Aqua Aria Amazon – Sample

Cruises

SUMMARY

5 Days

Peru, Amazon

AQUA ARIA AMAZON’s luxury river cruise transports guests in exceptional comfort deep into the Amazon rainforest. It cruises along the Marañon River, the Amazon’s largest tributary, as well as the Yarapa and Yanayacu-Pucate all rich in vibrant wildlife and thriving rainforests. Explore the dense jungle on foot in search of three-toed sloths, toucans, and macaws. Meet taricaya turtles in their natural habitat and the endangered pink dolphins, unique to the Amazon. Or catch the unique piranha while fishing from the comfortable skiffs. Learn about the diverse Amazon wildlife and birds of the Pacaya-Samiria as you sail towards the birthplace of the Amazon.

The excursions are conducted by highly experienced naturalist guides with up to eight guests. This exclusivity provides you with a great opportunity for life-enriching wildlife encounters in the Amazon rainforest. While travelling in comfortable small boats, you’ll get deep into the Amazon’s tributaries and walk through the wet Amazon rain forest. The English speaking guides are true “river dwellers” as they grew up on the banks of the Amazon; they know every bird and mammal calls. As true natives, they possess the ability to spot a three-toed sloth sleeping high up in the tree canopy, or an anaconda slithering along the shoreline.

AQUA ARIA AMAZON offers 3-night, 4-night and 7-night river cruises all year round. The 4-night cruise manages to fit major highlights of the Peruvian Amazon and the Pacaya-Samiria Reserve in an action-packed itinerary. Trek into the dense jungle with experienced guides in search of wildlife such as monkeys, toucans and macaws. Journeys focus on the Ucayali tributary, where wildlife feeding and nesting grounds are aplenty.

During the 3-night Amazon Explorer Cruise, you will get a taste of the most biodiverse rainforest in the world. It focuses on the Marañon, the Amazon River’s largest tributary, as well as other neighbouring waterways, the Yarapa and Yanayacu-Pucate. Discover the habitats of these nutrient-rich water bodies and how they — and the lush jungle around them — support a vast array of wildlife.

The acclaimed 7-night Amazon Expedition Cruise lets guests experience the most luxurious and complete of Amazon journeys. It sails among the two tributaries, Marañon and Ucayali, that give the Amazon river its life. This all-encompassing itinerary lets explorers discover the best that Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve has to offer, including its hidden lakes and lagoons, as well as fantastic jungle trails.

About AQUA ARIA AMAZON the vessel:

The cruise was built in 2011 and refurbished in 2015. Onboard, 16 spacious suites with floor-to-ceiling windows give guests a full view of the Amazon’s majestic river and rainforests. The top deck features ample amenities that include a jacuzzi, indoor lounge and bar, and an outdoor observation deck. In the dining room, guests also savour the best of Peruvian cuisine. It features a comprehensive dining menu created by Pedro Miguel Schiaffino, one of Peru’s most accomplished chefs.

The Amazon is a year-round destination with two distinct seasons, for more information, have a look at our blog on when is the best time to travel to the Amazon?

HIGHLIGHTS

Sail on the Aria Amazon, featuring spacious suites with panoramic rainforest views.
Enjoy personalized service from expert naturalist guides and a dedicated crew.
Savour Amazonian cuisine by renowned Chef Pedro Miguel Schiaffino.
Experience daily jungle excursions, including birdwatching, canoeing, and fishing.
Connect with indigenous communities through village visits and school interactions.
Spot pink river dolphins, exotic birds, and other unique Amazon wildlife.
Participate in activities like stargazing and visit the Manatee Rescue Center.
Enjoy all-inclusive amenities, from gourmet meals to daily excursions.

ITINERARY

Day 1 Iquitos/Cruise

Upon arrival at Iquitos International Airport, you’ll be warmly greeted and escorted through the vibrant Peruvian countryside in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. En route to Nauta’s Main Wharf, indulge in a riverside lunch where you can savour local flavours against the backdrop of the lush Amazon landscape. If your flight arrives later, a delicious box lunch will be provided.
Your journey begins with an insightful introduction to the historic city of Iquitos, the gateway to the Amazon, where you’ll have the opportunity to connect with an indigenous Amazonian community. This cultural immersion offers a rare glimpse into the lives of the people who have called the rainforest home for generations.
At 6:00 pm, you’ll board the luxurious Aria Amazon. Settle into your elegantly appointed suite, designed to provide panoramic views of the river and jungle, as you embark on one of life’s most extraordinary adventures. After a safety briefing and an introduction to your expert naturalist guides, gather in the dining room for an exquisite dinner. Relish innovative Amazonian cuisine crafted by Executive Chef Pedro Miguel Schiaffino, known for his culinary mastery at Malabar, one of Lima’s top restaurants.

Day 2 Iquitos/Cruise

Yanayacu-pucate River -& Lisboa Town- Start your day with the peaceful sounds of the jungle as you embark on an early morning birdwatching excursion along the Marañon River. Witness the vibrant colours and diverse species that thrive in this bio-diverse region. Enjoy a hearty breakfast amidst the natural beauty of the Amazon, where every bite is accompanied by the symphony of the rainforest.
Journey to the Yanayacu-Pucate River, a pristine waterway known for its crystal-clear waters. Here, you can swim, canoe, or kayak in search of the legendary pink river dolphins that gracefully glide through the water. Their playful nature and elusive beauty make this a truly magical experience. In the afternoon, visit a local village where you’ll interact with the indigenous community and meet schoolchildren, offering a heartwarming connection to the people of the Amazon.

Day 3 Iquitos/Cruise

Samiria River-An early start rewards you with a full day of exploration on the Samiria River, one of the most bio-diverse regions of the Amazon. The day’s adventure includes a picturesque picnic lunch on the riverbank, surrounded by the sounds of nature. As you dine, the jungle symphony of birds, insects, and distant animal calls creates an unforgettable ambience.
After lunch, enjoy fishing on the black-water of the Samiria River, where you might catch piranhas or other local species. As you journey back towards the Marañon River, keep an eye out for the banana boats, laden with jungle produce, as they navigate the waters. The sight of pink river dolphins frolicking in the wake of your skiff will be a delightful end to the day.

Day 4 Iquitos/Cruise

Nauta Caño River & Jungle Walk- As dawn breaks, embark on a thrilling wildlife excursion along the Nauta Caño River, known for its extraordinary blackwater ecosystems. This morning is dedicated to spotting diverse wildlife, from the smallest insects to larger mammals and colourful birds. The river’s calm waters reflect the surrounding greenery, creating a serene and otherworldly experience.
In the afternoon, venture into the rainforest on a guided jungle walk through the firm-soil forest of Casual. Your naturalist guide will reveal the secrets of the rainforest’s complex ecosystems, introducing you to medicinal trees, vibrant insects, and the fascinating poison dart frogs. As night falls, turn your gaze to the skies, using a high-tech telescope to explore the stars, planets, and the mesmerising Milky Way, all framed by the dense Amazon canopy.

Day 5 Iquitos

Manatee Rescue Center/ Transfer to the airport-Begin your final day with a guided visit to a bustling local market in Iquitos. Here, you’ll marvel at the exotic produce of the Peruvian Amazon and have the chance to sample unique snacks that showcase the region’s rich culinary traditions. It’s a sensory experience that highlights the diversity of Amazonian culture.
Return to the Aria Amazon for a farewell breakfast as you prepare for disembarkation. En route to the airport, you’ll stop at the Manatee Rescue Center, where you’ll learn about the vital conservation efforts to rehabilitate orphaned Amazonian manatees before they are released back into the wild. This touching experience underscores the importance of protecting the Amazon’s unique wildlife. Transfer to the airport, filled with memories of your extraordinary journey through the Amazon River.