Upon arrival at Iquitos airport, you’ll be met by your guide and transferred by private vehicle to the port of Nauta. Enjoy a boxed lunch during the journey, then board the elegant Zafiro cruise ship. After settling into your suite, toast the beginning of your Amazon adventure with a cocktail made from local fruits and pisco. As the cruise sails into the Marañón River, your naturalist guides will share an overview of the itinerary and local ecosystems. After sunset, take your first skiff ride to Nauta Caño for a thrilling night excursion in search of caimans, tarantulas, and nocturnal birds. Return to the ship for a welcome dinner infused with Peruvian-Amazonian flavors.
Itinerary Low Water Season 5 Days
Peru
5 Days
Easy
Embark on a remarkable 5-day journey through the Amazon Rainforest during the low water season, a time when hidden trails and forest floors emerge, allowing deeper exploration of the jungle’s secrets. Aboard the luxurious Zafiro river cruise, discover pristine waterways, observe vibrant wildlife, engage with indigenous communities, and take part in cultural and conservation experiences—all guided by local naturalists and enriched with authentic Amazonian cuisine and hospitality.
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Highlights
- Explore remote areas of the Pacaya Samiria Reserve during low water season
- Kayak or swim in the blackwater lagoons of Yanayacu de Pucate
- Meet a local shaman and engage in meaningful community-based experiences
- Fish for piranhas and walk high above the jungle floor on canopy bridges
- Visit the Manatee Rescue Center and learn about Amazonian conservation efforts
Includes
- 1-night accommodation Hotel – Iquitos City.
- All meals aboard Zafiro. Every day you will enjoy a variety of flavors such as: oriental, Italian, international, Amazonian and fusion style, always made with local products. Breakfast and lunch are buffet style, and a five course dinner
- All excursions and equipment (including hiking boots and rain ponchos).
- Transfers from / to the ship when arriving on recommended flights to Iquitos. * In case of staying in hotels in the city of Iquitos – inform the sales and reservations department to coordinate the pick-up before or after the tour.
- Entry fee to The Pacaya-Samaria National Reserve.
- Sodas, natural juices, coffee, tea, water, local beer, house wines and pisco cocktails are included at lunch and dinner. Premium bar with additional cost
- Welcome drink: Pisco Sour.
Not Included
- Domestic flights.
- Cost of medical emergencies (including emergency evacuation).
- Tipping etiquette. On board Zafiro cruise, we recommend a tip amount of USD 25 to USD 30 per passenger per night for the crew (which will be divided among all crew members) and a tip amount of USD 7 to USD 10 per passenger per night for the guides. * Please note that these amounts are suggested and that this is entirely at the discretion of the guests on board the vessels.
- Any additional transportation services.
- Any additional bar consumption.
Itinerary
Day 1 (Saturday) : Iquitos, Nauta, Marañon River, Nauta Caño
Day 2 (Sunday) : Marañon River, Yanayacu De Pucate, San Regis
Begin the morning on the observation deck, spotting migratory birds as the jungle awakens. Then cruise by skiff to Yanayacu de Pucate, a stunning section of the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve. Enjoy breakfast surrounded by nature, followed by optional kayaking or a refreshing swim in the calm blackwaters. Back onboard, watch a Peruvian cocktail-making demo before a relaxing lunch. In the afternoon, visit San Regis, an indigenous community where you’ll meet a local shaman and learn about Amazonian spiritual beliefs. Take part in a symbolic tree planting to support local conservation and browse artisan crafts before returning for an evening of live music and dinner.
Day 3 (Monday) : Marañon River, Casual, Amazon River
After breakfast, head into the rainforest for a guided walk through the Casual area. Traverse a canopy bridge system offering panoramic views from above the jungle floor, and keep an eye out for monkeys, birds, and exotic plant species. After lunch and a rest, attend a talk on the region’s endangered species. Later, cruise along the Nahuapa River for an exciting session of piranha fishing using traditional techniques. As dusk sets in, embark on another nighttime safari, spotlighting the mysterious wildlife that thrives after dark. Return to the Zafiro for live music and a cozy dinner.
Day 4 (Tuesday) : Marañón River, San Regis, Shiriyacu
Begin the day with a wildlife walk through Casual, home to enormous Avatar trees, vibrant frogs, and the iconic Victoria Amazonica lilies. Explore the area’s flora and fauna before visiting a local artisan market run by women from the community. After returning to the ship, enjoy a live cooking demo led by the ship’s executive chef and indulge in a flavorful lunch. In the afternoon, learn about the Amazon River’s origins in a fascinating talk, followed by a skiff excursion to the confluence of the Ucayali and Marañón Rivers. Here, witness the symbolic birth of the Amazon and keep watch for pink dolphins. Unwind with your final dinner onboard, reflecting on the journey.
Day 5 (Wednesday) : Marañón River , Nauta, Disembarkation, Iquitos
Before breakfast, hop into a motocar for a lively tour of Nauta’s local market, where the region’s culture comes alive through color and commerce. Return to the ship for your last breakfast before disembarking. On your way back to Iquitos, visit the Amazon Forever Bio Park, also known as the Manatee Rescue Center. Learn how endangered manatees and other rescued wildlife are cared for and rehabilitated for release into their natural habitats. This heartfelt visit closes your Amazon adventure before you are transferred to the airport for your departure.
Travel Tips
- Pack lightweight, long-sleeved clothing to protect from sun and insects.
- Use strong insect repellent with DEET, especially during jungle walks.
- Bring binoculars and a camera with good zoom for wildlife spotting.
- Quick-dry clothes and waterproof footwear are ideal for wet and muddy conditions.
- A dry bag or waterproof pouch is recommended for protecting electronics on skiff rides.
Weather Preparedness
- The Amazon is hot and humid year-round, with temperatures between 75°F and 95°F (24°C to 35°C).
- Rain is common throughout the year, especially during high-water season (Dec–May).
- Pack a light rain jacket or poncho, and opt for breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics.
Fitness Requirements
- Excursions involve light to moderate physical activity, including jungle walks and boarding skiffs.
- Terrain can be uneven or muddy, so a basic level of mobility is necessary.
- Activities are suitable for most travelers, including older children and active adults.
Accommodation
Accommodation is provided onboard a boutique river cruise vessel, offering comfort and immersion in the heart of the Amazon. All cabins are air-conditioned, include private bathrooms, and feature panoramic windows for scenic views. Common areas include a dining room, lounges, and observation decks for wildlife viewing and relaxation. Select vessels may offer wellness services such as massages or spa treatments, depending on availability.
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USD 4056,00
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FAQs
What kind of wildlife can I see?
You may see pink river dolphins, monkeys, sloths, caimans, macaws, toucans, and a wide variety of birds and reptiles, depending on the season and location.
Are vaccinations required?
Yellow Fever vaccination is recommended, though not mandatory. Consult your physician about malaria prevention and other travel-related precautions.
Is internet access available?
Internet and mobile signals are limited or unavailable during most of the cruise, allowing for a full disconnect in nature.
Is this cruise suitable for families?
Yes, especially for families with children 7 and older who enjoy nature and adventure. Parental supervision is required during excursions.
Can I swim in the river?
Swimming is generally not recommended due to safety and wildlife concerns, unless approved by the guides in designated areas.