Imagine waking up to the sounds of the jungle, with the mist rising off the water and the calls of tropical birds filling the air….

I recently had the opportunity to meander along the Marañon and Amazon Rivers in the Peruvian Amazon on a luxury river cruise with Aqua Expeditions. It had long been on my wish list of experiences to witness the beauty, wildlife and cultures of the Amazon. Saying it was beautiful and magical does not do justice to what I experienced, as I was introduced to the sounds (a symphony of tree frogs, cicadas, birds, and rippling water); sights (tropical birds, dolphins, dense forest, endless bunches of water lettuce joyfully rolling along the clear, tea-colored water); smells and flavors of this abundant region!

Here is a brief overview of my spectacular 5 day/4 night river cruise through one of the world’s most vibrant and life-filled regions.

Day 1: Setting Sail from Iquitos

We received a warm welcome at the Iquitos International Airport by the Aqua crew and were driven to the bustling city of Iquitos, a vibrant gateway to the Amazon. We had an amazing lunch in Iquitos at the Casa de Fierro, where I was introduced for the first time to the Amazonian Paiche, a massive (the fish can get up to 450 lbs) and tasty river fish, accompanied by ensalada de chonta…which I can only describe as palm-heart fettuccine and the freshest Amazonian vegetables. I also had my first Juane, which is a local dish paying homage to the region’s patron saint – St John the Baptist.

Because it was low-water season, we then drove to the small town of Nauta, where we embarked on the Aqua Nera, accompanied by a chorus of tree frogs.

Day 2: Wildlife Wonders, Traditional Villages and Night Excursion
At the break of dawn, we ventured onto smaller boats to explore the narrow tributaries that branch off from the Marañon River. We saw a number of birds and caught a pod of blue dolphins fishing for their breakfast! We then visited a traditional village, where we were introduced to how humans live along the Amazon. Everyone was so welcome and friendly, and very proud to show us the innovative ways they have learned to survive and thrive in the abundant Amazon for generations.

At night we had a peaceful night excursion, where we listened to the night sounds of the Amazon and spotted a two-toed sloth asleep in the tree top.

Day 3: Cultural Interaction and Rainforest Hike
On our third day, we had the opportunity to meet with another of the Amazon’s indigenous communities. We learned about their traditions, their relationship with the environment, and how they thrive in harmony with one of the most complex ecosystems on Earth. We even had a guided hike through the dense forest by a member of the village, who showed us how to avoid the terciopelo and jaguars.

We then cooled off with a swim in the black water while pink dolphins hunted and breached around us!

Our evening, was set to live music by the crew as we watched the sunset over the river. It was glorious!

Day 4: Fishing for Piranhas and a lazy afternoon along the Amazon River

Our final full day in the Amazon was spent fishing for piranhas (I caught 3!) We then spent a lazy afternoon watching the Amazon roll by and enjoyed a refreshing afternoon rainfall.

Day 5: An encounter with Yagua culture and a visit to the Manatee Rescue Center

At day break again, we made a visit to the Eco Museum, where we received a presentation by a young member of the Yagua tribe, who is committed to preserving and upholding the traditions of his ancestors. We were able to try our hands (and mouths) at a blow dart and he told us his stories of growing up in the Amazon and regaled us with memories of his grandfather, a shaman and gifted hunter.

Before we said our final goodbyes, we made a visit to the Manatee Rescue Center, a sanctuary for orphaned Amazonian manatees and other Amazonian creatures, to rehabilitate them before their release
back into the wild.

Whether you are an avid birdwatcher, lover of exotic wildlife and adventures, or simply seek to gain a better understanding of Amazonian cultures and ways of life, I highly recommend a trip to the Peruvian Amazon. Your senses will be awakened to an experience of a lifetime!

If this sounds like something that you might be up for, contact me and we will get you on your way! (Contact information in bio)