver. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 12, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition member John Maika hauls up leader West Hansen's white water kayak after Hansen paddled the Rio Mantaro near Paccha, Peru. The campsite was an abandoned golf course, Club de Gold La Oroya owned by the Doe Run mine company. Doe Run was shut down three years ago after legal action was taken against the company for contaminating the Rio Mantaro. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 8, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition leader West Hansen portages around the Malpaso Dam after paddling all day in the Rio Mantaro near Paccha, Peru. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 8, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition leader West Hansen re-enters the Rio Mantaro on a cliffside trail after portaging around the Malpaso Dam near Paccha, Peru. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 8, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition leader West Hansen re-enters the Rio Mantaro and paddles by the hydroelectric station after portaging around the Malpaso Dam near Paccha, Peru. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 8, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition leader West Hansen paddles the Rio Mantaro near Paccha, Peru. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 8, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Estela Aguero de Bao, 82, with ranch hand Bernardo Castillo, 71, at her ranch, Rancho Ocac Condorvado on the Rio Mantaro. Ranch is owned and operated by her daughter, Antonia Bao de Trujillo. Amazon Express expedition camped there the previous night. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 8, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition leader West Hansen hands after paddling the Rio Mantaro for three weeks. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 8, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition early morning campsite scene at Rancho Ocac Condorvado on the Rio Mantaro. Ranch is owned by Antonia Bao de Trujillo. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 8, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition leader West Hansen, left, types on his computer as John Maika drinks a cup of coffee at dawn at the team campsite at Rancho Ocac Condorvado on the Rio Mantaro. Ranch is owned by Antonia Bao de Trujillo. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 8, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Old ruins in the town of Cochamarca, Peru which lies on the edge of the Rio San Juan before it becomes the Rio Mantaro near Lago Junin. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 5, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition team camps out along the Rio San Juan near Shongummarca, Peru. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 5, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition leader West Hansen paddles the Rio Mantaro arriving at Rancho Ocac Condorvado. Ranch is owned by Antonia Bao de Trujillo. In the distance is smoke from recent grass wildfires. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 7, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Local wild flower and view of the Rio Mantaro at a ranch in Ocac, Peru. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 7, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Old ruins and a stone church in the town of Cochamarca, Peru which lies on the edge of the Rio San Juan before it becomes the Rio Mantaro near Lago Junin. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 5, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition leader West Hansen approaches an old suspension bridge as he paddles the Rio San Juan below Huaraucaca, Peru. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 5, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition leader West Hansen enters the Rio San Juan in front of the waste heap from the Tajo Alberto mine in Huaraucaca, Peru, September 6, 2012. Mines along the Rio San Juan and Rio Mantaro extract copper, lead, and zinc. Mine waste has been a large contributor to contamination in the rivers. Amazon Express expedition in Peru. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition leader West Hansen lifts his kayak up to paddle the Rio San Juan at the San Juan mine in Huaraucaca, Peru. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 5, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition member Jeff Wueste and West Hansen go over topographic maps of the area before Hansen began paddling the Rio San Juan near Huaraucaca, Peru. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 5, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition leader West Hansen paddles in the Rio San Juan past the San Juan mine in Huaraucaca, Peru. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 5, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition leader West Hansen drags his kayak through a gravel pit where the Rio Gashan is diverted into many different channels. Hansen lost the main flow, but found it later near the town of Sacrafamilia, Peru. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 5, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition leader West Hansen drags his kayak along the road that borders a gravel pit where the Rio Gashan is diverted into many different channels. Hansen lost the main flow, but found it later near the town of Sacrafamilia, Peru. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 5, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition leader West Hansen drags his kayak by Amelia Ayala de la Rose (cq) washing her clothes on the banks of the Rio San Juan in Sacrafamilia, Peru. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 5, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

The shadow of the support vehicle and long kayak shown in the road through Santa Teresa, Peru as the team follow Amazon Express expedition leader West Hansen paddles the Rio San Juan. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 5, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition leader West Hansen paddles in the Rio San Juan toward the San Juan mine in Huaraucaca, Peru. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 5, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition leader West Hansen climbs out of a gravel pit where the Rio Gashan is diverted into many different channels. Hansen lost the main flow, but found it later near the town of Sacrafamilia, Peru. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 5, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition leader West Hansen drags his kayak through ancient Inca ruins along the Rio Gashan. This area is known for its Inca grist mill wheels carved from rock centuries ago. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 5, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition leader West Hansen paddles the Rio Gashan. The river is diverted in several places into concrete aqueducts from the river bed. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 5, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition leader West Hansen passes a calf skull as he drags his kayak along the shallow Rio Gashan. Hansen had to drag his kayak most of the 10 miles covered that day. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 5, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition leader West Hansen paddles the Rio Gashan. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 5, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express white water kayak team from left, Simon Yerovi, (Chile), Tino Specht (USA), Juan Antonio de Ugarte (Peru) and West Hansen (USA) in the raft, and Rafael Ortiz (Mexico) pass under the Chiquia suspension bridge over the Rio Mantaro near Surcubamba, Peru. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 2, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express white water kayak team members from left, Simon Yerovi, (Chile), Rafael Ortiz (Mexico), and Tino Specht (USA) take out of the Rio Mantaro at the Chiquia bridge after three days unsupported in the river. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 2, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express white water kayak team members from left, West Hansen (USA), Juan Antonio de Ugarte (Peru), Tino Specht (USA), Rafael Ortiz (Mexico), Simon Yerovi, (Chile) celebrate after their take out of the Rio Mantaro at the Chiquia bridge after three days unsupported in the river. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 2, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

View into a Rio Mantaro canyon near Surcubamba. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 2, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition team members from left, John Maika, West Hansen, and Jeff Wueste gather round the campfire in the valley of the Rio Gashan. Hansen had stopped at this point weeks prior to jump into the white water of the Rio Mantaro. The team returned so that Hansen could finish this portion. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 5, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition leader West Hansen paddles in the Rio Gashan as team members Jeff Wueste and John Maika return to the support vehicle in the valley of the Rio Gashan. Hansen had stopped at this point weeks prior to jump into the white water of the Rio Mantaro. The team returned so that Hansen could finish this portion. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 5, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express white water kayak team from left, Tino Specht (USA), Juan Antonio de Ugarte (Peru) and West Hansen (USA) in the raft, and Rafael Ortiz (Mexico) pass under the Chiquia suspension bridge over the Rio Mantaro near Surcubamba, Peru. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 2, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition leader West Hansen (Austin, TX) and raft guide Juan Antonio de Ugarte (Peru) paddle toward the huge blast of water released from the pipes coming out of the mountain at ElectroPeru, S.A. in Campo Armio, Peru. Water from Rio Mantaro is piped 19.8 km downhill through the mountains from Tablachaca Dam to Campo Armio, forming Peru's largest hydroelectric complex creating 900 megawatts of power. Amazon Express expedition in Peru, August 31, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Chifa restaurant in Surcubamba, Peru, 28 kim above the Rio Mantaro. Chifa is a style of Chinese cooking with ingredients originally used from China are substituted with those available in Peru. The mural of the Latin American bullfighter (Peru does host bullfights) and the Chinese dragon illustrate the unique cultural differences behind the chifa restaurants. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 2, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition manager David Kelly checks rendezvous point of the white water team with expedition member Ian Rolls at the Chiquia suspension bridge over the Rio Mantaro near Sucurbamba, Peru. Amazon Express expedition in Peru September 2, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Jacinta Berrocal de Perez, 54, sits by her friend Justonata Campos Palomino, 80, selling pig head in the main plaza of Colcobamba, Peru. Amazon Express expedition in Sala de Maquinas in Campo Armio, Peru August 31, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Armando Guavan David walking in Colcobamba, Peru. Amazon Express expedition in Sala de Maquinas in Campo Armio, Peru August 31, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Cow grazes on a small plot of land behind a home in Colcabamba, Peru. The Ayni hand sign is from a recent election. The word Ayni comes from the language of an old native culture called Aymara based in Peru and Bolivia, and it means 'today for you, tomorrow for me.' Ayni is based on the idea of reiprocity: working together as a group for the group, a sharing of ideas and resources, helping one another and having a sense of responsibility for each other. Amazon Express expedition in Peru August 31, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Justonata Campos Palomino, 80, selling pigs head in the main plaza of Colcobamba, Peru. Amazon Express expedition in Peru August 31, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Grain farmer Francisco Suruye, 75, of Matachuju, Peru high above the canyons surrounding the Rio Mantaro. Amazon Express expedition in Peru August 30, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express white water team member Rafael Ortiz (Mexico) warms up in the Rio Huarpa at the confluence of the Rio Mantaro where the team was to paddle 60-miles unsupported. Amazon Express expedition in Peru August 28, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express white water raft guide Juan Antonio de Ugarte (Peru) prepares his raft for the 60-mile unsupported paddle down the Rio Mantaro.at the confluence of the Rio Huarpa. He made the sterling silver necklace shaped like a white water kayak at home. Amazon Express expedition in Peru August 28, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express white water team members Tino Specht (USA), left, and Rafael Ortiz (Mexico) swat at the no-see-ums along the Rio Huarpa where it joins the Rio Mantaro at Peru. They were preparing their gear for the 60-mile unsupported paddle down the Rio Mantaro. Amazon Express expedition in , Peru August 28, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express white water team member Simon Yerovi (Chile) carries his kayak up a creek after pulling out of the Rio Mantaro before Represa Tablachaca due to illness from the contaminated river water. Amazon Express expedition in the Mantaro River downstream from Izcuchaca, Peru August 25, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express white water team member Simon Yerovi (Chile) carries his kayak through a cactus field up from the Rio Mantaro. Yerovi was feeling very ill from the contaminated river water. Two other white water members also became ill that night. Amazon Express expedition in the Mantaro River downstream from Izcuchaca, Peru August 25, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition members spend the night in the Izcuchaca community center. Amazon Express expedition in Izcuchaca, Peru August 26, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Dancers celebrate the patron saint Santiago in the town plaza of Izcuchaca, Peru. Amazon Express expedition in Peru August 26, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Izcuchaca women wear typical embroidered dresses, called "Fustanes", made especially for the celebration of the patron saint Santiago throughout the month of August in the Huancavelica region of Peru. Amazon Express expedition in Peru August 26, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition white water team paddles down Rio Mantaro downstream from Izcuchaca on their way to Tablachaca Dam. Front to back, Rafael Ortiz (Mexico), Tino Specht (USA), Simon Yerovi (Chile), Juan Antonio de Ugarte (Peru) and West Hansen (USA). Amazon Express expedition in Peru August 25, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Local children from the town of Manuel T. climb out of the white water raft during a lunch stop for the Amazon Express white water team. Amazon Express expedition in the Mantaro River downstream from Huancayo, Peru August 24, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express white water team members Tino Specht (USA), right, and Juan Antonio de Ugarte (Peru) drive their raft through rapids in the Rio Mantaro. Amazon Express expedition in the Mantaro River downstream from Huancayo, Peru August 24, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express white water team members Tino Specht (USA), right, and Juan Antonio de Ugarte (Peru) drive their raft through rapids in the Rio Mantaro. Rafael Ortiz (Mexico) in kayak behind the raft. Amazon Express expedition in the Mantaro River downstream from Huancayo, Peru August 24, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition in the Mantaro River downstream from Huancayo, Peru August 24, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express white water team member Tino Specht (USA) plunges into the Rio Mantaro after portaging the Class V "Tiger's Tooth" rapid. Amazon Express expedition in Peru August 24, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express white water team member Rafael Ortiz (Mexico) paddles through white water rapids on the Rio Mantaro. Amazon Express expedition at Lago Agococha near Alpamarca, Peru August 17, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express white water team member Juan Antonio de Ugarte (Peru), left, and expedition leader West Hansen (USA) paddle the white water raft through rapids on the Rio Mantaro. Amazon Express expedition at Lago Agococha near Alpamarca, Peru August 17, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition members break camp high above the Rio Mantaro near the town of Moya, Peru Amazon Express expedition in the Mantaro River downstream from Huancayo, Peru August 24, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express white water team members Rafael Ortiz (Mexico) and Simon Yorovi (Chile) "high five" after negotiating the Rio Mantaro near Moya, Peru, Amazon Express expedition in Peru August 17, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition in the Mantaro River downstream from Huancayo, Peru August 20, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Saul Galvez Vargas, 13, holds onto Amazon Express white water team member Tino Specht's paddle as Specht puts away his gear after a scouting run down the Rio Mantaro. Amazon Express expedition in Peru August 17, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Saul Galvez Vargas, 13, left, and other local boys help Amazon Express white water team member Tino Specht with carrying paddles after a scouting run down the Rio Mantaro. Amazon Express expedition in Peru August 17, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express white water team member Simon Yerovi (Chile) gets a fire going to warm up team members as expedition leader West Hansen (USA) makes a satellite phone call after the raft team flipped and paddlers were forced to swim in the white water on the Rio Mantaro. Amazon Express expedition in Peru August 20, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express white water team members Tino Specht (USA), left, and Simon Yerovi (Chile) heat up their freeze-dried dinners beside the campfire on the first white water overnight campsite on the Rio Mantaro. Amazon Express expedition in Peru August 20, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express white water team members Simon Yerovi (Chile), left, and Rafael Ortiz (Mexico) paddle down the Rio Mantaro. Amazon Express expedition at Lago Agococha near Alpamarca, Peru August 17, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition leader West Hansen (Austin, TX) paddles his white water kayak down the Rio Gachon for several miles before darkness set in. Amazon Express expedition in Peru August 19, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition leader West Hansen (Austin, TX) loads gear into the back of the support pickup truck after the team spent an unscheduled night in the San Pedro de Racco city hall. Amazon Express expedition in San Pedro de Racco, Peru August 20, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express white water team manager David Kelly (USA) passes up a kayak to Juan Antonio de Ugarte after the white water team's unscheduled stop in Tombillo, Peru. Amazon Express expedition in San Pedro de Racco, Peru August 20, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express white water team member Rafael Ortiz (Mexico) ties down kayaks to the top of the van after an unscheduled overnight stop in San Pedro de Racco's city hall. Amazon Express expedition in San Pedro de Racco, Peru August 20, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express white water team members set up camp at the first white water campsite along the Rio Mantaro. Amazon Express expedition in Peru August 20, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express white water team member Juan Antonio de Ugarte checks the canyon against the topographic maps at the first white water campsite. Amazon Express expedition in the Mantaro River downstream from Huancayo, Peru August 20, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Due to low water, Amazon Express expedition leader West Hansen (Austin, TX) drags his white water kayak down a ranch road along the Rio Gashan for several miles. Guide Mauro Ezquivel closes a pasture gate behind Hansen. Amazon Express expedition in Peru August 19, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Due to low water, Amazon Express expedition leader West Hansen (Austin, TX) drags his white water kayak down a ranch road along the Rio Gachon for several miles. Amazon Express expedition in Peru August 19, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express white water team member Tino Specht (USA) plunges into the Rio Gachon just below Laguna Acucocha. A shepherd and his son watch as he enters the water. Amazon Express expedition in Peru August 19, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express white water team member Tino Specht (USA) squeezes under a low bridge on the Rio Gashann just below Laguna Acucocha, August 19, 2012 Amazon Express expedition on Rio between Alpamarca and San Pedro de Racco, Peru. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express white water team member Tino Specht (USA) carefully maneuvers his kayak a under barbed wire fence stretched across the Rio Gachon after leaving Lago Agococha. Amazon Express expedition on Rio between Alpamarca and San Pedro de Racco, Peru August 19, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition on Rio between Alpamarca and San Pedro de Racco, Peru August 19, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition leader West Hansen (Austin, TX), right, and Tino Specht maneuver through the Rio Gashan after leaving Lago Agococha near Alpamarca, Peru. Lago Agococha is possibly the dry season source of the Amazon River. Amazon Express expedition on Rio between Alpamarca and San Pedro de Racco, Peru August 19, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Sun rays stream through storm clouds above Lago Agococha. Amazon Express expedition at Lago Agococha near Alpamarca, Peru August 18, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Rio Gashan river valley viewed from Lago Acucocha. Amazon Express expedition in Peru August 18, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express whtie water team member Tino Specht vaults a barbed wire fence while the team negotiates the Rio Gashan through grazing pastures below Laguna Acucocha. Amazon Express expedition in Peru August 19, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express white water tteam members Rafael Ortiz (Mexico) and expedition leader West Hansen (Austin, TX) come out of Lago Agococha into Rio Gashan near Alpamarca, Peru. Lago Agococha is possibly the dry season source of the Amazon River. Amazon Express expedition at Lago Agococha near Alpamarca, Peru August 18, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express white water tteam members Rafael Ortiz (Mexico) in the yellow kayak and expedition leader West Hansen (Austin, TX) come out of Lago Agococha into Rio Gashan near Alpamarca, Peru. Lago Agococha is possibly the dry season source of the Amazon River. Amazon Express expedition at Lago Agococha near Alpamarca, Peru August 18, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition leader West Hansen (Austin, TX) maneuvers white water in the Rio Gashan after leaving Lago Agococha near Alpamarca, Peru. Lago Agococha is possibly the dry season source of the Amazon River. Amazon Express expedition at Lago Agococha near Alpamarca, Peru August 18, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express white water team members John Maika (Austin, TX), left, Rafael Ortiz (Mexico), right, and expedition leader West Hansen (Austin, TX) , back, portage their kayaks around a llama pen during a snow storm shortly after the start of white water kayaking out of Lago Acucocha. Amazon Express expedition at Lago Acucocha near Alpamarca, Peru August 18, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition leader West Hansen (Austin, TX), left, follows John Maika and Rafael Ortiz (Mexico) who are helping team member Jeff Wueste portage their kayaks through a snow storm shortly after the start of white water kayaking out of Lago Agococha, Amazon Express expedition at Lago Agococha near Alpamarca, Peru August 18, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express white water team members Rafael Ortiz (Mexico), left, and John Maika help team member Jeff Wueste, center, return to camp through a snow storm shortly after the start of white water kayaking out of Lago Agococha, Amazon Express expedition at Lago Agococha near Alpamarca, Peru August 18, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express team members from bottom, Rafael Ortiz (Mexico), Jeff Wueste (Austin, TX), John Maika (Austin, TX) and expedition leader West Hansen (Austin, TX) come out of Lago Agococha into the outflow canal near Alpamarca, Peru. Lago Agococha is possibly the dry season source of the Amazon River. Amazon Express expedition at Lago Agococha near Alpamarca, Peru August 18, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Valve wheel controlling the outflow from Lago Agococha into the Rio Gashan that eventually flows into the Rio Mantaro. Lago Agococha is possibly the dry season source of the Amazon River. Amazon Express expedition at Lago Agococha near Alpamarca, Peru August 18, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

The outflow canal from Lago Agococha near Alpamarca, Peru. Lago Agococha is possibly the dry season source of the Amazon River. Amazon Express expedition at Lago Agococha near August 18, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express Expedition leader West Hansen heats up water for coffee at base camp on Lago Agococha, possibly the dry season source of the Amazon River. Amazon Express expedition at Lago Agococha near Alpamarca, Peru August 18, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Early morning frost on the white water kayaks at base camp on Lago Agococha, possibly the dry season source of the Amazon River. Amazon Express expedition at Lago Agococha near Alpamarca, Peru August 18, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

A spring comes out of a cow pasture above Lago Vacacocha near Alpamarca, Peru. The lake sits above Lago Agococha and could possibly be the source of the Amazon River. Amazon Express expedition at Lago Acococha near Alpamarca, Peru August 17, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express team member Jeff Wueste of Austin, Texas sleeps off altitude sickness on the shore of Lago Agacocha white expedition members scouted for the dry season source of the Amazon River. Team member John Maika, also from Austin rests as wel. Amazon Express expedition at Lago Agococha near Alpamarca, Peru August 17, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition at Lago Acococha near Alpamarca, Peru August 17, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Raft and white water kayaks of the Amazon Express expedition set across Lago Agococha near Alpamarca, Peru after searching for the dry season source of the Amazon River. Amazon Express expedition in Peru August 17, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express white water team manager David Kelly jumps out to push the white water raft over shallow water after crossing Lago Agococha in search of the dry season source of the Amazon River high in the Andes mountains near Alpamarca, Peru. Amazon Express expedition in Peru August 17, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express white water team manager David Kelly looks back to the kayakers as team members paddle the white water raft across Lago Agococha in search of the dry season source of the Amazon River high in the Andes mountains near Alpamarca, Peru. Amazon Express expedition in Peru August 17, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition team members prepare to load onto the white water raft as white water pro kayakers Juan Antonio de Ugarte (Peru), left, and Rafael Ortiz (Mexico) splash into Lago Agococha en route to searching for the dry season source of the Amazon River high in the Andes mountains. Amazon Express expedition in Peru August 17, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition team member and Peruvian white water kayak specialist Juan Antonio de Ugarte makes a satellite phone call during a scouting trip along the Rio Mantaro at the confluence of the Rio Huarpa downstream from Huancayo. Amazon Express expedition in Peru August 13, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express white water team manager David Kelly tries to kick back a plastic toy during a break in Chucchis la Oroya, Peru town square as the team heads to the source. Amazon Express expedition in Tarma, Peru August 16, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition white water kayaks sit in the courtyard of Hacienda Santa Maria during and overnight stop in Tarma, Peru as the team heads to the source high in the Andes mountains. Amazon Express expedition in Tarma, Peru August 16, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Altar with human skeletons and crucifix at the home of in Tarma, Peru. Amazon Express expedition in Tarma, Peru August 17, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Amazon Express expedition at Lago Acococha near Alpamarca, Peru August 17, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

White water pro kayaker Tino Specht, right, helps Amazon Express raft guide Simon Yerovi from Chile pump up the white water raft before crossing Lago Acucocha near Alpamarca, Peru in search of the dry season source of the Amazon River high in the Andes mountains. Amazon Express expedition in Peru August 17, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Preparing the white water kayaks with camera mounts in the courtyard of Hotel Mi Abuela VIP in Huancayo, Peru. Amazon Express expedition in Huancayo, Peru August 12, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Previous Amazon River explorer Piotr Chmielinski, center, gives light to Amazon Express members John Maika, left, and Jeff Wueste as they prepare the white water kayaks with camera mounts in the courtyard of Hotel Mi Abuela VIP in Huancayo, Peru. Amazon Express expedition in Huancayo, Peru August 12, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Preparing the white water kayaks with camera mounts in the courtyard of Hotel Mi Abuela VIP in Huancayo, Peru. Amazon Express expedition in Huancayo, Peru August 12, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Bridge over the Rio Mantaro below Presa Tablachaca (Tablachaca dam) while on scouting trip of the Rio Mantaro downstream from Huancayo. Team was concerned about the amount of water flow below the dam during the dry season. Amazon Express expedition in Peru August 11, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Alex Chmielinski, 15, dances with local residents of Izcuchaca, Peru as they celebrate the Feast Day of their patron saint Santiago in their town square. Alex is the son of Amazon River explorer Piotr Chmielsinki who is helping guide the Amazon Express team to a possible new source of the Amazon River high in the Andes mountains of Peru. Amazon Express expedition in Peru August 11, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Citizens of Izcuchaca, Peru celebrate the patron saint of Santiago in the town plaza. Amazon Express expedition in Huancayo, Peru August 11, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

Alex Chmielinski, 15, sits atop a white water kayak as Isabella Hansen, 13, watches the van as the Amazon Express team picks up the white water raft at a shipping company in Lima, Peru. Alex is the son of Amazon River explorer Piotr Chmielsinki who is helping guide the Amazon Express team to a possible new source of the Amazon River high in the Andes mountains of Peru. Isabella is the daughter of Amazon Express leader West Hansen who will be attempting to paddle the Amazon from possibly a new source to the Atlantic Ocean. Amazon Express expedition in Peru August 10, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel

River scouting trip on the road into the Rio Mantaro valley downstream from Huancayo, Peru. Amazon Express expedition in Peru August 11, 2012. Photo by Erich Schlegel