Itinerary Low Water Season 8 Days

Experience one of the most biodiverse regions on Earth during an 8-day Amazon River expedition aboard the elegant Zafiro. The journey travels through the Marañón, Ucayali, and Amazon Rivers within the vast Pacaya Samiria National Reserve.
This adventure combines wildlife observation, rainforest exploration, and meaningful encounters with local communities.
Daily outings by skiff and guided walks allow travelers to observe pink river dolphins, vibrant birdlife, and remarkable tropical plants while navigating calm waterways often called the “Forest of Mirrors,” where the jungle reflects beautifully on the river’s surface.

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

Guests are welcomed at the airport and transferred to the port of Nauta to board the ship. A boxed lunch is provided during the journey. After boarding, travelers settle into their suites and enjoy a refreshing welcome cocktail prepared with regional fruits and Peruvian pisco.
Naturalist guides provide an introductory presentation explaining the geography, wildlife, and activities planned for the expedition.
In the evening, the first skiff excursion heads to Nauta Caño. As night falls, the rainforest becomes active with nocturnal wildlife. Guides help spot caimans along the riverbanks while the sounds of frogs and insects fill the jungle atmosphere. Guests then return to the ship for dinner and relaxation.

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

The morning begins with birdwatching from the ship’s observation deck as the rainforest comes alive. The region hosts a wide variety of resident and migratory birds, making it perfect for wildlife observation and photography.
Later, skiffs travel into Yanayacu de Pucate, one of the most remote and pristine areas within the Pacaya Samiria Reserve.
Breakfast is served outdoors surrounded by the rainforest and calm blackwater channels. Guests may kayak through the tributaries or swim in the dark waters—an unforgettable Amazon experience. The river’s mirror-like surface reflects the surrounding forest, creating striking scenery.
In the afternoon, the group visits the community of San Regis to learn about local traditions and daily life. A symbolic tree-planting ceremony highlights conservation efforts, and visitors can browse handmade crafts created by local women. Back onboard, guests relax and enjoy live music before dinner.

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

Today’s exploration ventures deeper into the reserve by skiff, visiting secluded lakes and lagoons. One highlight is Japanese Lagoon, where pink river dolphins are frequently seen surfacing near the boats.
A picnic lunch is enjoyed in this peaceful natural setting surrounded by untouched rainforest.
The journey continues to the Yanayaquillo gorge, where narrow waterways and dense vegetation offer excellent chances to observe birds, monkeys, and reptiles.
Later, guests visit the Amazonian Natural Park for a guided rainforest walk followed by canoe exploration through flooded forest areas. In the evening, travelers participate in a cultural activity preparing traditional Peruvian cocktails before dinner.

Day 4 (Tuesday): Marañon River, Casual, Amazon River

The morning begins with a guided walk in the Casual region, known for its rich biodiversity. Guides introduce fascinating rainforest species, including poison dart frogs and towering trees sometimes referred to as “Avatar” trees due to their impressive size. Visitors may also see the enormous floating leaves of the Victoria Amazonica water lily.
Back onboard, the ship’s chef presents a demonstration on how to prepare classic Peruvian dishes.
Later, guests travel by skiff to the meeting point of the Marañón and Ucayali Rivers, where the official Amazon River begins. Pink river dolphins are often seen in this area. The day concludes with scenic views as the ship continues its voyage.

Day 5 (Wednesday): Marañon River, Nauta, Florida Common Reserve, Pahuashiro

Early in the morning, the ship returns to Nauta. Guests visit the lively local market by motocar, a common three-wheeled vehicle in the region. The market offers a glimpse into daily Amazon life with stalls selling fresh fruits, vegetables, fish, and regional specialties.
After returning to the ship, the expedition continues to the Florida Reserve for a guided forest walk. This protected area is home to many birds, amphibians, and insects, while towering mahogany trees dominate the canopy. Guides explain the ecological importance of the rainforest and its complex ecosystems.
In the afternoon, guests explore the waterways of Pahuachiro by boat. As sunset approaches, golden reflections spread across the river, creating a peaceful moment to admire the vast Amazon landscape.

Day 6 (Thursday): Amazon River, San Joaquin de Omaguas, Yarapa River, Ucayali River

At sunrise, travelers observe daily life along the riverbanks as local residents begin their morning routines. Fishermen set out on the water while birds gather along the shoreline.
After breakfast, skiffs explore the Yarapa River, a tranquil blackwater river known for its rich biodiversity. Guides help identify monkeys, birds, reptiles, and other wildlife hidden in the forest.
Later, guests visit the community of Paranapura, where residents share stories about their traditions and lifestyle connected to the rainforest.
In the evening, another excursion focuses on nocturnal wildlife, searching for caimans, frogs, bats, and even tarantulas that appear after dark. Before dinner, guests enjoy live music performed onboard.

Day 7 (Friday): Yarapa on Ucayali River (Black Water), Yucuruchi, Amazon River (Origin)

The final full day begins with an early morning excursion on the Yarapa River, when wildlife activity is at its highest and birdlife is particularly active.
After breakfast, the expedition reaches the Yucuruchi area within the Pacaya Samiria Reserve. Guests take a guided jungle walk where naturalist guides explain the relationships between plants, animals, and the surrounding ecosystem, including medicinal plants used by local communities.
After lunch and a short rest onboard, the afternoon excursion explores the Amazon River in search of pink river dolphins and other wildlife. The day ends with a colorful sunset and a farewell dinner celebrating the journey.

Day 8 (Saturday): Disembarkation in Nauta Port

After breakfast, guests disembark and visit the Amazon Forever Bio Park, also known as the Manatee Rescue Center. This conservation center rehabilitates orphaned and injured Amazonian manatees before releasing them back into the wild.
Guides explain the threats these gentle animals face and the conservation efforts underway to protect them. Visitors also learn about other rescued species and environmental education programs.
After the visit, travelers are transferred to the airport for their departing flights, marking the end of an unforgettable Amazon adventure.

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 emergecies (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 consumptions.
Any spa services.
Binocular rental (onboard cost: USD 10 for the entire cruise).
Flashlights (we recommend bringing your own).