Through the Brazilian Wilderness · Chapter
Appendix B: The Outfit for Travelling in the South American Wilderness explained
This appendix provides practical advice on equipment and supplies for travel in South American wilderness, based on the author's experience.
What happens
This appendix provides practical advice on equipment and supplies for travel in South American wilderness, based on the author's experience. It covers bedding, tents, canoes, arms, medicine, clothing, and food rations, with detailed notes on the superiority of North American canvas canoes over native dugouts and a sample weekly ration plan for five men.
Themes in this chapter
Exploration and Adventure
The entire appendix is a practical guide for explorers, detailing gear and strategies for surviving and navigating South American wilderness.
Scientific Inquiry
The careful planning of rations and equipment, including medical supplies and canoe repair kits, reflects a methodical approach to exploration.
Human Endurance and Resilience
The advice on dealing with tropical diseases, portaging canoes, and cooking in the wild underscores the physical and mental demands of such travel.
Characters to notice
- Theodore Roosevelt
Author of the appendix, shares personal experience and preferences for equipment.
- Kermit Roosevelt
Mentioned as using leftover clothing from African trip and wearing shorts in the Brazilian forest.
- Anthony Fiala
Provides detailed judgment on equipment and provisions based on his own expedition experience.
Key passages
“For bedding there should be a hammock, mosquito-net, and light blanket. These can be obtained in Brazil.”
Basic sleeping gear includes a hammock, mosquito net, and light blanket, all available locally in Brazil.
Practical advice for travelers on essential bedding.
“The native canoe made from the single trunk of a forest giant is the craft that has been used. It is durable and if lost can be readily replaced from the forest by good men with axes and adzes.”
Traditional dugout canoes are sturdy and can be easily replaced using forest materials and basic tools.
Comparison of native canoes with North American designs.
“Our nineteen-foot canvas-covered freight canoe, a type especially built for the purpose on deep, full lines with high free-board, weighed about one hundred and sixty pounds and would carry a ton of cargo with ease.”
A 19-foot canvas canoe weighing 160 pounds could safely carry up to a ton of cargo.
Advantages of modern canvas canoes over traditional dugouts.