Amatista Amazon cruises

The La Amatista has been a favorite of travelers for years. Hundreds of travelers have enjoyed its comfort and explorations. The luxurious 15 cabins have two twin beds or one queen bed with private bath with shower. All cabins have exterior view windows, air conditioning, smoke detectors and hot water 24 hours a day.

It cruises into the Pacaya-Samiria Reserve, the largest protected natural area in Peru (2,080,000 ha), located 190 miles from Iquitos and is accessible only by waterways. The wealth of the low lying virgin rainforest gives this area an enormous bio-diversity. It has 130 species of mammals such as the Jaguar, Ocelots, Giant River Otters and Capybara (the world's biggest rodent), and several species of monkeys in danger of extinction, like the black Maquisapa or Spider Monkey, the Yellow breast, and the Common Woolly Monkey.

There are 350 bird species like Toucans and Blue, Yellow and Red Macaws. All this, plus the 150 reptiles of 20 families, makes the forest one best tourist trips in the world for the diversity in wildlife sightings. Of great importance to the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve's ecosytem is the aquatic fauna, with 250 species of fish, such as the Paiche, the world's largest fresh water fish, weighing up to 250 lbs., and measuring up to 9 feet long, plus species of Turtles, Pink and Grey River Dolphins, and the Manatee.

This part of the upper Amazon Basin has two main seasons; high water and low water. The seasons are based on what is occurring on the slopes of the Andes hundreds of miles away, not rain in the local region. Therefore cruises' daily itineraries will change depending on traveling in high water season (December to May) or low water season (June to November). The proposed routes and excursions will vary some, depending on the type of weather, the level of water of the rivers, as well as the wildlife cycles.

4 Days / 3 Nights, Starting Sundays

4 Days / 3 Nights, Starting Wednesdays

Day 1, Wednesday Iquitos > Nauta > Amazon River > Yacapana Creek
Upon your arrival at the airport, they will be waiting for you to start the adventure. You will get a city tour of Iquitos, a colorful, dynamic city with a captivating past. On this tour you will be able to appreciate the most emblematic attractions of the city. Then, they will transfer you by private vehicle to the city of Nauta, the historic river port where you will embark. Upon arrival in Nauta (about two hours from Iquitos), you will board the Amatista and their staff will accompany you to your cabin. All cabins are specially equipped for you to enjoy the most comfortable stay.

The ship will start sailing down the Marañón River, as the naturalist guides present the trip plan, the routes to follow and the scheduled activities, and the best thing: they will begin to introduce you to the wonderful world of Amazon wildlife. Pay attention to their advice and recommendations, and keep in mind that if you have any doubts or questions, the guides will always be more than happy to assist. After this presentation, enjoy a welcome lunch, your first experience with the delights of regional cuisine. The menu offers several options, including a vegetarian alternative. If you have any particular requirement, please let the crew members know in advance, so that they can attend to it in a timely manner.

Before dinner, you will start a night boat excursion to the Nauta Caño area, in search of animals that can only be seen when the sun goes down: alligators, bats, frogs, tarantulas and other species that inhabit the Amazon basin. After this first immersion in the jungle world, you will return to the ship and enjoy dinner and then you can rest and recover energies for the next day.

Day 2, Thursday Ucayali River > Vista Alegre > Yarapa > Ucayali River
At dawn, you will board the skiffs to visit the banks of the Ucayali River, and observe the beautiful Amazonian birds that fill the dense treetops, a true spectacle of color and life in the heart of the forest. After this exciting ride and back on the boat, you will enjoy a delicious breakfast buffet, that offers a daily selection of traditional dishes, Peruvian specialties, freshly baked homemade products and a variety of fresh juices made with exotic fruits that can only be found in the jungle.

Following this, you will get ready to start a new excursion by boat, but this time, on the Yarapa River. This area is ideal for spotting toucans, parrots, macaws, iguanas, sloths and monkeys high up in the trees. Back at the Amatista cruise, you will enjoy lunch on board followed by a moment of rest, the guides will offer a talk on local Amazonian culture.

During the afternoon, you will visit the town of Vista Alegre, to meet the native community and learn about their customs, having the guides as interpreters and translators. Upon return, you can enjoy live music while you wait for dinner on board.

Day 3, Friday Ucamara >/ Confluence (Origin of the Amazon River) > Cocha Piranha > Casual > Marañon River
After breakfast, the guides will offer a talk about the Pacaya Samiria Reserve, one of the most amazing jungle reserves in the world, with forests that remain flooded for much of the year. Later, you will be ready for the boat expedition to the point of confluence of the Marañón and Ucayali rivers, the majestic location of the jungle where the Amazon River is born.

Before returning to Amatista, you will explore the Piraña Cocha area, looking for more wildlife. Back on the boat, they will offer lunch and you will have time to rest and prepare for the next adventure: a walk through the winding jungle trails, located at the beautiful area of Casual, inhabited by poisonous frogs and countless exotic animal species. In this area you will also observe a variety of giant trees known by the locals as “Avatar”. You can also purchase local handicrafts made by the local women artisans and in this way contribute with their local economy.

As you return to the Amatista, there will be a special moment to contemplate the majestic Amazon sunset. Late at night, you can listen to some live music before the final presentation of the crew and farewell dinner

Day 4, Saturday Nauta > Iquitos > Airport
This morning begins quietly with breakfast on board, but becomes exciting with a visit to the city of Nauta, the second largest in the region. Upon arrival, you will reach the city market, where you can interact with locals and learn about the particular commercial circuit of the region. You will visit the stalls of typical food, crafts, aphrodisiac drinks and many more. A true immersion in the life of the Amazonian population. Back on the ship, you will proceed to disembark. On your way to the airport, visit Amazon Forever Bio Park, also known as Manatees Rescue Center, where biologists and volunteers care for manatees, an endangered species. Learn how manatees are treated and prepared for their return to their natural habitat. Likewise, other animals are also rescued, treated and reinserted in their natural habitat. Transfer to the airport

Specials!!!

SOLO Traveler benefits

The supplement for a suite on a single booking, is 50% additional for Amatista.
Amatista benefit apply for all cabins.

*Complete payment required upon reservation.

Family travel benefits

Family gratitude ritual to the immense Amazon.+ Local souvenir as a gift for the family.

2023 departure dates:
4 Day cruises: JANUARY 11, 24, 27, 31, FEBRUARY 19 MARCH 15, 19, 22, APRIL 2, 5, 9, 12, 16, 19, MAY 3, 7, 10, 14, 17, 28, 31. JUNE 4, 7, 11, 14, JULY 9, 12, 23, 26, AUGUST 9, 20, 23 , OCTOBER 6 NOVEMBER 1, 4, 11, 22, 25, DECEMBER 12, 15, 26, 29
7 day cruises: March 19, April 2, 9, 16, May 7, 14, 28, June 4, 11, July 23, Aug. 20, Nov. 1, 22, Dec. 12, 26

2022-2023 rates per person, double occupancy:
4 days / 3 nights - USD1900 per passenger
7 days / 6 nights - USD3800 per passenger
Charters - 4 days / 3 nights USD 40,000

2024 departure dates:
4 Day Cruises: JANUARY 7, 10, 14, 17, 21, 24, 28, 31, FEBRUARY 4, 7, 11, 14, 18, 21, 25, 28, MARCH 3, 6, 10, 13, 17, 20, 24, 27, 31, APRIL 3, 7, 10, 14, 17, 21, 24, MAY 1, 5, 8, 12, 15, 19, 22, 26, 29, JUNE 2, 5, 9, 12, 16, 19, 23, 26, 30, JULY 7, 10, 14, 17, 21, 24, 28, 31, AUGUST 4, 7, 11, 14, 18, 21, 25, 28, OCTOBER 1, 4,8, 11, 15, 18, 22, 25, 29, NOVEMBER 2, 6, 9, 13, 16, 20, 23, 27, 30, DECEMBER 3, 6, 10, 13, 17, 20, 24, 27
7 Day Cruises: JANUARY 7, 14, 21, 28, FEBRUARY 4, 11, 18, 25, MARCH 3, 10, 17, 20, 24, 31 APRIL 7, 14, 21, 28, MAY 5, 12, 19, 26, JUNE 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, JULY 7, 14, 21, 28 , AUGUST 4, 11, 18, 25, OCTOBER 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, NOVEMBER 6, 13, 20, 27, DECEMBER 3, 10, 17, 24

7 Days / 6 Nights, Starting Sundays

Day 1, Sunday Iquitos > Nauta > Marañon River > Nauta Caño Upon your arrival at the airport, they will be waiting for you to start the adventure. You will take a city tour of Iquitos, a colorful, dynamic city with a captivating past. On this tour you will be able to appreciate the most emblematic attractions of the city. Then, they will transfer by private vehicle to the city of Nauta, the historic river port where you will embark. Upon arrival in Nauta (about two hours from Iquitos), you will board the Amatista and their staff will accompany you to your cabin. All cabins are specially equipped for you to enjoy the most comfortable stay.

The ship will start sailing down the Marañón River, as the naturalist guides present the trip plan, the routes to follow and the scheduled activities, and the best thing: they will begin to introduce you to the wonderful world of Amazon wildlife. Pay attention to their advice and recommendations, and keep in mind that if you have any doubts or questions, the guides will always be more than happy to assist. After this presentation, enjoy a welcome lunch, your first experience with the delights of regional cuisine. The menu offers several options, including a vegetarian alternative. If you have any particular requirement, please let the crew members know in advance, so that they can attend to it in a timely manner.

Before dinner, you will start a night boat excursion to the Nauta Caño area, in search of animals that can only be seen when the sun goes down: alligators, bats, frogs, tarantulas and other species that inhabit the Amazon basin. After this first immersion in the jungle world, you will return to the ship and enjoy dinner and then you can rest and recover energies for the next day.

Day 2, Monday Pacaya Samiria National Reserve > Yanayacu de Pucate > San Regis > Amazonic Natural Park
In the morning, they will organize a fun picnic breakfast on the Yanayacu River in Pucate, one of the best protected and preserved areas of the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve. This area is often visited by pink dolphins. After, you will take a ride in local canoes and live the experience of paddling in one of the most beautiful aquatic ecosystems in the world. Also, if you want, you can enjoy a refreshing dip in the river. Back on the ship, you will have lunch in the dining room, followed by some time to rest, after which the guides will offer a talk about Amazonic philosophy. Later, you will meet the shaman of the San Regis community, a wise woman from the native community who will share her knowledge about the rituals of his ancestors, medicinal plants, and the Amazon worldview. The guides will be the interpreters in case you want to ask questions or make comments to the shaman.

After this authentic experience of reflection and spiritual exploration, you will continue with the ceremony of planting a tree, as a contribution to caring for the environment. Back on the boat, you can relax with live music while you wait for dinner. After eating, the guides will indicate the activities for the following day.

Day 3, Tuesday Pacaya Samiria National Reserve > Amazonic Natural Park > Shiriyacu
Early dawn in the Amazon has a special charm, it is the perfect moment to sight many animal and insect species. For this reason, on this morning, you also have a boat excursion scheduled before breakfast. This time the destination is Iquitos Brook, a privileged area for sighting numerous endemic species. Back on board, a buffet breakfast will be served.

After breakfast, you will start a walk through the jungle until you reach the area of the hanging bridges, a set of structures stretched out on top of the trees that will allow you to experience a canopy walk and admire the richness of the jungle from higher grounds. Before noon, you will return to the ship for lunch on board and then you will have time to rest before the next departure.

Later, get ready for the boat expedition to the Shiriyacu stream. The guides will find the perfect location for piranha fishing, using local equipment and techniques. This area is very popular for spotting pink dolphins. Upon returning to the ship, you can relax even more with live music and comfort ourselves with the delicious dinner on board.

Day 4, Wednesday Nauta > Amazon River > Yacapana Creek
Early in the morning, we will leave by boat towards Gasparito Brook, a very popular area for bird and primate watching. After breakfast, the bartender awaits us for a Peruvian cocktail demonstration, Pisco Sour, the emblematic drink of Peru.

Then, we will continue with a boat excursion to Marayali lagoon, another jewel to appreciate the Amazonian biodiversity, observe the “Victoria Amazónica” or “Victoria Regias”, also known as water lilies, which are the largest aquatic plants on the planet. Before noon, we will return to the ship for lunch on board and then we will have time to rest before the next departure to the Yacapana Creek, in search of new imposing landscapes and more emblematic species of the Amazon.

Before returning to the Amatista, we will enjoy the wonderful light and the incomparable colors that unfold in the sky of these latitudes during sunset. We especially recommend that you relax and enjoy this moment, because few experiences compare to contemplating the endless colors on the Amazonian horizon, letting the night come to listen to the prodigious symphony of millions of animals that populate the forests and waters of these jungles. Back on the boat, we will enjoy a peaceful night with music and a replenishing dinner.

Day 5, Thursday Ucayali River > Vista Alegre > Yarapa > Ucayali River
At dawn, you will board the skiffs to visit the banks of the Ucayali River, and observe the beautiful Amazonian birds that fill the dense treetops, a true spectacle of color and life in the heart of the forest. After this exciting ride and back on the boat, you will enjoy a delicious breakfast buffet, that offers a daily selection of traditional dishes, Peruvian specialties, freshly baked homemade products and a variety of fresh juices made with exotic fruits that can only be found in the jungle.

Following this, you will get ready to start a new excursion by boat, but this time, on the Yarapa River. This area is ideal for spotting toucans, parrots, macaws, iguanas, sloths and monkeys high up in the trees. Back at the Amatista cruise, you will enjoy lunch on board followed by a moment of rest, the guides will offer a talk on local Amazonian culture.

During the afternoon, you will visit the town of Vista Alegre, to meet the native community and learn about their customs, having the guides as interpreters and translators. Upon return, you can enjoy live music while you wait for dinner on board.

Day 6, Friday Ucamara >/ Confluence (Origin of the Amazon River) > Cocha Piranha > Casual > Marañon River
After breakfast, the guides will offer a talk about the Pacaya Samiria Reserve, one of the most amazing jungle reserves in the world, with forests that remain flooded for much of the year. Later, you will be ready for the boat expedition to the point of confluence of the Marañón and Ucayali rivers, the majestic location of the jungle where the Amazon River is born.

Before returning to Amatista, you will explore the Piraña Cocha area, looking for more wildlife. Back on the boat, they will offer lunch and you will have time to rest and prepare for the next adventure: a walk through the winding jungle trails, located at the beautiful area of Casual, inhabited by poisonous frogs and countless exotic animal species. In this area you will also observe a variety of giant trees known by the locals as “Avatar”. You can also purchase local handicrafts made by the local women artisans and in this way contribute with their local economy.

As you return to the Amatista, there will be a special moment to contemplate the majestic Amazon sunset. Late at night, you can listen to some live music before the final presentation of the crew and farewell dinner

Day 7, Saturday Nauta > Iquitos > Airport
This morning begins quietly with breakfast on board, but becomes exciting with a visit to the city of Nauta, the second largest in the region. Upon arrival, we will reach the city market, where you can interact with locals and learn about the particular commercial circuit of the region. We will visit the stalls of typical food, crafts, aphrodisiac drinks and many more. A true immersion in the life of the Amazonian population.

Back on the ship, we will proceed to disembark. On your way to the airport, visit Amazon Forever Bio Park, also known as Manatees Rescue Center, where biologists and volunteers care for manatees, an endangered species. Learn how manatees are treated and prepared for their return to their natural habitat. Likewise, other animals are also rescued, treated and reinserted in their natural habitat. Transfer to the airport.

Included
• Box breakfast upon arrival.
• All meals aboard Amatista. Every day you will enjoy a variety of flavors made with products from the area. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served buffet style.
• All hiking and equipment (including hiking boots and ponchos).
• Transfers from / to the ship upon arrival on recommended flights to Iquitos. *In case you are staying in hotels in the city of Iquitos, inform us to coordinate the pick-up before or after the tour
• Entrance fee to the Pacaya-Samaria National Reserve.
• Natural juices, coffee, infusions and water are included during meals.

Not included
• Domestic flights.
• Cost of medical emergencies (including emergency evacuation).
• TIPS. We suggest USD 10 per passenger per night for the crew (which will be divided among all crew members) and USD 5 per passenger per night for the guides. *Please note that these amounts are suggested gratuity levels and are entirely at the discretion of our guests on board the ships.
• Any additional transportation services.
• Any additional bar consumption.

Notes
• The proposed itineraries and programs may vary depending on the weather, the river water level, the migratory cycles of animals and variations in recommended flights.
• Visits to communities: the visits will depend on the availability of its inhabitants. We protect the environment and the identity of local cultures, trying to affect as less as possible with our visits.
• Excursions: before each outing we offer waterproof rubber boots for your comfort and convenience, these must be returned to the staff for cleaning. We also offer waterproof rain ponchos.
• Kayaks: coordinate with the naturalist guides about kayak rides, which will depend on the weather conditions on the days of your trip. You are welcome to sign up for kayak rides at your own risk. These rides take place in calm waters where you can paddle in a relaxed way. Our kayaks are ideal for two passengers.
• Fishing: Our fishing policy is based on catch and release.

Covid 19 Safety

Each of passenger will undergo the necessary medical check-ups before boarding. If someone is considered at risk, additional tests will be administered for the safety of all.
Before check-in, they will use one of the most effective pieces of equipment for the disinfection and elimination of bacteria, fungi and viruses, as well as being harmless to humans: Ozone Generators.
in compliance with the protocols established by the Ministry of Health (MINSA), each cruise is cleaned and disinfected before setting sail. The cleaning and disinfection of high-traffic public areas and contact points will be intensified.
In order to guarantee responsible social distancing, they will monitor the capacity of public areas frequently throughout the trip.
As a precautionary measure, there might be slight changes in the itineraries, since they will only visit open/safe ports.

Medical Forms are mandatory for certain Tours. If you have any pre-existing medical conditions which may impact your ability to travel, participate in a Tour, travel to remote areas without access to medical facilities or may adversely affect the experience of others on your Tour, you must return a Medical Form, signed by a licensed and practicing physician to the Tour Operator prior to or at the time of final payment for the applicable booking.
In the event that you do not complete the required Medical Form or provide medical information reasonably required by the Tour Operator for any reason by the deadline indicated above, the Tour Operator reserves the right to cancel your booking and all applicable cancellation fees will apply.

YOU MUST HAVE TRAVEL INSURANCE WITH A MINIMUM MEDICAL, EVACUATION AND REPATRIATION COVERAGE OF US$200,000 covering all applicable dates of travel with the Tour Operator. This insurance must cover personal injury and emergency medical expenses. On the first day of each Tour, a representative of the Tour Operator will verify that you have sufficient insurance in place.

BOOKING POLICIES
• Our fares are transferable (allow change of date and passenger name), up to 60 days prior to departure date, at no additional cost.
• In case of emergency and force majeure, operator can suggest a change of boat to the passengers, in case it is required and they agree.
• Changes to be made are subject to availability.

BOOKINGS AND PAYMENTS
For bookings made 61 days or more prior to the boarding date:
• A deposit of US$ 500 per person is required to confirm the reservation.
• Full payment must be cancelled 60 days before the boarding date. In case the full payment is not received, the reservation will be automatically canceled.
For reservations made during the 60 days prior to the boarding date:
Full payment is required to confirm the reservation.

CANCELLATION POLICIES For New Bookings

For cancellations made 61 days or more prior to the boarding date: The deposit will be refunded.
For cancellations made during the 60 days prior to the boarding date: There is no refund, the client may reschedule the trip with no additional charge for one single time.

• The total payment will be rescheduled according to the new boarding date; it must always be canceled 60 days before the boarding date. Your booking agent will tell you the new payment date.
• The trip must be cancelled no later than one week before the departure date to receive a credit note or to be rescheduled for a future trip.
• In case of rescheduling the trip for boarding dates during the year 2023, no fare difference will be applied.
• Applies only for new bookings.

ADDITIONAL DETAILS
• The supplement for a suite on a single booking, is 20% additional to the regular adult rate for Amatista.
• Children’s Policy: A minimum of 7 years of age for all departures. Children 11 years and younger are eligible for a 50% discount on the adult rate. Children must be accompanied by adults in the same cabin, maximum one child for the adult cabin fare.
• Requirement for boarding: Present vaccination card and negative COVID test, PCR with 72 hours or antigen with 48 hours in advance, must be sent prior to boarding.
• Operator recommends all its clients to opt for the rescheduling of their trips or accept credit for future reservations, to collaborate in this way with the process of reactivation of the tourism industry. Given the uncertain situation we are experiencing, booking and cancellation policies may change at any time.

"It went very well.The service was outstanding. The relatively small crew seemed to be on top of everything and there were no problems. We would give them 5 stars.The accommodations although not luxurious were more than adequate and the food was pretty good. Not gourmet, but certainly equal to any cruise ship that we have been on (Holland America, Carnival, Princess). The jungle experience was well organized and in a rather short time span we covered a lot of territory. The tour did not penetrate into the far depths of the jungle but we did not expect that. We know that there are other tours that do that but it would be a totally different type of venture which would require a great deal more time and expense. For one who is not a professional naturalist what we observed would be more than adequate for a casual tourist to get a relatively brief ( 1 week) but intensive view of the many aspects of the Amazon which included visits with the local population as well as observing the natural surroundings. Every day we participated on one or more hikes through the rain forest of one to three hour duration.
The "Amatista" is the original river excursion boat and is over 30 years old but it has been recently refurbished and appears to be in relatively good condition. There are now a dozen or so newer ships which are slightly larger but also charge much higher fees. Other than providing slightly more space I don't see how it would be worth it as they pretty much travel the same routes and the service we received would be hard to improve upon." Jim

Amatista Amazon cruises

4 Days / 3 Nights, Starting Sundays

4 Days / 3 Nights, Starting Wednesdays

7 Days / 6 Nights, Starting Sundays

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