Begin your journey with a cultural city tour of Iquitos, a vibrant Amazonian hub with colonial roots and colorful street life. A private vehicle transports you to Nauta, a historic river port where your cruise aboard La Perla begins. Settle into your cabin and meet your expert naturalist guides who will brief you on the days ahead. After a flavorful welcome lunch, prepare for your first adventure: a night boat ride through Nauta Caño. The jungle transforms after dark, revealing caimans, night birds, frogs, and perhaps even a tarantula. Return to the boat, your base in the wild, and rest under a canopy of stars.
La Perla Experience: Annual Program 4 Days (A)
Sail deep into the Peruvian Amazon aboard La Perla, an intimate and enriching 4-day expedition. From the historic streets of Iquitos to the remote headwaters of the Amazon River, this journey blends adventure, culture, and natural beauty. Encounter exotic wildlife, connect with native communities, and witness the birthplace of the world’s largest river—all with expert guides and the comforts of an elegant riverboat.
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Highlights
- Navigate the headwaters of the Amazon River at the exact point of its birth
- Spot sloths, caimans, monkeys, parrots, toucans, and more in their natural habitat
- Experience night excursions in the rainforest, revealing its secretive nocturnal life
- Visit a native Amazonian community and learn about traditional culture and lifestyle
- Walk through the Amazon jungle and marvel at ancient “Avatar” trees and rare species
Includes
- All meals aboard La Perla. Every day you will enjoy a variety of flavors made with products from the area. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served buffet style.
- All excursions and equipment (including hiking boots and rain ponchos).
- Transfers from / to the ship when arriving on recommended flights to Iquitos. * In case of staying in hotels in the city of Iquitos – inform the sales and reservations department to coordinate the pick-up before or after the tour.
- Entry fee to The Pacaya-Samaria National Reserve.
- Natural juices, coffee, infusions are included. One beverage to choose: soda, local beer or one glass of wine is included during lunch and dinner. Premium bar with additional cost.
Not Included
- Domestic flights
- Cost of medical emergencies (including emergency evacuation).
- Tipping etiquette. On board La Perla, we recommend an amount in the range of USD 20 to UDS 25 per passenger per night for the crew (to be divided among all the crew members) and USD 7 to USD 10 per passenger per night for the guides. * Please note that these amounts are suggested and that this is entirely at the discretion of our guests.
- Any additional transportation services.
- Any additional bar consumption.
Itinerary
Day 1 (Wednesday) : Iquitos, Nauta, Amazon River, Yacapana Creek
Day 2 (Thursday) : Ucayali River, Vista Alegre, Yarapa, Ucayali River
Rise early for a dawn skiff ride along the Ucayali River, where birds ignite the sky with movement and sound. After breakfast, venture to the Yarapa River, home to playful monkeys, vibrant parrots, and sleepy sloths hidden in the canopy. Back onboard, enjoy lunch and a cultural presentation on Amazonian traditions. Later, visit the native community of Vista Alegre. Engage with local families, guided by translators and naturalists who bridge worlds and stories. The day ends with live music aboard La Perla, a melodic echo of the forest that surrounds you.
Day 3 (Friday) : Ucamara / Confluence (origin Of The Amazon River), Cocha Piranha, Casual, Marañon River
Begin with a fascinating presentation on the Pacaya Samiria Reserve, known for its immense biodiversity. Cruise toward Ucamara, the magical confluence where the Marañón and Ucayali rivers unite to form the mighty Amazon. It’s a spiritual and geographical landmark. Continue to Cocha Piranha, a secluded lagoon teeming with wildlife. After lunch, explore the lush jungle trails of Casual, where giant ceiba trees rise like cathedrals and brilliantly colored frogs hop across your path. Visit a local artisan market to support women handcrafters. End the day with a sunset celebration on board—music, laughter, and the final golden hues of the Amazon sky.
Day 4 (Saturday) : Nauta, Iquitos, Airport
Enjoy a relaxed breakfast as the boat docks in Nauta. Visit the town’s vibrant market, a sensory feast of Amazonian goods, from jungle fruits to medicinal herbs. Before heading to the airport, stop at the Amazon Forever Bio Park, a wildlife rescue and rehabilitation center. Learn about the protection of species like the Amazonian manatee and the ecological challenges facing the region. This meaningful visit concludes your journey with a powerful message: that every traveler plays a role in the conservation of the Amazon’s extraordinary biodiversity.
Travel Tips
- Pack lightweight, long-sleeved clothing to protect from sun and insects.
- Use strong insect repellent with DEET, especially during jungle walks.
- Bring binoculars and a camera with good zoom for wildlife spotting.
- Quick-dry clothes and waterproof footwear are ideal for wet and muddy conditions.
- A dry bag or waterproof pouch is recommended for protecting electronics on skiff rides.
Weather Preparedness
- The Amazon is hot and humid year-round, with temperatures between 75°F and 95°F (24°C to 35°C).
- Rain is common throughout the year, especially during high-water season (Dec–May).
- Pack a light rain jacket or poncho, and opt for breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics.
Fitness Requirements
- Excursions involve light to moderate physical activity, including jungle walks and boarding skiffs.
- Terrain can be uneven or muddy, so a basic level of mobility is necessary.
- Activities are suitable for most travelers, including older children and active adults.
Accommodation
Accommodation is provided onboard a boutique river cruise vessel, offering comfort and immersion in the heart of the Amazon. All cabins are air-conditioned, include private bathrooms, and feature panoramic windows for scenic views. Common areas include a dining room, lounges, and observation decks for wildlife viewing and relaxation. Select vessels may offer wellness services such as massages or spa treatments, depending on availability.
FAQs
You may see pink river dolphins, monkeys, sloths, caimans, macaws, toucans, and a wide variety of birds and reptiles, depending on the season and location.
Yellow Fever vaccination is recommended, though not mandatory. Consult your physician about malaria prevention and other travel-related precautions.
Internet and mobile signals are limited or unavailable during most of the cruise, allowing for a full disconnect in nature.
Yes, especially for families with children 7 and older who enjoy nature and adventure. Parental supervision is required during excursions.
Swimming is generally not recommended due to safety and wildlife concerns, unless approved by the guides in designated areas.