Delfin III – Sample

Cruises

SUMMARY

5 Days

Peru, Amazon

Delfin III Amazon Cruise showcases the main highlights within the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve. Onboard of Delfin III Amazon Cruise you will experience an ideal combination of natural wonders, dramatic scenery and indigenous culture. The program showcases the best flora and fauna that the Marañon and Ucayali Rivers in the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve have to boast. Additionally, there is an array of experiences available while onboard to enhance your Amazon experience. Activities such as kayaking in the calm creeks and lakes or fishing for piranhas is a big favourite. Alternatively, you can go skirting the riverbanks in search of playful creatures while birdwatching during your trail walks. Lastly, one of the main highlights is visiting an Amazon village where you can learn about the customs and traditions of the Amazon communities.

About Delfin III

Delfin III Amazon Cruise offers guests an immersive rainforest experience while simultaneously treating them to the highest levels of luxury. It has a capacity for up to 42 passengers in its 21 Suites (4 different categories). The ship has been beautifully finished with the finest details, hardwood floors, designer furniture, and handmade Peruvian artefacts. On the first deck, there are eight Fauna Suites complete with floor to ceiling panoramic windows as well as two spacious Estuary Suites facing the front of the ship. The second deck is comprised of ten Flora Suites and the largest of all, the Amazonia Suite. The top deck of the Delfin III Amazon Cruise features an indoor and outdoor lounge, a sundeck with plunge pool, a spa and gym, and the bar.

The dry or low water season runs from June to October. It is ideal for travellers that prefer to walk through the rainforest to discover its flora and fauna. It allows for more extensive hikes and fewer mosquitos.
The rainy or high water season runs from November to May. This is ideal for travellers that prefer to duck into otherwise isolated corners of the reserve onboard speed boats. It allows for more extensive exploration and access via water. In any case, each season boasts a dramatic difference in plants, animals, and weather.

HIGHLIGHTS

Explore the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve: Discover the world’s largest protected flooded forest, a pristine Amazonian ecosystem teeming with life. Marvel at the “mirror forest” effect as the canopy reflects on the still waters.
Navigate the Amazon River: Embark on a journey through the heart of South America’s largest river, witnessing its majestic beauty and diverse ecosystems.
Thrill of Piranha Fishing: Experience the excitement of catching piranhas, a legendary fish of the Amazon. Test your angling skills and savour the thrill of the hunt.
Cultural Immersion: Connect with local villagers in the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve and the community of San Francisco, gaining insights into their traditions, way of life, and unique perspectives on the Amazon.
Wildlife Encounters: Observe a variety of fascinating wildlife, from playful monkeys and colorful birds to exotic reptiles and aquatic creatures.

ITINERARY

Day 1 Iquitos/Cruise

Arrive at the Amazon city of Iquitos in the morning. Pick up from the airport and transfer to the port of Nauta (95km) where you will embark on the luxurious Delfin III. Once on board, enjoy a welcome cocktail and meet your crew and naturalist guides who will accompany you on this Amazonian adventure. Settle into your spacious suite as the vessel begins its journey into the heart of the Amazon rainforest, where breathtaking views and the sounds of nature greet you./p>

Day 2 Dorado River – Amazon/Cruise

AM: Yanallpa- Here in the Amazon Rainforest a dry morning with a beautiful sunrise is all we need to have a successful pre-breakfast exploration of the forest! The early morning hours are the best time of day to watch birds, observe their special displays and listen to their songs. Jump on the skiffs and head to the shores of the Ucayali River. This area is green with large trees and old palm trees as well, and these components favour the presence of several parrot species. This particular spot also has a great number of other birds of different species. Perhaps spot a large flock of red-bellied macaws, as well different types of raptors, woodpeckers and swallows. If you are lucky, you will hear loud and distinctive sounds of blue and yellow macaws!

PM: Dorado River- look for the famous hoatzins nesting a few feet above the water and perhaps a sloth or two of the three-toed kind. The Dorado River can also be home to troops of brown capuchin monkeys mixed up with squirrel monkeys. As the sun sets, our aim will be looking for black and white caiman, fishing bats, and Noisy Nights Monkeys where you will encounter a whole new world of adventure.

Day 3 Pacaya River – Amazon/Cruise

AM: Pacaya River- Is at the very heart of the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve, Peru’s largest protected area. It receives a mean annual rainfall of nearly 3,000 millimetres, by far the largest protected wetland reserve in the world. Filled with lakes, palm swamps, and streams, the reserve becomes a flooded forest in the rainy season and is sure to be one of the most beautiful places you’ll ever visit. You will also have the chance to swim in one of the pristine Amazon lagoons in this wonderful region!

PM: Pacaya River- the skiffs will speed along the main river to reach the narrower channels where you will explore the thick rainforest adjacent to the water. During the explorations, lookout for some of the more typical and iconic birds of the New World tropics, such as the lettered aracari toucan, the straight billed woodcreeper and the white-eared jacamar. Later on, travel near Flor de Castaña, for an opportunity to swim among pink dolphins. If you are thinking Piranhas, as many people have in their minds when they think about the Amazon River! Don’t worry; the aggressiveness of this characteristic fish of the Amazon is extremely overrated.

Day 4 Yarapa River – Amazon/Cruise

AM: Yarapa River- Along the Yarapa River, you will get to explore this tributary intimately. Listen closely to the sounds from within the mysterious jungle. Travel downriver to this wide creek that leads to an attractive hidden lagoon. Enjoy the beauty of the landscape while you reflect on the surrounding wildlife. Hawks, terns, herons and monkeys are all part of the everyday excursions and are readily close by. Here you will notice many more rivereños, inhabitants of the Amazon. They are an important part of this complex bio-network. Look out for specific types of Monkeys like the pygmy marmoset, squirrel monkey, and our first Monk Saki. This medium-sized monkey with the thick fur and bushy tail looks more like he is dressed for the Arctic than the Amazon.

PM: Fundo Casual: The walk at Fundo Casual jungle trail will take you deep into the rainforest on terra firme (non-flooded forest) where your guide will point out the dynamic creatures and vegetation of the Amazon. Be sure to keep an attentive eye open for spotting surprises; it’s almost unbelievable how with every step you find something along the way. Almost definitely Anaconda, Rainbow Boas, Tarantulas, Poison Frogs, and most recently porcupines have been spotted. This spot is one of the very few places in the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve Amazon Rainforest where you can see the ever so elusive 2-toed sloth.

Day 5 Iquitos

This morning disembark at the port of Nauta and travel overland back to Iquitos. Visit the Rescue & Rehabilitation Centre of River Mammals (ACOBIA) en route. You will have the chance to meet baby Manatee and learn about these wonderful and docile creatures and why they are on the endangered species list. You will also have the chance to pet and feed these kind manatees. The centre also cares for other rescued animals that have been in captivity for the intention of being turned into pets and other threatening conditions. Transfer to the airport after the tour.