One of the Most Remote Rafting Experiences in North America

Unlike many adventures offered through Rivers & Oceans, the Kongakut River expedition is directly guided, outfitted, and operated by Robby Pitagora, Billie Prosser, Aaron Cavagnolo, and our own expedition team. Our Kongakut expeditions are led by a small, experienced group with deep backgrounds in remote river travel and expedition logistics.

Billie Prosser – Trip Leader

Billie brings decades of experience guiding rivers across the West and internationally, along with a calm, steady presence that sets the tone for each trip. She is widely respected for her professionalism, sound judgment, and ability to lead teams through complex environments while keeping the experience grounded and enjoyable.

Aaron Cavagnolo – Trip Leader & Operations

Aaron has spent more than 30 years exploring rivers around the world, with over 2,000 nights in the field. An Alaskan resident, his experience on remote expeditions and deep understanding of logistics bring a thoughtful, adaptable approach to guiding in the Arctic.

Robby Pitagora – Owner & Trip Leader

Robby has over 35 years in the river industry and extensive experience leading trips in Alaska. His long-standing connection to the region and focus on creating meaningful outdoor experiences shape the way this expedition is run.

Learn more about our guides →

The pace of the trip allows for time off the river—watching for caribou movement, hiking into the Brooks Range, and experiencing the landscape beyond the channel itself.

Day 10 – Camp at Caribou Pass
Establish camp near Caribou Pass and hike to a high vantage point for expansive views towards the Arctic Coastal Plain.

This section of river is new to our team and will be run as an exploratory expedition. Trips that continue to the ocean involve greater exposure to weather and more complex logistics than the journey to Caribou Pass.

Upon reaching the coast near Icy Reef on the evening of day 10 or morning of day 11, we will paddle approximately 10 miles over two days through protected saltwater behind barrier islands to the Turner River, an area known for its abundant birdlife.

On Day 13, a bush plane will fly the group out from the Turner River to either Arctic Village or Kaktovik, where we will connect with a flight to Fairbanks.

I can’t recommend Robby and Rivers & Oceans highly enough.

“I just returned from an 11-day expedition down the Kongakut River through the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge with Rivers & Oceans, and it was extraordinary. Robby — the owner and our trip leader — brought a depth of experience and expertise that made all the difference on what is genuinely an advanced wilderness river trip. His team was every bit as professional. The food was excellent, the camp choices were thoughtful and beautiful, the gear was first-rate, and when the river handed us problems, the guiding crew solved them with a calm competence that was a pleasure to watch.“

– Harold (2026)

Rafts are approximately 14-foot inflatable boats, each carrying 4 guests, gear, and one guide. Guests participate in paddling while guides provide direction and instruction throughout the trip.

Tents and sleeping pads are provided. You are welcome to bring your own gear; however, please confirm in advance to ensure it is appropriate for Arctic conditions. Sleeping bags can be rented or brought and must meet warmth and weight requirements. Personal gear is limited to 50 pounds. See our Kongakut Packing List.

Meals are prepared by your guides and are designed to be simple, filling, and appropriate for remote travel, typically including coffee, hot breakfasts, and substantial dinners.

With advance notice, most dietary needs can be accommodated. Please contact us prior to booking to discuss any specific requirements.

Alcohol is not provided, but you are welcome to bring your own within the 50-pound personal gear limit.

Travelers should pack efficiently and be prepared for the possibility of overnight delays in Arctic Village before or after the trip.

Bush Plane Access

Conditions in the Arctic change quickly, and guides continually adjust plans to make the most of weather, water levels, wildlife activity, and group dynamics.

June:
Early season conditions with higher water, active caribou migration, and emerging tundra vegetation. As the month progresses the water is typically lower and cleaner making it better for fishing. The hills become more green and the mosquitos more abundant until in early July when they flourish.

August:
Cooler temperatures, fall color across the tundra, reduced mosquitoes, and the possibility of seeing the Northern Lights late in the season.

June often brings relatively stable weather, but rain, wind, and cold temperatures remain possible. As the trip progresses toward the coastal plain, precipitation tends to increase.

Daytime temperatures typically range from the 60s°F to 80s°F, while nights commonly fall into the 40s°F and 50s°F. Snow is possible at any time of year. Expect cool/cold winds in the afternoon coming up canyon from the Arctic Ocean.

August trips are generally cooler, with morning frosts becoming more common as the month progresses.

While the rapids themselves are generally straightforward, whitewater ratings tell only part of the story. Cold water, changing weather, aufeis, remote air access, and the realities of operating far from outside assistance are all part of what makes Arctic travel unique.

Rather than being defined by technical rapids, the river serves as a means of travel, carrying you through the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge and providing access to remote terrain that few people ever experience.

For a comparison of this and other Alaska expeditions, see our overview of multi-day rafting trips in Alaska.