Amazon River Cruise

1 February 2024 | Amazon, Wlidlife

Located between the Marañón and Ucayali rivers, two major tributaries of the mighty Amazon river, the Pacaya Samiria Natural Reserve is the largest national reserve in Peru, representing 1.5 percent of the country’s total surface with an area of 8,000 square miles (20,800 square kilometers).

The waterways and black lagoons of this beautiful reserve are known as the ‘mirrored forest’ by wildlife lovers, thanks to their still and reflective nature. With an astounding 1,025 species of vertebrates, 449 species of birds, 256 species of fish, and 965 species of wild plants, visitors can expect to keep their binoculars on hand at all times, ready for an exotic Amazonian creature to pass by.

Getting up-close to the multitude of wildlife in the Amazon rainforest is not an easy task, which is why an experienced guide and a well-organized river expedition is a must. Aqua Expeditions’ local guides have lived most of their lives along the banks of the Amazon and offer an immense knowledge of its surroundings. With over 15 years of experience, they possess an incredible talent to identify every bird and mammal calls. Our birdwatcher guide specialist expert George Davila can even imitate the unique sounds of dozens of bird species native to the Amazon region, almost to perfection.

With a genuine passion to teach guests about the wonders of the Amazon, its complex ecosystem, and how to take care of it, Aqua’s naturalist guides are an essential part of the Aqua experience, making every excursion educational, fun, and memorable.

We have selected 15 must-see Amazon River animals which guests can expect to see while exploring the Peruvian Amazon. Learn about the unique characteristics of each species and their International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) status as we take you on a virtual tour of the Peruvian Amazon’s exotic wildlife.

2. Pink river dolphin

IUCN Status: Endangered

The mostly unpopulated stretches of the Peruvian Amazon are one of the last refuges for the pink river dolphin, whose numbers are dwindling downriver due to killings by humans and lack of food due to overfishing. 

At Pacaya Samiria National Reserve, a healthy population of pink river dolphins finds their safe shelter. More importantly, these highly intelligent creatures have built a rapport with us and enjoy our company every time we sail past or visit their habitats on excursions. Guests aboard the Amazon river cruises can expect very special encounters; these creatures swim and leap out of the water — often in pairs — within touching distance of our skiffs. Watch here:

5. Common Potoo

IUCN* Status: Least concern

If you’re not hiking into the Amazon forest with an Aqua Expeditions naturalist guide, you probably won’t be able to spot the Common Potoo. Also called the Grey Potoo, this nocturnal bird has feathers that remarkably resemble the color and texture of tree bark. In the day, it perches on a tree branch or stump, resting with its head in an upright position to completely blend in. 

During the night, you might hear the distinctive warble of the Common Potoo — a harmonious song that varies in pitch and volume, as if they are warming up for a concert! Listen below:

6. Hoatzin

IUCN Status: Least Concern

As we sail the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve, there are wonders to see around every corner. Perhaps, the strangest one of them all is the Hoatzin bird. With claws on their wings, Hoatzins bear a striking resemblance to Archaeopteryx, a dinosaur from the Jurassic era. 

Commonly known as the ‘stinkbird’, you’ll most likely want to spot Hoatzins from a distance. The birds ferment vegetation in their stomach – much like cows do – which gives them an odor so unpleasant that it actually serves as a defense mechanism. 

Hoatzins are rarely – if ever – hunted by humans. As a result of this, they don’t shy away as we pass through their habitat. Aboard Aqua Expeditions’ tenders, you’ll be able to see Hoatzins – with their reddish-brown crest and dark and light brown feathers – perched on branches relatively close to the ground. 

Although they have fully developed wings, Hoatzins are very clumsy by nature and tend to avoid flying. Being herbivores, they don’t need to hunt for food. Hoatzins spend up to four hours a day eating green plants such as succulents and legume trees.

7. Brown-Throated Three-Toed Sloth

IUCN Status: Least concern

An amazing Amazonian resident to see in the wild, the three-toed brown-throated sloth lives an unhurried life. The creature spends 15 to 18 hours a day sleeping in the trees, which may be during the day or night.

Taking things really slowly, the sloth’s multi-chambered stomach and digestive systems require two weeks to digest one meal. The sloth, however, goes through the hassle of climbing down to the forest floor every eight days to defecate — a habit that scientists haven’t been able to explain.

In the sloth dating game, it’s the female who makes the first moves, says George. When in the jungle, keep your ears peeled for their screams, which sound extremely human-like!

8. Black Caiman

IUCN Status: Conservation Dependent

It’s only fitting for the largest member of the alligator family to live in the world’s largest river basin. Black caimans can grow to be as long as six meters in length and weigh up to 600 kilograms. Can you imagine floating side-by-side one of these behemoths while aboard one of Aqua’s private skiffs? Now, that’d be a story worth taking back home.

On the fifth day of our seven-night Amazon tour, guests get to take an evening ride along the black waters of the Pacaya River. Be sure to look around carefully because the caimans’ eyes are the only part of them which aren’t camouflaged. When our Aqua naturalist guides spot a juvenile caiman, they might even gently lift it from the river to let the guests have a better look. If it’s a photo-op you’re after, there will never be a better chance.

Black caimans used to be endangered back in the 1970s due to excessive poaching. Today, conservation efforts have helped their population recover and they’re steadily moving towards the safe zone. The return of black caimans has also helped bring the piranha and capybara population under control. Their numbers had grown unnaturally high, creating an imbalance in the ecosystem.

9. Amazonian Manatee

IUCN Status: Vulnerable

Although the manatee is on the checklist of every visitor to the Amazon, many of them usually miss the chance to see it in its natural habitat. Classified as a vulnerable species, it is estimated that less than 10,000 Amazonian manatees remain in the entire Amazon although their numbers continue to decrease. Fortunately, many of these manatees have settled in the calmer, shallower waters of the Peruvian Amazon, particularly in areas of the nutrient-rich flooded forest away from the river’s main branch.

Aqua Expeditions actively supports the Manatee Rescue Centre in Iquitos, Peru, where our operations are based. The Center rescues and rehabilitates orphaned or injured manatees before releasing them back into the wild — more than 26 manatees have been released since 2009. Our Amazon itineraries include a visit to the center, where guests can see firsthand the conservation efforts and learn about this vulnerable species and its threats.

10. Capybara

IUCN Status: Least Concern

With their seemingly unimpressed facial expression, capybaras are nevertheless highly social creatures. These rodents also live in large groups of about 20 to 30 and enjoy spending time dipping in the Peruvian Amazon’s waterways and mud banks in the day.

Capybaras can also remain submerged in water for five minutes and run as fast as a horse, which partly explains why they’re not an endangered species. Some locals hunt them for their meat and hide, not minding the fact that capybaras occasionally eat their own waste as a source of bacterial gut flora. We’re guessing these creatures have never heard of yogurt.

11. Paiche

IUCN Status: (Data deficient)

Once close to extinction, the paiche (arapaima gigas) fish now thrive in the Amazon river thanks to sustainable fishing programs run by the river communities. The paiche can grow up to 2 meters (6 feet 7 inches) in length and weigh up to 200 kilograms (441 pounds), making it one of the largest fishes in the Amazon.

On our luxury Amazon river ships, renowned chef Pedro Miguel Schiaffino delivers a world-class menu featuring the paiche. At the same time, Aqua Expeditions is committed to conserving the species by working with local communities to practice sustainable fishing techniques. We buy only from certified fish farms, where the paiche is nurtured to an optimal size for consumption.

Over the last decade, Aqua Expeditions’ conservation efforts have played a role in bringing the Paiche population up from sub-500 to over 10,000, as it currently stands.

13. Agami Heron

IUCN Status: Vulnerable

Classified as vulnerable, this elusive bird is on the IUCN Red List because of habitat loss in the Amazon, but in the protected Pacaya Samiria National Reserve a handful of Agami heron flocks have found their sanctuary.

If you’re an avid birdwatcher, you will be in good hands if you follow an Aqua Expeditions naturalist guide. “Agami herons are very shy, but they nest together in colonies of hundreds, sometimes thousands, of nests. It’s quite amazing,” says George.

One of the Agami heron’s most distinctive behaviors is its courtship ritual, which both sexes participate in. The area between the eye and the bill of the bird can turn an intense red, while a silver crest can be seen on its neck.

14. Yellow-Spotted Amazon River Turtle

IUCN Status: Vulnerable

Also known locally as taricaya turtles, the yellow-spotted Amazon river turtle has evolved differently from other species; they protect themselves by folding their necks to the side under their shell (rather than retracting them backward into the shell).

Currently listed as vulnerable, it seems that everybody wants to get their hands on the taricaya turtle. Taricaya hatchlings and juveniles are at high risk of predation by birds, snakes, large fish, frogs, mammals, and humans. The turtles are especially vulnerable to illegal egg poaching.

Since 2012, Aqua Expeditions has been part of the Taricaya Turtle Project in the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve. Working closely with authorities at the Reserve, we have overseen the incubation of eggs and, with the help of our guests aboard the Aria Amazon, released more than 1400 hatchlings safely into the wild. Guests can also “adopt” a turtle for US$5, the proceeds of which will help to fund this project together with our financial contribution.

Watch the video below to find out more about the Taricaya Turtle Project.

15. Horned Screamer

IUCN Status: Least Concern

It’s far more likely that you’d hear a Horned Screamer before seeing one. The name might clue you into the reason why. Horned Screamers are the largest of the Screamer family, and naturally, the loudest too. They are non migratory birds which are native to the Amazonian wetlands.

Found across South American countries including Peru, Brazil, and Ecuador, the birds have an unmistakable presence. They are mostly black with a white belly and can grow to be as tall as 37.5 inches. Their noises can be heard as far as three kilometers away, and they’re often on repeat for hours on end.

Horned Screamers perform three main calls: the “Moo-co” used to alarm others of a predator or for the relocation of other screamers; the honking call used for greetings; and the trumpeting, which is the most intense and acts as a distance call and a morning wake up. Horned screamers are non-migratory birds that mate for life; males and females often engage in duets, especially during breeding season.

Navigating the Amazon river responsibly

Aqua Expeditions is committed to conservation in the ecologically sensitive regions of the Amazon, as well as the Mekong river, and seas of East Indonesia. In addition to wildlife preservation, we have adopted procedures to minimize environmental contamination and preserve the natural habitats and waterways through which we travel. Learn more about our sustainable operations.

Interested to discover the Peruvian Amazon’s wildlife with our experienced naturalist guides? Join us on board our luxury expedition ships, the Aria Amazon and brand-new Aqua Nera.

14 Aug 2024 | Peruvian Amazon, Heritage & Culture

Our voyages in the Peruvian Amazon, on board the Aqua Nera and Aria Amazon, offer opportunities to discover the Amazonian way of life. As we sail the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve, we stop along riverside communities to meet the locals and gain a first-hand insight into their culture. Read on to find out more about the Ribereños, or river people, who live in tribal groups along the banks of the Amazon, maintaining ancient indigenous traditions.
 

Navigating by land and sea

Resourceful and resilient, indigenous Amazonians are adept at navigating the dense Amazon rainforest. Learning from a young age, they’re adept at clearing a path through thick rainforest, distinguishing edible from non-edible vegetation, building shelter, avoiding predators and setting traps for small animals.

River transportation is their main mode of travel — not surprising as the Amazon is one of the world’s longest waterways and most villages are set on its banks. Using canoes and small boats, the Ribereños can easily traverse the Amazon’s snaking rivers and tributaries, finding their way not by map, but by examining the position of the sun, river flow, and wildlife behavior.
 

Preserving ancient culture

Despite the indelible and often destructive influence of early Spanish and Portuguese colonizers on local language, culture and religion in the Amazon, the Ribereños work hard to preserve their ancient beliefs and way of life. Handicrafts are both an important economic resource to local communities and a way of preserving Amazonian storytelling and customs.
 

Ribereños are known for their basket weaving, pottery making, and other traditional arts and crafts. They are particularly famed for their beautifully crafted woven baskets, featuring vivid colors, intricate designs and striking patterns created from locally sourced materials such as fibers and palm leaves. Artisan techniques are passed down through generations, keeping ancient traditions alive.

Experience the Ribereños way of life

Aqua Nera and Aria Amazon explore the breathtaking Peruvian Amazon and offer opportunities to observe the Ribereños and their fascinating symbiotic relationship with the natural environment. Visit stilted villages and riverside communities with our expert naturalist guides — native to the region — and witness first-hand how indigenous people live in harmony with the rainforest and river system, relying on it for food, healing, and spiritual guidance. Interact with local Ribereños people and discover how they depend on their environment to sustain their families and communities. Our eco-minded itineraries ensure we tread lightly in this biodiverse and environmentally delicate region with activities such as wildlife watching, jungle treks, and biking. 

View our itineraries or contact our expedition consultants to find out more about our expeditions in the Peruvian Amazon. 

17 Apr 2024 | Amazon, Wildlife

To visitors of the Peruvian Amazon, the “boto”, or pink river dolphin is a rare and beautiful creature. In South American culture however, it is considered a mythical figure that has been revered and reviled in equal measure. In reality, the pink river dolphin is one of two species of endangered freshwater dolphins that are found in similar locations throughout the Amazon and Orinoco river basins.

Inia geffrensis, or the pink river dolphin is different from the grey or tuxuci (Sotalia fluviatilis) river dolphins, which bear more resemblance to marine dolphins with their bottlenoses and habit of leaping out of the water. As its name suggests, the pink river dolphin is most recognizable by its unique color making it a huge draw for explorers of the Peruvian Amazon. While much of “boto” life and its unique characteristics remain unfathomable, we think you might be surprised by these facts.

Fact 2. The Amazon pink river dolphin has the largest bodies and brains of any freshwater dolphin

The Amazon pink river dolphin is the largest and smartest out of the five freshwater species. A full-grown dolphin can grow up to 9 feet (2.7 meters) long, weigh up to 400 pounds (181 kilograms), and live to 30 years old. Their diet is the most diverse amongst toothed whales (especially during the wet season), consisting of more than 53 species, including piranhas. They also have unusually large brains, with 40 percent more brain capacity than humans! While they are known to be shy creatures, they are fascinatingly drawn to people, playing curiously with local children, and without demonstrating aggressive behavior. They also communicate using high-frequency sonar clicks to build a three-dimensional echogram of their dark riverine world.

Fact 3. The Amazon pink river dolphin is secretive in nature

It is an enigma as to how many “botos” exist in the Amazon, as the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) lists them as ‘data deficient’. Part of this status is because while dolphins have a reputation for gathering in groups, the pink river dolphin is often seen alone or in small groups of 2-4 individuals, usually mother and young. One challenge in counting them is that the riverine waters are often murky with silt. Another is that they do not go out of their way to make themselves seen, often putting only the tips of their heads out of the water. They spend a lot of time underwater, and their shy and elusive behavior adds to their mythical quality.

Paradoxically, the good news is that despite living in small groups, Amazon pink river dolphins are incredibly curious and outgoing animals towards humans. They can be frequently spotted playing in the river by our guests during our skiff excursions.

Fact 4. The Amazon pink river dolphin are gymnasts of the water

Pink river dolphins are super agile, as the vertebrae in their necks are unfused, unlike other dolphins. The ability to turn their heads to an angle of 90 degrees allows them to maneuver around tree trunks, rocks, and other obstacles. They can also swim forward with one flipper while paddling backward with the other, letting them turn with more precision. They can often be seen swimming upside down, possibly to help them see the bottom of the river better. Despite their small eyes they have good sight above and underwater and have no trouble navigating the Amazon’s muddy waters to catch their prey thanks to an excellent sense of echolocation.

Fact 5. The Amazon pink river dolphin is considered a mythical creature

The Amazon pink river dolphin is the subject of many South American folklore, not all benevolent. One such legend claims that the dolphins morph into handsome men known as “boto encantado” to seduce and impregnate womenfolk by night. Another claims that if you go swimming alone, the dolphins may whisk you away to a magical underwater city, which has led to the local fear of going near the water between dusk and dawn, or entering water bodies solo. Some also believe them to be the guardians of the Amazon manatees, so those who wish to see a manatee must first reconcile with the pink dolphin. It is considered bad luck to harm the dolphins, and even worse luck to eat them.

In the Peruvian Amazon, the status of the pink river dolphin as a semi-magical being may have helped protect the species by encouraging local communities to treat them well and preserve their numbers. Unfortunately, other threats such as environmental pollution, by-catch, and deliberate killing of dolphins for bait in fisheries still pose a threat. The most recent assessment by the IUCN Red List in 2018 categorizes the species as “endangered” as evidence suggests its total population size has decreased 50% or more over a period of 75 years. That same year, the Peruvian Government approved the ‘National Action Plan for the Conservation of River Dolphins and the Amazonian Manatee’ — a critical step in the conservation of these species integrating scientific research such as ecological and population studies.

Want to see Amazon pink river dolphins up close?

If you want to witness these friendly, yet elusive creatures up close in the Peruvian Amazon, knowledgeable guides are a must. We know this for a fact, and that is why our naturalist guides are local born-and-bred, with years of experience on the Amazonian way of life. We dare say some of the dolphins even recognize them!

Find out more about our Aria Amazon or brand-new Aqua Nera expeditions in Peru.

01 March 2024 | Peruvian Amazon, Cuisine

The Amazon rainforest is home to some of the most diverse flora and fauna on the planet. There’s no better way to journey into the world’s largest, and most biodiverse rainforests than on a small ship expedition. On Aqua Nera, you can sail down the Peruvian Amazon and be fully immersed in nature and wildlife, all while steeped in comfort and luxury.

Among the long list of things to look forward to aboard our luxury river expedition, cuisine is definitely a key highlight. We’re proud of our long-standing partnership with world-renowned chef Pedro Miguel Schiaffino, known for his expertise in creating sumptuous and refined cuisine with a focus on utilizing native Amazonian ingredients.

It’s always a real treat to have him on board and learn firsthand how he whips up magic in the kitchen. We’re pleased to announce that Chef Schiaffino will be hosting two departures on Aqua Nera this year – our four-night sailings from 23-27 May and 10-14 October.

Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will delight your taste buds and leave a lasting impression on your senses.

Pedro Miguel Schiaffino – Peruvian chef, conservationist, and international culinary personality

Chef Pedro Miguel Schiaffino is a pioneer in his field. He’s a Peruvian culinary icon, a conservationist, and an inspiration to food lovers and environmentalists alike. He was the first chef in the world to specialize in rainforest-to-table cuisine. Through his innovative dishes that spotlight local producers and promote resource sustainability and responsible resource management, he has put Amazonian cuisine on the world map.

While sailing through the Peruvian Amazon expeditions on Aqua Nera or Aria Amazon, or across the Galapagos Islands on Aqua Mare, you’ll experience Schiaffino’s culinary magic firsthand. The dishes on board are designed to provide a unique, multi-sensory dining experience that is unparalleled. Chef Schiaffino oversees the entire culinary experience on these ships, creating an innovative menu that showcases fresh, locally-sourced produce. He also partners with indigenous communities to introduce their resources sustainably into his cuisine.

In fact, on board Aqua Nera and Aria Amazon, 70% of all ingredients are sourced from within Amazonia itself. Since 2022, we’ve worked with the Wildlife Conservation Society to source aquatic produce from local fishermen.

From Spicy River Snails with Tapioca and Turmeric Sofrito to Roasted Cocona Salad and Coca Leaf Alfajores, Chef Schiaffino is able to transform unconventional ingredients into authentic, gastronomical dishes.. For his amazing work in Amazonian gastronomy, he has been honored by the Culinary Institute of America and won the prestigious American Express Icon Award by Latin America’s 50 Best Restaurants.

Schiaffino is truly a culinary trailblazer and a champion of global cuisine. His unique perspective, dedication, and passion for the Amazon and its people make him an inspiration.

Aqua Nera’s Multi-Layered Cuisine

To truly experience the culture of another country, there is no better way than through its food. Board Aqua Nera and join chef Pedro Miguel Schiaffino on a gastronomic journey to discover the unique Peruvian flavors and how they complement the wild Amazonian experience.

Peru’s distinct geography provides a variety of microclimates and altitudes, resulting in three rich regions with unique local gastronomic offerings. The Andean highlands, Pacific Coast, and Amazon rainforest basin offer a combination of cooking techniques and ingredients resulting in a mouth-watering explosion of flavors.

Enter Chef Schiaffino and his dedication to excellence that enables him to create alluring and authentic dishes. Aboard our Amazon cruises, guests can enjoy offerings like soufflé made from hearts of palm, scallops flavored with wild almonds and umari fruit, gnocchi made from plantains and yucca, and grilled paiche served with Amazon huatia potatoes. These mouth-watering creations are a testament to Chef Schiaffino’s exceptional culinary skills.

Rainforest-to-Table Dining on Aqua Nera

The rainforest-to-table movement in the culinary world highlights the use of locally-sourced, sustainable, and seasonal ingredients from the rainforest. This approach focuses on creating dishes that are tantalizingly delicious while having a minimal impact on the environment and supporting local communities. The rainforest is known for its abundance of unique and exotic ingredients not typically found anywhere else, making this movement an exciting and innovative way to experience the flavors of the Amazon rainforest while promoting its preservation.

Aqua Expeditions’ partnership with Pedro Miguel Schiaffino transcends the unique culinary proposal offered onboard our expeditions with meaningful collaborations for conservation projects.

Schiaffino has undertaken various initiatives through his non-governmental organization, Despensa Amazonica. One such project is the Tucupí Negro project. It involves responsibly sourcing a dark black sauce made from fermented yellow liquid extracted from grated yuca root, flavored with piquant Amazonian chilis, nutty macambo seeds and leafcutter ants.

It aims to support the Pucaurquillo community and economy and its success led to the creation of the Sustainable Paiche project in 2017. Beyond that, by connecting Amazonian paiche fishermen with top chefs in Lima, it has helped to revive the nearly extinct species of paiche, increasing its value almost five-fold. In fact, its population increased from 2100 in 2010 to over 8500 in 2022.

Aboard Aqua Expeditions, Schiaffino showcases an expansive range of Peruvian cuisine, highlighting Amazonian ingredients at their most innovative and sophisticated. He voyages on two chef-hosted departures this year to share his culinary knowledge with guests, reveal signature Peruvian recipes, and guide excursions to the local fresh market.

Contact our expedition consultants today and join Pedro Miguel Schiaffino for a voyage you’ll remember for a lifetime.

29 Jan 2024 | Peruvian Amazon

When we think of the Amazon Rainforest, Brazil automatically comes to mind. Yet it is a little-known fact its birthplace is actually the Peruvian region of the Amazon river and rainforest. This section of the Amazon is the most untouched, bearing a large concentration of wildlife and flora in the vast protected area of Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve.  

A Brief Background of the Amazon Rainforest

The Amazon is the worlds largest rainforest with a surface of 550 million hectares and is also known as the single largest reserve of biological resources on land. With such an extensive reach, the incredible ecology of the South American Amazon river stretches across nine countries of the continent: Brazil, Bolivia, Peru, Ecuador, Colombia, Venezuela, Guyana, Suriname, and French Guiana.

A staggering one in 10 known species on the planet can be found in the Amazon rainforest, including 40,000 plant species, 3,000 fish species, 1,500 bird species, and 370 types of reptiles. This area has also become the last remaining habitat where visitors have the opportunity to spot some of the world’s endangered species in the wild, such as jaguars, pink river dolphins, and harpy eagles.

The Amazon also represents more than 50 percent of the Earth’s remaining rainforest, where almost 400 billion individual trees, which are divided into 16,000 species, can be found. 

Without the 6,437 kilometer-long Amazon river, this complex and lush network of tributaries and forests would be virtually impenetrable by humans. Thankfully, the spectacular waterway that gives the jungle much of its life also offers explorers a chance to experience this wildlife kaleidoscope by means of an Amazon river expedition. 

Amazon Fast Facts 

How deep is the Amazon River? 

Most of the river has a depth between 20 to 50 metres or 66 to 164 ft. Some sections can be as deep as 100 metres or 330 ft. 

Where is the Amazon River? 

The Amazon River is in South America, originating in the Andes Mountains of Peru and flows through Ecuador, Colombia, Venezuela, Bolivia, and Brazil where it empties into the Atlantic Ocean. But what makes Peru the destination of choice for an Amazon rainforest adventure as opposed to its shared countries?

Reasons Why Peru is the Best Place to Visit the Amazon

1. The Birthplace of the Amazon

It is at the eastern tip of the Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve, where the Ucayali and Marañon rivers converge, where the Amazon river is “born”. While the precise length of the Amazon river is still open to interpretation, it is commonly accepted that it is at this very confluence that the ‘Amazonas’ begins. It is also at this very location where Aqua Expedition vessels navigate, and is considered the region’s most pristine expanse, with the chance to swim, kayak and canoe in its mystical black water lagoons.

2. Home to Luxury

The Peruvian Amazon is smaller than Brazil’s rainforest surface area, making a wildlife adventure more personal and forgiving. Finding five-star creature comforts in the jungle is an advantage while sailing with Aqua Expeditions. 

Onboard the Aria Amazon and Aqua Nera luxury vessels, guests are guaranteed to feel at ease in the middle of the wilderness. Air-conditioned spacious suites with panoramic windows and elegantly customized interiors will offer comfort and tranquility after each day’s excursions.

Designed by renowned architects and designers, Aqua Expeditions Amazon ships also feature deluxe amenities such as a river-facing jacuzzi/plunge pool, indoor lounge and bar, gym, cinema (Aqua Nera), and spa — everything needed to reassure guests and help them feel at home in Amazonia, and then some!

3. Hassle-free access

It is fair to assume that visitors would need to change a few planes, cars and boats to get to the heart of the Amazon Rainforest, and that is probably true — with one notable exception: getting to the Peruvian Amazon. 

With daily direct flights to and from the Peruvian capital of Lima, guests can easily get to Iquitos, the gateway to the Amazon in Peru, and the starting point for an Aqua Expeditions Amazon journey. Fun fact: Iquitos is the largest inland port in the world only accessible by river and air (The Lima-Iquitos flight takes a bit less than two hours, operated by LATAM Airlines). While the destination is remote, accessibility is hassle-free, which means guests do not have to worry about exposure to mass tourism.

Compared to other Amazonian countries, the Peruvian Amazon rainforest is also the easiest one to access. For instance, to reach Manaus, the capital of the Amazonas state in north Brazil located over 1,609 kilometers inland, visitors will need to take a direct flight from São Paulo or Rio de Janeiro or non-direct ones from other major cities. The shortest flight duration is around four hours, and the ticket prices are higher than in Peru. The Amazon in Colombia has only two direct flights from Bogota per day (and guests won’t get to sail on the actual Amazon river).

4. Largest Protected Area

In the Peruvian rainforest, guests get to witness the spectacle of the largest protected flooded forest in the world, the Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve. There, over 1,204 plant species, 449 bird species, 256 fish species, 102 mammal species, 69 reptile species, and 58 amphibian species can be found.

What makes this area truly unique is the cycle of rising and falling rivers like no other region in the Amazon. When visiting Pacaya-Samiria during the high water season, the majority of the area will be flooded and guests will sail in private skiffs among tree canopies with a high concentration of wildlife. Meanwhile, when the river is at a low level, guests can explore more of the rainforest on foot, as trails and jungle paths will become more accessible.

In fact, Pacaya-Samiria is a remarkable place for several reasons. It is estimated that 42,000 people live within the reserve. Visiting this area will teach you a lot about the indigenous way of living and their relation to the river and surrounding nature. 

Another important difference between this stretch of the river versus the Brazilian Amazon is that the latter is significantly wider, making it difficult to see the opposite shore. This makes it a more populated and commercial area, allowing for large ocean-going cruise lines of hundreds of passengers to navigate until Manaus, with limited opportunities to truly immerse in nature. 

On the contrary, the river and tributaries of the Pacaya-Samiria Reserve are narrower, enabling guests traveling onboard Aria Amazon or Aqua Nera to connect with this pristine environment from the comfort of the ship and during private skiff excursions along snaking waterways deep into the Amazonia. Seasoned local English-speaking naturalist guides born-and-bred in this region lead guests on rewarding up-close wildlife encounters and cultural discoveries.

5. Amazonian Cuisine

Peruvians take great pride in their cuisine, and every region in the country has its own traditional fare ⁠— including the Peruvian Amazon! 

From the native paiche fish to the Aji Negro, a fermented sauce made from a local variety of yuca (cassava), native Amazonian people of Peru have over centuries developed their own unique flavors and ways of cooking. 

It would have been next to impossible for outsiders to sample native Amazonian produce and ingredients if not for Pedro Miguel Schiaffino, a celebrated Peruvian chef who has been dedicating his career to promoting the Amazon’s culinary gifts to the world.

As the consulting chef responsible for creating the only rainforest-to-table Amazonian menu on an Amazon river expedition, award-winning Chef Schiaffino has also contributed to the conservation of the dwindling paiche fish population, by educating locals on sustainable cultivation techniques, and promoting Amazonian produce to top-tier restaurants in Lima to generate income for Amazonian natives. 

[See dates for Chef Pedro Miguel Schaffino’s Aqua Nera Chef-Hosted Departures.] 

Aside from the Amazon, Peru is also the mystical and vibrant epicenter of ancient South American culture. In addition to Machu Picchu, a wealth of spellbinding archaeological attractions, such as the Nazca Lines and Chan Chan await, alongside displays of vibrant culture in locations such as Lake Titicaca. Peru as a country is relatively compact so guests can easily fit the Amazon and other once-in-a-lifetime sights into a two or three-week itinerary. 

You can find more facts about the Amazon here. 

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13 February 2024 | Amazon, Wildlife

Home to one in every ten species discovered on planet Earth, the sheer scale and immensity of the Amazon rainforest is a wonder to behold. It spans eight different countries and is larger than the next two biggest rainforests combined. On average, a new species of animal or plant is discovered in the Amazon rainforest every three days. The region is full of mysteries waiting to be uncovered.

The best way to discover the rainforest is through a luxurious river cruise in the mighty Amazon river. This can entail a variety of experiences depending on where it is you sail – after all the Amazon river flows through six different countries as well. We believe that the Peruvian Amazon offers the finest sailing experience.

Being the birthplace of the Amazon – where the Ucayali and Marañon converge – the river is at its narrowest here. This means that you can always gaze upon a picturesque view of the Amazon’s riverbanks through Aqua Nera’s floor-to-ceiling windows which grace every cabin. As you venture into the depths of the rainforest, sail across mystical black water lagoons, enjoy up-close wildlife encounters, and visit the indigenous residents of Amazonia. Read on for five of the most exciting adventures which await you.

1. Jungle Trekking and Animal Spotting

Walk deep into the rich Amazonian rainforest for a rendezvous with exotic wildlife. The forest is home to three-toed sloths, macaws, hoatzins, capuchin monkeys and anacondas, and that’s just the beginning. Aqua’s expert guides are well-versed in spotting animals through the camouflage and helping you get a close-up look at the variety of species which inhabit the region.

As you make your way over to the rainforest on a tender ride, you might find yourself accompanied by the elusive pink river dolphins which can be found in these waters. There are also caiman which rest along the riverbanks and are best spotted once it’s dark outside. You’ll have the opportunity to go looking for these incredible predators on a night excursion aboard Aqua Nera.

Throughout the expedition, you’ll be exploring the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve, which is nicknamed the ‘Jungle of Mirrors’ thanks to the glassy reflections in its peaceful waters. Well-protected and conserved, this is the ideal place to explore the region’s abundant biodiversity.

2. Visit the Manatee Rescue Center in Iquitos

Conservation projects have always played an integral role in protecting the Amazon rainforest and its wildlife over the years. The Amazonian Manatee Rescue Center is a great example of how the local people are actively involved in such efforts.

The endangered Amazonian Manatees are almost extinct as they have been hunted heavily over the decades. Being slow-moving and docile creatures, they’re an easy target which are exploited for their oil, meat, and skin.

The Manatee Rescue Center rescues and rehabilitates these rare creatures – a process that can often take months or years. While visiting, you might also be able to meet and help feed adorable orphaned baby manatees. Apart from manatees, the center also looks after other animals like ocelots, parrots, and turtles.

3. Fish for Piranhas in the Amazon River

Piranhas can be found throughout the Amazon River and its tributaries. With a fearsome reputation which precedes them, these red-bellied fish are said to have inhabited the Amazon for 3 million years. Piranhas have an extremely keen sense of smell, as often depicted in movies when they smell blood. Along with this, they’re equipped with razor sharp teeth and powerful jaws using which they can exert force up to three times their own bodyweight.

Since it’s tough to see what’s going on beneath the water’s surface in the Amazon, you’ll definitely be in for a surprise once you cast a line in the water. Fishing for piranhas is a bucket list adventure which will leave you filled with adrenaline and excitement. After you’ve taken a photo with your catch, our naturalist guides will ensure that they make it safely back into the water.

4. Learn about Local Life

Beyond nature and the wildlife, the Amazon also has a lot to offer in terms of culture and heritage. Introduce yourself to a brand new way of life and find out all there is to know about jungle living. This provides an eye-opening insight into how people can live in harmony with the rainforest, depending only on their surroundings for sustenance.

Our expert naturalist guides are natives from the region, who’ll share first-hand accounts of life in the Amazon during your expedition. There’ll also be an opportunity to embark on a bike ride and explore the riverside community of Nauta, one of the main hubs of the Amazon.

Although the truly remote indigenous tribes are protected and inaccessible to visitors, there are stilted villages and riverside settlements to visit where you’ll get a glimpse of the Amazonian way of life, and the native customs and traditions.

5. Swim in the Lap of Nature

The calm waters of Lake Clavero are ideal for a refreshing swim, while you watch villagers paddle in their traditional dugout canoes. You might find pink and grey river dolphins frolicking around you and schools of fish brushing past your legs. It can be scary to take the first dive in but the waters are perfectly safe.

Would you really want to travel this far and miss out on the opportunity to swim in Amazonian water? Lake Clavero is a magnificent spot to relax after a day of spotting animals and exploring the rainforest. Cool off and rejuvenate yourself for the adventures which lie ahead.

The Aria Amazon and Aqua Nera offer three, four- and seven-night cruises on the Peruvian Amazon that manage to fit all of the major highlights of the Peruvian Amazon and the Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve in an action-packed itinerary. Check the dates for your next adventure here.

Check the dates for your next adventure here.