Cruise Overview
Aqua Expeditions launched the first Amazon River cruises on the Peruvian section of this iconic river in 2007. Due to the extraordinary success of these unique journeys into the jungles of Amazonia, the company added a second luxury vessel, the Aria Amazon in 2011. With 7 night, 4 night and 3 night cruises on the Aqua Amazon, guests travel far into the depths of the Amazon’s rainforests enjoying an intimate glimpse of her wildlife, ecosystems, local customs and marine and jungle landscapes. Listen to the many species of Peruvian birds as they call their mates through the leafy canopy. Learn about the habitats essential to the livelihoods of the endangered Amazon river dolphins, taricaya turtles and manatee. Photograph a three toed sloth as he peers down at you while dangling from a nearby branch.
A cruise on the Aria Amazon offers guests the comfort and elegance of a custom-designed ship and the high levels guest service possible with a 1.3 guest to staff ratio. The Aria Amazon was designed by leading Peruvian architect Jordi Puig and measures 45 meters (147 feet). Spacious and indulgent, yet private enough to feel entirely exclusive, the Aria Amazon includes generous lounging and dining areas, and can accommodate a maximum of 32 guests plus crew including our onboard paramedic. Aqua Expeditions highly experienced river pilots and the most rigorous cruise ship standards ensure smooth travel and safety on the water.
Generous picture windows face the Amazon River (with blackout windows for maximum privacy) in each of the Aria Amazon’s 16 cruise ship Design Suites. Handsomely decorated with natural fibers and neutral hues these air-conditioned accommodations with en suite sitting areas and stone bathrooms each measure between 23 square meters (250 square feet).
High water season ( December – May)
Low water season (June-November)
Cabin Types & Common Areas
4 Days / 3 Nights -
Departs Fridays - High Water Itinerary - November to May
We will meet at Iquitos International Airport then journey together by air-conditioned vehicle through the Peruvian countryside to arrive at our Nauta Lounge in time for lunch, or we will serve a box lunch en route depending on the flight arrival time. In the afternoon, we will set off on your first skiff excursion along the Marañon River. At 6:00 pm, we will board the ARIA AMAZON. Settle into your generously proportioned suite as you begin one of life’s greatest adventures. Following a routine safety drill and introduction to our naturalist guides, we gather for innovative Amazonian cuisine created by our Executive Chef Pedro Miguel Schiaffino, whose restaurant, Malabar, is the one of Lima’s top-ranked dining experiences.
Aboard our comfortable skiffs, we set sail from the Amazon River to the Yarapa River. Keep your binoculars ready to spot tropical songbirds, black collared hawks, and sloths. We’ll go fishing for Amazonia’s notoriously ferocious piranhas while our naturalist guides share stories of Lake Moringo. As the sun sets, we head off on an evening’s wildlife excursion with extraordinary stargazing on the black waters of Nauta Caño.
Rise with the sun for early morning birdwatching along the Marañon River. After breakfast, we will take a jungle walk on the firm soil forest “Casual,” while looking for flora and fauna which include medicinal trees, insects, and poison dart frogs, and learning more about the different rainforest stratas. Later, swim, canoe or kayak in Yanayacu-Pucate River as we look for legendary pink river dolphins. Focus our hi-tech telescope on the night sky to identify the planets and constellations. This evening before dinner, we will gather to introduce you to some of the crew members whom you may not have met, working “behind the scenes” to ensure your countless exceptional experiences aboard the ARIA AMAZON.
This morning, we will visit the local fresh market with your guides who can identify the day’s catch by the fishermen of Amazonia and the region’s exotic fruits. Return to the ARIA for breakfast and to pack up. Before saying goodbye, we visit the Manatee Rescue Center, a kind of animal orphanage for Amazonian manatees to rescue, rehabilitate and release them back into the wild. We will also visit San Juan craft market on route to the airport. Lunch or box lunch will be provided, depending on the exact departure flight time, which may vary. Other local activities may be included as well, according to our recommended flight schedule.
Itinerary Addendum
Note: All itineraries are subject to change, due to weather and other conditions. All times indicated are approximate, and are also subject to change.
Tour Inclusions
- All meals while onboard
- All excursions off the Aqua Amazon
- All beverages (non-alcoholic, house wine and beer)
- Group transfers to/from vessel when arriving or departing on recommended flights
- Pacaya Samiria National Reserve entrance fee
