Rio Ancoa

This was mixed feelings mission. After we were turned out at the Maule by an armed guide

with a spanish explanation we could not understand. Well, the gate remained closed and we

headed to our another destination- river Ancoa.

Mike stoked with a local stash of Coke...

The dark caught us on the way and with rain

falling steadily, we were looking for a shelter. No cabanas around, so after some searching we

settled down for an old barn. Stylish kayaker bums accommodation. Well, we were dry which

counts.

Barn, ***** accomodation

On the way to put in

The morning was sunny and after a short drive we got to Ancoa. We were really surprised

by the site. Instead of the typical beautiful Chilean valley, we encountered industrial site full of

heavy machinery building a possible dam. So sad and irritating. After a while we found our

put in.

Mike Goglin, leading into first rapid

Mira Kodada going for it

Me at the first combo (photo Mike Goglin)

The run was interrupted by the building site and at some points the river was

channelized in artificial channel. There are still some fun rapids scattered in the gorge but

taking out at construction zone with trucks around you kind of ruins the experience.

Artificial river

Construction site

Mike showing his opinion

So overall another river soon to be destroyed by the progressive damming. Such a shame :(((