expedit1.htm
Number of hits on this page:
Let's talk Expeditions!
Okay, one last time. THIS IS IT !! THE FINAL THING. I hope you enjoy it!!
"Let's Talk Expeditions"
An Outfitter's Guide to Long Range Off Roading
***************************************************
Chapters
1. Introduction
2. Space is the Key
3. Tools, Parts, Duct Tape
4. The "Outback Salute"
5. Action Packers
6. You're in the Other Truck !!
7. Save the Ice !!
8. Expeditions & Food
9. How Much?
10. Gas Money
11. Living with Bugs
12. Nice Doggy!!
13. Definitely not "Babe"
14. Grilling
15. "Gasolina, por favor!"
16. Junior High Mechanic
17. Diesel, Willem-Jan, Diesel....
18. Trailers vs, Roofracks
19. Three letters for You
20. A River Runs Through It
21. Not Tom, Jerry
22. The Right Rig
23. Dangerous Grass
24. Ace in the Hole
25. ...but it's the dry season !!
26. Sunny Side Up
27. Shots
28. "Roughing it"
29. Hold That tent !!
30. Ratchet Straps
31. Snakes? I Hate Snakes !!
32. "Persuasion"
33. Why the Chicken crossed the Road
34. A swim, anyone?
35. Cheap Monkeys
36. Another Round of Brew
37. Pass the salt...quick !!
38. Convoy Driving
39. From Dust we Cometh....
40. Fashion time
41. Terrorists please Abstain
42. Off Road Boats
43. Tell us about your Trip
44. A Controversial Theme
Introduction
When I first posted part of this information on the list, a couple
of weeks ago, I never thought that it would end up looking like this. From
a few pages of hastily written tips for my friend Shel, it evolved into a
full length article on long range expeditions, a summary of own
experiences, first as a participant and then as an outfitter and guide of
these unique off road adventures, plus a healthy portion of tips, tricks
and anecdotes from old salts like my Dad, my uncles Herman Lemnke and
Robert Brewer, and my Dad's old circle of expeditioners, now content to
torment us "puppies" for lack of experience and long rounds of "scotch &
soda-augmented" reminiscing.
I don't want anyone to think of this as the "Holy Bible" of
expedition planning, but rather as a list of tips and helpful observations
from one friend to another.
Expeditions are a form of off roading that is not practiced often
in the US, but has evolved into an art form in places like Australia,
Africa, and South and Central America. Because of my experience with "rock
crawling", which seems to be the predominant form of off road challenge in
the States, is rather limited (more like non-existent), I thought I'd put
in my $0.2 worth and tell you a little about what I've done, in the hope
that if you ever embark upon such an adventure, you won't be completely
wet behind the ears..:) !! I hope you enjoy it, and if you have any
questions, or you wish to add a helpful tip or old trick, please don't
hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely,
Henry J. Cubillan
Space is the Key
Space is one of the key elements of expedition planning, because it
is one of the most limited commodities on a vehicle. When I mean space, I'm
referring to space for you, space for the passenger, and space for cargo,
lots of cargo. An an outfitter with considerable experience in packing and
unpacking trucks for long range expeditions, I can tell you that no matter
the size of the vehicle, you will always manage to fill it up to the brim.
The secret of good expeditions is streamlining the amount of stuff that you
take with you, and reaching a balance between useful and superfluous items
requires some practice. Think about items that you'll need on the road, so
that they're placed within easy reach (toolboxes, jack, certain parts). Try
to balance the load left to right and front to back, and be careful of
fragile items (like fishing poles and eggs). Avoid metal and/or bulky
containers, and place small parts, containers and/or items in bigger boxes.
Making a list of items that go in each box is a great way to avoid
misplacing or losing small items. Another good trick is to make several
copies of this list and laminate them, keeping them in several different
places. That way the list won't be misplaced, lost or waterlogged on the
second day of the trip.
Tools, Parts, Duct Tape
As a rule of thumb, never sacrifice on tools, but also try not to
double up too much; chances are you won't need two identical toolboxes
filled to the brim. Parts is another matter; what you will need will vary
considerably depending on the terrain you plan on tackling. In Venezuela,
tire repair tools and parts (tire iron, patches, repair kit, compressor,
inner tube) were paramount, as most outback stations will not have these
facilities available. Belts, points (if you have points ignition, and most
South American vehicles still do), a distributor cap and rotor, an extra
coil, extra cable of various gauges, zip ties, extra hoses, clamps,
electrical tape, fuses galore, spark plugs, etc... In other words, don't
scrounge on parts, even the most insignificant one can mean the difference
between a great trip and being stranded for days. Of course, I don't have
to tell you that 50% of repairs will be done with duct tape or baling wire
or a combination of the two, so pack enough of both !!
The "Outback Salute"
When passing (or being passed by) another vehicle on a dirt road,
have whoever is in the passenger seat do the famous "Outback Salute"
(spread out both hands and place them firmly on the inside of the
windshield, then push against it until you've full passed the other car).
This will help prevent small stones picked up and thrown backwards by the
other vehicle's tires from chipping or shattering the glass). To remove the
"bug mousse" from your windshield out in the boonies, use white vinegar
diluted in warm water. (add some vegetable oil to the resulting mess and
presto, an exotic and protein-rich vinaigrette for your salad!!)
Action Packers
I recommend Rubbermaid Action Packers to keep all your equipment
organized and separated, and clear plastic Rubbermaid boxes and Tupperware
type boxes to keep everything organized and dust-free. The best thing about
Action Packers is that they're rugged and tough, can be carried outside,
either on the roof rack or out in the trailer and can be padlocked, leaving
the inside of the truck for clothing and foodstuffs.
You're in the Other Truck !!
Even in a big truck, try to keep it to a maximum of four people,
because hauls are usually long and a truck gets crowded and uncomfortable
pretty fast (especially for kids). Ideally, though, it should be two people
per vehicle, or two and a small child.
Save the Ice!!
If you're going to camp a long way from civilization, organizing
iceboxes is a prime task. Buy ice in large blocks instead of bags, because
it melts slower. Pack some of your iceboxes with just ice, then seal with
duct tape and place them in the shade when you reach the campsite. Place
the food in another icebox (or boxes) and break ice from the blocks in the
other boxes as the ice in the food icebox melts down. This will make ice
last up to 6 days!!
Expeditions & Food
As I mentioned before, on a long range expedition every cubic inch
of available space counts, so planning all your meals and packing supplies
carefully will ensure that you have space left for more than one pair of
underwear. Menus are very personal and vary widely from family to family
and region to region, but the following is a list of tips that might help
you plan your expedition:
-Eggs and watermelons should be packed carefully if they are to survive the trek
-Raw meat and/or poultry should be consumed on the first two days, and cooked thoroughly (better
to eat your steak slightly charred than to risk salmonella poisoning in the middle of the outback)
-Carbohydrates are the life and blood of an expedition, so plan to eat more than your share of
pasta, rice, and potatoes for a couple of days .
-Avoid glass containers; put sauces and other precooked foodstuffs in Tupperware or similar plastic
containers
-If you're going to an are with a safe and constant supply of water, pack powdered drinks, powdered
milk, tea and dehydrated soups.
-Cans are virtually indestructible, but they're also heavy and take up a lot of space; don't overdo it.
-A great trick for dessert is to cook an unopened can of condensed (sweetened) milk in boiling
water for a couple of hours (do this at home, before you leave). This turns the milk into a smooth,
creamy caramel that's great on canned or fresh fruits and graham crackers and is especially
favored by kids (of all ages).
-If you like cheese, go with Romano or Parmesan, as they hold well without
refrigeration.
-preparing meals over a fire or camp stove takes up a lot of time, so you might want to follow the
outfitter's way and cook only two meals, an early breakfast and an early dinner. To hold hunger at
bay during the day, make sandwiches while you make breakfast and eat them on the road.
-One thing that most expedition outfitters overlook is spices. Worcestershire and A1 sauce,
black/and or green pepper, curry powder, onion and garlic powder, and dried herbs like cilantro,
bay leaves, and parsley can be used to augment the flavor of otherwise bland (and
sometimes over or under cooked) camp fare, and in a pinch, cover up the taste of
stale food. Fresh onions, garlic and/or shallots also hold up well for long periods
of time without refrigeration.
[note wj: the inventor of garlic powder deserves a statue, next to the one for the inventor of the TV
remote control]
-Portions during expeditions are very different from what most people are used to at home (except
my grandmother, who had 11 children), and unless you want to confront a large group of tired,
cranky, and ravenous campers with the news that you just blew their evening meal, it's a good idea
to practice cooking for so many people at one time and/or modifying your recipes to fit a crowd.
-This one may sound stupid, but it has been the bane of too many otherwise fine
meals to be ignored; label sugar and salt correctly, and double check before you add
sugar to two gallons of boiling chicken soup !!
-if you're planning on cooking unfamiliar game, remember that most game animals have very tough
flesh, so a little meat tenderizer will probably be in order. The best one available in South America
is soaking the meat in fresh papaya juice overnight, then slicing it really thin and grilling it. (My
uncle Herman uses some of the leftover juice as the base for his
secret recipe for barbecued peccary ribs, one of his outback specialties)
-Don't count on regular foodstuffs to be available in the outback, even in medium sized
towns. Freshness, and even safety of those items should always be held questionable.
my uncle Robert has a famous story of finding a can of tuna from the 1950's a couple
of years ago in an outback store (he kept the can as a souvenir and a backup for his
story), and I wouldn't be surprised if they still had dodo bird eggs and frozen
passenger pigeons at some of the seedier stores....:)
-Fresh bakery-style bread is commonly available and very popular in South America; however, it
does not hold very well and will become stale and rock hard after a couple of days. If possible, stick
to "industrial, pre-sliced" loaves of bread, which will generally hold a lot longer. Oh, and an old trick.
Punch holes into bread bags. It will dry the bread out a bit,
but will prevent it from getting moldy and makes it last longer.
-Unless you're an expert, avoid all kinds of wild mushrooms in South America (this one is for you,
Dave Dannenberg..:) !!) , as most of them will make you violently sick and some of
them can be fatal.
-If you're into cooking, try steaming fish and poultry wrapped in banana leaves; just wash the bright
green leaves, singe them on one side to make them pliable, and wrap the seasoned meat with the
smooth side of the leaf against it. Tie them with wet twine and place directly on the grill or on dying
embers.
-A few Powerbars are always a plus, as are high energy snacks like raisins for the
kids.
-Remember water purification tablets, and/or in a pinch, iodine.
-Dried beef is another popular staple, as are twice-baked biscuits (which you can make yourself)
and corn flour (made from ground white corn, and widely used all over Latin America for a variety of
meals).
-Make a menu, write it down, and stick to it. It is especially important to
enforce it if you're traveling with kids, as they tend to consume whatever
they fancy and that might leave you with a problem later (example: drinking
as refreshment the milk that was meant for the cereal, eating the cheese
meant for the omelet, etc...) This menu can make packing orderly and
efficient, and can also increase the life of your ice supply. By making
careful calculations of the number of people on the trip and the amounts of
food, you can later cross-reference while planning another expedition.
How Much ?!!
Be ready for grotesque and sometimes unexplainable price
fluctuations in products out in the boonies. Most of the times things are
scarce and therefore more expensive, but I've heard of stories like brand
new Land Cruiser alternators bought for $45 at a general store in the
middle of nowhere, and the entire bed (used, like new conditions) of an
FJ45 pickup bought for $50 from a farmer that, having converted his truck
to a flatbed, saw no need for the bed anymore. prime items for price
irregularities are usually packaged foods, non-perishables, beer and fuel,
and because demand usually exceeds supply, it almost always dictates the
price. Remember, too, that even in bigger towns people will be willing to
barter for items, especially if you have unusual or clearly foreign items.
Those "glow sticks" that you snap and shine with fluorescent green light
are perennial favorites; many a case of beer has been traded for a couple
of those; buy them at camping and army/navy stores.
Gas Money
Don't keep all your cash in the same place. I don't want to scare
you, but there's always the possibility that you might be robbed and
keeping enough money, at least for gas, in another location is always a
smart thing to do. Also, when close to settlements or villages never leave
your vehicles unattended, and always remember to lock up the trucks at
night. If sleeping relatively close to a village or settlement, a good
trick is to tie a strand of fishing line from the vehicle or area around it
to your mosquito net or hammock to warn you of unwanted company. Some
people add aluminum cans filled with pebbles or marbles in areas prone to
"nighttime visits". This, however, is not a big problem in most areas.
Living with Bugs
Don't trust American bug repellents; go local. I've found that
American repellents are designed for American bugs, and are often useless
against domestic varieties. Same goes for mosquito netting; Tropical bugs
are tiny, and they will wriggle through larger mosquito netting in order to
get to you. A good trick to use if you run out of bug repellent and you're
already tan, as most expedition leaders and guides are, is to smear
yourself with baby oil; this is not a repellent but will smother and kill
the critters before they get to your skin. Concentrated citronella oil,
which is not available everywhere in the US but usually is in Latin
America, is also very effective to keep the tropical beasties at bay.
Taking vitamin B12 regularly for a couple of weeks before you go on the
trip and while you're on it will give your skin a smell and taste that's
unsavory to all but the most resilient mosquitoes.
Nice Doggy !!
In most Third World countries there are multitudes of stray,
scrawny mutts everywhere you go, especially near human habitation. Don't
make the mistake of feeding them, or you won't be able to get rid of them
and they'll bring their countless comrades with them. In addition to this,
if you're traveling with pets, don't let them near other animals and check
them careful for fleas and ticks; some pets might even be allergic to these
unfamiliar, and often nuclear-sized pests. To remove ticks from your own
skin or that of your traveling companions, smother the bite with baby oil
(in a pinch, lipstick will do). The critter will start to suffocate and
readily crawl out of the hole to breath, where you can snatch it and kill
it.
Definitely not "Babe"
One animal that is very common all across Latin America and which
you will definitely want to avoid are feral pigs. These semi-domesticated,
nasty-tempered swine will sometimes wander into your campsite, rooting for
edibles among your garbage. They are especially dangerous when they have
piglets with them, and any attempt to get near the little ones will
invariably result in an attack from the parent. These pigs have very sharp
tusks and can be very dangerous. The best thing to do is to scare them away
with loud noise, and/or spraying pepper oil around the garbage area.
Grilling
Don't rely on firewood. If you want to grill, take your own
charcoal or use firewood obtained from a reliable source. many tropical
trees have a type of sap that releases toxic vapors when burned, and you
don't want your whole party doubled up in pain or worse. Vegetable coal is
readily available in most towns and villages, and locals will gladly part
with more than enough firewood for a very small fee. Self-lighting
briquettes like the type popular here in the States are unheard of.
"Gasolina, Por Favor !!"
Always filter fuel bought in the boonies, especially gasoline.
Sometimes it has been in the same container for a long time and will be
contaminated with resinous residues and/or water. If siphoning fuel out of
a 55-gallon drum can, the preferred fuel container in Latin America, let
the bottom tip of the hose sit around mid-way up the drum, so that you
don't suck up water or sediments from the bottom. Stay away from old and/or
rusty jerry cans unless inevitable.
Junior High Mechanic
Avoid trucks and vehicles with electronic fuel injection and/or a
lot of computer assisted functions. The quality of gas in the outback is
usually poor, and mechanics who can work on these type of high tech engines
are few and far between. On the other hand, don't be afraid if the mechanic
working on your truck looks like he's twelve; he probably is, but remember
these are kids apprenticed off to learn a trade at a very early age, and if
the engine is simple they can probably overhaul it right there in front of
you!! Useful Tip: Before you go on the trip, buy a couple of the cheaper
Vise grips (the generic kind) and take them with you; mechanics in the
outback are fascinated by them, and I've exchanged them for services or
used them as bargaining points when it's time to pay. (we once used three
dozen pork chops to pay for a new tire, but that's another story...)
Diesel, Willem-Jan, Diesel....
Diesel is probably the way to go, if only because the range of
miles per tank is unbeatable and the availability of fuel is excellent. The
noise is sometimes tiresome on very long trips. Also great for river
fording. Again, it is a matter of researching the availability of each fuel
in the boonies of the country you're visiting. In Venezuela, because the
country is so rich in oil, gasoline is dirt cheap and diesel almost
unavailable outside of the biggest towns and cities.
[note wj: reliability and (lack of) flammability would be my first argument for choosing diesel]
Trailers vs. Roof racks
When you see pictures or footage of expedition trucks, they are
usually long wheel base vehicles with either heavily laden full roof racks
or an off road trailer in tow. Personally, I am not a big fan of roof
racks, although I've used them extensively and in some areas, especially
those that involve multiple fordings and/or a lot of mud, they are the only
way to go. Look for roof racks that are strong, yet light, and if possible,
design and make your own (or copy Dave Dannenberg's, his is great!!). The
secret of a roof rack is in the loading. Don't place tall items in the
front of the rack, as they will reduce your vehicle's already abominable
aerodynamics. Avoid overloading the rack, and always check that the weight
is evenly distributed. If you're going to go with a trailer, make sure it's
extra heavy duty and in good shape; don't rely on it's cargo space
excessively, either, so that you don't have to leave behind important items
if for any reason you have to abandon the trailer. In Latin America some
of the best off road trailers are made out of the chassis and pickup beds
of busted trucks; some of the best expedition outfitters offer custom
trailers designed and built to your own specifications, and they are
usually a bargain price by US standards. However, the complete product
usually takes a couple of weeks, and the best places have waiting lists of
months!! Remember to lubricate the hubs, and make sure that everything is
tight before you start your trip. Also note that roof racks will slow you
down and reduce your MPG considerably, especially at high speeds, so if
your trip includes long hauls on paved or relatively smooth dirt roads,
consider other options. One more thing on the subject, if you're going to
carry jerry cans on the roof rack (and almost everyone does), remember to
place them in the back of the rack, as they usually spill a little and you
don't want to find yourself "tripping" on a fumes high !!
Three Letters for You
GPS. Almost mandatory in the Venezuelan outback, where the flat
terrain and lack of identifying landmarks can get you lost in no time. In
some countries you can obtain coordinates readily from official sources
and/or published material; in other countries, like Venezuela, coordinates
to the best sites are jealously guarded by individuals such as sports
fishermen, hunters and off roaders, small tight communities which guard
this information with fanatical zeal (I have seen good coordinates used as
barter, trading for the equivalent of hundreds of dollars!!). The best way
to get them would be to contact a private airport in the country you're
visiting and talking to local bush pilots, or contacting a local fishing or
four wheeling club, or even better, an expedition outfitter; they'll
usually provide coordinates for most of the place you want to go to, except
those more closely guarded fishing spots, beach access trails and river
fording sites, which will probably have to be water-tortured out of
them....
A River Runs Through It
River fording is a welcome skill in the outback, but don't worry if
you lack experience, because you will soon acquire more than your fair
share, especially in the flatlands. Approach the river with caution, and if
a site looks appropriate send two spotters across the river, with a
distance between them so that their position mimics the wheel span of the
truck. That way you'll be sure that there are no deeper spots on either
side. If the fording is going to be deep, make adjustments for the river's
current; I've seen trucks dragged sideways into deeper water. Approach the
river straight on and maintain a steady speed, making sure that the bow
wave is always right in front of the vehicle. Whatever you do, don't stop
in the middle of the river, even if the truck begins to falter; better to
try to make it across. A good trick is to have tow straps already in place,
or better yet, secured to a tow hook and held by someone sitting on the
roof rack, so that in case of a problem it can be accurately tossed to the
people on shore. For expeditions that involve frequent river crossings,
consider waterproofing your engine and installing breather hoses on your
differentials; a snorkel, especially the fancier ones with the extra air
filter on the top is also a wise investment in these cases. If traveling
the outback during the rainy season (something seasoned expeditioners never
do), be careful of rain, flash floods are common and can signal a tragedy.
If a river is too deep, but must be crossed in order to continue, you can
make a raft out of empty 55-gallon drum cans, logs, and hemp rope. The
formula is six cans wide and six cans long, one vehicle at a time
(including trailers). This, however, is a risky endeavor better left to
experts.
Not Tom, Jerry
Jerry cans are the lifeline of an expedition; even with long range
fuel tanks, extra fuel must be carried if one is to make it back to
civilization. In my experience, the best jerry cans for long range
expeditions are NATO-type cans, which are readily available from surplus
dealers in Europe (I think they're German made). These are made of heavy
duty steel, with a clamp type lid and a thick coat of paint. Most of them
are OD green, but I've also seen yellow, orange and red ones. They are not
very common in the US, where they are very expensive ($80-$90). If you
absolutely want the best, they are available from the Griot's Garage
catalog. USMC cans are a lot cheaper, but they also tend to leak after a
while, and dent and rust more easily than their European counterparts.
Plastic containers, like those from Rubbermaid, are another option, (the
short dumpy ones are great for roof racks) albeit one with a short life.
For very long expeditions, and/or those that involve fishing or side trips
from the main camp, consider 55-gallon drums transported on trailers and a
small hand pump and hose.
The Right Rig
The most important thing to do is to find out which is the most
popular model of vehicle in the outback areas of the country that you're
visiting, and whether it has been available there for a good number of
years. In this case, like it is with Land Cruisers in Venezuela, it
probably means that the vehicle is simple, tough and reliable enough to
withstand the harsh conditions, parts will be relatively cheap and readily
available, and mechanics will be familiar with the engines and drive
trains. Vehicle preference and availability varies widely from country to
country, so it could range from Land Cruisers to Land Rovers to Jeeps,
depending on a multitude of factors. (In Venezuela's case, the existence of
a Toyota assembly plant and government subsidies for "farming vehicles" are
the reason for the success of the Land Cruiser as the preferred choice of
outback residents, but Land Rovers, the conquerors of Africa, are seldom
seen and very expensive). Avoid snazzy, high tech, or one of a kind
vehicles; odds are that if something breaks, it will signal the end of your
trip. Wreckers and/or tow trucks are very rare in outback areas, and
they'll charge you an eye and a hand to tow a disabled vehicle back to
civilization. It's a good idea to equip your expedition vehicles with tow
bars, making sure that the size of the hitch is compatible with all of them.
Tow bars are also used by top expeditioners for a very tricky and
complicated fording maneuver known as "the centipede". (I'll let your
imaginations figure it out...)
Dangerous Grass
If you're going to be traveling on grasslands, and chances are that
at some point you are, be very, very careful of strands of tall grass
getting caught between the transmission and the skid plate; they will dry
up and catch fire pretty fast. My father and uncle once had a Jeep Wagoneer
(one of the full-sized ones) burn out from under them in them in a matter
of minutes, and they couldn't use the fire extinguisher because the savanna
caught fire under the truck and the fire spread wildly in a circle around
the vehicle. When traveling in tall grass, stop every once in a while and
pull it out with your hands. Also, if the grass directly ahead of you looks
particularly lush or is of a very different color, drive around it. it
might conceal a sinkhole, which is a very deep hole filled with water, mud,
and rotting vegetation (plus one or two bloated animal carcasses, if you're
unlucky like I was...). It is truly a horrible place to sink a vehicle; the
mud smells terrible and is very slippery, and the sides of the hole are
usually very steep; they are also favorite ambush spots for clouds of angry
mosquitoes and mutant-sized horseflies, who wait hungrily for hapless
humans to bog their machines down.
Ace in the Hole
A 60-inch Hi-Lift jack or a come-along are reliable and affordable
ways of getting you out of some situations, but on a serious long range
expedition nothing beats a good winch. PTO winches are probably the
strongest, being able to pull a fully loaded Unimog out of deep mud with
ease; they are useless, however, if the truck's engine has stalled, as
happens frequently during water crossings. Electrical winches are common in
the outback, especially those of the better known brands. Due to
complications usually encountered in less than ideal winching situations, I
recommend that you have multiple tow straps, shackles and pulleys, and if
your winching practice is limited go to a nearby trail and practice vehicle
extraction before you go on expedition. For situations where there are no
suitable anchor points, put both ends of a strong tow strap through your
spare tire and around a sturdy log, and bury the tire at least three feet
deep. Make sure to dig a shallow channel for the winch cable as well.
Don't attach the hook end of the cable directly to the spare, as you will
only succeed in bending the rim. A good boat anchor, of the type that folds
flat, will serve the same purpose. When winching, remember to stay clear
of the front of the vehicle, and wear heavy gloves; a frayed cable can
wreak havoc on your bare hands.
...But it's the Dry Season!!
No matter what they tell you at the travel agency, no matter if
you go in the middle of the "dry" season; where there is jungle, it is
going to rain. Hard. A lot. Good tarps and tents are an excellent
investment, although I am partial to sleeping in hammocks because of the
heat and humidity. In my native country, we set up a tarp between two
trees, open to the sides, then set up a mosquito net and a hammock
underneath. A thick plastic tarp under the hammock completes the setup.
Breezy, dry and comfortable. Take lots of clothes, as the humidity levels
sometimes prevent clothing from drying over night. Packing a couple of
sweatshirts can be a smart idea; some areas of the outback tend to get cool
and breezy at night, and sometimes downright chilly. One more thing;
remember to dig trenches around your tents (unless you're into "midnight
swims" in soggy sleeping bags).
Sunny Side Up
Unless you are very adventuresome or have been accused of
possessing a "stomach of steel", avoid locally prepared food when you're
out back. No offense, but these people are accustomed to the local bacteria
(Not to mention some local spices, which I suspect were used to torture
captured conquistadors a couple of centuries ago), but you, on the other
hand, might have no immunities to its effects. Remember Monctezuma's
Revenge ..:) !!! If you think you can handle exotic foods and/or
questionable cooking methods, I strongly recommend local delicacies like
pygmy alligator tail (tastes exactly like lobster), iguana eggs (hard to
describe, you have to try them), grilled iguana (the proverbial "tastes
like chicken" applies here) and deep fried piranha fish (crunchy and
spicy). In the more remote Indian villages you might be offered two local
delicacies for which I've never been able to summon enough courage to try
(Nor will I ever), stewed monkey (Asides from the obvious, I used to have a
pet monkey named "Pocholo" who went with me on every expedition) and
grilled monkey spider (a type of tarantula...are you kidding? You couldn't
pay me enough money, although I've heard from friends that it has a taste
reminiscent of boiled shrimp !!). Wash fruits and vegetables very well
before you eat them (peeling them is ideal), and watch out for worms in
tropical fruits like guava and passion fruit. Avoid sampling rare fruits
without consulting with the locals; even the most innocent looking fruit
could make you very ill. Also, if you're served local spirits, take it easy
!! These are usually very potent, home-brewed concoctions, and these people
are used to it and are capable of imbibing copious amounts of it without
ill effect. You will not, I repeat, you will NOT be able to do the same !!
Shots
Some travel agencies say it's necessary to get inoculated against
tropical diseases, others don't (Most outfitters will require it from all
clients). I lived 24 years in Venezuela, and every year (or whenever
necessary), before the expedition season started, I would reinforce
vaccinations or get new ones. It's a small cost that can save your trip and
make it an unforgettable experience (although a bout of yellow fever will
probably make it unforgettable, too...:( !!). In some countries it's
mandatory, so find out exactly what your situation is. Try contacting the
Center for Disease Control in Atlanta at (404) 332-4565 and 332-4559 for a
fax report on vaccinations recommendations and appropriate drugs to prevent
malaria; Pamphlets entitled "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for Travelers to
Central and South America" are available from the Superintendent of
Documents, US Government Printing Office, Washington, DC 20402. I would
also check out regulations imposed by US Customs; some areas of the world
are closely monitored and returning US citizens might be required to show
proof of immunization.
"Roughing It"
If you're going to establish a base camp, and then make side trips
from there, you might want to invest in a small water pump and a small
electric generator. Both can make your life a lot easier, especially when
traveling with children or people who are not used to "roughing it". Both
can be rented from the bigger outfitters, who will also provide enough
hoses and/or lights for your particular needs. They should be placed as far
away from other campers as possible and used sparingly. A great trick for
water pumps is to tie an empty plastic gallon jug about twenty inches from
the end of the hose that's going in the water, so that you don't pump up
sludge and/or debris from the bottom. Taking the time to dig a square
trench about 4 feet deep to place the generator in will pay off if you've
established a semi-permanent or long term camp campsite, because it will
reduce the noise from the motor considerably. Remember to fill in the hole
before you leave.
Hold That Tent!!
Out in the grasslands the composition of the soil is very sandy. As
a result, tent stakes will not hold the tents up, which can be a hassle in
windy situations. An old outfitter's trick is to cut a foot-long section of
steel rod for every stake you need, and bending the top couple of inches or
welding half of a large chain link to the top. These will sink into the
sand a longer distance and hold the tent better than any stake. They are
also useful, in a slightly longer variety, for very hard surfaces, using a
5-pound hammer to drive them into the ground and a pry bar to pull them
loose.
Ratchet Straps
For tying down equipment on the rack, the trailer and/or inside the
vehicle, nothing beats a nylon ratchet strap. Unheard of in most Third
World countries (except among hard-core off roaders and people who travel),
where hemp or nylon rope is used for most jobs. Buy enough (sets of four
are available at Home Depot for @ $20), including a few spares, and you'll
be good to go. Bungee cords and nylon straps will also be hard to come by,
so pack plenty of spares. Another old trick: To avoid tight straps on the
roof racks from whistling at high speeds (a very annoying noise, especially
during long hauls), secure one end and twist the other one around until the
trap resembles a rope. It will be hard to tighten, so do it once you have
the right length set up.
Snakes? I hate Snakes!!
Ask your travel agent, or contact a local source about anti-venom
serum for the most common type of poisonous snakes. Again, it varies widely
from country to country, and in 15 years experience I have seen very few
poisonous snakes and even fewer fatal accidents, but it's always good to be
prepared. Note: Anti-venom serum has a very limited effective duration, so
you might want to get it right before the beginning of your expedition. On
this topic, pack a very comprehensive first aid kit, and don't scrounge on
medicines, even the most basic, as they are almost impossible to find in
all but the biggest towns; prepare for all possible situations (adding a
couple of manuals and books on first aid won't hurt). make sure that at
least one person in your party know how to give shots with a syringe;
another good skill to have is knowing how to set broken limbs. Most
countries in South America have well-trained airborne rescue teams, private
and/or government funded (and sometimes military), a must in areas where
the nearest hospital is 400 miles away. Once you arrive in the country,
find out the best way to contact them in case you're faced with a possible
evacuation.
"Persuasion"
This is uncomfortable for me, and it is a part of Latin America
that I hate, but I have to mention it. Change about $200 into small bills
of the local currency, to keep as "incentives" for certain situations.
Third World policemen, soldiers, park rangers, and other government
officials are notoriously inclined towards bribery (and even depend on them
in some cases, because they cannot eke out a living on their meager
salaries), and they can make your life a living hell if you do not
participate in this "game". It's hard for Americans to understand, I know,
but it is a sad and very real part of life in this and many other areas of
the world, and a small amount of money at the right time can help you avoid
a lot of problems. In a pinch, a bottle of liquor, a box of shotgun shells
(12 gauge), a hand tool (the fancier the better) and/or a couple of fancy
fishing lures, depending on the area, can be just as "persuasive". For
small kids, hard candy or lollipops work just as well, but make sure you
don't use them around semi-permanent or long-term campsites or you'll never
be able to get rid of them.
Why the Chicken Crossed the Road
This may also sound really stupid, but more people than I care to
think about have gotten into serious trouble because of this. If you're
driving through a small town or settlement, go really slow, and avoid
chickens at all costs. I know it sounds hilarious, but people in small
towns let their chickens wander in the streets, and for all you know, that
stupid chicken that you hit with the truck and are attempting to pay the
guy more than you think it's worth, was a prized fighting cock, the pride
of the town, and worth more than US $2,000 !! (I know a guy who had more
than $9,000 worth of damage done to his Land Cruiser, and almost got
lynched by an angry mob because he killed a prized fighting cock by
mistake). Be Careful !! On the same subject, watch out for wandering
livestock out in the boondocks. In Venezuela bull bars are not called
"mataburros" (donkey killers) for nothing.
A Swim, Anyone?
A little warning about bodies of water in the outback: be very
careful !! As a freshwater fishing guide, I shouldn't be admitting this,
but I'm very careful (bordering on terrified) of bodies of water in the
outback. These run the gamut from raging rivers where fording is not an
option and swimming suicidal, to murky, placid pools where a multitude of
nasty critters abound. As a rule of thumb, most water out in the boonies is
safe to drink (except in the depths of the malaria-ridden jungles, but
adding a water purification tablet will not hurt you and can only be
beneficial). When walking in shallow water, especially if clear to light
murky, walk slowly, dragging your feet in the sand, and if possible, poking
at the bottom directly in front of you with a pole or branch. When stepped
on, freshwater stingrays will stab with their barbed tails, and removal of
the poisonous tip, which breaks off from the tail during the attack and
remains embedded in your skin is said to be one of the most painful
experiences. Because of the barbs, the tip cannot be pulled out and must
either be cut out, or (gulp) pushed through to the other side of your leg.
Although it sounds disgusting, if stung, the best way to neutralize the
poison in the barb is to urinate on the open wound (an old outback field
remedy that to my knowledge, remains unmatched by modern medicine to this
day).
Cheap Monkeys
As a tourist, people in the countryside are going to try to sell
you every item known to man, from food to crafts to pets. Sometimes you'll
be able to get good quality handmade items and local crafts, but most of
the times you'll get duped. A common ploy is to try to sell you a small
monkey, parrot, snake or agouti (a tiny rodent, which by the way is superb
when served in a white wine sauce...Hmmm!!), especially if you have kids
with you. Watch out, because US customs will not let you bring them back
into the country, and if the species is protected you might actually be
committing a crime !! Same situation applies to tropical fish and produce
of all kinds, as well as prepared food that is not properly contained (i.e.
shrink wrapped or hermetically sealed in most cases).
Another Round of Brew
If invited into a house in the outback, don't refuse the
invitation, or any food or drink that you may be offered (if you absolutely
have to, be very polite and apologetic). People in the outback are very
hospitable and generous and will take grave offense if you refuse them,
thinking that in some way you consider yourself to be above their
"station". Be their guest, relax, and enjoy it. They will usually treat you
like family, and you'll have a new friend !! This is a good time to break
out a bottle of cheap liquor as a gift for your host, and/or a bag of hard
candy for any kid present. You'll be an instant hit!!
Pass the Salt....Quick !!
Another disgusting but necessary subject: When going into the more
remote regions, pack a good amount of salt, and avoid stagnant water and/or
low current pools. Leeches thrive in these conditions, and removing them
form various parts of your body can be a painful (not to mention
embarrassing) thing to do. Likewise, avoid drinking water straight from a
pool, as they could possibly (and admittedly, this is a very rare
occurrence) lodge themselves in your throat, and you'd have to swallow two
large tablespoons of salt in a hurry or risk suffocation!!
[one cannot say Henry lacks a lively imagination. wj]
Convoy Driving
An essential part of the long range expedition is learning how to
drive in convoy formation, and believe me, it's not as easy as it sounds.
There are two key positions in the convoy; "point" and "caboose". The
"point" vehicle rides ahead of the convoy, sometimes as much as a mile
ahead, and scouts the terrain and its condition. "Point" is responsible for
finding the correct fording site and making sure that the convoy is headed
the right way. Therefore, this vehicle should be equipped with the
appropriate navigation aids (maps, compass, GPS) and should be manned by a
relatively experienced crew (it doesn't hurt if the vehicle is sturdily
built and well equipped, too). A wise thing to do is to rotate this
position, so that the responsibility does not fall on the same crew every
day of the trip.
After "point" the rest of the vehicles in the convoy should keep
the same distance between each vehicle, and this can vary widely, depending
on a number of factors like availability of radios, terrain, weather
conditions, etc... As a general rule, close the distance in bad weather
and/or harsh terrain, and widen it in easier trails, decent weather,
and/or excessive dust.
Every vehicle in a long range expedition should be equipped with a
radio, and preset channels should be discussed by all drivers. In addition
to this, it's a good idea to practice a set of hand signals for situations
like passing a vehicle that is not part of the convoy, stopping suddenly,
emergencies, etc...
Another important position within the convoy is "caboose", which is
pretty much self-explanatory. The last rig in the convoy formation should
always be in communication with the "point" vehicle, and one of the most
important tasks is signaling the convoy when it's about to be passed by
another vehicle. Another task for the expedition's "caboose" is to make
sure that no vehicle is straying from the convoy or making a wrong turn
(which is surprisingly easy to do is a cloud of red dust). Because of its
importance, I also suggest that the crew of the "caboose" also be at least
a little experienced, and like the "point", the assignment be rotated among
all the vehicles in the convoy.
The following are general rules of convoy driving:
-Keep the least experienced drivers in the middle of the convoy (at least
for the first few days)
-Agree on a predetermined speed for the convoy and stick to it
-Avoid the use of the cruise control system in any kind of off road situations
-If possible, practice driving a loaded-down rig a couple of times before
you go on the expedition, so you can get a feel of how much the ride
changes
-If the convoy is going to be moving (on and off road) for long stretches
of time, have drivers rotate so that no one takes the wheel for more than
eight hours at a time.
-Although unenforceable if the expedition includes small children, it's a
good idea to establish a schedule of "nature call" pit stops and try to
stick to it as much as possible; you wouldn't believe the amount of time it
takes to stop the entire convoy for a couple of people on multiple
occasions, and we all know that the worst possible thing to do in the
outback is having to pitch camp after sundown.
-Agree on a set of hand or light signals and make sure everybody practices them.
-Keep a distance of at least 6 to 8 vehicle lengths between each rig -If your
itinerary calls for a night out in the flatlands, it's wise to park your vehicles in
a circle,like the wagon trains did in the old west. This is not to defend yourself
against hostile natives, but shield your camp from the wind.
-If you only have one vehicle with a winch, set it in the middle of the convoy, in case it is needed for
the recovery of the "point" vehicle. If there are several rigs so equipped, space
them out on the convoy.
-Keep a tow strap ready for action (in place) on the second vehicle of the convoy, in case the "point"
vehicle has to be pulled out of trouble in a hurry.
-If one or more of the vehicles are towing a trailer, all vehicles in the convoy must be equipped with
the appropriate hitch, especially if the vehicle is used to carry items like fuel and/or iceboxes.
-Food, water, and other essential supplies (tools, parts, tents, lamps, fuel) should be evenly
distributed among the expedition's vehicles, so that in the case of a separation from the group the
safety of the crew is not compromised.
-When separated from the convoy, stay put, or stay as close as possible to the original route, and
try to park the vehicle in higher ground, where it can be seen from a distance. Wandering around
could get you in a desperate situation and hamper rescue attempts, not to mention seriously
deplete your supply of fuel, so stay in one place. Set your radio on a predetermined emergency
frequency and transmit your position (or the description of the area you're in) at regular intervals.
Never, I repeat NEVER abandon the safety of your
vehicle to attempt to make it on foot. if unable to find you, the rest of the convoy
might request an aerial search, and your chances of being spotted from above will be
a lot better if you stay with your vehicle; it will also provide shelter from the
elements. if possible, light a flare as far up as you can get it, and be patient. if
approached by wild animals, a powerful light or a honk of the horn is usually more
than enough to keep them away. If you light a fire to keep warm (and keep mosquitoes
away), don't look directly at the fire, or you won't be able to see headlights in
the distance. Another good trick, if the vehicle is equipped with extra lights, is
to unscrew one of them and use it as a searchlight, shining it upwards in lazy
circles at regular intervals. If the conditions are right, it will be visible for
miles.
The search for a lost vehicle should be careful coordinated and
conducted, to avoid adding vehicles to the MIA list. If there is no
communication between the convoy and the missing crew, plot a grid over a
map and have the search vehicles follow the grid, keeping close radio
contact with one another. Unless completely necessary, avoid night
searches, which in my experience always lead to additional trouble. Wait
till dawn, and then begin your search. Don't be afraid to enlist local
people for your search, as they are usually more than willing to lend a
helping hand, and they know the terrain better than you do. it should be
common courtesy among off roaders to join search operations with other
groups, and many a crew has been found by members of another expedition.
this kind of operation, by the way, should always take priority above your
predetermined schedule; human lives might be on the line, and remember, it
could be your convoy with a missing crew and rig.
From Dust we Cometh...
It's going to be everywhere; inside and outside your truck, on your
clothes, in your eyes, and if you smile because you're having fun, on your
teeth. Brown dust from the rutted trails, red dust from the arid flatlands,
gray dust from the ashes of the burning savanna. It will get inside your
headlights, it will clog your filters, it will find its way through every
crack until it covers all of your possessions like the sun over the savanna
at high noon. There is nothing you can do to avoid it, so the next best
thing is learning how to deal with is as good as possible. High quality
filters are a must in dusty areas, and if the area you're exploring is
remote, a snorkel with the extra filter on the pumpkin is a good
investment. Use silicone liberally to seal as many parts of your engine as
you can. Pack clothes in plastic garbage bags inside your duffel bags, and
remember to seal the edges of iceboxes with duct tape. it's impossible to
avoid dust getting to equipment packed on top of the roof rack or in open
trailers, so pack any sensitive or fragile components inside the truck.
keep the air conditioning system on recirculation; if going into a
particularly dry area, or if traveling at the height of the dry season,
forget open vehicles, unless you want to end up looking like a powdered
doughnut!! When traveling in dusty conditions, spread out the vehicles in
the convoy; if the road (or savanna) permits it, stagger them to improve
visibility. Watch out for dust storms; if you get caught by one, stop
immediately and don't leave the vehicle; they don't usually last too long,
but it's easy to get disoriented and lost if you're walking inside it.
Fashion Time
This is another subject that is very open to personal preference,
but I'll still include a few pointers:
-Expedition outfits range widely, from the "National Geographic" look (full
safari regalia) to the beach bum look (shorts, t-shirt, Tevas) to anything
in between. It depends more on the place you're going than on anything
else. As a general rule, loose, comfortable clothing, preferably cotton,
seems to be the preferred choice for most people.
-Shorts are not a good idea unless you're immune to bug bites (some people
are, but I, alas, was not so blessed), and lion grass can cut your skin to
ribbons if you push through it. Ticks, fleas and snakes, too, lurk in tall
grass, so avoid "bushwhacking" in heavy brush.
-The outback sun is merciless, so thick heavy clothes will be extremely
uncomfortable and hinder your movements.
-Rivers in the flatlands usually have large amounts of vegetable matter in
them, and the water will stain white clothes; be prepared and stick to
older, less expensive attire.(The same goes for rivers that carry a lot of
sediments and/or mineral deposits)
-For those of us whose hair prematurely decided to take a hike, a good hat
is imperative, but my experience with clients tell me that fair Nordic skin
doesn't take too well to the intense tropical sun, so a good, comfortable
hat is a good idea for everyone.
-Sunscreen is a must (SPF 15 minimum), unless you're going for my father's
"saddlebag-with-eyes" look (sorry, Dad!!). When driving, wear sunglasses to
avoid the splitting headache caused by squinting from the glare.
-I personally like to drive barefoot, but any comfortable shoe will do
until you leave your vehicle or get to camp, which is when you must whip
out the boots !! make sure they're comfortable and broken-in, as the last
thing you want is blisters for the duration of your trip.
-One thing I always carry around with me on expeditions (actually, I carry
a couple in the truck all the time) is a bandanna. I'm not even going to go
into all the uses I've had for them over the years, from applying a
tourniquet to holding hot pots to filtering rust particles from an old fuel
can. if you're going to wear them around your neck, get the 100% cotton
ones; some vendors sell gimmicky ones that won't fade or wrinkle (Mine, on
the other hand, look like souvenirs from the battle of Wounded Knee), but
they'll chafe your skin and won't soak up any liquids, either.
Terrorists Please Abstain
This is perhaps the touchiest subject of the entire article, so I
will try to be as objective as possible. I would be lying if I said that I
didn't carry a weapon while on expedition, but before you get any ideas,
hear me out. First of all, as a registered outfitter, I was allowed to
carry hunting weapons (only during season, and when properly secured and
unloaded) without a permit (In Venezuela this means shotguns only, no
rifles). In addition, as a Venezuelan citizen with no criminal record I had
a legal gun permit, issued only on a a yearly basis and for a specific
weapon, which must be legally registered prior to your application for the
permit. I ran a reputable business, so I never carried illegal weapons, a
situation which could have endangered the lives of my clients. Some
outfitters believe in armed guards, depending on the are you're traveling
through; others will provide weapons to all their clients and give them a
few instructions on how to use them. It is my STRONG opinion that if you
wish to go on expedition to South and Central America, you limit yourself
to legal hunting weapons, or even better, not carry any weapons at all.
There are several reasons for this rationale. Fist of all, in most South
American countries importing weapons is severely restricted and limited
mostly to military and police needs. being issued a legal gun permit might
take years for a local citizen, let alone a tourist with a limited visa;
not to mention the fact that the legal systems of the Third World are
notoriously corrupt and ineffective, and if you run into a problem, it is
likely that you'll be thrown in jail (some of which I've heard make San
Quentin look like the Ritz Carlton) until an officer from the American (or
corresponding) embassy reaches you, in a couple of days, if you're lucky,
in more than a week, if you're not. Second, because of those severe
restrictions on gun imports, your weapon may become a prized attraction to
the local authorities, who will most likely decide to "confiscate it for a
pending investigation". Believe me , you'll never see it again. Third,
unless you're a hard core expeditioner, with full knowledge of the language
and local customs, it is very unlikely that you will be heading for areas
where a weapons might be a necessity. Finally, carrying loaded weapons
while traveling with several people (including children) in the confined
spaces of loaded trucks and with the lack of privacy typical of a temporary
campsite sounds like a formula for disaster to me. Also, thinking that you
might be able to sneak a gun past a checkpoint is very stupid and dangerous
thinking; because of the problems with the drug trade, soldiers and border
guards are well trained, and if you look suspicious or rub them the wrong
way they'll search your vehicles like their lives depended on it. (i once
gave an army officer, according to him, a funny look, and five hours later
his men were still searching the convoy's vehicles, including the inside of
freshly gutted fish in the iceboxes; if they had found anything remotely
illegal, you guys would be writing to Amnesty International to take my
case). On the risk of being flamed, I also strongly advise against
expeditions in Colombia, due to the strong presence of Marxist guerrillas
and drug cartel henchmen struggling for supremacy in the area. The same
goes for certain areas of Central America. Be sure to check with the State
Department; they have an office that routinely informs US citizens of "hot
spots" around the world, and they will be able to provide accurate and
up-to-date information on the country (or countries) you're visiting. Good
travel agencies and your local library and bookstores are also good sources
of information.
Off Road Boats
Depending on the distance from civilization, most expeditions will
carry one, two, or more boats. On fishing expeditions like the ones I
specialized on, a 12' , round tip aluminum boat was carried on the roof
rack of every vehicle, or on top of large trailers. this slowed the already
ponderous trucks even more, because the boat acted like a big windscreen'
however, I've always been partial to aluminum boats and avoid inflatables
as much as possible. On certain, hard core expeditions, twin inflatables,
16' or bigger, were carried on trucks for river crossings. this is a
complicated and risky maneuver, and should not be attempted without
guidance.
The advantage of carrying boats is that you can go exploring in any
river or lake you encounter (provided it's not the Amazon or the Orinoco,
which are choppy and so wide that at certain points you can't see the
opposite shore, or white water, which needs no further comment). The
disadvantage, other than the lost space and extra weight, is that it's easy
to get caught in the fun and squander your precious supply of fuel; please
plan accordingly. Outboard engines should never be more than 25 HP (with
the ideal engine size being 15 HP), to maximize the fuel consumption vs.
weight/bulk ration, and short shafted, to negotiate the shallows during the
dry season. I strongly recommend that, if you have the opportunity, take a
boat along, even if it's inflatable; the water ways are a great way to
watch the wildlife and the fishing opportunities are unbelievable.
Tell Us about Your Trip
Keep a detailed journal of your expedition, including things like
average MPG, miles traveled, food consumed, food needed, food left over,
parts used, tools used and needed, directions, coordinates, landmarks,
names of people you met, etc... This will not only help you plan your next
expedition and figure out which captions go with each picture, but will
also give you something to do when you get back: writing the log down and
telling the rest of us here on the OML about your trip !!
[note wj: OML means Offroad Mailinglist of course]
A Controversial Theme
I know I'm going to get flamed for this one, or at the least stir
up the "arica's" ( "ah-ree-kah" a small, stinger less outback bee that
lives in huge hives and produces a mild, greenish, and delicious honey)
nest ; but I will have to agree with Willem-Jan on his choices for
expedition vehicles, although there is not set rule for this. Because there
is no substitute for cargo capacity, you can rule out most short wheel base
vehicles, unless you're willing to compromise with a very heavily laden
roof rack (which is dangerous), or by towing a large trailer (which can be
unwieldy on narrow and/or very rough trails). In my humble opinion (which
is of course, biased, and open to severe flaming..:) !!), the best
expedition vehicles in the world, available today, are (in no particular
order):
-80 series Toyota Land Cruiser (in it's more spartan, utility versions)
-70 series Toyota Land Cruiser (troop carrier and pickup versions)
-Jeep Wrangler Troop Carrier (long wheel base, non-removable steel hard top)
-Nissan Patrol (four door, long wheel base)
-Land Rover Defender (110 and 130 long wheel base)
-Mercedes Benz Unimog (in several configurations)
The versatility, reliability, and availability of parts and support
for these vehicles the world over, especially in areas where long range
expeditions are routinely organized and conducted, is very hard to match. I
have seen, however, some incredibly trick custom expedition vehicles, like
a V8 powered Ford Crew Cab 4x4 "dually" that a friend of my Dad's equipped
with long range fuel tanks, 36" Goodyear MT's, custom suspension lift,
military axles, dual winches, custom roof rack (with capacity for two 12'
aluminum boats) and tire carriers, and a matching trailer. Again, you can
either choose a vehicle that is common and therefore supported by factory
and after market parts availability, or you can build your own bulletproof
expedition rig. There are pros and cons for both tendencies, and the
ultimate decision is, as always, up to you.
A SAD NOTE: The bulk of my experience is in Venezuela, my native country,
and the beauty of the Venezuelan outback is something you never forget.
However, and with a heavy heart, I must advise against any expeditions in
the area for the time being, as the country is experiencing economic
turmoil, and even worse, cataclysmic social unrest. I don't know how long
it will take for things to settle down; I know that many outfitters have
gone out of business, or are barely making it though, mainly on the trickle
of adventurous tourists who will risk anything for a chance at landing a
trophy fish. It's going to be a lengthy process (and by that time I hope to
be returning as a foreigner), but I promise that if things get better, I
will personally guide any of you who wishes to experience a long range
expedition, not as an outfitter, but as a friend.
I want to dedicate this article to Shel, who asked for it, to Ross,
for putting up with me, to Stefan, whose dedication keeps us together, to
Dave, for always being there, to Willem-Jan, for teaching me what this is
all about, and to Glenn, Rob, Rod, Jay, Mike, Franco, Will, Kerry,
Dennis, Brad, and the rest of the guys out there.... Thank you !!
Henry J. Cubillan
********************************
* '90 FJ62 Toyota Land Cruiser *
* " Princess " *
* Carburated 3F engine *
* 5-Speed manual tranny *
********************************
* '67 M416 1/4 ton Trailer *
* "Junior" *
********************************
Date: Sat, 7 Apr 2007 13:57:00 -0700 (PDT)
From: Fred Lloyd
Subject: Suggestion for scaring away feral pigs
To: w.j.markerink@a1.nl
Hi,
I'm learning a lot from your page on "Preparing for Expeditions". As i got
to the part about scaring away wild "pigs" i thought of a suggestion. We
have javelina here in Prescott and i found that just a water squirter
terrifies them even where loud noises won't bother them. Just a thought and
possibly worth a note on the site.
Fred
If you have any question, remark, comment, want to share some
philosophy or just want to express your opinion about these pages,
feel free to send email to:
w.j.markerink @ a1.nl
Back to main page & table of contents:
Main Page