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Who We Are

 Agua Azul is a small adventure travel company specializing in whitewater kayak trips in Mexico. We have over 20 years experience running the rivers and waterfalls in the Huasteca Potosina and the sierra of Oaxaca.. Our experience lets us maximize your paddling time.  The natural beauty of the rivers, mountains and canyons is the highlight of our trips. But we put the best of Mexico into our hospitality. In the evenings we kick back on our private ranch or a quaint riverside hotel. 

We run the rivers as day trips, returning to our base camp each night. No setting up tents. No worrying about life in a strange country. We take care of the details so you can focus on kayaking. We limit our group size to protect the rustic culture of the region and the riverside environment.
Off the water, enjoy a cool cerveza or some fresh guacamole. Walk down to the river bank and relax Little comforts, like hot showers and fresh orange juice distinguise us from other companies. Our trips are a cultural experience never to be forgotten. The people are friendly and the hospitality unbelievable. We’re far from the beaten path and all the trappings of tourism. 

On the water, our trips are led by professional guides and instructors. They  speak Spanish and English and are familiar with the area and local custom. They are dedicated to sports and know how to share their knowledge and experiences with others. If you want to know the "line" through a rapid or want some pointers on paddling technique, as professionals are willing to offer help or advice. 

Our days are planned to keep you paddling, while allowing time for scouting, taking photos and enjoying the scenery. We stress safety and fun. The trips are designed to challenge every level of paddler, without being intimidating. We know the rapids, the lines and the logistics. Our guides and instructors can help you get down the river, work on technique, or order a taco.

Who We Are

Agua Azul owner Grant Amaral has been exploring and guiding on the rivers of Mexico for over two decades. He is an expedition kayaker with a string of first descents from Canada to Patagonia. He wrote the guidebook to Idaho: Idaho the Whitewater State. His essays, stories and photographs have been featured in various magazines and books. 
Contact Grant.

He has taught kayaking in Idaho, Mexico, Costa Rica and Utah.

San Luis native Polo Solis has been with Agua Azul for 10 years. He brings a wealth of knowledge of the area and the culture. Polo is a great guide combining leadership with fun and friendship.

Polo is an experienced climber and mountain biker. He teaches climbing and rappelling to fire fighters in the state capital.

 
Aldo Martinez is originally from Pachuca. He has worked for Agua Azul in Oaxaca and the Santa Maria. He has guided in Costa Rica, Italy, Switzerland and, of course, Mexico. Aldo Speaks English, Spanish and Italian. His duties include guiding, sales, and camp management.



In addition to the guides, Agua Azul has a competent and helpful support staff. We hire local guides, drivers and support staff. Agua Azul is involved and part of the communities where we operate. 

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