The Authentic Cruise Company

Itinerary

Day 1: Lima
Day 2: Lima
Day 3: Iquitos
Day 4: Cruising Amazon River
Day 5: Cruising Amazon River
Day 6: Nauta
Day 7: Cruising Amazon River
Day 8: Cruising Amazon River
Day 9: Cruising Amazon River
Day 10: Nauta
Day 11: Urubamba
Day 12: Cusco
Day 13: Cusco
Day 14: Cusco
Day 15: Lima
Day 16: Lima
Day 1: Lima

Lima, Peru, the vibrant capital, blends colonial charm with modern dynamism. Known for its rich history, the city showcases splendid architecture in the historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Nestled along the Pacific coast, Lima boasts scenic ocean views, exquisite cuisine, and lively cultural scenes. Its diverse neighborhoods, from Miraflores’ upscale vibe to Barranco’s bohemian allure, offer unique experiences. Renowned museums, bustling markets, and the iconic Huaca Pucllana ruins highlight its heritage. Lima’s bustling streets and warm, welcoming atmosphere make it a captivating destination for travelers.

Day programme:

Arrive at Jorge Chávez International Airport in Lima. If your cruise/tour package includes a group arrival transfer or if you have purchased a private arrival transfer, a Uniworld representative will be on hand to greet you and escort you to the beautiful Country Club Lima Hotel. Its charm and comfort will offer you the perfect home for your exploration of the city.

Day 2: Lima

Lima, Peru, the vibrant capital, blends colonial charm with modern dynamism. Known for its rich history, the city showcases splendid architecture in the historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Nestled along the Pacific coast, Lima boasts scenic ocean views, exquisite cuisine, and lively cultural scenes. Its diverse neighborhoods, from Miraflores’ upscale vibe to Barranco’s bohemian allure, offer unique experiences. Renowned museums, bustling markets, and the iconic Huaca Pucllana ruins highlight its heritage. Lima’s bustling streets and warm, welcoming atmosphere make it a captivating destination for travelers.

Day programme:

Known as the “City of Kings,” Lima was founded in 1535. A melting pot of cultures, flavors, and history, this bustling metropolis has something for everyone, and today you get to discover it all.

Day 3: Iquitos

Iquitos, Peru, the largest city in the Amazon rainforest, is a vibrant gateway to lush jungles and winding rivers. Accessible only by boat or air, it offers unique Amazonian experiences, from wildlife tours to river cruises. The city’s bustling markets, such as Belén Market, showcase exotic produce and local crafts. Iquitos blends colonial architecture with colorful street life, reflecting its rich history and culture. Surrounded by dense rainforest, it is a hub for eco-tourism and adventure, making Iquitos a captivating destination for explorers.

Day programme:

You will be picked up at your hotel and taken to the airport for your flight to Iquitos. Upon your arrival at Iquitos International Airport, a Uniworld representative will be on hand to greet you and escort you to the Aria Amazon.

Day 4: Cruising Amazon River

Day programme:

Your day starts at the headstream of the Amazon River, the Ucayali. Kayak, canoe, and swim in the black waters of Clavero Lake, or learn about traditional customs of the area at a remote village along the Ucayali River. Once the sun sets, we’ll explore the Yarapa River in search of the nocturnal wildlife of the Amazon.

Day 5: Cruising Amazon River

Day programme:

Today we’re exploring the vibrant wildlife and lush greenery thriving in the Amazon.

Day 6: Nauta

Nauta, Peru, a quaint town in the Loreto region, serves as a serene gateway to the Amazon rainforest. Located at the confluence of the Marañón and Ucayali rivers, it offers stunning river vistas and rich biodiversity. Nauta’s charm lies in its tranquil ambiance, traditional wooden houses, and vibrant local markets. Visitors can explore nearby Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve, known for its diverse wildlife and lush landscapes. Nauta’s blend of natural beauty and authentic Amazonian culture makes it an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventurers.

Day programme:

One of the oldest inhabited areas in the Peruvian Amazon, Nauta is nestled between the Marañón and Ucayali Rivers. You’ll explore the town’s market, which is full of fresh fish, fruits, and vegetables. From there, it’s a short journey to the birthplace of the Amazon River.

Day 7: Cruising Amazon River

Day programme:

Experience life as an Amazon River dweller as you cruise along the Marañón River. Search for Taricaya turtles and other wildlife lurking just beyond the river. Once the sun sets, we’ll take to the Amazon River, on the lookout for nocturnal beasts.

Day 8: Cruising Amazon River

Day programme:

The rewards of our early start today are plentiful, including a picnic lunch under the Amazonian shade, orchestrated to the sound of the jungle symphony. Go fishing along the black waters of Samiria River and choose to go on a jungle walk, canoeing, kayaking, or swimming inside the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve. Later, cruise along the Ucayali River and enjoy the sunset.

Day 9: Cruising Amazon River

Day programme:

Spend the morning jungle walking, canoeing, kayaking, or swimming before a visit to Puerto Prado Forest.

Day 10: Nauta

Nauta, Peru, a quaint town in the Loreto region, serves as a serene gateway to the Amazon rainforest. Located at the confluence of the Marañón and Ucayali rivers, it offers stunning river vistas and rich biodiversity. Nauta’s charm lies in its tranquil ambiance, traditional wooden houses, and vibrant local markets. Visitors can explore nearby Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve, known for its diverse wildlife and lush landscapes. Nauta’s blend of natural beauty and authentic Amazonian culture makes it an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventurers.

Day programme:

Take a morning walk through the town of Nauta before disembarking the Aria Amazon. Your guide will take you on a few excursions on your way to the Iquitos airport for your flight to Cusco. Once you’ve landed in Cusco, you will be taken to the Tambo del Inka hotel in the Sacred Valley.

Day 11: Urubamba

Urubamba is a town in the Sacred Valley region of southeastern Peru. A busy transportation hub, it sits on the Urubamba River, surrounded by rugged mountains. The town is a jumping-off point for the Maras Salt Mines, hundreds of hillside salt pools dating back to Inca times. Nearby, Moray is an Inca archaeological site defined by concentric terraces. Hang-gliding, paragliding and rafting are popular area activities.

Day programme:

Enjoy this day of leisure to get the most out of your stay at the wonderful Tambo del Inka. Treat yourself to a relaxing service at their Kallpa Spa, considered one of the best in the country, take a dip in the heated pool, or savor delicious Andean cuisine. Situated in the heart of the Sacred Valley, the Tambo del Inka is also the perfect location from which to head out on your own to explore the incredible nature, cities, and historical sites available nearby.

Day 12: Cusco

Day programme:

Today you will explore the heartland of the Inka Empire, known as the Sacred Valley. Your guide will take you to Moray and Ollantaytambo, two historic sights of significant importance. You’ll experience the unique way of living in the Sacred Valley as you meet locals. We finish the day with a train ride to Aguas Calientes, the small villages nestled at the bottom of Machu Picchu.  Please note: You are only allowed one 11 lb piece of luggage on the train to Aguas Calientes. All other luggage will be taken to your hotel in Cusco.

Day 13: Cusco

Day programme:

A breathtaking, historical sight, Machu Picchu is one of the “must-see” archeological sites in the world. This remarkable Inkan Empire site was never found by the Spaniards and was rediscovered during the 20th century. Today, archeologists continue to excavate this ancient city. While many mysteries still surround it, Machu Picchu tells a story of a history that goes back thousands of years. Following your day at Machu Picchu, you will take a train to Ollantaytambo and then a motor coach will take you to the Palacio del Inka hotel in Cusco.

Day 14: Cusco

Day programme:

Located in the Andes Mountains, Cusco was the heartland of the Inkan Empire. Today, you will explore all the wonders of this city as you admire the cobblestone streets, colorful textiles, and art galleries. A perfect blend of ancient Andean cultures with Spanish colonial influence, Cusco is not to be missed. Overnight, you will stay in the Palacio del Inka hotel.

Day 15: Lima

Lima, Peru, the vibrant capital, blends colonial charm with modern dynamism. Known for its rich history, the city showcases splendid architecture in the historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Nestled along the Pacific coast, Lima boasts scenic ocean views, exquisite cuisine, and lively cultural scenes. Its diverse neighborhoods, from Miraflores’ upscale vibe to Barranco’s bohemian allure, offer unique experiences. Renowned museums, bustling markets, and the iconic Huaca Pucllana ruins highlight its heritage. Lima’s bustling streets and warm, welcoming atmosphere make it a captivating destination for travelers.

Day programme:

We’re headed back to Lima today. After a brief walk around town, you’ll head to the Wyndham Costa del Sol Lima Airport hotel.

Day 16: Lima

Lima, Peru, the vibrant capital, blends colonial charm with modern dynamism. Known for its rich history, the city showcases splendid architecture in the historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Nestled along the Pacific coast, Lima boasts scenic ocean views, exquisite cuisine, and lively cultural scenes. Its diverse neighborhoods, from Miraflores’ upscale vibe to Barranco’s bohemian allure, offer unique experiences. Renowned museums, bustling markets, and the iconic Huaca Pucllana ruins highlight its heritage. Lima’s bustling streets and warm, welcoming atmosphere make it a captivating destination for travelers.

Day programme:

Your majestic Peru adventure ends this morning. Your guide will walk you from the Wyndham Costa del Sol Lima Airport hotel to the Lima International Airport check-in.

First Deck Suites
Second Deck Suites
First Deck Suites

Soft lighting, natural fibers and neutral hues create a relaxing and luxuriously comfortable enclave where one’s only challenge may be to decide whether to gaze upon the Amazon from atop the California king size bed (which can be separated into two twin beds) made with 100% Peruvian cotton high thread count sheets or while lounging on the cozy window-side day bed, binoculars in hand.

For the ultimate luxury, passengers may select a pair of interconnecting suites, either for families or with one suite configured as a private living room, the other a master bedroom, plus his-and-hers bathrooms.

Second Deck Suites

Soft lighting, natural fibers and neutral hues create a relaxing and luxuriously comfortable enclave where one’s only challenge may be to decide whether to gaze upon the Amazon from atop the California king size bed (which can be separated into two twin beds) made with 100% Peruvian cotton high thread count sheets or while lounging on the cozy window-side day bed, binoculars in hand.

For the ultimate luxury, passengers may select a pair of interconnecting suites, either for families or with one suite configured as a private living room, the other a master bedroom, plus his-and-hers bathrooms.

Dining Room
Dining Room

The Dining Room can be found on the Second Deck.

Observation Deck
Outdoor Lounge
Indoor Lounge
Boutique
Observation Deck

Outside of the multiple daily excursions, guests can relax on the ship’s observation deck for leisurely wildlife watching under the vast open Amazon sky.

At dusk and dawn, Amazon sunsets and sunrises in the ‘mirrored forest’ of Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve have double the visual impact as they are reflected off the ‘blackwater’ of the Amazon river, and this the observation deck is the ideal place to snap that winning photograph!

Outdoor Lounge

Nature takes care of the lighting on our generous outdoor deck on the Aria Amazon, with plenty of sunshine for those who wish to soak it up on cushioned loungers during the day to cooler evenings under the star filled sky. Guests seeking fresh Amazon air without being exposed to the sun will find plenty of space and comfortable∘ seating under the expansive awning of the outdoor lounge. While all our Amazon luxury cruises offer a full day of activities and excursions, we also invite our guests to opt out as they wish. Relax in our outdoor lounge while examining all yesterday’s photos of Amazon wildlife living in their natural habitats, deep in the rainforest.

Indoor Lounge

Air-conditioned with plenty of natural light, plush deep sofas, soothing hardwood decor and a well-stocked bar as a centerpiece, this is arguably one of the best spots in Peru to sip on a pisco sour.

Boutique

The Aria Amazon’s onboard boutique offers guests the convenience of shopping at their leisure for high quality, thoughtfully selected Peruvian handicrafts, and jewelry and souvenirs. Artisanal items featured here include original pieces we source directly from the artisans of Amazonia, who live and work in the communities we visit and actively support.

Fitness Centre
Spa Services
Fitness Centre

The Aria Amazon’s signature walls of glass come in especially helpful here in the ship’s dedicated workout space, offering engrossing distraction for guests on the treadmill and stationary bicycle.

Spa Services

On the waters of the Peruvian Amazon, we launched new spa menus in 2015 featuring an expanded array of massage and spa services. The Aria Amazon offers an exclusive∘ top-deck massage room with internationally-trained∘ therapists offering a range of massages using 100% pure, natural essential oils. Each specially-crafted spa oil is developed from indigenous ingredients such as coconut and vanilla and harvested from either the highlands of Peru or Amazonia before being carefully distilled and conserved, using no additives.

Connectivity
Age Restrictions
Special Dietary Requests
Safety Equipment
Smoking Policy
Connectivity

Please note: We do not have Internet connection on board the Aria Amazon, though guests report periodically connecting via roaming on their iPhone or other handheld devices, depending on our proximity to more developed areas. For cellular phone contact you may need a special telephone that can operate on a foreign signal although, keep in mind that most areas outside Iquitos are so remote that you will be unable to get a signal. If you need to contact your home or office for any emergency, the Aria Amazon is equipped with a satellite phone. We will inform you, prior to calling, of the current price of an international call and you may pay for these directly on board.

Age Restrictions

The minimum age to travel on the Aria Amazon is seven.

Passengers must be at least 21 years of age to travel without their parents or guardians. If any occupant in the cabin is under 21, then a passenger at least 25 years old must be booked in the cabin with them. The only exception is that children under age 21 may be allowed to have their own cabin if they are in a connected suite shared by their parents or guardians. 

Special Dietary Requests

The food is world class. Travellers aboard the Aria Amazon will enjoy a menu of fresh, delicious Peruvian fare (with a bit of continental influence), whether served on board or out on an adventure. Dinner each evening promises to be a culinary feast for the senses, paired with select South American wines. Noted Chef Pedro Miguel Schiaffino, one of Peru’s top ten chefs, has created our menus. If you have special dietary requests, you need to inform Aqua Expeditions at the time of booking, or at least by 30 days prior to embarkation. Every effort will be made to cater to special dietary needs, and to accommodate special requests, subject to a given products’ availability in Peru.

Safety Equipment

Once all the passengers have boarded, the crew will conduct a mandatory safety drill. Please be sure to check exactly where the life vests are located in your cabin. Memorize your way to the deck in case an emergency should arise. Consult your Cruise Director or Guide regarding any questions you may have. Life vests are provided for use while onboard the skiffs and you are required to wear them. Always hold the guide or crew member’s hand while embarking or disembarking, since the boat ladder and deck may be wet and slippery. It is important for us to verify that all our passengers are on board prior to departure. There is a check list in the reception area that you must sign upon returning from every visit.

Smoking Policy

Smoking is forbidden inside the Aria Amazon including ecigarettes. It is allowed only in the outside lounge and on the observation deck. If you want to smoke in the outside lounge, please ask the bartender for an ashtray. Do not throw your cigarette stubs or ash into the water.

Observation Deck
Second Deck
First Deck
Observation Deck
  • Massage Room
  • Indoor Lounge & Bar
  • Outdoor Lounge
  • Exercise Room
Second Deck
  • Dining Room
  • Boutique
  • Suites 201 – 208
First Deck
  • Suites 101 – 108

Get in touch with our team to start planning

Call and speak to a member of our experienced team today on +44 (0)1491 528 988 or email info@authenticcruises.co.uk.

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