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Amazon River Cruises

Why Cruise the Amazon?

Amazon River cruises take adventurous explorers on one of the world’s most rewarding wildlife expeditions. Journey deep into the heart of the largest rainforest on Earth on a boat trip down the Amazon, a mystical realm of boundless biodiversity where physical and spiritual worlds entwine, a primeval domain still ruled by the jaguar , home to giant snakes , towering trees and uncontacted tribes hiding in plain sight.

The best Amazon cruises explore the remote reaches of this fairytale forest. Witness the playful pink river dolphins in the headwaters of the Amazon in Peru ‘s Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve aboard some of the most luxurious Amazon cruises available, or see the kaleidoscopic colors of the clay licks in the Ecuadorian Oriente . Why not try boating the Amazon River’s lesser-traveled backwaters in Bolivia and explore three kinds of tropical forest, or maybe catch a rare glimpse of the Amazonian manatee in the Anavilhanas National Park of the Brazilian Amazon . What will you discover on your Amazon River tour?

Amazon Cruises

Our hand-picked portfolio of traditional Amazon River boats and small Amazon river cruise ships has been carefully chosen to include remarkable vessels operated by only the most trusted of partners, preeminent pioneers of the region who offer exceptional itineraries, unrivaled knowledge and utmost levels of service.

Aria Amazon

Manatee Amazon Explorer

Acqua Amazon

Grand Amazon Expedition

Amazon destinations.

Peru Amazon Cruises

Ecuador Amazon Cruises

Brazil Amazon Cruises

Bolivia Amazon Cruises

Amazon experiences.

Luxury Cruises

Family Cruises

Adventure cruises.

Honeymoon Cruises

Charter Cruises

Solo Cruises

Private charters.

For those seeking the ultimate exclusivity traveling as a group or with family, an Amazon riverboat charter provides a private escape to explore the Amazon Rainforest, with an entire crew to cater to your every need, and allows for activities to be more tailored to your party’s desires.

Cruise Packages

Our custom Amazon Rainforest tours seamlessly combine Amazon cruises with bespoke land tours featuring private expert-led excursions and curated accommodations. Browse our best-selling Amazon vacations below and begin an unforgettable journey tailored uniquely to you.

Machu Picchu, Iguazu Falls & Rio

16-day tour from $6,625 usd.

Buenos Aires, Iguazu, Rio & Manaus

13-day tour from $4,450 usd.

Best of Peru

14-day tour from $4,850 usd.

Galapagos & Amazon

14-day tour from $8,675 usd.

Rio, Iguazu Falls & Amazon

14-day tour from $4,625 usd.

Amazon Rainforest & Machu Picchu

10-day tour from $5,325 usd.

Rio & Amazon Tour

10-day tour from $4,200 usd.

Quito To Amazon

8-day tour from $6,250 usd.

Peru Amazon Adventure

7-day tour from $5,200 usd.

Brazil Amazon Adventure

6-day tour from $1,925 usd, travel guide.

Want to know more about cruising the Amazon River? Our destination specialists have compiled the definitive Amazon Rainforest travel guide to help you plan your cruise. Find out when and where to go, what to see and do, where to eat and sleep, and more below.

15 Astonishing Facts About The Amazon River

Where Is The Amazon River & Where Does Is Start And End?

Amazon River Cruise or Lodge Stay?

Exploration Of The Amazon Rainforest: A Brief History

Amazonian River Types: Blackwater, Whitewater & Clearwater

Amazon Rainforest Weather: Seasons & Best Time To Visit

What our customers are saying.

What Is One Thing I Shouldn’t Miss In The Amazon?

Of all the amazing sights in the Amazon, the Meeting of Waters in Brazil shouldn’t be missed. At the confluence between the black waters of the Rio Negro and the sandy whitewater of the Solimões River the two rivers’ waters run side by side without much mixing for over 6 kilometers (3.7 miles).

When Is The Best Time Of Year To Go To The Amazon?

The best time of year to visit the Amazon is during the shoulder season between the wet and dry seasons (varies by country). At this time of year river levels remain high, allowing Amazon river cruises to still navigate deep into the rainforest, and the fine weather draws out much of the wildlife.

If seeing the Amazon rainforest at its lushest and getting up close to lots of birds and mammals (and enjoying slightly cooler temperatures) sounds most attractive, then the wet season with its higher river levels might be your best choice.

If jungle hikes, fishing for piranha and other Amazon River fish species , or spotting exotic migratory birds appeals most to you, while still having the chance to see capuchin monkeys , kinkajou, and other mammals, you might be happier choosing the warmer, dry season when water levels are lower.

Our guests are awed by the Amazon at whatever time of year they visit. If you can’t decide, perhaps the best solution is to choose one season this year and the other in the future!

Is The Amazon A Good Family Destination?

An Amazon vacation is a great option for adventurous families with adaptable kids – after all, where better to inspire and educate them about the natural world! Bear in mind younger children may be affected by the humidity levels, and noisy little ones may reduce the chances of spotting wildlife.

Many of our Amazon guides have children themselves and are skilled in keeping young ones entertained, and are naturally experts in spotting any potential natural dangers you may encounter. It should be noted many Amazon river cruises have minimum age requirements of 7 and above, but jungle lodges and private charters are often more flexible.

Can You Swim In The Amazon River?

Swimming in the main channels of the Amazon river is generally not advised due to strong currents and boat traffic. Swimming in smaller tributaries and lakes is safer (especially the Amazon’s blackwater rivers ), but always follow the safety advice of your guide.

What Activities Can People Do In The Amazon Rainforest?

Most people head to the Amazon to spot wildlife, and this can be done on daytime jungle walks, from canopy walkways and lookout towers, or on nighttime boat safaris. Other common Amazon Rainforest activities include piranha fishing and local community visits.

As previously mentioned, more adventurous travelers may swim in the Amazon (sometimes with pink river dolphins!) or go kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, or even tree climbing. In certain parts of the Amazon, float plane flights can also be arranged to get a real bird’s-eye view of the rainforest.

How Much Does An Amazon Cruise Cost?

The cost of an Amazon cruise typically depends on itinerary length, boat comfort level and cabin category, although seasonal and single supplements may also apply. Short cruises of 4 days cost between $900 – $4,400 pp, and longer cruises of 7+ days from $1,800 – $9,600 pp based on double occupancy.

Some other Amazon river cruise cost factors to consider:

• If you wish to privately charter an Amazon river boat , costs can be significantly more, but can actually work out cheaper per person if your group fills the boat.
• There are also additional costs involved in accessing the remote parts of the Amazon when cruises depart from, namely the domestic flights to Iquitos (Peru), Coca (Ecuador), Trinidad (Bolivia), Manaus or Santarém (Brazil).
• Port fees and entrances to the national parks are typically included in your cruise cost.
• For those considering a luxury Amazon cruise, Rainforest Cruises are proud to offer a best-rate guarantee thanks to our unique relationships with operators.
• To get your cruise cheaper, keep apprised of the latest Amazon river cruise deals .

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DEAL FLASH: 2 For 1 On Luxury 4-Day Amazon River Cruise Thanksgiving Departure

Amazon River Cruises

• Choose from 6 Amazon tours
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6 best Amazon cruises

Compiled by

Melissa Amazon travel expert at TourRadar

Exotic Trilogy: Rio, Iguazu Waterfalls & Amazon (incl. domestic flights)

Classic brazil (incl. domestic flights), amazon cruise: amazon clipper premium (3 nights), amazon cruise: amazon clipper premium (2 nights), natural wonders of brazil, brazil's natural paradises.

• Sightseeing
• Explore Christ the Redeemer and Sugar Loaf
• Visit the iconic Maracanã and Selaron Stairs
• Experience Iguazu Falls from Brazil and Argentina

• Explore Christ the Redeemer up close
• Ride cable cars to Sugar Loaf's summit
• Witness Iguazu Falls from Devil's Throat

• River Cruise
• Christmas & New Year

• Jungle Trekking
• Explore Manaus and the Teatro Amazonas
• Witness the meeting of Rio Negro and Solimões
• Spot wildlife on a motor canoe trip

• See the Meeting of the Waters in the Amazon
• Learn survival skills on a jungle tour
• Snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of Bom Jardim

More about Amazon

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Amazon Tours & River Cruises

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Amazon Trips by Duration

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AMAZON RIVER CRUISE

Endless discoveries in the most biodiverse rainforest and river system on earth.

Into the wild

Embark on an extraordinary voyage to the ‘lungs of the planet’, home to one in every 10 species of flora and fauna.

No explorer’s bucket list is complete without a trip to the world’s largest rainforest. From its wealth of biodiversity to its sheer size, the Amazon Rainforest is immense on all accounts. Even today, researchers continue to find new species of flora and fauna across this mighty expanse, and there are thousands of such discoveries still to be made. Spanning nine countries in South America, the Amazon Rainforest is best explored via a river expedition in Peru. This is the birthplace of the Amazon River, where the Ucayali and Marañon tributaries converge. Considered the region’s most pristine expanse, the river banks are always in view when sailing these narrow channels, allowing incredible opportunities to spot wildlife in the jungle canopies.

Aqua Expeditions operates two vessels in the Peruvian Amazon: the 20-suite Aqua Nera, a state-of-the-art river ship which draws inspiration from the region’s black water lagoons, and the 16-suite Aria Amazon, a classic explorer custom-built for comfort and luxury. Both ships offer a range of itineraries, with options for individual travelers as well as group and charter bookings. Enjoy twice-daily excursions led by expert guides to spot rare and endemic wildlife including pink dolphins, spider monkeys, caiman, sloths, and anacondas. While on board, relax in a luxurious suite or enjoy social spaces such as the spa, plunge pool, jacuzzi, gym, or movie room. 

Great cruise for

Trip highlights and excursions

Best time to visit the Amazon

• Best time for wildlife spotting Wildlife excursions often differ depending on the time of the year. During the high water season, river ships sail closer to the canopies, making it easier to spot birds and other species which live in the trees. On the other hand, the low water season allows better access to jungle trails, making it possible to discover wildlife in the undergrowth. READ MORE
• Best time for active excursions Changing seasons play a role in determining the excursions which can be offered as part of our Amazon cruise itineraries. In the low water season, many of the trails and jungle paths that are usually submerged become easily accessible, allowing opportunities to experience the Amazon rainforest on foot. On the other hand, the high-water season allows skiffs to access hidden creeks and lakes which are out of reach when the water levels are low. READ MORE
• Weather and Rainfall A perfectly balanced rainforest ecosystem has both sunshine and rainfall, and the Amazon is no exception. The Peruvian Amazon receives a healthy 12 feet (3.6 meters) of rainfall a year on average and experiences 250 rainy days. READ MORE

Getting there

Embarkation.

Meeting Point: Aqua Expeditions Counter at Iquitos Airport Embarkation Point: Aqua Expeditions Private Wharf Embarkation Time: 5:30PM

Meeting Point: Aqua Expeditions Counter at Iquitos Airport Embarkation Point: Iquitos Main Port Embarkation Time: 5:30PM

Disembarkation

Disembarkation Point: Aqua Expeditions Private Wharf Disembarkation Time: 9:00AM

Disembarkation Point: Iquitos Main Port Disembarkation Time: 9:00AM

Your Amazon Expedition Guide

Top 15 Must-See Amazon Animals on a River Safari

Life along the Amazon: How the Riberenos made the World’s Largest Rainforest their Home

5 Amazing Facts about the Amazon Pink River Dolphin

Discover Pedro Miguel Schiaffino’s Rainforest-to-Table Cuisine on Aqua Nera

The Amazon River Rainforest: Why Peru is the Best Country for Exploring

Top Five Experiences in the Mighty Amazon

Our ships in the peruvian amazon.

Setting a new standard for luxury river voyages on the Amazon, the state-of-the-art Aqua Nera draws inspiration from the Peruvian Amazon’s mystical black water lagoons. Revel in personalized luxury while exploring the depths of the Peruvian Amazon and savoring rainforest-inspired cuisine by renowned chef Pedro Miguel Schiaffino.

Choose your itinerary

Aqua Nera offers guests the opportunity to embark on the finest river ship expedition in the Amazon, with the choice of the following itineraries.

What our guests say

Guided Jungle Walks

Walk deep into the rich Amazonian rainforest for a rendezvous with exotic wildlife. The forest is home to three-toed sloths, macaws, hoatzins, capuchin monkeys and anacondas, and that’s just the beginning. Aqua’s expert guides are well-versed in spotting animals through the camouflage and helping you get a close-up look at the variety of species which inhabit the region.

As you make your way over to the rainforest on a tender ride, you might find yourself accompanied by the elusive pink river dolphins which can be found in these waters. There are also caiman which rest along the riverbanks and are best spotted once it’s dark outside. You’ll have the opportunity to go looking for these incredible predators on a night excursion aboard Aqua Nera.

Throughout the expedition, you’ll be exploring the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve, which is nicknamed the ‘Jungle of Mirrors’ thanks to the glassy reflections in its peaceful waters. Well-protected and conserved, this is the ideal place to explore the region’s abundant biodiversity.

Kayaking and Canoeing

The calm black water lagoons and tributaries of the Amazon river are perfect for kayaking, canoeing, and swimming excursions. Lakes such as Lake Clavero offer a remote location for a refreshing swim accompanied by magnificent natural landscapes in the backdrop. Experience the local way of fishing and transportation by jumping into dugout canoes carved by hand from Amazonian trees or grab your paddles and kayak as villagers in their traditional canoes pass you by.

Visits to indigenous communities

Beyond nature and the wildlife, the Amazon also has a lot to offer in terms of culture and heritage. Introduce yourself to a brand new way of life and find out all there is to know about jungle living. This provides an eye-opening insight into how people can live in harmony with the rainforest, depending only on their surroundings for sustenance.

Our expert naturalist guides are natives from the region, who’ll share first-hand accounts of life in the Amazon during your expedition. There’ll also be an opportunity to embark on a bike ride and explore the riverside community of Nauta, one of the main hubs of the Amazon.

Although the truly remote indigenous tribes are protected and inaccessible to visitors, there are stilted villages and riverside settlements to visit where you’ll get a glimpse of the Amazonian way of life, and the native customs and traditions.

Skiff rides to spot wildlife

Birdwatching adventures with Aqua Expeditions start early in the morning, as we rise with the sun and board our skiffs to glide along the Marañon river. This is the time of day when we have a better chance of spotting our feathered friends as they forage for food. The rainforest is also the quietest at this time, enabling us to listen attentively and, with the help of Aqua’s knowledgeable guides, recognize each bird species via their distinctive call. We can say this is almost a meditative experience as with patience, tranquility, and observation we enter a state of peacefulness and appreciation for our surroundings. Followed by a hearty breakfast on our skiffs, this is truly a perfect way to start our day.

Each Aqua Expeditions bicycle excursion is personally curated and led by expert English-speaking guides in ease and comfort. Daily activities are highly customized according to each guest’s fitness and taste for adventure, as well as adapted to individual interests and pace. Bike tours are a great way to get around at each port of call to explore the lay of the land. Maintaining a maximum of 10 guests per excursion allows for strong interaction with our passionate local guides, providing a highly educational and engaging touring experience.

It may not be the biking vacation hardcore cyclists may expect, but guests should be prepared for a certain element of action involved. Because we travel into remote destinations, far removed from crowded areas and tourist attractions, we can dive deeper into places which focus on nature, wildlife and even lesser-known or forgotten cultures.

Weather and Rainfall

A perfectly balanced rainforest ecosystem has both sunshine and rainfall, and the Amazon is no exception. The Peruvian Amazon receives a healthy 12 feet (3.6 meters) of rainfall a year on average and experiences 250 rainy days.

The good news: It rarely rains for more than an hour or two. Rain most often falls in passing cloudbursts, in line with the microclimate weather behavior of the Amazon ecosystem

Aqua Expeditions taps on the collective experience of our crew and guides in the Amazon to create an itinerary that ‘works with the weather’, for instance conducting excursions at times when rain is less probable.

Our local naturalist guides are also adept at sensing the weather before it changes. Guests receive sturdy ponchos in the event of inclement weather, so they can stay comfortable and focus on the Amazon jungle scenery and wildlife.

There are two key seasons in the Peruvian Amazon: a low water season that lasts from June to November and a high water season from December through to May. Cruising in either season presents explorers with a unique experience of the Amazon as water levels differ as much as 23 feet (7 meters)!

Best time for wildlife spotting

Wildlife excursions often differ depending on the time of the year. During the high water season, river ships sail closer to the canopies, making it easier to spot birds and other species which live in the trees. On the other hand, the low water season allows better access to jungle trails, making it possible to discover wildlife in the undergrowth. 

Low-water months are also an ideal time for fishing as aquatic populations are confined to a few key areas. It’s far easier to land a piranha during this time. For birdwatchers, dozens of species of migratory birds are in flight during this time as well.

In contrast, the high-water season concentrates the population of land animals and amphibians, making it easier to spot turtles and caimans.

All things considered, most species can be seen throughout the year – the only difference is in the manner they’re seen, from the ground of the lush forest or aboard a skiff.

Best time for active excursions

Changing seasons play a role in determining the excursions which can be offered as part of our Amazon cruise itineraries.   In the low water season, many of the trails and jungle paths that are usually submerged become easily accessible, allowing opportunities to experience the Amazon rainforest on foot. On the other hand, the high-water season allows skiffs to access hidden creeks and lakes which are out of reach when the water levels are low. 

Our itineraries take advantage of the conditions in each season to curate the best Amazon cruise experiences. When cruising the Amazon during low-water, guests will see exposed mud banks which tend to attract large numbers of colorful macaws. During high-water, we can head out for a swim in the mystical black water lagoons which are dotted across the region.   There are unique and novel experiences to be had no matter when you decide to visit the Peruvian Amazon.