Paddling Competitions in the Amazon

The Amazon River is the world's largest and second longest river, although there are some geographers who believe the Amazon is actually longer than Nile when measured from different points. Known for vast wildlife and it's rainforest, the Amazon River can be both serene and dangerous. Many travelers flock to the Amazon each year, challenging themselves to raft, or paddle, along the river. As of 2011, there is only one rafting/paddling competition held in the Amazon: the Great River Amazon Raft Race.

  1. The Great River Amazon Raft Race

    • Starting in 1999, the Great River Amazon Raft Race has seen paddlers, rafters, rowers and canoeists attempt the 112 mile race in just three days. Each team makes their own raft out of balsa wood logs the day before the race, which means the race isn't just about who's fastest, it's also about how well the raft is constructed. If the thought of electric eels, piranhas, black caimans, anacondas--or simply paddling for 112 miles--seems a bit overwhelming, there are safety boats that ride along with you throughout the course of the race. The race begins in Nauta, Peru and finishes in Iquitos, Peru.

    History

    • The Great River Amazon Raft Race was founded by Mike Collis, a Birmingham, England transplant. The first raft race, in the summer of 1999, had 43 teams racing a 12-mile stretch of the Amazon in one day. In 2010, the Great River Amazon Raft Race grew to 112 miles and with rafters/paddlers taking part from all over the world. The Amazon Rafting Club was formed in 2006.

    Rules and Fee

    • Each paddling/rafting team must have four people in the crew. Only paddles are allowed--oars and sails are not allowed. Drugs and alcohol are strictly prohibited on the rafts, and life jackets have to be worn at all times. The fee to enter into the competition is $400 per crew, as of 2010. Visit the Great River Amazon Raft Race online to enter your team.