A cruise through Peru sailing the Amazon river maybe one of the most rewarding nature expeditions in the world. Journeying into Earth’s largest rainforest, the explorer is ushered into Mother Nature’s Cradle of Life. The Amazonian rainforest covers some 40% of South America spanning nine countries.
A voyage into the selva (“jungle”), as the locals call it, is only possible by boat on the mythical Amazon River. Also known as Rio Amazonas, this great waterway originates from the foothills of the Andes mountains in Peru. It then flows east on a 4,000 mile (6,400 km) course towards the Atlantic Ocean.
The Amazon rainforest houses the world’s largest and most diverse collection of plant and animal life. It is ‘home sweet home’ for more than one-third of all recorded animal species in the world, including 20% of all bird species.
At least 40,000 plant species, 427 mammals, 1,300 birds, 378 reptiles live here. More than 400 amphibians and around 3,000 freshwater fishes are known to exist within this giant cradle.
Return in demand
Aqua Expeditions operate ships on the Amazon. They are reporting a return in demand for travel to Peru and the incredible Amazon rainforest. Having sailed this region for almost fifteen years, they now have two expedition ships exploring its wonders all-year-round.
Since 2021, Aqua Nera has been sailing in Peru alongside her sister ship Aria Amazon. This year, the company was named the World’s Best River Cruise Line by Travel + Leisure.
Sailing into 2024, the company is striving to keep up with this demand. As a result of which, Aqua Nera’s maintenance dates have been pushed from February to May. This will make way for more sailings.
February has always been a magical time of year in Peru. It is marked by celebrations such as the Candeleria Festival and the Carnival of Cajamarca.
Perfect pairing
This makes for the perfect pairing for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure aboard the Aqua Nera, wherein guests enjoy twice-daily excursions. They will spot exotic wildlife, embarking on jungle walks, and exploring hidden lakes and lagoons. Then they return home to their luxurious floating abode.
The 62 metre Aqua Nera draws inspiration from the Peruvian Amazon’s mystical black water lagoons. She is setting a new standard for luxury river voyages on the Amazon.
The vessel’s 20 design suites convey a sense of tranquillity, while the social spaces showcase refined elegance with a touch of drama. Guests may revel in personalised luxury while exploring the depths of the Peru. And they get to savour rainforest-inspired cuisine created by chef Pedro Miguel Schiaffino.
Small group excursions
Expert naturalist guides conduct small group excursions, rewarding guests with up-close wildlife encounters in the world’s most biodiverse rainforest.
Aqua Nera is now equipped with high-speed Starlink satellite internet. This ensures guests can stay connected even in the depths of the Amazon.
There will be a total of four new 7 night departures open in February 2024. There will also be options for 3- and 4-night sailings as well