Week of Rivers - Esprit Rafting Adventures

ESPRIT MEXICO
Canoeing,
Kayaking, Inflatable
Kayaking, Rafting and
Multi Sport
Adventures
MEXICO WEEK OF RIVERS/MEXICO WEEK OF ADVENTURE
If you have a passion for the river, a spirit of adventure and an
enthusiasm for cultural discovery ... Then join us at Esprit this winter
in Jalcomulco Veracruz Mexico. Experience why National Geographic
rates us the world’s #1 whitewater/adventure company! Hasta Pronto!
(View Video)!!
!
!
!
!
!
Jim, Barbara TaÏgan & Team Esprit Mexico
[1]
ABOUT ESPRIT
In The Beginning
Esprit was founded in 1992 by International Adventure Travel Guide
and whitewater paddler Jim Coffey. Originating in Canada, Esprit
has grown to operate the Whitewater Intensive Leadership
Development school (WILD) a world renown Whitewater Guide
Training Program as well as award winning Eco-Adventure/Paddling
Holidays in Mexico.
Doing Things Differently has always been a trademark of Esprit.
Most travel companies will tell you that they “aim for excellence”.
At Esprit we decided to go one step further. We maintain the
highest of standards in our product and our operations, but we also
strive for excellence in our environmental and cultural ethics. We
aim to be good citizens and ambassadors in the communities and
wilderness areas where we operate. We are members of 1% For
The Planet, Leave No Trace, The International Ecotourism Society.
We have also been recognized for our sustainability practices and
our “Spirit of Adventure” by National Geographic.
Fueling Our Advocacy is the philosophy that “Doing the right
thing... is the right thing to do!”. We believe that people who care
about our planet will choose Esprit as their adventure company
because we speak for communities, rivers and the environment.
Di NO a Las Presa! Currently, there is some protection in place
on our watershed in the Mexican state of Veracruz. However,
private interests are seeking approval to build 7 hydro electric
stations along the Antigua River. The project will devastate and
destroy both the river and the community. Join us this winter in
Jalcomulco and Say NO to the Dams!
Say No to
the Dams
(View Video)
Random Acts of Kindness
As a tourist operation, we
bring economic benefit to
Jalcomulco. But we wanted to
do more. We started the
Hermanos Project to allow our
guests to help poor people in
our community who live beyond
the “touch of tourism”. We
provide an opportunity for
our guests to purchase a $25
“gift” and deliver that gift
directly to people in the
community who need help in
their daily lives.
[2]
Team Esprit Mexico
Jim Coffey heads up Team Esprit Mexico. He has worked in over
30 countries and has made a full time career canoeing, kayaking
and rafting around the world. Jim is a world-renowned specialist
in Swiftwater Rescue Instruction and is a certified Wilderness
Emergency Medical Technician (WEMT). Jim is fluent in Spanish
and English. He passionately expresses his social and
environmental advocacy and has woven his principals into the
fabric of Esprit. In 2008 National Geographic named Esprit as the
world’s #1 Whitewater Outfitter based on the company’s
sustainability practices and its Spirit of Adventure. Jim leads our
canoeing, kayaking, rafting and Week of Adventure trips.
Barbara Hinojosa adorns Esprit with the spirit and culture of
Mexico. Born in Veracruz, she has made Jalcomulco her home
since 1998. Barbara is fluent in Spanish and English. She was
one of Mexico’s first female adventure guides and has worked in
Canada, Costa Rica, Honduras, Guatamala, Panama, Israel and
Scotland. Schooled in Tourism, Hospitality, and Gastronomy, she
adds a special touch and flavour to our operation. Barbara leads
rafting, inflatable kayaking and Week of Adventure trips at Esprit.
Lalo Ruiz is our head kayak guide for our Week of Rivers
programs. He is an expert kayaker and excellent guide. Lalo is
fluent in Spanish and English. His experience and his charm make
him a guest favorite at Esprit.
Martin Breu aka The Great Gonzo is a new addition to Team
Esprit Mexico. A well know expert OC1 paddler, GONZO adds
additional expertise to our canoe programs. Martin is fluent in
English, German and French...he is working on his Spanish!
Male suada
Quis Dolor
Set Ipsum
[3]
GUIDE TEAM
SPECIAL GUESTS
Each year Esprit recruits a series
of Special Guest Paddlers to help
lead our paddling programs.
Apart form hosting some of the
sports biggest names and best
paddlers they are chosen for
their personable and
approachable instructional skills
both on and off the river. Take
advantage of this great
opportunity to paddle and learn
from some of the best!
DATES
Team Esprit
Jim Coffey
Barbara Hinojosa
Lalo Ruiz
Martin Breu
Anna Levesque
Andrew Holcombe
Dooley Tombras
Eli Helbert
Mark Scriver
James Weir
[4]
New guest paddler join our
Esprit Team at various times
throughout the season. The
best way to keep up to date is
by periodically checking on our
website www.whitewater.ca .
MEXICO WEEK OF RIVERS
JOIN US FOR AN AMAZING ARRAY OF WORLD CLASS
RIVERS BY CANOE, KAYAK, RAFT OR INFLATABLE KAYAK
Itinerary at a Glance
Day 1 Arrive Veracruz
Mexico and transfer to
Jalcomulco.
Day 2 Paddle the
Lower Antigua River
(Class II & III).
A great warm up for our
week on the river!
Day 5 Barranca
Grande River,
Monte Blanco
section (Class
III). Too many
rapids to
mention by name!
Day 6 Barranca
Grande 4X4 &
Pescados sections
Day 3 Paddle the
Actopan River (Class II & (Class III & IV). The
III). Start the day with a day starts with plenty
of action and finishes
7m waterfall plunging
as we paddle right
into a crystal clear pool.
back into town!
Day 4 Barranca Grande
Day 7 Tomata/
River, Amatitla section
Alseseca river El
(Class III & IV). 17 km
Tablazo section (Class
of fast and continuous
IV). Waterfalls? Did I
whitewater.
here waterfalls?
How to Join
Its easy!
Contact our office by phone toll
free at 1 800-596-7238
or email us at
[email protected]
You can also book online at
www.whitewater.ca
Day 8 Return to
Veracruz for departure
or overnight.
Includes:
\
Delicious food
Experienced guides
All in country transportation
Comfortable accommodations
Remote river camps
Modern fleet of boats
FUN,FUN,FUN!
Costs/Payments
GROUP DISCOUNT
$1550 CDN
Payment can be made by
cheque made out to Esprit
Adventures or by any major
credit card. A $250.00
deposit is required to reserve
your space.
BRING 4 FRIENDS AND
YOU JOIN US FREE! OR
SHARE THE DISCOUNT
AND SAVE 20% EACH.
PAY JUST $1240 P/P
[5]
CONTACT US AT
[email protected] FOR
CUSTOMIZED ITINERARIES
WEEK OF RIVERS
ARRIVAL DAY
Day 1 Highlights
Meet Our TEAM
Scenic Drive
Settle Into Town
Happy Hour Caña Coladas
Welcome Dinner
DAY 1: Arrival in Mexico
One of our Esprit guides will meet you on arrival at the Veracruz
International Airport. Please arrive by 1700h (5:00 pm) for our 2hour transfer to our base in Jalcomulco. If you cannot arrive by
1700h (5:00pm), please plan to arrive a day early or make
alternate shuttle arrangements (please review our special arrival
instructions).
It is a pleasant 2-hour journey into the mountains of the Sierra
Madre. From sea level we make a dramatic rise in elevation to our
home in the enchanting village of Jalcomulco. On the way we pass
through the coffee plantations of Coatepec, across the plateaus of
the Sierra Madre and down through the mango groves of the
Antigua River Valley, a spectacular visual introduction to the
region!
Arriving in town, we’ll settle ourselves into the pace of village life
where generations of families have lived harvesting sugar cane,
mangos and trapping langostinos (the giant crawfish the village is
justly famous for!). Our home for the week will be in the heart of
the village in a classic hacienda called La Villa.
Each room is equipped with comfortable beds, private bath and
hot/cold shower. The grounds and amenities feature a very
traditional style hacienda surrounding an inner tropical courtyard
with access to hammocks, a refreshing pool, computer access and
wireless internet (lobby area only). Upon arrival, we enjoy a
traditional Mexican dinner prepared by the ladies of Jalcomulco
welcoming you to their village! An awesome start to an
amazing week!
Jalcomulco
Our gateway to
Whitewater/
Adventure
How we found Jalcomulco
Back in 1995 we were
invited to Jalcomulco to
help train local guides
for an emerging rafting/
adventure tourism
industry. We thought we
might stay 2 or 3 years...
“until we had seen and
done it all”... well, we
are still finding new
rivers and awesome
adventures. Jalcomulco is
truly our second home!
Jim, Barbara & Taïgan
[6]
DAY 2: Village & Antigua River
Jalcomulco is an AMAZING whitewater/adventure destination.
The town consists of 6 streets running parallel to the river and 6
streets running perpendicular to the river. The river features
100km of class II, III, and IV whitewater, “Jalco” as we
affectionately call it is located at the 70km mark. The town has
4 schools, 2 soccer fields, a library, a medical centre and in the
evenings antojitos stands (mexican snack stands) and cantinas
open up that are, in fact, too numerous to count! Jalcomulco
hosts 20 local rafting companies all vying for Mexican rafting
customers and one international operator (you guessed it...
Esprit).
Our 2nd morning starts with a delicious breakfast served along
with locally roasted coffee. After breakfast we set off on foot to
explore the town and meet the friendly people of Jalcomulco.
The village has 3000 residents (including chickens, dogs and
donkeys!). It’s a great opportunity to get a sense of the town,
meet some of our local friends as well as stretch our legs before
getting into our boats for the next 6 days.
After outfitting our boats we aim for a mid morning departure to
paddle the lower Antigua River. This stretch of river offers a fun,
low intensity class II-III paddle which winds its way through
mango groves and sugar cane fields. Everyone gets a chance to
get used to their boats, surf a bit, and have some fun. We’ll
shake off the winter dust and get you warmed up for the week of
paddling ahead.
Dinner and overnight in Jalcomulco.
WEEK OF RIVERS
Lower Antigua
Day 2 Highlights
Tour of Town
Boat Customizing
18 km Paddle
Puertos de Infierno
Happy Hour-Mojitos
JALCOMULCO NEEDS YOUR HELP
More than 75 years ago the Antigua River
was given special protection as a national
treasure under Presidential decree.
Currently, a threat to appeal this law has
been launched for the development of 7
hydro projects. Jalcomulco depends on
the river and adventure tourism for it
Getting
everyone on the
same page!
social and economic survival.
Joining us in Jalcomulco helps us support
the community to preserve the river .
¡ DI NO A LAS PRESAS!
(SAY NO TO THE DAMS!)
[7]
DAY 3: Paddling the Actopan
WEEK OF RIVERS
ACTOPAN RIVER
Day 3 Highlights
Sample tropical fruit
Nature preserve
7m Waterfall
Crystal clear water
Paddle up restaurant
Happy Hour-Caña Sunrise
After breakfast, we travel north to the next valley to paddle the
Actopan River. The spring-fed, class II-III Actopan bursts from
the mossy limestone cliffs having travelled over 150km
underground from the mountain of Perote. The put-in is a
private nature reserve called an UMA. We tour the reserve’s
butterfly nursery, and learn about their animal rescue program.
Toucans, parrots, crocodiles and iguanas are brought to the UMA
by government agencies (PROFEPA) after being confiscated from
people keeping these wild animals as pets. At the UMA they are
either rehabilitated for release into the wild or kept securely in
captivity for breeding.
Our river run starts with a spectacular 7m. waterfall which
plunges cleanly into a crystal clear sapphire coloured pool. The
next 15 minutes whiz by as the river descends through the “wild
mile” of tight and continuous class III whitewater. Lunch is at a
“paddle up” riverside restaurant with a traditional feast of
quesadillas, rice, beans and fresh local fruit. After lunch the
river mellows slightly as we paddle through “chayote” vines (a
local vegetable on tonights dinner menu) and mango groves
known for arriving one month earlier than in other valleys of the
region. Narrow, quick and pristine – the Actopan River is a fun,
fast paced river that will have you laughing, smiling and loving
Mexico.
Dinner and overnight in Jalcomulco.
7m
waterfall
into crystal
clear water
Watching A Dream Come True
Our friend Dr. Fernando
Quirarte had a vision. He took
an abandoned parking lot and
tailored it into a private
nature reserve. The work he has
done is breath-taking, but it
is far from over! He has just
been commissioned to grow 1
million (1 000 000) endangered
native trees and give them to
local farmers for local
reforestation. I marvel in
watching someones dream come
true...it is truly inspiring!
[8]
DAY 4: Barranca Grande to Amititla
After breakfast we travel upstream from town to the upper
reaches of the Antigua River. The scenic drive will take us up
into the highlands surrounding the village of Xico. Dropping
down a spectacular put in road clinging to the edge of the
mountain, we reach the put in of the Barranca Grande section of
river.
This is the beginning of our 3-day expedition featuring
continuous class II-III-IV whitewater through a spectacular
canyon over 300m deep. Our first day is narrow and fast with
18km of continuous whitewater. Although there are a lot of
eddies, the main flow never quits... its like one really long
rapid! Take breaks often to enjoy the spectacular scenery of the
canyon! The canyon walls are adorned by ancient tree ferns a
plant species that dates back to the Jurassic. The river cuts a
swath through virgin “Cloud Forest” the transitional zone
between the alpine upper reaches of the river and the tropical
rainforest further downstream. There is no other way to explore
this amazing area than by river...Mother Natures Highway! As
the whitewater begins to offer more eddies between rapids, we
end our day beneath a swinging footbridge that leads to the
remote coffee station of Amititla. We spend the night here as
guests of a local family camping on their coffee drying
platforms.
WEEK OF RIVERS
Barranca Grande
Day 4 Highlights
Spectacular Drive
Stunning Photo Ops
18km CONTINUOUS Rapids
300m Deep Canyon
Native Cloud Forest
Overnight Camp
Happy Hour-Caña Libre
Dinner and overnight in Amatitla.
FIrst Descent
My first trip down the
Barranca Grande was one of
the most memorable river
trips I had ever done.
What impressed me was the
absolutely continuous
nature of the rapids...
they just kept going. The
river cuts through a
spectacular canyon oozing
with rainforest greenery.
For those that have been to
Costa Rica, this section is
Mexico’s Pacuare!
Tight,
Technical &
Continuous!
[9]
DAY 5: Barranca Grande to Monte Blanco
WEEK OF RIVERS
Barranca Grande
Day 5 Highlights
Spectacular Canyon
Scenic Hidden Waterfall
Lots of Whitewater
Monte Blanco Camp
Happy Hour-Caipiriñas
After a leisurely breakfast, we begin our second day of
paddling the Barranca Grande. This stretch of whitewater
features too numerous rapids to name. Most are class III
pool drop rapids with swift moving current tugging us toward
our camp. The gorge gradually gives way to mango
plantations, coffee fields and other signs of civilization as we
make our way downstream, covering close to 28 km of water
before reaching our Monte Blanco camp, just upstream of the
infamous “four IV’s.” Tonight, you’ll be treated to a riverside
dinner prepared by your guides overlooking the river.
Our Monte Blanco camp is another special place owned by our
friends Alejandro and Manuel May Lovillo. The two brothers
built the camp as a community project to provide an outdoor
education centre for local schools. They have developed and
produced an amazing composting system, have installed solar
lighting and have integrated the camp into the local
environment. Alejandro, the former municipal president,
currently a school teacher brings his student to the river to
teach them about the local environment, connecting them with
the natural world and to have more fun than sitting in a
classroom.
Unfortunately, just in front Monte Blanco camp is one of
proposed dam sites. Alejandro and Manuel are hoping that
tourism will help prevent the dams from destroying their
beautiful camp.
Alejandro May Lovillo
There are few people I have
met who speak more
passionately and eloquently
for the environment than
Alejandro. As municipal
president of the neighboring
community of Teocelo he
integrated the regions first
organic garbage collection
and many other environmental
“firsts”. We are proud to
partner with him and Manuel
at Monte Blanco Camp.
Brace
yourself for a
great week of
Paddling!
[10]
DAY 6: Barranca Grande
The “Four IV’s” & Pescados Section
Our third day of paddling the Barranca Grande begins
with the infamous “Four IV’s”. Extra volume of water is
added by the Texolo River giving these four technical
class IV rapids well deserved reputations! Rapids such as
Classe Cinco, The Drop, El Cepillo, La Rana and the
newly formed “Secret Rapid” will have you crashing
through steep narrow drops, and make the perfect start
to an awesome day of paddling.
After lunch we begin our descent of the famous Pescados
section of the river. It is the most popular commercial
paddling section in Mexico. The Pescados is known for its
sharp corners, steep drops and the “Bruja Blanca...aka
White Witch”. Our three day paddling expedition ends as
we paddle right back into Jalcomulco. Hot showers, a
local masseuse and a “temascal” (local sweat/sauna
ceremony) await to soothe any aching bodies as we kick
back in town. We join our friends Gabi and Mario in their
local restaurant for dinner. Later in the evening we will
show our photo presentation of our trip so far usually
filled with some and the “chills and spills”, scenery,
people and magic moments of the trip. After the show
feel free to join the staff at La Prueba or The Gecko for a
nightcap (or feel free to head off to bed). Overnight in
Jalcomulco.
WEEK OF RIVERS
Barranca Grande
Day 2 Highlights
4X4 Rapids
Pescados Section
Return to Jalcomulco
Temescal
Photo Presentation
Dinner/Happy Hour
Rapido Escondido
For many years we paddled the
Barranca Grande and never even
knew that the best rapid on the
river was hidden behind a
secret entrance choked with
trees and boulders. Well, the
floods of 2010 changed all
that! The river cut a new
course and cleaned out the
entry revealing what is now our
FAVORITE rapid on the river.
With multiple lines we usually
take the time to run it again..
and again... .
Secret
Rapid
Rapido
Escondido
[11]
DAY 7: Tomata/Alseseca River or Ziplines
Open-boaters and kayakers have the option to explore the steep
creek “waterfall wonderland” of the Alseseca. A 2-hour drive from
Alseseca/Ziplines
Jalcomulco, we head inland past the snow capped peak of Pico
Day 7 Highlights Orizaba to the put in of the Tablazo/Roadside section of the river.
Less than 3 km in length, this short action packed river offers some
the best and accessible creeking in Mexico. Awesome photo
Waterfall Wonderland
Soaring Above The River opportunities abound as we work our way through a series of
spectacular waterfalls and slides! Challenging for advanced paddlers
Happy Hour-Margaritas
yet forgiving for beginners the Alseseca can be enjoyed equally by
Tequila Sampling
all paddlers. Each rapid can easily be scouted and walked for those
Final Banquet Dinner
who choose. For those running the most challenging rapids our
Trip Video Presentation Esprit staff have “got your back” as they set up intricate safety
systems including “live bait” rescue.
For rafters and those who would like some dryland adventure we
take to the air and soar while ziplining high above the Antigua River.
The afternoon is free to stroll through Jalcomulco and relax, try a
whitewater kayaking lesson, or Inflatable Kayak from town to the
next village of Apazapan.
This exciting and rewarding day is capped off with a final banquet
dinner, icy cold Margaritas, tequila sampling and the video
presentation of the week in the home of Jim, Barbara and Taïgan
the owners/directors of Esprit. Overnight in Jalcomulco.
WEEK OF RIVERS
Feb. 11 2011
Barbara was almost full term
and we had been laying low
for a few weeks. We knew our
first child could be born at
any moment. It turned out we
were one OC1 guide and one
driver short for our last
day of paddling with 13
European boaters. We took
the chance and went to the
river. I guided and Barbara
drove...Taïgan was born the
next day, Feb. 12 2011!
THAT WAS LUCKY!
Gravity
Check on the
Alseseca!
[12]
WHO’S NEXT? JOIN
US IN JALCOMULCO
Day 8: Departure for Veracruz
As we enjoy our final group breakfast we laugh
and remember the highlights of our trip. Then
at 0800h it’s back to Veracruz to either catch
your flight or enjoy an afternoon and evening
in the coastal city of Veracruz. Here we will say
our goodbyes and make plans for our next
adventure! For those staying an extra night in
Veracruz there are many fun things to see and
do including visiting the old Fort of San Juan de
Ulua, the aquarium, a boat cruise out to
Cancuncito and la Isla de Sacrificios or kick
back with a cerveza in Los Portales!
*Itinerary subject to change due to
circumstances beyond our control.
Last updated
July 2011
For Further information Please contact us by
Telephone: 1 800 596 7238 or 819 683 3241
SKYPE: Espritmex
E-Mail [email protected]
Online www.whitewater.ca
[13]
Arriving in Mexico
We have a series of different Arrival and Departure instructions depending on which trip and
destination you are participating on. Please read these instructions carefully to ensure a worry free
arrival with a minimum of concern in the event your arrival/pick up has been altered or delayed.
Mexico Week of Rivers/Eco-Adventure Discovery arrivals into Veracruz.
The standard arrival procedure is to arrive at the Veracruz International Airport (Las Bajadas, airport
code VER).
Veracruz is serviced by both domestic flights from Mexico City and Cancun as well as international
flights from Houston (Continental) and Dallas (American). You should plan on arriving on Saturday
before 1700h (5:00pm). All Saturday flights arriving before 1700h will be met at the airport by an
Esprit guide holding a yellow paddle. At 1700h we will transfer to Jalcomulco where we will be based
for our week of Rivers/Adventure.
FAQ… What if there is no guide with a yellow paddle there to meet me?
Sometimes circumstances beyond our reasonable control can occur delaying our transportation. In
the event there is no one waiting for you with a paddle in hand, please wait for
30 minutes after your scheduled arrival time as it is likely that they will arrive shortly. In the event
that after 30 minutes your transport still has not arrived please head to a TELMEX payphone (located
in the airport) and dial our Toll-Free Mexico Number to Casa Esprit: 01-800-831-5635 and we can
update you on the status of your pick up.
FAQ… What if I get delayed before I reach Mexico or in Mexico City.
Don’t worry, sometimes it happens. If you will not be arriving as planned you can call us toll free in
Canada or the USA at 1 800-596 -7238 and our Canadian office will relay the information onto us in
Mexico. In the event you are delayed in Mexico City or elsewhere in the country you can call our
Mexico toll free number 01 800 831 5635. At anytime you can email us at [email protected] to
update us on your progress.
FAQ… What if I am arriving a day early or after 1700h (5:00 pm)?
Early arrivals are no problem. Unfortunately, we will not be able to meet your flight, but can arrange
an airport reception and transfer for you to your hotel for $30 p/p (or grab a taxi for $20). We will
meet all early arrivals at the Hotel Mocambo in Boca Del Rio at 1600h (4:00pm) to transfer to
Jalcomulco. The Mocambo is easily reached by taxi from any hotel in Veracruz. Extra night and early
arrival accommodation are not included in your trip price. We can help make accommodation
arrangements and reservations for early arrivals/late departures (at discounted rates). We have 3
hotels to choose from spanning the range from “Cheap and Cheerful” to “Elegant and Fancy”.
We can arrange custom transportation to meet your flight, pick you up and transfer you to
Jalcomulco for a fee of $100 for the 2 hr. trip to Jalcomulco.
FAQ…Can I fly into Mexico City and bus to Veracruz or Xalapa?
Yes, Veracruz is easy to reach by bus. Upon arrival in Veracruz you will need to taxi to the Hotel
Mocambo in Boca del Rio to meet the 1600h (4:00pm) shuttle to Jalcomulco. Late arrivals can be
transferred by custom transportation after 1700h (5:00pm) on Saturday for a fee of $100 for the 2
hr. trip to Jalcomulco. Alternatively, those flying into Mexico City can be met for $50 p/p in Xalapa,
Veracruz at 2100h (9:00pm). Anyone considering arriving in Mexico City and busing to meet us can
request specific instructions from us. It is an easy, secure, inexpensive and a comfortable trip.
[14]
Departure Information
Our group transfer from Jalcomulco to Veracruz departs at 0800h on Saturday morning. This
allows sufficient time to get to the airport for Saturday departures leaving VER on Continental flight
(CO2408) departing at 1139h or any other flight later in the day.
For departures earlier than 1130h in the morning we can arrange a private transfer for $100 to
take you to Veracruz at the hour of your choice.
We highly recommend departing Veracruz on Sunday and enjoying an afternoon and evening in one
of Mexico’s most vibrant coastal cities. Some recommended activities include visiting Veracruz’s
historic fort San Juan de Ulua, the city’s world class aquarium, a boat trip out to Cancuncito (little
Cancun) and Isla del Sacraficios (Sacrifice Island), artisan shopping… not to mention taking in
some cerveza and music in Los Portales. Los Portales is the historic “main square” of Veracruz…
rated as one of the best places in Mexico to sit and have a beer by Lonely Planet).
Additional nights Accommodations in Veracruz we are pleased to make night prior/night after
reservations for you in Veracruz. Please let us know which hotel you prefer, how many people, and
the nights required.
Accommodation in Veracruz (for early arrivals or late departures)
Hotel
Rating
Hotel Mocambo
4.5 
Hotel Veracruz
Centro Historico
3.5
Hotel Real del Mar
2.5
Description
A venerable, elegant, Luxury Hotel with
beautiful gardens, pool and ocean views.
The Mocambo was the first hotel of its
kind on the Gulf of Mexico.
A clean, comfortable and modern hotel
ideally located on the main square (Los
Portales/Zocolo) of colonial Veracruz.
Highly recommended! This is where
most of our participants choose to stay.
A great find across from the beach and
Aquarium with clean simple rooms
surrounding a garden courtyard and pool.
It rates as our most "cheap and cheerful"
option in Veracruz.
[15]
Cost
Approx. $150 per
night. (based on
double occupancy)
Approx. $100 per
night. (based on
double occupancy)
Approx. $50 per
night. (based on
double occupancy)
Esprit Mexico Trips - General Information
Mexico is an extremely large country covering almost two million
square km. Our trips concentrate on experiencing a small area
very well rather than trying to see everything in just one week.
Veracruz is a long narrow state geographically similar to the State
of California. A long, fertile, rich coastline gives way to a
mountainous cordillera with snow capped peaks, sub tropical cloud
forest, tropical rainforest and continuous, remote and pristine
rivers. The centre for adventure is concentrated in the enchanting
village of Jalcomulco. Esprit’s director and founder, Jim Coffey first
stumbled through Jalcomulco in 1995 looking for an ideal ecoadventure travel destination with great rivers, ancient culture and
friendly townspeople. The Veracruz region is famous for the rise
and fall of many great indigenous civilizations from the Olmecs
and the Toltecs, to the Totonacs and the Aztecs who eventually fell
to the colonization of Spain under the leadership of Cortes in
1521. We will encounter many friendly people who are
descendants of both ancient civilizations as well as “modern
Mexico”.
GENERAL INFO
Language
Spanish is the official language of Mexico. You will have plenty of
opportunities to practice your Spanish and many people
(especially students) will want to practice their English with you.
The language barrier can immediately be broken by trying to
speak even just a little Spanish and by smiling a lot!
Gulf of Mexico
Veracruz Is a
Long Narrow and
Mountainous State
like California
Jalcomulco
Tortilla Making
Veracruz City
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Although tortilla making might
not sound like a challenge it
is in fact much harder than it
looks! For those up to the
test our 2 “Cocineras” Doña
Bertha and Doña Bertha (thats
right, we have 2 Doña Berthas)
will guide you through the
rolling, pounding and delicate
placing of the tortilla on a
hot “Comal”. It is said that
women who cannot make a
perfect tortilla are not fit
to marry!
Climate Considerations
GENERAL INFO
Veracruz is a mountainous coastal state. Generally, you can
expect typical “mountain” weather of hot/sunny during the day
and cool evenings. It is also typical for this region to
experience a build up of humidity throughout the day leading to
a tropical rain shower in the evening as the temperature cools.
We like to think that this is a good thing, as the light rain
supports the region’s rainforest and cloud forest vegetation as
well as keeping the water levels consistent in the rivers we use
for paddling. As we are in the hills of the Sierra Madre Oriental
(mountains) and it can get cool enough in the evenings to
require a jacket.
Travel Documents
A valid passport with at least 6 months until expiry is required
for travel to Mexico. Upon arrival in Mexico you will be issued a
“tourist card”. You will need to keep this card with you
throughout your stay in Mexico and relinquish it upon departure
from Mexico. Don’t throw this away!
Insurance
We highly recommend that you purchase personal travel
insurance to cover you for loss due to sickness, injury, loss of
baggage, unexpected alterations to travel arrangements,
cancellations, or other unforeseen issues that may arise. Please
see your travel agent from whom your airline ticket was
purchased to arrange for insurance. Please specify that you are
planning to participate in an adventure travel itinerary which
includes water sports such as whitewater rafting, canoeing and
kayaking.
Coffee: Our Version of Fair Trade
Coffee as we know it at
Starbucks our other boutique
coffee houses comes in exotic
and expensive blends. The
coffee from our region is
organic, shade grown and the
way we do it...fairly traded.
We purchase coffee directly
from the producer for 2x the
regular market rate. This
price is still 1/2 price for
us compared to the regular
market price. Gotta love
win/win situations like this!
RIch In
Rainforest and
Cloudforest
Greenery
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Money Matters
As of July 2011 - 1 Canadian dollar fetches approximately 12
Mexican Pesos (NP). In general, exchanging US cash in Mexico
is much easier than currencies of other countries.
ATM - The easiest way to exchange money is to use your
personal banking card. All major urban centers that we visit
have access to ATM machines from which to withdraw Mexican
Pesos from your bank account. Jalcomulco does not have an
ATM machine and we recommend that you pull Pesos from
your account prior to leaving Veracruz (there is an ATM at the
airport). It is also recommended that, if you are using your
bankcard as your primary source of currency for your trip, you
bring an extra $100 US cash with you in case your card
becomes lost or damaged.
Travelers Cheques – Banks and Casa de Cambio’s are the only
locations in which you can exchange Travelers Cheques in
Mexico. They are not the easiest to travel with, as
there are only certain hours of the day in which you can
exchange them. If you are going to travel with travelers
cheques, we recommend that you carry them in US
currency and have either cash or your ATM card as a back up.
US and Canadian currency is not readily accepted in the rural
areas we visit. In the event you only have foreign currency we
should be able to exchange that for you. Most expenses (bar
tab, photos/video) can be paid to Esprit by credit card. You
should only need $100 USD worth of Pesos to cover your in
country expenses.
GENERAL INFO
Thirsty?
No one will go thirsty on our
trips in Mexico! You may try
starting your day with local
freshly roasted coffee or
tackle a monster smoothy made
from fresh local fruit by
“the Juice Ladies”. Bottled
water, Gatorade and soft
drinks of all type are
readily available as well as
a variety of icy cold beer!
We have a nightly happy hour
where we make up yummy
concoctions using Caña... a
local sugar cane spirit!
Good
Times
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Food
GENERAL INFO
One of the delights about traveling to Mexico is the incredible
food. Mexicans eat three meals a day; breakfast (desayuno),
lunch (comida) and supper (cena). Traditionally “comida” is the
biggest meal and supper a lighter meal. Mexican food can be very
spicy as hot chilies are often a main ingredient. Many meals,
however, can be tempered for faint hearted “gringo” tastes. Most
meals are served communally so you can sample many different
dishes. We will dine on a wide variety of local specialties
including, beef, chicken, seafood, river lobster (many vegetarian
dishes are available as well)… washed down with fresh tropical
fruit drinks or an icy cold cerveza (beer). Bottled water is readily
available and is safe to drink. Tap water or previously opened
bottles are somewhat suspect and may pose a health risk. Your
guides will make recommendations as to the “do’s and don’ts” of
eating, drinking and staying healthy at the beginning of the trip.
Photos and Video
A compact waterproof camera is a wise investment for taking snap
shots during the river trips. For those who do not want to drag a
fancy camera around with you or you find that you are never in
your own photos - we take high resolution digital photos
throughout most of our trips as well as a well shoot and edited
video of your trip. If you are interested in these - they can be
purchased in advance at discounted rate!
Photos $100
Video $100
Photo/Video Combo $150 *(When purchased in advance)
Music is
in the Air in
The State of
Veracruz
Hungry
I must admit, I have a few
food vices in Jalcomulco.
They include: Fresh
tropical fruit juice
prepared by “the Juice
Ladies”, Doña Bertha’s
Chicken Barbacoa which is
chicken covered in achiote
chili paste, wrapped in an
acuyu leaf then steamed in
a banana leaf and finally
acamayas (local crayfish)
smothered in garlic and
chipotle...VIVA MEXICO!
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Safety & Security
Safety - We do our utmost to provide high quality, fun,
exciting, and secure trips. Whitewater paddling (and adventure
travel in general) do contain an element of risk and events can
arise which are beyond our reasonable control. All participants
must complete a participation agreement and medical
questionnaire prior to the start of the program. These
documents will be emailed to you in advance of your trip
departure. Please fill them out and bring them with you.
GENERAL INFO
Security – On a national level Mexico has been experiencing
considerable security issues particularly within the region
closest to the US border. So far the state of Veracruz has
remained considerably quiet and stable in relation to problems
involving organized crime. The village of Jalcomulco where we
are based is one of the most “tranquilo” places you will ever
visit. We feel there is virtually no security risk in Jalcomulco
and participants can feel free to walk around and explore the
town at anytime.
Theft - It is important to carefully look after your vital
documents and money. Theft is generally not a problem in the
areas we are in, however, it only takes one mishap to turn your
experience sour. Therefore, please practice good “travel sense”
and be wary of your belongings. We have a safe in Jalcomulco
to lock up any documents or belongings you want to have
secured.
Sunrise Over
The Antigua
River Valley
Pico and Playa
The state of Veracruz is one
of the greatest ecoadventure tourism
destinations I have ever
visited in my 30 years
working in the industry. It
boasts snow capped
mountains, rushing rivers,
ancient civilizations,
rainforest, cloudforest
food, drink and beautiful
beaches. Interested in
staying longer? Let us know
and we can share our
favorite places with you.
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GENERAL INFO
Medical Considerations
There are a series of vaccinations recommended for travel to rural
Mexico. You will have to advise your doctor about your trip and
they can recommend an international travel inoculation center.
Mosquitoes are best to be protected from as they may carry
disease. A good repellent, as well as, long pants and shirts at
dusk drastically reduce your contact with mosquitoes. “No-SeUm” and sand flies can be a nuisance for visitors to Jalcomulco
and are at their worst 15 m from the river banks. We recommend
wearing a pair of tights or light long pants over your legs while
paddling on the rivers. Locals swear by “green shampoo” as the
best repellent for these pesky little flies - readily available in
town.
It is also possible for ‘gringo’ stomachs to become unsettled in
Mexico. Some guests in the past have successfully used probiotics
to ward off stomach problems throughout the trip. The probiotics
used were grapefruit seed extract and a brand of probiotics called
Florastor. Please consult your doctor or nutritionist if you are
interested in taking these or other probiotics during your stay in
Mexico.
We suggest that each guest bring their own use a supply of the
following:
A general antibiotic treatment
Anti-acid tablets (for spicy food)
Antidiarrheal tablets (Immodium) for gastrointestinal problems
Aspirin/headache remedy
Antiseptic swabs.
Sunblock
Lip balm (with sunscreen)
Feminine hygiene pads etc.
Mosquito repellent
It is your responsibility to bring sufficient quantities of any specific
medication you require. Please advise us of the possible side
effects of any medication you are taking and of any dietary
requirements related to them.
Creepy Crawlies
What about snakes, spiders,
scorpions and other tropical
nasties...well they all
exist but we rarely see
them. TARANTULAS do exist in
Mexico and are actually
pretty cool to see! They
are not dangerous to humans
as they take 20 minutes to
inject their venom... so, if
you havn’t noticed one on
you in that time... you’ve
got a bigger problem!
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What to Bring
To make the most of your trip
to Mexico, it is important to
pack the appropriate clothing,
gear and accessories. Below,
we’ve outlined a suggested
packing list for your week of
Rivers/Adventure. For kayakers
and open-boaters, there is
some additional paddling gear
for you to include. Add or
delete as you see fit.
.
We suggest that each guest
bring for their own use a
supply of the following:
Dryland
1 pair of shoes/sandals
2 lightweight long pants/skirt
1 quick dry pants
2-3 t-shirts
1-2 long sleeve shirts
2 shorts
1 swimsuit
1 towel
1 warm sweater/fleece
1 waterproof shell/jacket
1 sun hat
? underwear (regular amount)
? socks (light weight)
1L refillable water bottle
personal toiletries
book/journal
camera
small day pack
personal first aid kit
(see above)
Camping
Equipment
1 sleeping bag
1 sleeping pad/
mattress
1 headlamp/flashlight
*Sleeping bags/pads
are available for rent
For the River
1 pair river shoes
sandals
1 quick dry
shorts
Taïgan Coffey Hinojosa
1 polypro
The next generation of
tights
Team Esprit Mexico!
1 long-sleeve
base layer
1 rashguard
*1 Drytop (Kayakers)
*1 Drysuit (For Open Boaters… For Kayakers &
not necessary but more
Open-Boaters
comfortable on mountain
Most boaters prefer to bring
rivers)
their own personal paddling
*1 Wetsuit (for Rafters and
gear with them.
Inflatable Kayakers)
* Daytime temperatures
generally range between 20C
(70F) and 30C (85F). Water
temperatures are
approximately 20C (70F).
Some mountain rivers can be
colder and sun may be limited
in canyons. We suggest you
bring sufficient thermal
protection with you and
hopefully you won’t need it!
Whitewater helmet
PFD (min type III)
Large keyhole skirt (kayakers)
Paddle (kayak/canoe)
Throwbag
We update our boat fleet on an
annual basis please contact us
for our up to date boat list by
emailing us at
[email protected]
Dates 2011-2012
Sat. Nov. 26, 2011 - Sat. Dec. 3, 2011
Sat. Jan. 21, 2012 - Sat. Jan. 28, 2012
Sat. Dec. 3, 2011 - Sat. Dec. 10, 2011
Sat. Feb. 4, 2012 - Sat. Feb. 11, 2012
Sat. Dec. 10, 2011 - Sat. Dec. 17, 2011
Sat. Feb. 18, 2012 - Sat. Feb. 25, 2012
Sat. Dec. 17, 2011 - Sat. Dec. 24, 2011
Sat. Feb. 25, 2012 - Sat. March 3, 2012
Sat. Dec. 24, 2011 - Sat. Dec. 31, 2011
Sat. March 3, 2012 - Sat. March 10, 2012
Sat. Dec. 31, 2011 - Sat. Jan. 7, 2012
Sat. Jan. 7, 2012 - Sat. Jan. 14, 2012
Sat. Jan. 14, 2012 - Sat. Jan. 21, 2012
Sat. March 10, 2012 - Sat. March 17, 2012
Contact us for specialized dates or
Customized itineraries.
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