Itinerary Low Water Season 5 Days

Immerse yourself in the heart of the Peruvian Amazon on a five-day voyage through the breathtaking Pacaya Samiria National Reserve, famously known as the “Jungle of Mirrors.” During the low water season, receding rivers uncover hidden lagoons and forest trails, creating ideal conditions for deeper exploration of this pristine ecosystem. Encounter extraordinary wildlife, from pink river dolphins to giant water lilies, while engaging with local communities and discovering ancestral knowledge and Amazonian traditions. Guided outings by skiff and canoe blend nature, culture, and spectacular scenery in one of the world’s most untouched environments.

Day 1 (Saturday): Iquitos, Nauta, Marañon River, Nauta Caño

Arrive in Iquitos and travel overland to the river port of Nauta, enjoying a boxed lunch along the way. Once onboard, settle in as the vessel begins navigating the Marañón River. A welcome briefing introduces the region’s biodiversity, geography, and cultural heritage.
After sunset, venture out by skiff to Nauta Caño for a nocturnal exploration. As darkness falls, the rainforest awakens with life. Accompanied by expert naturalist guides, look for caimans, frogs, tarantulas, and other nighttime species. Return to the ship for dinner featuring Peruvian and Amazon-inspired cuisine.

Day 2 (Sunday): Marañon River, Yanayacu de Pucate, San Regis

Start the day observing the jungle at sunrise from the deck as birds and wildlife become active. After breakfast, explore Yanayacu de Pucate, one of the reserve’s most secluded zones, where dark waters mirror the sky and surrounding canopy. Depending on river conditions, enjoy kayaking or even a swim.
Later, visit the San Regis community for an authentic cultural encounter. Through interpretation, learn about local customs, spiritual traditions, and ancestral wisdom shared by a community shaman. Participate in a symbolic tree-planting ceremony and browse handcrafted items made by local artisans. The evening concludes onboard with live music and dinner.

Day 3 (Monday): Yanayacu de Pucate, Japanese Lagoon, Yanayaquillo, San Regis, Amazonian Natural Park

Following breakfast, travel by skiff through interconnected waterways to reach tranquil Japanese Lagoon, a prime location for spotting pink river dolphins. Surrounded by pristine rainforest, enjoy a picnic-style outing while observing this carefully protected habitat. Continue exploring nearby channels where monkeys, colorful birds, and other wildlife are frequently seen.
In the afternoon, combine a rainforest hike with canoe exploration in the Amazon Natural Park. Encounter towering trees, vibrant insects, and amphibians while guides explain ecological balance and Amazonian perspectives on nature. End the day with live music and a celebratory gala dinner onboard.

Day 4 (Tuesday): Marañón River, Casual, Shiriyacu

Begin with a guided walk in the Casual area, searching for striking poison dart frogs and other unique species. Admire immense “Avatar” trees and the impressive Victoria Amazonica, the world’s largest aquatic plant. Low water conditions provide enhanced access to forest trails, offering greater insight into jungle ecology.
Later, cruise to the confluence of the Ucayali and Marañón Rivers, the officially recognized origin of the Amazon River. This dramatic meeting point is also an excellent site for spotting pink river dolphins. Learn about the geological forces that shaped the Amazon Basin while taking in sweeping river views.

Day 5 (Wednesday): Marañón River, Nauta, Disembarkation, Iquitos

Before breakfast, explore Nauta by motocar and visit its bustling market, where residents sell fresh produce, fish, and regional specialties, an authentic look at daily Amazonian life.
After breakfast and disembarkation, travel toward Iquitos with a stop at the Amazon Forever Bio Park, also known as the Manatee Rescue Center. Discover ongoing efforts to rehabilitate endangered manatees and care for rescued wildlife before release. Following this meaningful conservation visit, continue to the airport for departure.

What´s includes?

1 night accommodation Hotel - City of Iquitos. (Only 8D/7N and 5D/4N programs). *The night at the DoubleTree hotel is an additional service to the nights included in the Zafiro 8D/7N and 5D/4N itineraries. It can be taken at the beginning or end of the trip and does not change or reduce the number of days of navigation on board.
Lunch is included before boarding at our DoubleTree by Hilton Iquitos hotel. (This service depends on the arrival time of the recommended flight, which might change), (Valid for the 8D/7N and 5D/4N programs), (The 4D/3N itinerary includes a box lunch).
All meals while on board Zafiro.
All excursions & equipment (including rubber boots & rain ponchos).
Transfer from/to the cruise on the recommended flights. In case the passengers stay in Iquitos city hotels – please inform the Guest Coordinator, to arrange pick-up prior to or after your cruise.
Entrance fee to Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve.
Beverages: Sodas, natural juices, coffee, tea, water, local beer, and house wines available at all times. Premium bar available at an additional cost. Cocktails, spirits, and bottled water are not included.
Welcome drink.
Includes onboard Wi-Fi.

What´s not includes?

Domestic flights.
Cost of medical emergencies (including evacuation).
Tipping etiquette: On board Zafiro cruise, we recommend a tip amount of USD 60 per passenger per night for the crew (which will be divided among all crew members) and a tip amount of USD 40 per passenger per night for the guides. * Please note that these amounts are suggested and that this is entirely at the discretion of our guests.
Any additional transportation services
Any additional bar consumption.
Any spa services.
Binocular rental (onboard cost: USD 10 for the entire cruise).
Flashlights (we recommend bringing your own).