Peruvian Amazon escape: mini-cruise on the Delfin III

Upon arrival at Iquitos Airport our crew will be expecting you, then transfer all together in our comfortable private vehicle. We will start you off with a lunchbox as we begin the journey to Nauta, a small riverside town on the banks of the Marañon River. Once we reach Nauta, enjoy a VIP greeting at our private port along the shores of the Marañon River where the vessel awaits you.

Embarkation is between 12:00 to 2pm.

Aboard Delfin, you will be served by our qualified staff who will introduce you to your exquisite and cozy suite, specially equipped with all the amenities. While the Delfin begins its initial navigation, you will enjoy the most fantastic panoramic views from the elegantly outfitted observation area located on our third deck. Your naturalist guide will give you an overview of your journey’s schedule, activities, route, highlights, wildlife and vegetation to keep your eye out for, geographical and historical background, and other useful details.

We head down into the Marañon River to a location known as Pahuachiro. This lovely spot is an ideal place to spend some time in search of birds and playful monkeys. As your naturalist guide spots various creatures for you, the landscape adorned by the usual colors of the sun´s reflections is a great photo opportunity as you witness your first Amazon Rainforest Sunset.

For High Water Season: At night, the rainforest's biodiversity transforms completely. You'll search for caimans, bats, and other nocturnal creatures that are just as fascinating and unique as those seen during the day.

Iquitos Caño (AM): On your first morning with us, we recommend getting up early to appreciate one of the most important zones of the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve. Never does nature seem more bountiful than in the tropics, and early rising is always rewarding since wildlife is most abundant and active with the rising of the sun. The early morning hours are the best time of day to watch birds, observe their special displays and listen to their songs. We will jump on the skiffs and head to this area with large trees and old palm trees as well, these components favor the presence of several parrot species. This particular spot also has a great number of other birds of different species. We will look for the famous hoatzins nesting a few feet above water, and perhaps a sloth or two of the three toed kind.

Amazon Natural Park (AM): You will have the opportunity to get to know Carola. She is a spiritual caretaker and healer to literally hundreds of jungle dwellers spread over many roadless miles. Her prestige and position are beyond reproach. The role of shaman is often misunderstood in the west, associated with black magic, and spells. While these things all have their place, the actual practitioners are as varied as in any profession. Carola is known as a “White” shaman, a healer and spiritual guide.

Yanayacu Pucate (PM): You will start cruising through the Yanayacu and Pucate Rivers, peeking into different creeks and lagoons. This is one of the best preserved and protected zones of the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve. Your guide will use his expert eye to pinpoint all the biodiversity of this region. If you want to interact directly with the waters of the Amazon, go out on one of our kayaks or paddle boards. You will even have the opportunity to spot the famous pink dolphins!

For Low Water Season: After dinner, you will enjoy a night safari on Nauta Caño. For High Water Season: After dinner, enjoy a nighttime walk through the rainforest.

Nauta caño (AM): Nauta Caño Creek is known for squirrel and silver back tamarillo monkeys, birds, dolphins, and even sloths! We will skim the riverbanks for small caimans and spiders, as well as insects of all colors, shapes and sizes.

For Low Water Season: We will take advantage of the calm waters to fish the famous piranha and learn more about this curious fish. On your visit to this community we will be welcomed by smiling faces and friendly people. Around the community, people who are happy to show you the process of peeling and grating cassava, while another may invite you in for a look at the tools he uses to process the rice (grown locally). A day in the life of a local ribereño is eye-opening to how far we have come in this day and age and a reflection of how simple yet rewarding life is for others.

Fundo Casual (PM): The walk at Fundo Casual jungle trail will take you deep into the rainforest on terra firme (non-flooded forest) where your guide will point out the dynamic creatures and vegetation of the Amazon. Be sure to keep an attentive eye open for spotting surprises! Its almost unbelieveable how with every step you find something along the way. Almost definitely Anaconda, Rainbow Boas, Tarantulas, Poison Frogs, and most recently porquepines have been spotted. This is one of the very few places in the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve Amazon Rainforest where you will spot the ever so elusive 2-toed sloth.

For High Water Season: Counflence: Also known as the “Union of the Rivers,” this is where we’ll raise a toast while admiring the unique colors of the three rivers coming together. It is known that the Ucayali River — which merges with the Marañón River upstream from Iquitos, Peru — forms what many countries, aside from Brazil, consider the main source of the Amazon River. Here, you'll have the chance to witness a beautiful farewell sunset in one of the most magical destinations on Earth.

Aboard our skiffs, you'll visit a local community whose people have called the Amazon their home for generations. We'll pass by a typical school, where the children will be thrilled to see you, and then stop at a handicraft market where the women of the community display and sell their remarkable handmade art and crafts.

Disembarkation (AM) After breakfast, it’s time to say farewell. At the port of Nauta, our ground team will be ready to escort you in our private vehicle for the 100-kilometer journey back to Iquitos.

Disembarkation starts after breakfast and ends at 10:00 am

Meliponas Stingless Bees: Before going to the airport, we will hace an interactive activity that will allow us to learn more about melipona bees and their importance in the Amazon ecosystem.

Amazon Research Center for Ornamental Fishes: Before your return flight, we will make a short but fascinating stop at the Research Center in Iquitos, home to a wide variety of species native to the Amazon rivers. You’ll get to see exotic creatures such as the giant arapaima (paiche), freshwater stingrays, and fish in extraordinary shapes and colors. This final visit offers a wonderful way to conclude your Amazon experience, with one last glimpse into the region’s incredible aquatic biodiversity.

Airport departure: Our staff will be on hand to help you with your luggage and check in at Crnl. FAP Francisco Secada Vignetta International Airport in Iquitos. The return flight will take you directly to the city of Lima, the capital of Peru. At the security gate, your guide and Delfin crew will say goodbye. We truly hope that you enjoyed your stay and Amazon travel experience with us!

Breakfast is included.

Peru’s capital and largest city, Lima, is a bustling metropolis that blends its colonial heritage with a modern and vibrant atmosphere. Visitors can explore the city’s world-class museums, marvel at the stunning architecture and charming plazas of its historic centre, discover the pre-Incan ruins of Huaca Pucllana and sample Peru’s varied cuisine in one of its world-class restaurants before enjoying its lively nightlife scene. Lima cannot be missed on any visit to Peru, and makes the perfect starting point for itineraries of the country.