Your adventure begins with your arrival in Iquitos, followed by a private transfer to Nauta. En route, enjoy a boxed lunch while taking in views of the lush jungle landscape. Upon reaching the port, board the elegant Zafiro river cruise and settle into your spacious suite. A welcome cocktail made with local fruits and pisco awaits you on deck. Your naturalist guides will give an engaging briefing on the geography, history, and biodiversity of the Amazon. Later in the evening, your first skiff excursion will take you to Yacapana Island, a perfect spot for spotting nocturnal wildlife such as caimans, frogs, and tarantulas. Return to the vessel for a welcome dinner with Peruvian-Amazonian flavors.
Itinerary Low Water Season 4 Days
Explore the wonders of the Peruvian Amazon during the low water season aboard the luxurious Zafiro river cruise. This 4-day journey offers intimate wildlife encounters, rich cultural immersion, and breathtaking natural beauty. Navigate secluded blackwater tributaries, walk through rainforest trails, and witness the daily life of Amazonian communities—all under the guidance of expert naturalists and with the comfort of a premium river vessel.
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Highlights
- Navigate hidden tributaries and blackwater rivers during low water season
- Spot rare wildlife like pink river dolphins, tarantulas, and colorful birds
- Visit the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve for jungle trekking and discovery
- Engage with local communities and learn about their Amazonian way of life
- Explore the Manatee Rescue Center and support wildlife conservation
Includes
- All meals on board the Zafiro.
- 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 addtitional bar consumptions.
Itinerary
Day 1 (Wednesday) : Iquitos, Nauta, Maranón River, Yacapana
Day 2 (Thursday) : Amazon River, San Joaquin De Omaguas, Yarapa River, Ucayali River
Begin your day with a serene sunrise skiff ride along the Amazon River. Observe riverside communities coming to life in the early hours and soak in the peaceful energy of the forest. After breakfast, head to the Yarapa River, known for its dark, reflective waters and incredible biodiversity. Following lunch on board, attend a fascinating cultural talk with your guides about Amazonian traditions. In the afternoon, visit the community of Paranapura, where you’ll learn about their customs, crafts, and daily life. As evening falls, embark on a second nocturnal wildlife excursion, followed by dinner and live regional music onboard.
Day 3 (Friday) : Yarapa On Ucayali River (black Water), Yucuruchi, Amazon River (origin)
Set out early for a sunrise cruise along the Yarapa River, a haven for birdwatching and wildlife photography. After breakfast, prepare for a guided jungle walk through Yucuruchi, part of the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve. This pristine rainforest is teeming with flora and fauna, offering a chance to see monkeys, colorful birds, and medicinal plants. After lunch and a restful break on the ship, enjoy one last skiff excursion on the mighty Amazon River. Search for pink river dolphins and marvel at the point where the Amazon is born, from the confluence of its tributaries. Cap off the evening with a vibrant sunset, live music, a farewell presentation by the crew, and a final celebratory dinner onboard.
Day 4 (Saturday) : Disembarkation In Nauta Port
Following your last breakfast aboard the Zafiro, disembark in Nauta and head back toward Iquitos. On the way, visit the Amazon Forever Bio Park, also known as the Manatee Rescue Center. Here, you’ll witness the incredible rehabilitation work done by biologists and volunteers to save orphaned or injured manatees and other rescued wildlife. Learn about the threats these animals face and the efforts made to protect them. Afterward, continue to the airport with a heart full of memories and a deeper understanding of the Amazon’s ecological significance.
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.
FAQs
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.
Yellow Fever vaccination is recommended, though not mandatory. Consult your physician about malaria prevention and other travel-related precautions.
Internet and mobile signals are limited or unavailable during most of the cruise, allowing for a full disconnect in nature.
Yes, especially for families with children 7 and older who enjoy nature and adventure. Parental supervision is required during excursions.
Swimming is generally not recommended due to safety and wildlife concerns, unless approved by the guides in designated areas.