The Pongo de Mainique is a magnificent site of natural beauty, deep in
the jungle of Peru. However, it lies very isolated and is difficult to
reach. It can take several days in a small boat over the wild river to
get there.
The word pongo means gorge, or ravine, where the river bursts
through the mountains. To the Machiguenga Indians the Pongo de Mainique
is known as the Place of the Bears. Their legend envisions a river
demon in the form of a bear that lurks in the rapid, swirling waters of
the Urubamba River.
