Exploring the Amazon: Francisco Orellana's Epic and Deadly Voyage Through the River of Darkness

In 1541, Francisco Orellana led the first expedition to traverse the entire length of the Amazon River. Led by Orellana, a Spanish explorer and conquistador, the expedition began in Quito, Ecuador, and ended in the Atlantic Ocean. Along the way, Orellana and his crew encountered many different indigenous tribes, as well as treacherous terrain and dangerous wildlife. Despite the many hardships they faced, Orellana and his crew persevered and became the first Europeans to navigate the entire length of the Amazon River. Author Buddy Levy has written extensively about Orellana and his historic expedition, providing readers with an in-depth look at the incredible journey.