Amazon River Cruise

A Pristine Rainforest Frozen in Time

Join us on a fantastic journey experiencing the natural history and cultural highlights of the largest wilderness in Earth, the Amazon.Traverse the Peruvian Amazon on board the fine Estrella Amazonica, with top local naturalists in this epic nature journey offered jointly with International Expeditions, world leader in nature travel.
It is the largest wilderness on Earth, divided by the mightiest river. A vast ecosystem supporting the highest diversity of living things. Birds and butterflies, as well as a fascinating array of primates, fishes, aquatic mammals and top predators such as jaguar, caiman and anaconda all mingle in a land known simply as The Amazon. From its first trickle high in the Andes, the Amazon River winds down for 4,200 miles past mountains, rainforest, plains, and cities and remote villages in six countries before spilling 500 billion cubic feet of fresh water into the Atlantic. The rainforest of the Amazon generates around 20% of the world’s oxygen, absorbing carbon dioxide and making this a vital ecosystem for the balance of the Planet.
Far South Expeditions has joined forces with International Expeditions, World Leader in Nature Travel, to set up this special departure aimed to offer an unforgettable journey to the heart of one of the regions with the greatest biodiversity in the world: the Peruvian Amazon. We are very proud of this partnership as for over three decades, International Expeditions has endeavored to promote an understanding of and appreciation for the Amazon all while working to preserve the rainforest and provide its inhabitants with a reason to do the same.

9-day trip • Starts/Ends: Lima, Peru • 10% introductory discount for bookings done before 31 July.

Overview

Itinerary in Brief
Day 1 • Flight to Lima, Peru – Lima (1 night)
Day 2 • Flight to Iquitos – Embark M/V “La Estrella Amazonica” (7 nights)
Days 3-8 • Exploring the Amazon river and tributaries
Day 9 • Iquitos – Flight to Lima – End of the trip

A World of Reasons to Explore the Amazon with IE and Far South Expeditions
• Unrivaled Experience & Expert Guides
• 34 years ago International Expeditions (IE) pioneered travel to the Peruvian Amazon, and our nature-focused, small-group expeditions remain THE standard for exploring the EarthÕs greatest wilderness. Our insight and expertise ensure the mysteries of the Amazon come alive as you traverse the mighty Amazon and its tributaries with our expert local naturalists. Every facet of IEÕs Amazon Voyage has been designed to ensure a meaningful experience. In villages along the way, we are greeted like family and welcomed into homes, schools and the daily lives of the Ribereos.
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¥ Best ship on the Amazon
You donÕt have to sacrifice comfort and world-class service to discover EarthÕs mightiest river. Delve into this pristine wilderness aboard the custom-built La Estrella Amazonica Ñ an inviting riverboat featuring 21st-century comfort and safety. Air-conditioned cabins feature private balconys, so you are constantly surrounded by rainforest vistas. La EstrellaAmazonica boasts unrivaled public spaces, including a sprawling open-air Observation Deck, a modern Lecture Room and even a Fitness Room.
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¥ Immersive Activities
Our Amazon Voyage includes a variety of flexible activity options designed to immerse you in this fascinating envi- ronment. Our days may include wild- life viewing in our specially designed, spacious excursion boats, frequentbird watching, walking in the rainforest, kayaking in peaceful creeks, visiting re- mote villages, Peruvian cooking demon- strations and more so that you enjoy an enriching and fun adventure.
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¥ Commitment to Conservation
IE has a long history of founding and funding conservation projects in Peru and throughout the world, including providing clean water and both educa- tional and medical support for local com- munities. By traveling, you are contribut- ing to the Adopt-a-School program, Las Malvinas Urban Garden project, water purification systems in multiple villages, and Amazon Medical Center.
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¥ EarthÕs Greatest Wilderness?
The rainforests of the Amazon Basinignites the imagination of explorers, hinting at an adventure like no other.Beyond the untamed frontier along the riverÕs edge, daily excursions allow you to walk jungle paths and discover the secrets hidden along narrow tributaries. Be amazed in this wilderness by the symphony of cicadas and tree frogs after a downpour. Under a rich canopy find an astounding diversity of bird species. At least 1,800 species Ñ more than 50% of South AmericaÕs recorded birdlife Ñ have been spotted in Peru. Spend evenings cruising the headwaters of EarthÕs most legendary river, stargazing and storytelling as Peruvian lore becomes part of your personal story.
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¥ Legendary Wildlife
The Peruvian Amazon’s sprawling tangle of rivers, creeks, forests and lagoons is home to an astounding diversity of wildlife, and as the only company exploring three separate habitats, International ExpeditionsÕ species list numbers over 700. Along the way, IEÕs knowledgeable local naturalists help you search for a host of birds and other wildlife, from monk sakis in the tree tops to capybara families feeding in the marshes.After originating as a trickle high in the Andes Mountains, the Amazon River winds more than 4,200 miles through South America, playing host to 3,000 fish species Ñ more than described for the entire Atlantic Ocean. Though not always seen, squirrel, wooly, capuchin and howler monkeys, along with marmosets and tamarins, hide in the rainforestÕs dark depths. From huge ringed kingfishers to prehistoric hoatzins and chattering parrots, our daily nature excursions observe enough birdlife to engross even the most avid birder.?
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¥ Meet the People of the Amazon
For those who inhabit this isolated region, life is caught in the ebb and flow of the river that dominates existence. The Amazon is the lifeline for the Ribereo villagers who rely on the fast-flowing current to bring fish, their primary meal. The forest is home to an eclectic culture of Shamen, farmers and curious children. For those who join IEÕs authentic voyage deep into the Upper Amazon basin, memories of time spent joining school children in a song or discussing daily life with a village elder will keep the Amazon alive in your heart for years to come.
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Itinerary

Detailed Itinerary and Activities

Day 1 ¥ Flight to Lima, Peru
Fly independently to Lima, and overnight at the Swisstel. (Meals Aloft)
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Day 2 ¥ Lima, Peru Ð Flight to Iquitos Ð Embark M/V Estrella Amazonica
Enjoy an enriching tour of Lima, visiting Casa Aliaga, a private home dating back to the Conquistadors. Explore the Cathedral, Plaza de Armas and the monastery and catacombs of the Iglesia de San Francisco. Fly over the Andes to Iquitos, where we board our riverboat. Cruise slowly toward theconfluence marking the beginning of the Amazon River.
Overnight aboard M/V Estrella Amazonica (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)(Guide)
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Days 3-8 ¥ Amazon River & Tributaries
Spend the next six nights aboard? our comfortable riverboat navigating deep into the tributaries of the Amazon. Enjoy unprecedented access to three habitats, varzea, igap and palm flooded forest, including the deep reaches of the protected Pacaya-Samiria Reserve, for the greatest diversity of wildlife sightings.Nighttime excursions may reveal caimans, capybaras, common potoos, frogs and other nocturnal wildlife. Periodically throughout the year, guests may even release turtle hatchlings.IEÕs daily excursions include pre-dawn birding, enriching lectures, kayaking in narrow streams and even piranha fishing! Learn about the lives of the Ribereo people as we visit villages perched along the riverbanks. This is a fantastic opportunity to stroll through theirgardens learning about medicinal plants from a local shaman. Depending on the villages visited during your voyage, you may also see an IE-funded water treatment tower.Relax under the stars while the ÒhouseÓ band entertains with traditional Peruvian music and popular tunes. Pointing out details no guidebook could provide are your ÒfamilyÓ of world-class naturalists and a local expedition leader, while an attentive crew ensures world-class service in the wild.
Overnight aboard M/V Estrella Amazonica (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)(Guide)
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Day 9 ¥ Iquitos Ð Flight to Lima Ð Depart
In the morning we disembark in Iquitos. Enjoy a tour of this frontier city before visiting the IE- funded Las Malvinas Urban Garden project. After lunch, fly back to Lima and connect with your independent over- night flight home.
(Breakfast, Lunch)
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A DAY IN THE AMAZON
A Day in the Amazon
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Each day in the Amazon is a new adventure, and IEÕs seasoned guides have years of experience adjusting each dayÕs schedule to make the most of changing seasons, wildlife sightings and local festivities. While the daily itinerary may vary, the events of a typical day on the Amazon River follow a similar pattern.
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6:30 am ¥ Our native naturalists know the best time to observe the AmazonÕs 1,800 species is just before dawn. They are happy to join you on the Observation Deck for optional bird-watching.

8:00 am ¥ Start your day with fresh exotic fruits purchased in villages along the river, along with a strong cup of Peruvian coffee.
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9:00 am ¥ Head into narrow Amazon tributaries aboard sturdy excursion boats. Watch for birdlife and primates as you glide down narrow tributaries. Lucky guests may also encounter friendly local fishermen bringing their catch to market.
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12:00 pm ¥ The lunch buffet offers something for every taste and a delicious array of ice cream Ñ we recommend the lucuma.
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1:00 pm ¥ Siesta time is perfect for relaxing or reading on your private balcony.
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2:00 pm ¥ Afternoon excursions include?a refreshing dip in Amazonian waters, wildlife viewing and a visit to a Ribereo village. IE intentionally varies village visits to ensure an authentic experience.
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6:00 pm ¥ Is your favorite band the ÒChunky MonkeysÓ or maybe ÒSegundo& the Red HowlersÓ? IEÕs crew entertains each night, playing both traditional music and unexpected favorites Ñ like The Beatles Ñ on Peruvian instruments.
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7:15 pm ¥ Lively conversation is coupled with delicious Peruvian and Continental fare to make meal times a special experience.
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8:30 pm ¥ Settle into the Lecture Room for a briefing by our highly educated local naturalists.
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9:00 pm ¥ Board IEÕs sturdy excursion boats for a nighttime foray into the rainforest and tributaries.
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Dates & Rates

Rates

Peru Amazon River Cruise
Aboard River Cruise M/V La Estrella Amazonica
Trip Code
PER02Ê
2015 Dates
7, 21, 28 Aug ¥Ê4, 18 SepÊ
2, 9, 16, 23 Oct ¥ 6, 18, 25 DecÊ
2016 Dates
1, 8 Jan ¥ 12, 26 Feb ¥ 11, 18, 25 MarÊ
8, 15, 22 Apr ¥ 6, 13 27 MayÊ
3, 24 Jun ¥ 15, 29 Jul ¥ 5, 19, 26 AugÊ
2, 16, 23 Sep ¥ 14, 21 OctÊ
4, 18 Nov ¥ 23, 30 Dec
Lower Deck per Person
Rates
2015
2016
Double Occupancy
$4,498
$4,648
Single Occupancy
$6,747
$6,972
Solo Cabin
$4,498
$4,648
Suite Double Occupancy
$4,698
$4,848
Suite Triple Occupancy
$3,745
$3,873
Upper Deck per Person
Rates
2015
2016
Double Occupancy
$4,698
$4,848
Single Occupancy
$6,947
$6,972
Suite Double Occupancy
$4,898
$5,048
Suite Triple Occupancy
$3,915
$4,040
Air-Country Airfare
$386
$386
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What the trip includes/excludes
The above price is per person in US$, based on double occupancy. All payments are in US Dollars.
Single supplement will be added if single accommodations are requested.

The trip price includes:ÊAll accommodations, meals and excursions as described in the itinerary;Êguided tours, lectures & field interpretation by local naturalists;Êfully escorted by an experienced expedition leader;Êwildlife excursions on land & by skiff;Êcomplimentary onboard laundry service;ÊguidesÕ reception with complimentary wine & beer onboard;Êtips to porters & waiters for included meals andÊarrival & departure transfers.
The trip priceÊexcludes:ÊAirfare, passport and visa fees, park fees, items of a personal nature, and tips to naturalist guides, crew and Expedition Leader.
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The Vessel

The River Boat M/V “La Estrella Amazonica”
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Experience Modern Comfort in the Wild
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International Expeditions has fine-tuned the art of small-group travel, and every facet of our new riverboat is custom-designed to allow you an unprecedented experience while navigating this untamed frontier.La Estrella Amazonica is not just a place to stay; it offers you a new way to navigate the mysteries of the Upper Amazon and boasts a host of ÒextrasÓ not found on any other vessel.?
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Unwind with a cup of Peruvian coffee on your cabinÕs private balcony Ñ ideal for staying surrounded by the symphony of tree frogs and birdlife while contemplating your day.

Imagine stargazing from our purpose-built Observation Deck, learning about the stars of the Southern constellations. IEÕs new riverboat boasts the AmazonÕs largest open-air deck. This is the perfect spot to photograph stunning vistas or simply enjoy drinks and conversation with your fellow travelers.
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Explore expedition-style aboard sturdy, comfortable excursion boats, or try IEÕs Hobie kayaks for up-close encounters with jungle wildlife and the winding waterways.
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Energize your vacation! IEÕs new riverboat is equipped with a Fitness Room where you can use ellipticals or stationary bikes.
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Relax in the enhanced Lecture Room, where your knowledgeable local guides hold discussions on history, geography and wildlife in air-conditioned comfort. With sofas, a small library and collection of movies, the Lecture Room makes a great escape during siesta time.
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Traverse the wilderness aboard International ExpeditionsÕ elegant, custom-built riverboat, the new La Estrella Amazonica.
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Passengers: 31 max

Crew: 15 + 2 Naturalists and 1 Expedition Leader
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15 Cabins:
12 Double Cabins
2 Triple Cabins / Suites
1 Dedicated Solo Cabin
4 Adjoining Cabins Each Deck (upon request)
ShipÕs Registry: Peru
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Gallery

Photo Gallery

Book Now!

Tour Registration

To book this tour, please complete our online registration form. We will process your booking form and will send you (within 24 hours) a note with space confirmation and a deposit invoice with payment instructions. The deposit amount is US$ 1,000 per person.ÊFull payment of the tour fee is due 90 days before the departure date.
NOTE: Inquires received on Saturdays, Sundays and Holidays will be replied during the following working day.
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Cancellation Policy
Notice of cancellation can only be accepted IN WRITING from the person who signed the booking form and takes effect on the day such noticed is received by us.
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Refunds are made according to the following schedule:
If cancellation is made 120 days or more before departure date, the deposit less US$ 200 is refundable.
If cancellation is made between 120 and 60 days before departure, the deposit is not refundable, but any payments covering the balance of the fee will be refunded.
If cancellation is made past 60 days before departure date, no refund is available.
This policy and fee schedule also applies to pre-trip and post trip extensions, as well as any transfers from one tour to another. We strongly recommend the purchase of trip cancellation insurance to protect yourself.
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