The Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve in northern Peru, is a place of exceptional beauty and biodiversity. It is Peru’s largest protected area – 21,000 square kilometres. That’s about the size of Wales.
This section of the Amazon Basin is one of the greatest remaining wildernesses on earth. Realistically, there’s only one way to explore it and that is by boat.
Until recently only Aqua Expeditions offered voyages of discovery in this area. Now there is a new name on the block.
Pure Amazon
Abercrombie & Kent are to launch their own vessel Pure Amazon and she will begin operations later this year.
She will offer three-, four- and seven-night itineraries in this vast Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve. Just 12 superbly appointed, Adriana Granato-designed cabins will accommodate a maximum of 22 passengers. Theone-to-one staff-to-guest ratio of guarantees an intimate, highly personalised experience.
Wildlife-spotting is exceptional
The opportunities for wildlife-spotting are exceptional. June to November is low-water season. Birders and wildlife lovers will leap at the opportunity to venture into the habitat of some of the rarest and most iconic species on earth.
In high-water season, from December to May, the Amazon River and its tributaries the Marañón and Ucayali flood, and most of the Pacaya-Samiria reserve is submerged. Though this may sound limiting, it also opens up a perspective on the entire land and riverscape that is nothing less than enchanted.
Skiff Excursions
Typically, guests will take two excursions a day. These are led by expert guides in comfortable nine-seat motorised skiffs. One in the morning and one in the late afternoon, when birds and other wildlife are most active. Occasional after-dark outings are organised. They have a special magic and a special music all their own.
Jungle Walks
In low-water season, from June to November, forays into the jungle on foot may also be possible. These excursions provide a uniquely close-up perspective on the flora and fauna of the Amazon Basin. Birders, in particular, are likely to be amply rewarded. Binoculars provided.
Community Visits
Roughly 40,000 people live within or on the perimeter of the Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve. Visits to riverside communities provide a vivid insight into the way of life of the Amazon Basin’s ribereños.
Talks & Stargazing
Evenings aboard Pure Amazon will often involve a pre-dinner talk or Q&A session to review the events of the day. Or take a deeper dive into subjects of special interest. The top-deck Sky Lounge, meanwhile, is perfect for hosted stargazing sessions, beneath the clearest of night skies.
