Diego Ibañez comes from one of the founding families of Peruvian whitewater adventure. Along with his cousin, Piero Vellutino, Diego grew up in Arequipa, Peru in an adventurous family that started exploring the rivers of the Andes in the early ‘80’s. He remembers that his first time in a raft was with his family at age 5 and that he has never been far from the river ever since. Being on the river has a very special meaning to Diego and he loves every moment on the river that he gets!

Before working as a guide, Diego studied Hotel Management in university, finishing in 2001. During this time he worked in the general Peru tourism industry, mainly at the front desk of 5 star hotels, perfecting his English and problem solving skills. After finishing his studies, Diego began river guiding and kayaking. As a whitewater kayaker Diego has run hundreds of different rivers around the world including first descents in both Peru and Argentina. His kayaking pursuits led him to Uganda, Zambia, Ecuador, Chile, and all over his home country of Peru. As a raft guide Diego has captained boats in Peru, Chile, and Argentina. He has also led trekking trips all through the Andes and southern Patagonia and helped organize adventure races, and rafting and kayaking competitions in Peru and Argentina. Diego is a true professional: wilderness first aid certified, Wilderness First Responder, swiftwater rescue certified and is a certified IRF instructor for Class 4-5 raft guides.

As part of the Bio Bio Team, Diego has a constant smile and an unflappable personality. He is a team player – comfortable leading Andean treks as well as Class 5 whitewater as either a river guide or safety kayaker. Diego is one of our best salsa dancers and loves sharing his love of life, fun, and adventure with our guests.