I’m a world traveler, content creator, and luxury travel planner passionate about crafting authentic adventures for fellow wanderers. Having explored over 60 countries across all 7 continents, I've gained a deep appreciation for diverse cultures and wildlife. Not everyone knows where in the world they want to go next. I hope the blogs within the following pages give you the clarity and travel inspiration you need to say yes to adventure.
I first heard about Amazon River tours from my travel agent network while discussing bucket list travel experiences. The idea of exploring the world’s largest rainforest captivated me immediately. Since then, I’ve been eager to experience one of the legendary Amazon River tours for myself. When I got the opportunity to plan a trip to the Peruvian Amazon in 2024, I was pleasantly surprised by how thrilling and lavish it was.
Quite a few companies offer these types of tours, so deciding which cruise line to go to the Amazon with was my first step in planning this trip. After extensive research and comparing various options, I focused on those offering a range of luxury amenities and daily excursions for immersive adventures in the Amazon. Recommendations from fellow travel enthusiasts further reinforced my decision, highlighting this particular cruise line for its smaller size and personalized experience, making it the perfect choice for an unforgettable Amazon adventure.
Ultimately, I chose to book a three-day cruise with Aqua Expeditions. Established in 2007, the company was an industry trailblazer for luxury expedition cruises. It’s even won awards from Travel + Leisure and Condé Nast Traveler! Their fleet of ships takes guests to some of the world’s most unique destinations, including the Galapagos Islands, Southeast Asia, and the Amazon.
My trip on Aqua Expeditions’ Aria ship was the best Amazon River cruise I could’ve asked for. From the incredible service and knowledgeable wildlife guides to the gourmet food and exciting expeditions, the cruise was a dream! The ship’s modern design and top-notch facilities, including a rooftop terrace jacuzzi and onboard massages, exceeded my expectations.
Sailing through the Peruvian Amazon on a 3-day cruise with Aqua Expeditions on the Aria Amazon is an adventure like no other – where luxury meets adventure. Experience the wild of the Amazon in pure comfort.
To reach the Peruvian Amazon, fly into Iquitos, the “capital of the Peruvian Amazon,” home to various wildlife. An Amazon river cruise along the Ucayali River, the Amazon’s largest tributary, offers daily excursions led by expert guides, providing incredible opportunities to spot diverse wildlife in the world’s largest rainforest.
Where to Stay: Aqua Expeditions Cruises (Aria Amazon)
→ Want PERKS on your luxury Amazon cruise? *hint hint* FREE MASSAGE
Book me as your travel agent and I can guarantee you the best price possible. Plus you’ll get a seamless travel experience as soon as you step off the plane. Reach out to me today to help you plan your Amazon Adventure!
Transfer between vessel and Iquitos airport when arriving/departing
All meals and premium drinks onboard
All off-boat excursions, led by knowledgeable guides
Ship Overview
Experience unparalleled luxury while exploring the Amazon River aboard the Aria Amazon through Aqua expeditions. Custom-built to explore the Peruvian Amazon in comfort and style, this boutique floating expedition vessel accommodates up to 32 guests in 16 luxurious suites. All rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows offering stunning views of the Amazon River and rainforest. The rooms are spread across two floors. I recommend staying on the top floor because it’s conveniently located on the same floor as the main lounge and dining restaurant.
The top of the ship features an outdoor observation deck with a jacuzzi, indoor lounge and bar, massage room, and exercise facilities. Guests enjoy exquisite Peruvian cuisine sourced from the Amazon by renowned chef Pedro Schiaffino.
Small-group excursions led by expert naturalist guides provide authentic wildlife encounters, with custom-designed private launch boats enhancing comfort. The Aria Amazon blends luxury, adventure, and eco-consciousness in the breathtaking Amazon Rainforest. With a dedicated crew of 24, the top-notch naturalist guides are incredible at wildlife spotting!
Departing from Iquitos, Peru, we embarked on a 3-day journey along the Marañon and Ucayali Rivers, searching for wildlife with plenty of river safaris and activities along the way.
Here is a recap of our trip!
Day 1: A GRAND ARRIVAL & WARM WELCOMING
My journey started in Lima. From there, I took an easy two-hour flight to Iquitos, the “capital of the Peruvian Amazon.” When I landed in Iquitos, the cruise staff greeted me, assisted me with my luggage, and transported me to Nauta, where we boarded the ship.
Quick transport via a small boat from the shore to the Aria Amazon – an award-winning cruise ship known for its comfort and luxury.
Welcome guitarist and delicious drinks upon arrival.
Settle into a luxurious room, participate in a quick routine safety drill, get introduced to the ship’s naturalist guides, and get an overview of the trip to come!
Welcome Dinner – Gourmet Amazonian cuisine created by the renowned chef. (The menu always offers choices, including a vegetarian option.)
This first night alone had me excited for the next few days.
Day 2: SIGHTSEEING & WILDLIFE ENCOUNTERS
Day two started bright and early with a 5 AM wake-up call for a sunrise river safari, which began at 6 AM. Yes, I was up at 5 AM. And no, I am not typically a morning person, but the experience was worth the early start. Throughout the safari, we saw dolphins and diverse, colorful, birdlife. We also passed by local villagers commuting in their river taxis.
SUNRISE RIVER SAFARI (6 AM)
Saw pink & gray dolphins! (only visible early morning)
Saw some of the primary schools, villages, and river taxis taking the locals
Breakfast on the boat (7:30 AM)
BIRD WATCHING SAFARI (9 AM)
Exploration of the Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve, a protected area
Saw many colorful birds, monkeys, hawks, iguanas, and bats
Met local fisherman catching their meals for the day
NIGHT RIVER SAFARI (8 PM)
Saw alligators, sloths, owls, and fireflies
Day 3: CULTURAL IMMERSION & JUNGLE WALK
Day 3 was my favorite day on the cruise because it was packed with excitement from dawn to dusk. We began the day in the early morning with a boat ride, which took us to a great picnic spot that offered once-in-a-lifetime dolphin-watching views.
MORNING BOAT PICNIC (7 AM)
The crew prepared an assortment of food and coffee for us on the boats, and we watched as dolphins swam alongside us.
PIRANHA FISHING (9 AM)
Fishing for the Amazon’s notoriously ferocious piranhas using a stick to shake it. It was a super unique experience, and many people caught fish!
VILLAGE VISIT (10 AM)
After an incredible day, we visited the small village of Veinte de Enero, which has about 25 families (around 125 people, mostly kids). We learned about their lifestyle in the village, climbing up trees to grab coconuts, and saw inside their homes and local grocery stores. They even took us on a kayaking excursion! We brought them some items from America and looked at their handmade crafts – which we got as memorable souvenirs to take home!
LUNCH & RELAX
Downtime to sit by the jacuzzi, got a (free) massage on board using my agent perks, lunchtime.
AFTERNOON JUNGLE WALK (3:30 PM)
We spent the afternoon on a thrilling jungle walk. Here, we witnessed nature at its finest, sighting creatures like tarantulas, anacondas, and the elusive Amazonian poisonous dart frog.
The experienced guides helped to spot wildlife, including a tarantula, which I got to pick up, an anaconda, and an Amazon poisonous dart frog.
SUNSET COCKTAILS (6 PM)
The staff surprised us with farewell drinks, which the bartenders prepared for us on the expedition boats during the sunset before returning to the ship.
FAREWELL DINNER PARTY (7:30 PM)
The day ended with a farewell party with music and dancing, which was a perfect conclusion to an epic journey. I honestly couldn’t have asked for a better send-off!
The entire staff played all different instruments, singing and dancing farewell with the ship
Day 4: DISEMBARKATION
breakfast on the boat
visit the Manatee Rescue Center to see injured or abandoned manatees, sloths, monkeys, and more
How to get to the Peruvian Amazon:
Fly two hours from Lima to Iquitos (the “capital of the Peruvian Amazon”). Iquitos is the most direct and accessible path to the heart of the Amazon.
Drive to the ship port in Nauta (along the only road out of town)
Wildlife you can spot on a Peruvian Amazon expedition:
Anaconda: The Amazon’s most infamous species, the largest species of snake in the world, growing up to thirty feet long,
Pink Dolphins: Also known as the “boto,” a mythical creature in South America. Pink dolphins are endangered and only found in freshwater, primarily in the Amazon River.
Three-Toed Sloth: Also known as the laziest creature in the Amazon, spending around fifteen hours a day sleeping. You can hear their human-like sounding screams in the jungle!
Caiman: One of the top predators in the Amazon is the Black caiman, the largest member of the alligator family to live in the world’s largest river basin. On your Amazon expedition, you can enjoy an evening ride along the Pacaya River to spot these enormous species.
Squirrel Monkey: The black-capped squirrel monkey, an Amazonian native, may be spotted in large groups searching for food among the canopies.
Amazonian Manatee: These manatees are one of three manatee species worldwide, and less than 10,000 of them are in the wild. If you get lucky, you can spot these manatees in their natural habitat on the Amazon River Basin.
Piranha: The red-bellied Piranha is one of the Amazon basin’s most well-known creatures. They have been in the region for millions of years. On a river cruise, you can go piranha fishing and see local fishermen making their daily catch.
Capybaras: These super-speedy rodents are often found in large groups, enjoy swimming, and can spend up to 5 minutes submerged in water.
Birdwatching: Sailing along the Marañon River, you can spot toucans, macaws, parrots, and other vibrant birdlife.
Camera: With extra batteries and memory cards to capture the stunning wildlife and scenery.
Travel-sized toiletries: Convenient for limited luggage space.
Reusable water bottle: Staying hydrated is crucial in a humid climate.
Sunglasses: To protect your eyes from the strong sunlight.
Hat: I wore a bucket hat with a back to cover my neck from the sun, which I recommend!
Button-down tops: Lightweight and long-sleeved for sun and bug protection.
Binoculars: They provide a couple on board, but I recommend bringing your own.
Swimsuit: For the jacuzzi on board or potential swimming opportunities.
Bug spray: Remember to wear it! They bit me underneath my clothing layers on the night excursion.
Lightweight, breathable clothing: Quick-dry fabrics are ideal for the humid environment.
Comfortable walking shoes: Waterproof or quick-drying options are best for excursions.
Waterproof jacket: Sudden rain showers are common in the Amazon. (Don’t worry if you forget yours at home. The Aria Amazon provides rain ponchos if needed.)
Sunscreen: High SPF to protect against intense tropical sun.
Lightweight backpack or daypack: For carrying essentials during excursions.
Pack light, breathable layers to stay comfortable in varying temperatures.
Always apply sunscreen and bug spray before heading out for excursions.
Stay hydrated and drink plenty of water throughout the day.
Be prepared for the humidity and rain with quick-drying clothing and waterproof gear.
Respect the local wildlife and environment by following your guide’s instructions and leaving no trace behind.
Book Your Experience Today!
The Aria Amazon cruise blends luxury and adventure. With lavish rooms, plenty of amenities to relax you, delicious meals, and endless excitement, this cruise was truly the best Amazon River cruise. It’s officially moved from my bucket list to my “must-visit” list.
Are you considering taking an Aria Amazon cruise? Book through a travel agent like me and get access to perks like a complimentary massage.
Let’s start planning your own luxury Amazon River cruise!
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