4-Day Aqua Nera Amazon River Cruise – High Water Route

As the morning sun rises over the rainforest canopy, you’ll board a comfortable skiff and glide from the mighty Amazon River into the winding waters of the Yanayacu Yacapana River. This is where the jungle comes alive—listen for the melodic calls of tropical songbirds, scan the treetops for lazy sloths, and watch black-collared hawks soar above.

Along the way, try your hand at line-fishing for one of the Amazon’s most infamous residents: the razor-toothed piranha. With every cast, your expert naturalist guides will bring the jungle to life, sharing fascinating insights into the creatures, plants, and hidden stories of Amazonia.

In the afternoon, the Aqua Nera sails onward to the Yarapa River, a mysterious blackwater tributary of the Ucayali River. As twilight falls and the jungle prepares for night, you’ll embark on an enchanting stargazing session and a skiff excursion in search of nocturnal wildlife.

Frogs croak in the dark, night birds call from the trees, and the water glistens under the moonlight. With luck, you might spot caimans, night monkeys, or even the glimmer of bioluminescent creatures—a truly unforgettable Amazonian night under the stars.

The day begins with the soft light of dawn as you board a skiff to explore the peaceful Clavero Lake, where life moves to the timeless rhythm of the river. Villagers glide silently across the water in hand-carved dugout canoes, offering a glimpse into a way of life deeply connected to the land and water.

Here, the tranquil waters invite you to take a refreshing swim surrounded by the Amazon's raw beauty, or you may choose to visit a local riverside community, where warm smiles and genuine hospitality welcome you. These are the unforgettable moments that connect us—human to human—across cultures and continents.

In the afternoon, the Aqua Nera sails along the majestic Marañón River, where the jungle thickens and wildlife thrives. This is a paradise for birdwatchers and nature lovers—keep your eyes open for herons, monkeys, and more as your guides interpret the signs of the forest.

As evening falls, return to the ship and gather for a heartwarming moment: a chance to meet some of the dedicated crew members who’ve worked behind the scenes to make your journey seamless. Their stories, laughter, and pride in their work offer a deeper glimpse into the spirit of the Aqua Nera.

Your final day in the Amazon begins with a guided excursion to Nauta’s bustling local market, where vibrant stalls overflow with exotic fruits, herbs, and colorful spices. It’s a sensory immersion into daily life in the jungle, full of warm interactions and surprising flavors.

If you choose, you may also visit a local beekeeper in the community of San Francisco, where sustainable honey harvesting is practiced with care. It’s a peaceful, personal moment of connection with Amazonian traditions and the people who keep them alive.

After returning to the Aqua Nera for one last breakfast on board, it’s time to disembark and begin the journey back to Iquitos. But before your farewell, you’ll make a truly memorable stop at the Manatee Rescue Center—a sanctuary where orphaned and injured Amazonian manatees are rehabilitated with compassion and scientific care.

Here, you’ll witness conservation in action as you learn about the center’s mission to return these gentle giants to their natural habitat. It’s a touching and hopeful close to your expedition—reminding you that the Amazon is not only a place of wonder, but also of deep responsibility.