Aqua Nera: 7-Night High Water Season

After arriving on a noon flight, you will receive a warm welcome at Iquitos International Airport by the Aqua Nera crew. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before proceeding to board the Aqua Nera, your luxurious home for the next seven nights. Take your time to settle into your generously sized suite as you begin one of life’s greatest adventures. The day concludes with an introduction from the naturalist guides and a routine safety drill, followed by your first exquisite Amazonian cuisine experience at the ship’s restaurant, expertly crafted by Aqua Nera’s renowned consulting chef, Pedro Miguel Schiaffino.

Aboard comfortable skiffs, you will set sail from the Amazon River to the Yanayacu Yacapana River. Have your binoculars ready to spot tropical songbirds, black-collared hawks, and sloths amidst the lush canopy. Participate in a thrilling session of line-fishing for Amazon’s notoriously ferocious piranhas while your naturalist guides share their extensive knowledge of Amazonia. In the afternoon, the journey continues as you sail to Yarapa River, a captivating blackwater tributary of the Ucayali River. As night falls, embark on a memorable stargazing session and an exciting excursion in search of elusive nocturnal wildlife.

Begin your day with an early start to explore Clavero Lake aboard comfortable skiffs. Here, you will observe local villagers relying on traditional dugout canoes for transportation, offering a glimpse into their daily lives. You will have the unique opportunity to swim in the lake’s calm waters or visit native residents of Amazonia who will welcome you to their community with open arms. In the afternoon, the expedition delves into the majestic Marañon River in search of different kinds of wildlife, further enriching your understanding of the Amazon’s biodiversity. The serene environment provides ample opportunities for reflection and appreciation of nature.

In the morning, take a guided visit to the bustling local market in Nauta Town, where you can marvel at the regional produce of the Peruvian Amazon and sample exotic snacks if you wish. After breakfast, visit a group of Amazonian artisans to learn the traditional art of weaving palm fibers, as it has been done for generations in the Peruvian Amazon. In the afternoon, visit a local beekeeper in the community of San Francisco. Later, head out on skiffs to witness one of the great spectacles of the Southern Hemisphere: the birthplace of the Amazon River, a truly awe-inspiring sight. By nightfall, you will meet new passengers who have joined for the four-night trip, as you continue your journey together along the Marañon River.

Rise with the sun for an early morning birdwatching session along the Marañon River and enjoy breakfast amidst the jungle’s serene environment. Following this, you will visit an Amazonian village, allowing for meaningful interaction with the native “riberenos” (river people) and witnessing an Aguaje palm harvesting demonstration. Later, cool off with an invigorating swim, or opt for kayaking or canoeing in the tranquil waters of the Yanayacu-Pucate River, while keeping an eye out for the legendary pink river dolphins. Next, enjoy biking through the natural landscapes along the riverbanks in the Pacaya Samiria Reserve. After lunch, you may choose to tap into your spirituality under the guidance of a Kukama Kukamiria healer with expertise in connecting with nature. Finally, after dinner, head out on skiffs again to cruise along the Yanayaquillo River for stargazing and searching for nocturnal wildlife.

Today promises a full day of exploration with an early start, offering abundant rewards. The highlight of the day is a comprehensive excursion, including a memorable picnic lunch orchestrated to the melodic sounds of the jungle symphony. Engage in a unique fishing experience along the mysterious black waters of the Samiria River. You’ll have the flexibility to choose your adventure within the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve, with options to go canoeing, kayaking, swimming, or embark on an insightful jungle walk, immersing yourself deeper into the Amazonian wilderness. On the return journey to the Marañon River after lunch, venture out by skiff, continuing your search for the elusive pink river dolphins, a truly magical sight to behold. This day is dedicated to experiencing the profound beauty and biodiversity of the reserve.

As the new day begins, embark on an exciting morning wildlife excursion along the extraordinary black waters of the Nauta Caño River. This unique ecosystem provides excellent opportunities for spotting various species. If you wish, an invigorating bike ride from Puerto Prado Village to Santa Cruz Village along the scenic riverbank offers a different perspective of the Amazon’s landscapes and local life. In the afternoon, prepare for an insightful jungle walk, where your naturalist guides will help you identify diverse flora and fauna, including medicinal trees, fascinating insects, and even colorful poison dart frogs. Learn more about the intricate different rainforest strata and ecosystems, gaining a deeper appreciation for this complex environment. Before dinner, take the opportunity to meet the incredible crew members who work tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure your exceptional experience aboard the Aqua Nera.

On your final morning, take a guided visit to the unique floating town of Belen, gaining fascinating insights into the daily lives of the local residents in the Peruvian Amazon. After this cultural immersion, return to the Aqua Nera for a final breakfast before disembarkation. En route to the airport, a meaningful stop awaits at the Manatee Rescue Center. Here, you’ll witness firsthand the commendable efforts to rehabilitate orphaned Amazonian manatees before they are gently released back into their wild habitat, providing a heartwarming conclusion to your expedition.