Aqua Nera Amazon River Cruise
Cruise along three powerful Amazon tributaries: the Marañón, Ucayali and Pacaya Rivers aboard the Aqua Nera Amazon River Boat. Exciting jungle walks, piranha fishing and skiff rides are the best ways to explore the Peruvian Amazon jungle.
Setting a new standard of luxury river cruising in the Amazon, each Aqua Nera small ship cruise is inspired by the Peruvian Amazon’s mystical blackwater lagoons and convey a sense of Amazon tranquility, refined elegance and a touch of drama. Aboard Aqua Nera, explore winding jungle tributaries; stop at remote villages to meet locals; stargaze from the peaceful deck; and search for wildlife life caimans, tree frogs, pink river dolphins, hundreds of bird species and breathtaking flora.
Cruise along three powerful Amazon tributaries: the Marañón, Ucayali and Pacaya Rivers as well as several hidden black water lakes in both high-water and low-water seasons. Stretch your legs with exciting jungle walks, test your skills fishing for piranhas, and take skiff rides into the depths of the mysterious Amazon jungle.
Two main seasons influence the Peruvian Amazon River: a High-water season (defined by Aqua Nera’s operator as November through June) and a Low-water season (defined by Aqua Nera’s operator as July through October). Traveling to Peru in either season offers rich rewards, fabulous sites and amazing opportunities to view plant and animal life, but note that only high-water routes cruise along the Amazon River. The Aqua Nera sails year-round and every voyage is uniquely appealing, based on the changing seasons. During the high-water season the river and estuaries grow, allowing launch boats to venture deeper into the flooded forest. During the low-water season the river recedes and beautiful sandy river beaches form.
Cruise aboard the modern Aqua Nera, a classy Amazon riverboat. Enjoy her crew’s attentive care and her comfortable spaces. This vessel is an AdventureSmith favorite for private charter cruises due to her mix of jungle decor and modern feel, plus her intimate size.
The Aqua Nera Amazon River cruise operates an 8-day, 5-day and 4-day cruise, departing Saturdays and Tuesdays, to provide the Amazon experience that is best for you. Note that itineraries are subject to changes to accommodate the variable water levels for the different seasons.
Read on for details about this trip, or view all of AdventureSmith’s Amazon cruises and Amazon trips.
8-Day High-Water Itinerary
The 8-day High-water Aqua Nera itinerary operates Saturday to Saturday, round-trip from Iquitos, Peru, during the general high-water season of November through June. Cruise deep into the Amazon River to the Samiria River and along the Ucayali River as far as the El Dorado River.
Arrive on a Noon flight (separate arrangements can be made for morning arrivals), receive a warm welcome at Iquitos International Airport by your crew and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before boarding Aqua Nera.
Settle into your generously sized suite as you begin one of life’s greatest adventures. Following an introduction to your naturalist guides and a routine safety drill, gather at the restaurant for the first of many Amazonian cuisine experiences created by Aqua Nera’s renowned consulting chef, Pedro Miguel Schiaffino.
Board comfortable skiffs and set sail from the Amazon River to the Yanayacu Yacapana River. Ready your binoculars to spot tropical songbirds, black collared hawks and sloths. Line-fish for Amazon’s notoriously ferocious piranhas while your naturalist guides share knowledge of the Amazonia. In the afternoon, sail to Yarapa River, a black water tributary of the Ucayali River. Here, embark on a stargazing session and an excursion in search of nocturnal wildlife.
Get an early start to the day to explore Clavero Lake aboard comfortable skiffs. Here, villagers rely on traditional dugout canoes to get around. You’ll have the opportunity to swim in the lake’s calm waters or visit native residents of Amazonia who will welcome you to their community with open arms. In the afternoon, explore the majestic Marañon River in search of different kinds of wildlife.
In the morning, take a guided visit to the local market and marvel at the regional produce of the Peruvian Amazon, sampling exotic snacks if you wish. For those interested, there’ll also be an opportunity to visit an experienced beekeeper in the community of San Francisco. In the afternoon, witness one of the great spectacles of the Southern Hemisphere: the birthplace of the Amazon River. At nightfall, meet the new passengers boarding Aqua Nera for the next 4 nights.
Rise with the sun for an early morning birdwatching session along the Marañon River and enjoy breakfast in the middle of the jungle. Next, visit an Amazonian village where you’ll be able to interact with native riberenos and witness an Aguaje palm harvesting demonstration. Later, go swimming, kayaking, or canoeing in the Yanayacu-Pucate River and keep an eye out for the legendary pink river dolphins. Finally, board the skiffs again to cruise along Yanaquillo River for a dusk excursion in search of nocturnal animals.
The rewards for an early start today are plentiful: a full day excursion including a picnic lunch orchestrated to the tune of the jungle symphony, fishing along the black waters of the Samiria River, and an option to go canoeing, kayaking, swimming, or on a jungle walk inside the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve. On the way back to the Marañon River after lunch, venture out by skiff, keeping an eye out for pink river dolphins.
As the day begins, embark on a morning wildlife excursion on the extraordinary blackwater of the Nauta Caño River. If you wish, embark on a bike ride from Puerto Prado Village to Santa Cruz Village along the riverbank. In the afternoon, take a jungle walk while looking for flora and fauna that may include medicinal trees, insects and poison dart frogs. Learn more about the different rainforest strata and ecosystems. Before dinner, meet the incredible crew who’ve been working behind the scenes to ensure your exceptional experience aboard Aqua Nera.
In the morning, take a guided visit to the local market and marvel at the regional produce of the Peruvian Amazon, sampling exotic snacks if you wish. Return to the Aqua Nera for breakfast before disembarkation. En route to the airport, visit the Manatee Rescue Center, where orphaned Amazonian manatees rehabilitate before they are released back into the wild.
Included
Overnight accommodations aboard the Aqua Nera; all meals while cruising; all excursions; beverages, including non-alcoholic, house wines and national beer; group transfers to/from vessel when arriving and departing on recommended flights; Pacaya Samiria National Reserve entrance fee; laundry; complimentary access to high-speed Starlink WiFi.
Exclusions
Airfare; guide and crew gratuities; boutique purchases; private transfers to/from vessel; spa services; visas; insurance of any kind; and items of a personal nature.
Payment & Cancellation
In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of $1,000 is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 121 days – full refund except for $500 service charge
120 to 91 days – 100% of deposit
90 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost
Terms & Conditions
This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.
Arrival & Departure
The Aqua Nera Amazon River Cruise begins and ends in Iquitos, Peru (IQT), with the vessel embarking in either Nauta or Iquitos depending on the trip length and low/high water season. Group transfers to/from the vessel are provided when arriving and departing on recommended flights. Plan to arrive on recommended midday flights into Iquitos on Day 1 in order to participate in a city tour and lunch prior to transferring to the ship for a 5:30pm embarkation. We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. Disembarkation is at 9:00am on the final day; recommended afternoon flights out of Iquitos will be provided upon booking. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.
Activities
Whether it’s in a skiff, kayak or on foot, the Aqua Nera offers active ways to explore life along the amazing Amazon River. Adventure activities may include skiff rides, kayaking, hikes/walks, wildlife viewing from the ship, swimming, fishing and visiting local communities. The ship’s crew can tailor most excursions to suit your skill level.
Skiff Rides
Two or three daily excursions in customized aluminum motorized launch boats, or skiffs, which carry up to ten passengers each, showcase the unique wildlife, birds and plantlife of Amazonia. Search for armored catfish, red bellied piranhas and the beady-eyed heads of spectacled caimans in the enigmatic black waters. Above water, see yellow spotted Amazon River turtles, sapphire blue beaked Amazon kingfishers streak past and antediluvian prehistoric hoatzin birds alight on high branches near dusky Titi monkeys playing in the tree canopy.
Kayaking, Swimming & Fishing
Kayak the calm waters of the Amazon River while keeping an eye out for Amazon wildlife. Highly-trained guides lead skiffs to one of the most beautiful natural swimming pools on the earth, cosseted by lush tropical rain forest. In the black waters of the Pacaya River, try fishing for vibrant red-bellied piranhas, a fun activity for new and passionate anglers.
Room Configuration
Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy cabin may do so at a 25% supplement of the per-person listed rate in select cabins upon availability. Third person sleeping on sofa bed will receive a 20% discount; contact AdventureSmith for details.
Families & Children
Kids 5 years and older are welcomed aboard all departure dates. Children under 12 years old will receive a 20% discount. Children under 12 years old sleeping on sofa bed as the third guest sharing with two full-fare adults pays $570 per night(2026) or $600 per night(2027).
Travel Insurance
Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.
Itinerary Notes
Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, season, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. Itineraries in the Amazon vary based on the high-water season of November through May and low-water season of June through October. The itinerary may occasionally be altered slightly for safety or to take advantage of weather, wildlife and unplanned discoveries. The ability to be flexible makes this style of small ship cruising unique.
8-Day Low-Water Itinerary
The 8-day Low-Water Aqua Nera itinerary operates Saturday to Saturday, sailing round-trip from Nauta, Peru, during the general low water season of July through October. Explore the Peruvian Amazon by cruising parts of the Tahuayo River, the Samiria River and the Ucayali River.
Arrive on a Noon flight (separate arrangements can be made for morning arrivals), receive a warm welcome at Iquitos International Airport. Enjoy a panoramic city tour of downtown Iquitos, followed by a welcome lunch and a transfer to Nauta port for embarkation.
Settle into your generously sized suite as you begin one of life’s greatest adventures. Following an introduction to your naturalist guides and a routine safety drill, gather at the restaurant for the first of many Amazonian cuisine experiences created by Aqua Nera’s renowned consulting chef, Pedro Miguel Schiaffino.
Head out at sunrise for a birdwatching session along the Amazonas River. After breakfast, embark on a skiff excursion from the Amazon River to one of its tributaries, Tahuayo. Learn about the region from your expert naturalist guides and go fishing for Amazonia’s notorious piranhas. As the sun sets, head out for an evening excursion in search of wildlife, capped off by a stargazing session.
Discover the magnificent blackwaters of Clavero Lake and pay a visit to the communities which live on its banks. Go kayaking, canoeing, or swimming before returning on board for a sumptuous lunch. In the afternoon, head out for a short jungle walk in San Josede Paranapura forest, where you’ll be able to see the famous giant water lilies.
In the morning, take a guided visit to the local market and marvel at the regional produce of the Peruvian Amazon, sampling exotic snacks if you wish. For those interested, there’ll also be an opportunity to visit an experienced beekeeper in the community of San Francisco. In the afternoon, witness one of the great spectacles of the Southern Hemisphere: the birthplace of the Amazon River. At nightfall, meet the new passengers boarding Aqua Nera for the next 4 nights.
Rise with the sun for an early morning birdwatching session along the Marañon River. After breakfast, head out for a morning wildlife excursion with the possibility to see sloths, great egrets, parrots and Taricaya turtles. Later, explore the Yanayacu Pucate River and go fishing for Amazonia’s notorious piranhas. End the day with a dusk excursion in search of nocturnal wildlife.
The rewards for your early start today are plentiful: a full day excursion including a picnic lunch orchestrated to the tune of the jungle symphony; fishing along the black waters of the Samiria River; and an option to go canoeing, kayaking, swimming, or on a jungle walk inside the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve. On the way back to the Marañon River after lunch, venture out by skiff, keeping an eye out for pink river dolphins.
As the day begins, embark on a morning wildlife excursion on the Pahuachiro River. After breakfast, visit Puerto Prado Village where there’ll be an opportunity to ride a bike all the way to Santa Cruz Village along the riverbank. You could also visit an experienced beekeeper in the community of San Francisco. In the afternoon, head out for a boat ride to the majestic Amazon River. Before dinner, meet the incredible crew who’ve been working behind the scenes to ensure your exceptional experience aboard Aqua Nera.
In the morning, take a guided visit to the local market. Marvel at the regional produce of the Peruvian Amazon and sample exotic snacks if you wish. Return to Aqua Nera for breakfast and to pack up. Before saying goodbye, visit the Manatee Rescue Center, a sanctuary for orphaned Amazonian manatees to rehabilitate before their release back into the wild.
Included
Overnight accommodations aboard the Aqua Nera; all meals while cruising; all excursions; beverages, including non-alcoholic, house wines and national beer; group transfers to/from vessel when arriving and departing on recommended flights; Pacaya Samiria National Reserve entrance fee; laundry; complimentary access to high-speed Starlink WiFi.
Exclusions
Airfare; guide and crew gratuities; boutique purchases; private transfers to/from vessel; spa services; visas; insurance of any kind; and items of a personal nature.
Payment & Cancellation
In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of $1,000 is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 121 days – full refund except for $500 service charge
120 to 91 days – 100% of deposit
90 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost
Terms & Conditions
This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.
Arrival & Departure
The Aqua Nera Amazon River Cruise begins and ends in Iquitos, Peru (IQT), with the vessel embarking in either Nauta or Iquitos depending on the trip length and low/high water season. Group transfers to/from the vessel are provided when arriving and departing on recommended flights. Plan to arrive on recommended midday flights into Iquitos on Day 1 in order to participate in a city tour and lunch prior to transferring to the ship for a 5:30pm embarkation. We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. Disembarkation is at 9:00am on the final day; recommended afternoon flights out of Iquitos will be provided upon booking. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.
Activities
Whether it’s in a skiff, kayak or on foot, the Aqua Nera offers active ways to explore life along the amazing Amazon River. Adventure activities may include skiff rides, kayaking, hikes/walks, wildlife viewing from the ship, swimming, fishing and visiting local communities. The ship’s crew can tailor most excursions to suit your skill level.
Skiff Rides
Two or three daily excursions in customized aluminum motorized launch boats, or skiffs, which carry up to ten passengers each, showcase the unique wildlife, birds and plantlife of Amazonia. Search for fascinating wildlife living in the water, below the surface, as well as high above in the forest canopy.
Kayaking, Swimming & Fishing
Kayak the calm waters of the Amazon River while keeping an eye out for Amazon wildlife. Highly trained guides lead skiffs to one of the most beautiful natural swimming pools on the earth, cosseted by lush tropical rain forest.
Room Configuration
Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy cabin may do so at a 25% supplement of the per-person listed rate in select cabins upon availability. Third person sleeping on sofa bed will receive a 20% discount; contact AdventureSmith for details.
Families & Children
Kids 5 years and older are welcomed aboard all departure dates. Children under 12 years old will receive a 20% discount. Children under 12 years old sleeping on sofa bed as the third guest sharing with two full-fare adults pays $570 per night(2026) or $600 per night(2027).
Travel Insurance
Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.
Itinerary Notes
Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, season, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. Itineraries in the Amazon vary based on the high-water season of November through May and low-water season of June through October. The itinerary may occasionally be altered slightly for safety or to take advantage of weather, wildlife and unplanned discoveries. The ability to be flexible makes this style of small ship cruising unique.
5-Day High-Water Itinerary
The 5-day High-water Aqua Nera itinerary operates Tuesday to Saturday, sailing from Nauta to Iquitos, Peru, during the general high-water season of November through June. Cruise along the Maranon River to the Samiria River. The 5-day High Water Itinerary follows days 4-8 of the 8-day High Water Itinerary.
Arrive on a Noon flight (separate arrangements can be made for morning arrivals) and receive a warm welcome at Iquitos International Airport. Enjoy a panoramic city tour of downtown Iquitos, followed by a welcome lunch and a transfer to Nauta port for embarkation.
Settle into your generously sized suite as you begin one of life’s greatest adventures. Following an introduction to your naturalist guides and a routine safety drill, gather at the restaurant for the first of many Amazonian cuisine experiences created by Aqua Nera’s renowned consulting chef, Pedro Miguel Schiaffino.
Rise with the sun for an early morning birdwatching session along the Marañon River and enjoy breakfast in the middle of the jungle. Next, visit an Amazonian village where you’ll be able to interact with native riberenos and witness an Aguaje palm harvesting demonstration. Later, go swimming, kayaking, or canoeing in the Yanayacu-Pucate River and keep an eye out for the legendary pink river dolphins. Finally, board the skiffs again to cruise along Yanaquillo River for a dusk excursion in search of nocturnal animals.
The rewards for an early start today are plentiful: a full day excursion including a picnic lunch orchestrated to the tune of the jungle symphony, fishing along the black waters of the Samiria River, and an option to go canoeing, kayaking, swimming, or on a jungle walk inside the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve. On the way back to the Marañon River after lunch, venture out by skiff, keeping an eye out for pink river dolphins.
As the day begins, embark on a morning wildlife excursion on the extraordinary blackwater Nauta Caño River. If you wish, embark on a bike ride from Puerto Prado Village to Santa Cruz Village along the riverbank. In the afternoon, take a jungle walk while looking for flora and fauna that may include medicinal trees, insects and poison dart frogs. Learn more about the different rainforest strata and ecosystems. Before dinner, meet the incredible crew who’ve been working behind the scenes to ensure your exceptional experience aboard Aqua Nera.
In the morning, take a guided visit to the local market and marvel at the regional produce of the Peruvian Amazon, sampling exotic snacks if you wish. Return to the Aqua Nera for breakfast before disembarkation. En route to the airport, visit the Manatee Rescue Center, where orphaned Amazonian manatees rehabilitate before they are released back into the wild.
Included
Overnight accommodations aboard the Aqua Nera; all meals while cruising; all excursions; beverages, including non-alcoholic, house wines and national beer; group transfers to/from vessel when arriving and departing on recommended flights; Pacaya Samiria National Reserve entrance fee; laundry; complimentary access to high-speed Starlink WiFi.
Exclusions
Airfare; guide and crew gratuities; boutique purchases; private transfers to/from vessel; spa services; visas; insurance of any kind; and items of a personal nature.
Payment & Cancellation
In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of $1,000 is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 121 days – full refund except for $500 service charge
120 to 91 days – 100% of deposit
90 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost
Terms & Conditions
This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.
Arrival & Departure
The Aqua Nera Amazon River Cruise begins and ends in Iquitos, Peru (IQT), with the vessel embarking in either Nauta or Iquitos depending on the trip length and low/high water season. Group transfers to/from the vessel are provided when arriving and departing on recommended flights. Plan to arrive on recommended midday flights into Iquitos on Day 1 in order to participate in a city tour and lunch prior to transferring to the ship for a 5:30pm embarkation. We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. Disembarkation is at 9:00am on the final day; recommended afternoon flights out of Iquitos will be provided upon booking. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.
Activities
Whether it’s in a skiff, kayak or on foot, the Aqua Nera offers active ways to explore life along the amazing Amazon River. Adventure activities may include skiff rides, kayaking, hikes/walks, wildlife viewing from the ship, swimming, fishing and visiting local communities. The ship’s crew can tailor most excursions to suit your skill level.
Skiff Rides
Two or three daily excursions in customized aluminum motorized launch boats, or skiffs, which carry up to ten passengers each, showcase the unique wildlife, birds and plantlife of Amazonia. Search for armored catfish, red bellied piranhas and the beady-eyed heads of spectacled caimans in the enigmatic black waters. Above water, see yellow spotted Amazon River turtles, sapphire blue beaked Amazon kingfishers streak past and antediluvian prehistoric hoatzin birds alight on high branches near dusky Titi monkeys playing in the tree canopy.
Kayaking, Swimming & Fishing
Kayak the calm waters of the Amazon River while keeping an eye out for Amazon wildlife. Highly-trained guides lead skiffs to one of the most beautiful natural swimming pools on the earth, cosseted by lush tropical rain forest. In the black waters of the Pacaya River, try fishing for vibrant red-bellied piranhas, a fun activity for new and passionate anglers.
Room Configuration
Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy cabin may do so at a 25% supplement of the per-person listed rate in select cabins upon availability. Third person sleeping on sofa bed will receive a 20% discount; contact AdventureSmith for details.
Families & Children
Kids 5 years and older are welcomed aboard all departure dates. Children under 12 years old will receive a 20% discount. Children under 12 years old sleeping on sofa bed as the third guest sharing with two full-fare adults pays $570 per night(2026) or $600 per night(2027).
Travel Insurance
Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.
Itinerary Notes
Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, season, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. Itineraries in the Amazon vary based on the high-water season of November through May and low-water season of June through October. The itinerary may occasionally be altered slightly for safety or to take advantage of weather, wildlife and unplanned discoveries. The ability to be flexible makes this style of small ship cruising unique.
4-Day High-Water Itinerary
The 4-day High-water Aqua Nera itinerary operates Saturday to Tuesday, beginning in Iquitos, Peru, and ending in Nauta, Peru, during the general high-water season of November through June. Cruise along the Ucayali River to the El Dorado River. The 4-day High Water Itinerary follows days 1-4 of the 8-day High Water Itinerary.
Arrive on a Noon flight (separate arrangements can be made for morning arrivals), receive a warm welcome at Iquitos International Airport by your crew and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before boarding Aqua Nera.
Settle into your generously sized suite as you begin one of life’s greatest adventures. Following an introduction to your naturalist guides and a routine safety drill, gather at the restaurant for the first of many Amazonian cuisine experiences created by Aqua Nera’s renowned consulting chef, Pedro Miguel Schiaffino.
Board comfortable skiffs and set sail from the Amazon River to the Yanayacu Yacapana River. Ready your binoculars to spot tropical songbirds, black collared hawks and sloths. Line-fish for Amazon’s notoriously ferocious piranhas while your naturalist guides share knowledge of the Amazonia. In the afternoon, sail to Yarapa River, a black water tributary of the Ucayali River. Here, embark on a stargazing session and an excursion in search of nocturnal wildlife.
Get an early start to the day to explore Clavero Lake aboard comfortable skiffs. Here, villagers rely on traditional dugout canoes to get around. You’ll have the opportunity to swim in the lake’s calm waters or visit native residents of Amazonia who will welcome you to their community with open arms. In the afternoon, explore the majestic Marañon River in search of different kinds of wildlife. In the evening, meet some of the crew members who have been working behind the scenes to ensure your exceptional experience aboard Aqua Nera.
In the morning, take a guided visit to the local market and marvel at the regional produce of the Peruvian Amazon, sampling exotic snacks if you wish. For those interested, there’ll also be the opportunity to visit an experienced beekeeper in the community of San Francisco. Return to the Aqua Nera for breakfast before disembarkation. En route to the airport, visit the Manatee Rescue Center, where orphaned Amazonian manatees rehabilitate before they are released back into the wild.
Included
Overnight accommodations aboard the Aqua Nera; all meals while cruising; all excursions; beverages, including non-alcoholic, house wines and national beer; group transfers to/from vessel when arriving and departing on recommended flights; Pacaya Samiria National Reserve entrance fee; laundry; complimentary access to high-speed Starlink WiFi.
Exclusions
Airfare; guide and crew gratuities; boutique purchases; private transfers to/from vessel; spa services; visas; insurance of any kind; and items of a personal nature.
Payment & Cancellation
In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of $1,000 is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 121 days – full refund except for $500 service charge
120 to 91 days – 100% of deposit
90 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost
Terms & Conditions
This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.
Arrival & Departure
The Aqua Nera Amazon River Cruise begins and ends in Iquitos, Peru (IQT), with the vessel embarking in either Nauta or Iquitos depending on the trip length and low/high water season. Group transfers to/from the vessel are provided when arriving and departing on recommended flights. Plan to arrive on recommended midday flights into Iquitos on Day 1 in order to participate in a city tour and lunch prior to transferring to the ship for a 5:30pm embarkation. We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. Disembarkation is at 9:00am on the final day; recommended afternoon flights out of Iquitos will be provided upon booking. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.
Activities
Whether it’s in a skiff, kayak or on foot, the Aqua Nera offers active ways to explore life along the amazing Amazon River. Adventure activities may include skiff rides, kayaking, hikes/walks, wildlife viewing from the ship, swimming, fishing and visiting local communities. The ship’s crew can tailor most excursions to suit your skill level.
Skiff Rides
Two or three daily excursions in customized aluminum motorized launch boats, or skiffs, which carry up to ten passengers each, showcase the unique wildlife, birds and plantlife of Amazonia. Search for armored catfish, red bellied piranhas and the beady-eyed heads of spectacled caimans in the enigmatic black waters. Above water, see yellow spotted Amazon River turtles, sapphire blue beaked Amazon kingfishers streak past and antediluvian prehistoric hoatzin birds alight on high branches near dusky Titi monkeys playing in the tree canopy.
Kayaking, Swimming & Fishing
Kayak the calm waters of the Amazon River while keeping an eye out for Amazon wildlife. Highly-trained guides lead skiffs to one of the most beautiful natural swimming pools on the earth, cosseted by lush tropical rain forest. In the black waters of the Pacaya River, try fishing for vibrant red-bellied piranhas, a fun activity for new and passionate anglers.
Room Configuration
Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy cabin may do so at a 25% supplement of the per-person listed rate in select cabins upon availability. Third person sleeping on sofa bed will receive a 20% discount; contact AdventureSmith for details.
Families & Children
Kids 5 years and older are welcomed aboard all departure dates. Children under 12 years old will receive a 20% discount. Children under 12 years old sleeping on sofa bed as the third guest sharing with two full-fare adults pays $570 per night(2026) or $600 per night(2027).
Travel Insurance
Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.
Itinerary Notes
Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, season, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. Itineraries in the Amazon vary based on the high-water season of November through May and low-water season of June through October. The itinerary may occasionally be altered slightly for safety or to take advantage of weather, wildlife and unplanned discoveries. The ability to be flexible makes this style of small ship cruising unique.
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The Aqua Nera 40-guest Amazon luxury riverboat is setting a new standard of luxury for river cruising in the Peruvian Amazon. The Award-winning architects of Noor Design craft every space to perfection. This luxury riverboat offers dramatic and generous interiors that draw design inspiration from the mystical blackwater lagoons while harmoniously blending contemporary style and details from the rubber boom era as well as the colorful cultures of Portugal, Spain and Peru.
Aqua Nera Review
AdventureSmith Explorations’ Aqua Nera riverboat review includes a detailed description including deck plans. Our small ship cruise experts have been aboard nearly every first-class vessel in the Amazon. Please read our Aqua Nera review below then contact us to compare the Aqua Nera with other luxury small cruise ships and riverboats offering Amazon cruises, including private charter cruises.
Choose the Aqua Nera for a high class of luxury while experiencing the wilds of the Amazon Jungle. The care, attention-to-detail and comfort will be unmatched, as this ship is a sure standout.
Common Areas Aboard Aqua Nera
The social spaces showcase refined elegance with a touch of drama and include a wide variety of spaces to have a quiet moment, observe the passing jungle or search for wildlife. This ship includes sun decks, indoor and outdoor bars, indoor dining room and outdoor private dining, indoor cinema screening room with theater-style seating, outdoor cinema, game room with pool table, shaded outdoor lounge, antique and artisanal boutique, observation deck, top-deck gym, infirmary, outdoor top-deck plunge pool with private cabana and two spa treatment rooms. Complimentary high-speed Starlink WiFi is available on board.
Dining Aboard Aqua Nera
The Aqua Nera offers sumptuous and refined Peruvian cuisine from famed chef Pedro Miguel Schiaffino. Orchestrated with native Amazonian ingredients, his culinary creations impart a multi-sensory dimension to each guest's journey unlike any other cruise. In fact, 70% of all ingredients used in chef Schiaffino’s dishes on board Aqua Nera are sourced locally in a true farm-to-table approach.
Alongside Peruvian favorites such as the ceviche, guests aboard Aqua Nera will enjoy chef Schiaffino’s signatures including the plantain and yucca gnocchi, escolar fish in aji panka chili adobo, and grilled paiche with Amazon huatia potatoes.
The ship's talented chefs are well-versed in a variety of preparations and can cater to vegetarian, vegan, kosher, gluten-free and dairy-free diets, as well as other more specific preferences.
Activities Aboard Aqua Nera
Aboard Aqua Nera are four aluminum launch boats, each equipped with two four-stroke low-emission engines. These allow guests to explore remote tributaries and spot exotic wildlife among the trees during high-water season, or ferry guests to landing points for onshore excursions. Guests are typically off ship twice a day for guided excursions that last three to four hours and include kayaking, swimming, fishing, hiking, cycling and more. Ten bicycles and kayaks are also available to use while aboard. The outdoor top deck plunge pool and onboard gym provide more ways to stay active while cruising.
Cabins & Deck Plan Aboard Aqua Nera
The vessel’s 20 spacious cabins (with 4 interconnecting suites) convey a sense of the Amazon's tranquility, as they were designed with the tributaries of the Mirrored Forest of the Peruvian Amazon in mind. Using this aesthetic, Aqua Nera’s suites are impeccably stylish and inviting. Each 322-square-foot suite features premium fittings and bedding, California King-size beds or two twin beds, sofa or chairs, large double closets, music docking station, 220V plugs, as well as full air-conditioning, full-length windows and ensuite bathrooms with dual sinks, organic hair and bath amenities, hair dryer and a rain shower. Complimentary laundry service is available aboard.
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Learn About the Small Ship on Your Itinerary
The Aqua Nera Amazon luxury riverboat is setting a new standard of luxury for river cruising in the Peruvian Amazon. Come aboard this award-winning ship for a 5-star consulting chef, movie and billiards rooms, wellness amenities, and a fleet of kayaks and private skiffs to explore off the ship.
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Additional Travel Options Before or After Your Amazon Cruise
Aria Amazon River Cruise
Amazon tributary cruise aboard a contemporary riverboat with relaxation amenities
Amatista Amazon Cruise
Classic riverboat cruise in the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve mixing wildlife & culture
Voyage to the Heart of the Amazon
Authentic Rio Negro expedition with deep Amazon immersion
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