Aqua Nera: 7-Night Low Water Season

After arriving on a noon flight, you will receive a warm welcome at Iquitos International Airport by the Aqua Nera crew. A private transfer will take you to downtown Iquitos for a captivating city tour, offering a glimpse into the local life and history of this Amazonian gateway city. Following the tour, enjoy a delightful welcome lunch before heading to Nauta port to board the Aqua Nera. Once aboard, you’ll settle into your generously sized suite, marking the beginning of one of life’s greatest adventures. The day will conclude 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.

Begin your second day with an invigorating sunrise birdwatching session along the Amazonas River, where you can witness the awakening of the jungle’s avian life. After breakfast, embark on an exciting skiff excursion from the Amazon River into one of its fascinating tributaries, the Tahuayo River. Here, you will gain invaluable knowledge about the region’s diverse ecosystem from your expert naturalist guides. An adventurous highlight of the day will be going fishing for Amazonia’s notorious piranhas, a truly unique experience. As the sun begins to set, prepare for an enchanting evening excursion in search of nocturnal wildlife, culminating in a captivating stargazing session under the clear Amazonian sky.

Today, you will discover the magnificent black waters of Clavero Lake, a serene and picturesque location. During your visit, you’ll have the opportunity to engage with the communities that reside along its banks, gaining insight into their traditional way of life. Embrace the natural surroundings by indulging in activities such as kayaking, canoeing, or swimming in the tranquil waters before returning onboard for a sumptuous lunch. In the afternoon, venture out for an immersive short jungle walk in the San Jose de Paranapura forest, where you will be able to marvel at the famous giant water lilies, a true botanical wonder of the Amazon.

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 and 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.

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, head out for a morning wildlife excursion with a possibility to see sloths, great egrets, parrots, and Taricaya turtles. Later, explore the Yanayacu Pucate River and go fishing for Amazonia’s notorious piranhas. 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 a morning wildlife excursion on the Pahuachiro River. After breakfast, visit Puerto Prado Village where there will be an opportunity to ride a bike all the way to Santa Cruz Village along the riverbank. You could also visit an experienced beekeeper in the community of San Francisco. In the afternoon, head out for a boat ride to the majestic Amazon River. 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 local market in Nauta Town. Marvel at the regional produce of the Peruvian Amazon and sample exotic snacks if you wish. After this cultural immersion, return to the Aqua Nera for a final breakfast and to pack up. Before bidding farewell, you will visit the Manatee Rescue Center, a crucial sanctuary dedicated to rehabilitating orphaned Amazonian manatees before their eventual release back into the wild, offering a heartwarming and educational experience.