DELFIN LUXURY AMAZON CRUISE
The Pacaya Samiria National Reserve & the Peruvian Amazon Experience
Cruise the waters in the mighty Peruvian Amazon basin aboard a luxury small ship – Delfin Cruises.
If you find yourself in the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve, you’re doing something right. The blooming soul of the northern Amazon Rainforest is among the most protected biodiversity swaths remaining today in the region, and no other destinations in Peru offer the kind of unbarred access to some of Earth’s most elusive creatures and plants.
Just imagine going on a morning boat ride skirting the edges of the river in search of cackling macaws and tree sloths slowly waking up to begin their days, then returning to your vessel with a chilled local fruit juice waiting for you. Or, how about swimming in a mirror-like lagoon that is so calm that it seems preface to a storm, yet instead, you’re greeted by rare pink river dolphins jumping up to say “hello,” then your guide offers you a warm towel after your dip? Finally, what better way is there to close out your evening fishing for red-bellied piranhas during a fiery sunset than with a 3-course, individually-crafted gourmet meal made of ingredients sourced from the natural backyard that surrounds you?
By any standards, our guests appreciate the “non-cruise” atmosphere and the sense that you are on board to explore one of the world’s most intriguing and authentic environments. When lazy afternoons roll around or if you want to gaze at the millions of southern stars set against the blackest of skies, venture to the top deck where soothing lounge space and a bar will lull you into pure relaxation.
Contact us for more information about the Delfin Luxury Amazon Cruises. Please note there are 4, 5, and 8-day Amazon Cruise itineraries available.
Day 1: IQUITOS / AMAZON RIVER
Arrive at the Amazon city of Iquitos: Our crew will be expecting your arrival at the airport, then transfer all together in our comfortable private vehicle. We will start you off with a lunchbox as we begin the journey to Nauta.
Arrive at Nauta port: Nauta is a small riverside town on the banks of the Marañon River and was the first city founded in the department of Loreto. Once we reach Nauta, you will enjoy a VIP greeting at our private port along the shores of the Marañon River where the vessel awaits you.
Embarkation: Aboard Delfin, you will be served by our qualified staff who will introduce you to your exquisite and cozy suite, specially equipped with all the amenities for an experienced traveller like yourself. Orthopedic beds, pure cotton sheets, pillows of 100% pure natural latex, cotton bathrobes, air conditioning, and private bathroom with Spanish style hot water showers are all framed with a spacious private terrace we are sure you will enjoy to the fullest.
Happy Hour and orientation: While the Delfin begins its initial navigation, you will enjoy the most fantastic panoramic views from the elegantly outfitted observation area located on our third deck. Your naturalist guide will give you an overview of your journey’s schedule, activities, route, highlights, wildlife and vegetation to keep your eye out for, geographical and historical background, and other useful details.
Pahuachiro: We head down into the Marañon River to a location known as Pahuachiro. This lovely spot is an ideal place to spend some time in search of birds and playful monkeys. As your naturalist guide spots various creatures for you, The landscape adorned by the usual colors of the sun´s reflections is a great photo opportunity as you witness your first Amazon Rainforest Sunset.
Nauta Caño: Nauta Caño Creek is known for squirrel and silver back tamarillo monkeys, birds, dolphins, and even sloths! We will skim the riverbanks for small caimans and spiders, as well as insects of all colours, shapes and sizes
DAY 2: LAS PALMAS & AMAZON NATIONAL RESERVE
Las Palmas: On your first morning with us, we recommend getting up early to appreciate one of the most important zones of the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve. Never does nature seem more bountiful than in the tropics, and early rising is always rewarding since wildlife is most abundant and active with the rising of the sun. The early morning hours are the best time of day to watch birds, observe their special displays and listen to their songs. We will jump on the skiffs and head to this area with large trees and old palm trees as well, these components favor the presence of several parrot species. This particular spot also has a great number of other birds of different species. We will look for the famous hoatzins nesting a few feet above water, and perhaps a sloth or two of the three toed kind.
Yanayacu Pucate: You will start cruising through the Yanayacu and Pucate Rivers, peeking into different creeks and lagoons. This is one of the best preserved and protected zones of the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve. Your guide will use his expert eye to pinpoint all the biodiversity of this region. If you want to interact directly with the waters of the Amazon, go out on one of our kayaks or paddle boards. You will even have the opportunity to see the famous pink dolphins!
Amazon Natural Park: This very unique opportunity, you will get to the only Canopy Walkway in this area, an experience unequaled in the rainforest! At a height of over 25 meters (85 feet) and extending for 500 meters (one-third of a mile), the Canopy Walkway provides a view of the rainforest from the treetops, the best vantage point for observing Amazon wildlife and vegetation. The Canopy Walkway is accessible to all and requires no special skills or equipment. The suspended walkway is spread between 14 of the area’s largest rainforest trees and is one of the longest canopy walkways in the world. You will enjoy “Terra Firma” forest of a local ribereño is eye-opening to how far we have come in this day and age and a reflection of how simple yet rewarding life is for others.
Yachay: The village of Yachay is a flyspeck that receives few outside visitors, and even fewer come to seek out the Shaman, Carola. Carola is known far and wide in the rainforest, leading a normal village life with her wood carver husband, while at the same time acting as spiritual caretaker and healer to literally hundreds of jungle dwellers spread over many roadless miles. Her prestige and position are beyond reproach. The role of shaman is often misunderstood in the west, associated with black magic, and spells. While these things all have their place, the actual practitioners are as varied as in any profession. Carola is known as a “White” shaman, a healer and spiritual guide.
DAY 3: NATIONAL RESERVE & COMMUNITY VISIT
Yanayaquillo: You will start cruising through the creeks of Yanayaquillo, peeking into different creeks and lagoons. This is one of the best-preserved and protected zones of the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve. Your guide will use his expert eye to pinpoint all the biodiversity of this region. This is also a popular dolphin feeding spot so we won´t be the only one enjoying our happy meal here. We will also try piranha fishing.
Piranha Creek: We head down into the Marañon River to a location known as Piraña Caño. We had the option to explore the creek either by kayak or by skiff, and they were both fantastic choices! This lovely creek which leads to a lagoon is an ideal place to spend some time in search of birds and playful monkeys. As your naturalist guide spots various creatures for you, also try to pinpoint some yourself now that you’ve been in the jungle for a few days and have trained your eye a bit! Kayakers will endure the feeling of paddling down the river with only the noises of the forest as your companion. As for the skiff riders, the encounters with wildlife are abundant. The landscape is adorned by the usual colours of the sun’s reflections by whichever mode of transportation is stunning. So sit back and enjoy the beauty of the Amazon forest!
Community Village: On board our skiffs, you will visit a local community to meet local villagers who have called Amazonia their home for generations. You may step into a typical schoolhouse where the children will be very happy to have visitors, and then stop by an area to see the women of this community who have a most amazing arts & craft market.
Night Nature Walk
DAY 4: DISEMBARKATION & RIVER MAMMAL RESCUE CENTER
Disembarkation: With heavy hearts, the staff will wish you farewell as you begin your departure. At the port of Nauta, our ground crew will be waiting to take you by our private vehicle back to the city of Iquitos, about 95 kilometers journey by paved road.
The Rescue & Rehabilitation Center of River Mammals (ACOBIA): On our way from Nauta back to Iquitos airport, you will visit the Rescue & Rehabilitation Center of River Mammals (ACOBIA) where you will have the chance to meet baby manatees and learn about these wonderful and docile creatures and why they are on the endangered species list. As well, there are also some other animals cared for by the center that have been rescued from capture for the intention of being turned into pets and other threatening conditions. We welcome you to donate to this ambitious organization and education center as you wish. Our land personnel will wait for you at the airport and give your boarding passes and help you check in.
Airport departure: Our staff will be on hand to help you with your luggage and check in at Crnl. FAP Francisco Secada Vignetta International Airport in Iquitos. The return flight will take you directly to the city of Lima, the capital of Peru. At the security gate, your guide and Delfin crew will say goodbye. We truly hope that you enjoyed your stay and Amazon travel experience with us!
PLEASE NOTE THAT 4 NIGHT ITINERARIES ARE ALSO AVAILABLE.
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Seasons:
Low water season: June to October. Ideal for travelers that prefer to walk through the rainforest to discover its flora and fauna. Allows for more trail walks.
High water season: November to May. Ideal for travelers that prefer to duck into otherwise isolated corners of the reserve onboard speed boats. Allows for more extensive exploration and access via water.
Nature walks & explorations: Due to the conditions of the wet and humid rainforest, the Delfin outfits you with waterproof rubber boot rentals (included) for your comfort and convenience. Before each outing, the boots will be provided for you; after each outing, they will be returned to the staff for cleaning. We also provide the use of rain ponchos.
Kayaking: Please check with your naturalist guide about the day’s weather conditions for the use of kayaks. With the water level and weather forecast permitting, you are welcome to register, at your discretion, for the kayak sessions. These sessions will be conducted in calm waters where you can paddle in a very relaxed manner. Our kayaks are ideal for 2 passengers each. The kayaking group will always be accompanied by an experienced naturalist guide for the entire duration.
Fishing: Our fishing policy is in the form of catch and release.
Community visits: It is possible to create very intimate experiences with the local native community people. For example, there are many young children and families in communities who have various needs in the absence of their own resources, so any help will be very useful. Kids love shirts (T-shirts), pencils, notebooks, and toys. Candies to distribute among them are also great sources of joy.
Recommendations
Itinerary: The itineraries are subject to change due to weather conditions at certain times of the year. The water levels of the rivers also vary from time to time, as well as the hours of sailing. Excursions may be modified at the discretion of the Delfin crew.
Weather: The weather in Iquitos is warm and humid and the temperature varies between 33 °C (90 °F) and 21 °C (70 °F).
• The rainy (high water) season is from November to May.
• The dry (low water) season is from June to October.
• Each season boasts dramatic difference in plants, animals, and weather.
Clothing: light and fresh pieces, blouses, long-sleeved shirts, swimwear, shoes with soft rubber sole for the boat (rubber boots and rain ponchos are provided by us), cardigan or long-sleeved shirts, wind resistant jackets. The days are hot and humid while the night breeze is fresh.
Insects & Mosquitoes: We recommend taking Vitamin B or B-15 a few days before arrival to the jungle. These vitamins are the best natural repellent against insect bites. As well, do not forget to bring conventional repellent and cream for bites.
Other items: We suggest bringing sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, binoculars (very important for enjoying the fauna and flora. Preferably 1 per person), camera, and extra batteries. Connectivity: There is no WiFi Internet or phone signal coverage on our vessels.
Tips: Tips for both the crew and the guides are not included and are expected, as is customary on cruises around the world. The amounts are distributed equally between your entire vessel’s crew, and we hope their service is valuable and insightful to your experience aboard Delfin. From past experience an average of US$ 120.00 per passenger is suggested, and envelopes will be provided in your room.
DELFIN I
8 Passengers, (up to 12 with full triple accommodations), 2 Master Suites, 2 Deluxe Master Suites with cool water whirlpool.
ALL SUITES DELFIN I COME WITH • Air-conditioning. • King or 2 double beds with bedding of 100% • Peruvian pima cotton. • Indoor sitting area. • Native design elements and handicrafts. • Large lavatory. • Hot water showers with organic toiletries. • Hair dryer. • Safe box. • Yoga mat. • Binoculars. • Mini fridge. • Roof-to-floor paneled windows provide unobstructed views of the ever-changing river conditions and the human communities that live symbiotically with each other.
DELFIN II
28 – 30 passengers 10 Suites. 4 Master Suites with 90-degree wrap windows.
ALL SUITES DELFIN II COME WITH • Air-conditioning. • King or 2 double beds with bedding of 100% • Peruvian pima cotton. • Indoor sitting area. • Native design elements and handicrafts. • Large lavatory. • Hot water showers with organic toiletries. • Hair dryer. • Safe box. • Yoga mat. • Mini fridge (Master Suites only) • Roof-to-floor paneled windows provide unobstructed views of the ever-changing river conditions and the human communities that live symbiotically with each other.
DELFIN III
Up to 44 passengers, 1 Owner’s Suite, 2 Corner Suites 10, Upper Suites 9 Suites
ALL SUITES DELFIN III COME WITH• All-natural bath amenities. • Nightly turndown service. • In-room electronic safe. • Individual climate control. • Purified water replenished daily. • Under-bed storage. • Multi-configuration plugs 110v/220v (does not fit European plugs). • Hair dryer and makeup mirror. • Iron and ironing board. • Mini fridge (Owner’s Suite & Corner Suites only).
CONTACT US for more information about the Delfin Amazon Cruises.
Tour Exclusions
IMPORTANT NOTES
PLEASE NOTE: This itinerary is subject to change. Although we always do our best to stick to the itinerary, due to the ever-changing nature of Morocco, activities, hotels, and visits are subject to change due to forces beyond our control.
FLIGHTS: Please do not purchase your flights until this tour is confirmed.
PASSPORTS: Must be valid for at least 6 months upon return date to your home country. Proper documentation is the responsibility of each traveller.
VISAS: (responsibility of the traveller)
Travel Insurance
Cancellation, Travel, Flight, and Health insurance are required and are the responsibility of the participant to research and secure the appropriate coverage. Click HERE for a Travel Insurance Quote or please email nicola@finisterra.ca for a quote.
Check with your local travel agent /insurance provider/health plan for advice about traveling overseas.
Waiver Form
All participants will be required to sign a Waiver Form prior to departure.
STARTS FROM
USD per Person
PLEASE CONTACT US FOR MORE DETAILS.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
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WHY TRAVEL WITH US?
At Finisterra Travel we help you discover, push personal boundaries, and explore the unknown.
We are super passionate about sustainable, transformational, and adventure travel. Definitely not “armchair travellers”, we have firsthand experience of where you’ll be heading.No one wants to feel like a tourist which is why when we plan a custom travel experience for you, we strive to make your adventure as authentic as possible. We offer an array of Small Group Adventures & Custom Trips, and have something for every type of traveller.
Our unique itineraries are designed to best showcase some of our favourite destinations around Africa, Asia, Latin America, the Middle East, North America, and Europe. All itineraries are fully-customizable.Not your typical online travel agency, nor are we quite a tour operator, we are international travel designers with a flair for unique experiences. We’d love to hear from you!
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