Summary
An Amazon River Cruise in Peru isn’t your typical cruise. While many other cruises focus on entertainment and activities, an Amazon River Cruise immerses you in the vibrant life of the world’s largest river and rainforest. Experience the culture, wildlife, and natural beauty without distraction. Entertainment and enjoyment are right there, waiting to be discovered.
Days are filled with adventure on the Amazon. For those considering adding an Amazon expedition to their travel bucket list, here’s what to expect each day on the river.
What To Expect On An Amazon River Cruise
On an Amazon River Cruise, you will fly from Lima, Peru to the town of Iquitos, which is located deep within the Amazon Rainforest. This is the only city in the vicinity, making it incredibly remote as the only access is by flight or boat.
Upon arrival, a shuttle will take you directly to the river where you’ll board the Estrella Amazonica and enjoy refreshing welcome drinks on the upper deck. Before long, you will be heading out on the Amazon River for an unforgettable week of adventure.
The cruise departs at night. After you settle in, indulge in a delicious dinner followed by drinks on the deck. The soothing rhythm of the riverboat will rock you to a restful sleep.
Waking up is a breathtaking experience. Each room features a balcony, positioning you perfectly to witness spectacular sunrises over the river. While you could close the curtains, the allure of the mighty Amazon is hard to resist.
Your Transportation on the Amazon
With iBestTravel, you are not confined to the riverboat throughout the week; in fact, you will spend more time off the boat exploring the stunning surroundings.
Daily adventures include safaris and excursions via skiff boats, designed for maneuverability through the swift currents of the Amazon River. Passengers are split into two groups on each skiff, and with a maximum of 30 passengers on the riverboat, it ensures ample space for wildlife observation.
Expect at least two safaris daily—one in the morning and another after lunch. There are even options for sunset and nighttime excursions, providing a comprehensive exploration of the river’s wonders.
Mornings on the Amazon
Each morning varies based on location and planned activities. Some mornings start immediately with a wildlife safari before breakfast, while others may involve breakfast served on the safari itself. This maximizes your time on the river.
Other mornings might allow for bird and wildlife watching from the deck at sunrise, accompanied by snacks and fresh coffee. On some occasions, enjoy a hearty buffet breakfast in the dining lounge before heading out on a river safari. Each evening, you will be informed of the next day’s itinerary, ensuring you’re always in the loop.
Amazon River Safaris
Every safari offers unique opportunities for wildlife viewing. Some focus on searching for playful monkeys and exotic birds, while others aim to spot famous pink dolphins. While most safaris are conducted from the boat, certain excursions allow for exploration on dry land.
- Experience jungle walks to discover medicinal plants and the diverse flora and fauna of the region.
- Participate in village walks to interact with local communities, learning about their lifestyles and perhaps purchasing handcrafted jewelry.
What To Wear On An Amazon River Cruise
When embarking on an Amazon River Cruise, dress in long, breathable pants and shirts. It’s essential to protect your skin from the sun’s intense rays. A hat is advisable to stay comfortable while exploring.
Ensure to bring sunscreen and bug repellent. You’ll receive water on the boat, but it’s best to take two water bottles with you daily. There are coolers available for refills throughout your journey.
Despite the heat, there’s usually a cool breeze on the river and the boat speed helps keep you comfortable. Despite the occasional heat, your guides will surprise you with frozen towels at just the right moment, keeping your spirits high.
Camera Tips: Remember to bring extra batteries, and we highly recommend using a zoom lens. A 200mm lens is great, but a 100-400mm lens is ideal for capturing Amazon wildlife, which often resides high up in the trees. A dry bag for your camera is also wise to keep it safe in case of rain.
Added Bonuses with iBestTravel Amazon River Cruises
Kayaking – The Estrella Amazonica provides kayaking excursions included in your package.
Swimming – Dare to take a dip in the Amazon River. It’s a unique experience that few can boast about.
Fishing for Piranha – A once-in-a-lifetime chance to catch and release these fascinating fish.
Lunch
After a busy morning on the river, retreat back to the air-conditioned comfort of the boat for a well-deserved buffet lunch featuring fresh juices and fruits.
Post-lunch is considered siesta time—an essential way to recharge before the afternoon excursions.
Afternoon Safaris
With refreshed energy, it’s time for more exploration. Wildlife becomes more active at sunset, providing excellent opportunities to see sloths, monkeys, and dolphins. You’ll also witness local life, as residents navigate the waterways in longtail and dugout canoes.
The Amazon’s stunning sunsets, framed by rain clouds, create breathtaking views worth capturing.
Lectures
Back on the boat, everyone gathers in the lecture room to reflect on the day’s adventures. iBestTravel provides a checklist of over 1400 bird species found in the Amazon, allowing guests to track their sightings.
Guides will share fascinating insights, and you’ll learn about tomorrow’s itinerary during this informative session.
Dinner
A satisfying dinner is served each night, featuring diverse local dishes to satisfy your palate.
Evening Cocktails
After dinner, join fellow passengers on the upper deck for evening cocktails. Each night features a complimentary local drink, creating a relaxed atmosphere as you unwind and enjoy the surrounding beauty.
The talented crew of the Estrella Amazonica entertains guests with traditional Peruvian music, making for a delightful end to an adventurous day.
If you’ve ever wondered what to do on an Amazon River Cruise, this guide should answer most of your questions.
The days are thriving with excitement. However, if you feel like taking a break, you can simply enjoy the tranquility of the deck, watch the river flow, and appreciate the view from your private balcony. This is your Amazon Cruise, a vacation that promises memories you’ll cherish for years to come. Check out our Peru Travel Guide for additional travel insights.
We booked our Amazon River Cruise with International Expeditions, which is now Exodus Travels.
