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Delfin I – Amazon River Cruise

Not Rated

Duration

5 Days

Tour Type

Small Group

Group Size

8 people

Departures

Fixed Date

Overview

 

This 5 days luxury cruise onboard the Luxury Small Ship Delfin I takes you up the river to Pacaya Samiria National Reserve in Peru to explore the majesty of the Amazon Rainforest. Landing in Iquitos, head to Nauta to embark on the Delfin 1. The Delfin 1 take you one step beyond luxury, where comfort and grace combine effortlessly with the wilderness of the Amazon in the most unique and personalized vessels ever to cruise the Amazon River. With intimate luxury cabins, relaxing open-air observation decks and dining rooms serving the best in Amazonian and Peruvian cuisine, the Delfin 1 offer supreme comfort when exploring the wonders of the Amazon Rainforest.

Day 1: Arrive Iquitos – Nauta – Embarkation
Day 2: Amazon River & tributaries
Day 3: Amazon River & tributaries
Day 4: Amazon River & tributaries
Day 5: Disembarkation: Rescue & Rehabilitation Center of River Mammals

Note: this itinerary dependent on the river water level, weather conditions, wildlife behavior, and accessibility to locations, so may vary. All times indicated are approximate, and are also subject to change.

The Delfin 1 Amazon River Small Ship Cruise offer 3-night, 4-night and 7-night river cruises. Please contact us for all proper itineraries (high or low water season), departure dates and exclusive offers.

Tailor-made suggestions for this itinerary:

* Ask us about our 3 night Pre and Post Cusco & Machu Picchu Package options.

* Extend your stay in Peru and explore some of its other highlights including Arequipa, the Colca Canyon and Lake Titicaca.

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Itinerary

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Day 1: Arrive Iquitos - Nauta - Embarkation
Day 1: Arrive Iquitos - Nauta - Embarkation

AM: Arrive in Iquitos
Our crew will be expecting your arrival at the airport.

Suggested flight: LA2233 LIM/IQT Departure 0940 / Arrival 1130 - not included
*We can purchase all airline tickets on your behalf.

From where you'll hop aboard our comfortable private vehicle as we begin a panoramic tour of Iquitos city, with a tasty lunchbox provided.
After the tour we will travel by paved road to the city of Nauta about an hour's drive away. Along the way, you will see vibrant "terra firma" (non-flooded forest) and various aspects of daily jungle life. Upon reaching Nauta you will enjoy a VIP greeting at our private port along the shores of the Marañon River where the Delfin II awaits you.

PM: Embarkation from Nauta
Aboard Delfin, you will be served by our qualified staff who will introduce you to your exquisite and cozy suite, specially equipped with all the amenities for the experienced traveler as yourself. Orthopaedic beds, pure cotton sheets, pillows of 100% pure natural latex, cotton bathrobes, air conditioning, and private bathroom with Spanish style hot water showers are all framed with a spacious private terrace we are sure you will enjoy to the fullest.

Marayali / Pauhuachiro
Our first excursion will be done by skiff where we visit our first location populated by sloths, iguanas, and recently a new favorite location for anteaters. Birdwatchers are likely to check off their bucket list, the yellow-rumped caciques and the very elegant egrets.

Happy Hour and Orientation
While the Delfin begins its initial navigation, you will enjoy the most fantastic panoramic views from the elegantly outfitted observation area located on our third deck. Our bartender will be waiting to serve you with an exotic cocktail made with regional fruits and pisco, the beloved national brandy liquor of Peru. Then, your naturalist guide will give you an overview of your journey's schedule, activities, route, highlights, wildlife and vegetation to keep your eye out for, geographical and historical background, and other useful details.
The third deck features an entertainment center which offers use for film presentations, as well as extensive literature about the area (fauna, flora, etc.) There is also a completely equipped bar so you can test any combination of regional and international liquors and aromas that the bartender will be happy to provide for you to enjoy under the spell of the beautiful Amazonian afternoons and night, and the sweet breeze of the rainforest. Moreover, should you have any doubts or questions, our guides are always fully at your service.

Confluence of the 3 rivers
Better known as the “Union de los Rios” we will toast and witness the distinguished colors of the 3 rivers. It is known that the Ucayali River, which in turn confluences with the Marañón River upstream of Iquitos, Peru, to form what countries other than Brazil consider to be the main stem of the Amazon River. Great photo opportunity as you witness your first Amazon Rainforest Sunset.
Our vessels all have an open bridge policy, so you are welcome to learn about the navigation systems and spend time with the driving captain at any time. Moreover, should you have any doubts or questions, our guides are always fully at your service. After dinner we invite you to the third deck were you can enjoy stargazing while we cruise in to the depths of the Amazon Rainforest.

Cabin Category:
Delfin I: Master Suite
Delfin I: Deluxe Master Suite

Day 2: Amazon River & tributaries
Day 2: Amazon River & tributaries

AM: Fundo Casual
This morning, we hike the Fundo Casual jungle trail, taking us deep into the rainforest on terra firme (non-flooded forest). Biologically, this kind of forest is one of the richest habitats on earth, supporting a vast number of plant and animal species. Among the flora is the giant Ceiba (kapok) tree, recognizable by the girth of its trunk, along with many smaller medicinal plants, which the guides will point out on the hike.
As for the fauna, this rainforest is very good for spotting birds such as the Bluish-fronted Jacamar, Collared Trogons and Red-capped Cardinal.

PM: Yanayacu Pucate / Shamana
This is one of the best preserved and protected zones of the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve. Your guide will use his expert eye to pinpoint all the biodiversity of this region. If you want to interact directly with the waters of the Amazon, go out on one of our paddle boards. You will even have the opportunity to swim in the jungle river along with the famous pink dolphins!
Afterwards we will visit the village of San Regis is a flyspeck on Peru's Amazon River that receives few outside visitors, and even fewer come to seek out the Shaman, Carola. Carola is known far and wide in the rainforest, leading a normal village life with her wood carver husband, while at the same time acting as spiritual caretaker and healer to literally hundreds of jungle dwellers spread over many roadless miles. Her prestige and position are beyond reproach. The role of shaman is often misunderstood in the west, associated with black magic, and spells While these things all have their place, the actual practitioners are as varied as in any profession. Carola is known as a "White" shaman, a healer and spiritual guide.

Cabin Category:
Delfin I: Master Suite
Delfin I: Deluxe Master Suite

Day 3: Amazon River & tributaries
Day 3: Amazon River & tributaries

AM: Amazon Park Canopy Walk
The Amazon jungle canopy contains a large percentage of the Amazon's wildlife and vegetation, so this morning we visit the the only canopy walkway in the Pacaya-Samiria area, in order to gain a unique viewpoint of the terra firme rainforest ecosystem, from a height of over 25m / 85 ft. The walkway extends for 500m / one-third of a mile, between 14 large trees, and is one of the longest in the world; and yet no special skills or equipment are needed to enjoy it.

PM: Nauta Caño Expedition
At certain times of the year, the water level of the Amazon can rise as much as 10m / 30ft, flooding huge areas of forest. This seasonally flooded forest is known as varzea and is ideal for exploration by boat. So, this afternoon we head out in the lanchas to explore a narrow creek called Nauta Caño, a side branch of the Marañon River, which enters part of the Pacaya-Samiria National Park. This creek is part of a system of lagoons, marshes and oxbow lakes which are excellent for wildlife-watching.
In one of the lakes, we will stop for a spot of fishing ... for Piranha! There are 25 species of this notorious fish in the Amazon region, many of which like to swim among the base of trees to eat fruit and chew at bark, when the forest is flooded. They are therefore not as blood-thirsty as their reputation suggests, but still it is a real thrill to catch one.
After dusk, we can appreciate the sounds of the nighttime jungle symphony. It is also a great time to spot different, nocturnal species, using spotlights, such as: Night Herons; Spectacled Owls; Nightjars; Fish Bats; Spectacled and Black Caiman; and up to a dozen species of frogs. The occasional flash of light from a firefly completes the spectacle.

Cabin Category:
Delfin I: Master Suite
Delfin I: Deluxe Master Suite

Day 4: Amazon River & tributaries
Day 4: Amazon River & tributaries

AM: Yarapa River
Along the Yarapa River river, you will get to explore this tributary intimately. We start the morning with a relaxing skiff ride and listen closely for the sounds from within the mysterious jungle. In the High Water season (Nov - May) you will have the option to kayak here also and additionally have the option to visit the Amazonas Village, where you can take a short jungle walk to meet local villagers who have called Amazonia their home for generations.

PM: San Francisco Village
Low Water (Jun - Oct)
This afternoon we go on a short jungle walk and visit the village of San Francisco which is a chance to see life in a local Amazon community. Here we will visit a market featuring amazing arts and crafts from the local women.

PM: Piraña Caño Creek
High Water (Nov - May)
This morning we depart for the lovely creek of Piraña Caño. This creek leads to a lagoon that is an ideal place to spend the morning in search of birds and playful monkeys. As your naturalist guide spots various creatures for you, also try to pinpoint some yourself now that you’ve been in the jungle for a few days and have trained your eye a bit! You’ll see why the Peruvian Amazon jungle has earned its title as one of the most biologically diverse areas on Earth!

Cabin Category:
Delfin I: Master Suite
Delfin I: Deluxe Master Suite

Day 5: Disembarkation - Rescue & Rehabilitation Centre of River Mammals
Day 5: Disembarkation - Rescue & Rehabilitation Centre of River Mammals

AM: Disembarkation in Nauta
With heavy hearts, the staff will wish you farewell as you begin your departure. At the port of Nauta, our ground crew will be waiting to take you by our private vehicle back to the city of Iquitos, about 95 kilometers journey by paved road.

AM: The Rescue & Rehabilitation Center of River Mammals
On our way from Nauta back to Iquitos airport, you will visit the Rescue & Rehabilitation Center of River Mammals (ACOBIA) where you will have the chance to meet baby manatees and learn about these wonderful and docile creatures and why they are on the endangered species list. You will also have the chance to pet and feed these kind manatees. As well, there are also some other animals cared for by the center that have been rescued from capture for the intention of being turned into pets and other threatening conditions. We welcome you to donate to this ambitious organization and education center as you wish. Our land personnel will wait for you at the airport and give your boarding passes and help you check in.

PM: Airport Departure
Our staff will be on hand to help you with your luggage and check in at Crnl. FAP Francisco Secada
Vignetta International Airport in Iquitos. The return flight will take you directly to the city of Lima, the capital of Peru. At the security gate, your guide and Delfin crew will say goodbye. We truly hope that you enjoyed your stay and Amazon travel experience with us!

Included/Excluded

  • All meals while on board (arrival day: lunchbox and dinner; cruise days: all meals; departure day: breakfast)
  • All excursions & equipment (including rubber boots & rain ponchos)
  • Transfers to/from vessel when arriving on recommended flights to/from Iquitos (Lima-Iquitos: 10:00 a.m.; Iquitos-Lima: 1 p.m.)
  • Entrance fee to Pacaya Samiria National Reserve
  • Natural juices, soda, coffee, tea, water, beer, house cocktails, pisco cocktails & sours, house wines with lunch and dinner.
  • Air tickets to/from Iquitos
  • Cost of medical emergencies (including evacuation)
  • Gratuities (amount suggested per guest: USD $120)
  • Any additional transportation services
  • Any additional bar consumptions
  • Boutique purchases
  • Minibar consumptions

Tour's Location

FAQs

How prices are based?
Prices are "from" per person based on twin beds or double share bedroom in a Suite Cabin Category.
For an upgrade to a Deluxe Master Suite Category, please insert “2” in the Deluxe Master Suite Category check box.
Seasonal surcharges and blackout dates may apply.
Limited seat/spaces and all pricing is subject to change and availability.
Rates for solo traveler, triple share or more travellers are available on request - please inquire.
Cabin Details:
Delfin 1 features 4 luxury suites, each with private terraces and panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows. Room amenities include a mini fridge, an in-suite seating area with a sofa bed (may be converted in one additional bed), fine Peruvian linens, environmentally friendly amenities, air-conditioning, large private bathrooms, hot water showers with organic toiletries, hair dryer, safe box, yoga mat and binoculars. Each suite may be made up to have a king or 2 double beds and is decorated using native design elements and handicrafts.

Master Suite

Located on the 2nd deck, these 2 Master Suites of 340 square feet and a private deck of 320 square feet share the same comforts as the Deluxe Suites but without plunge pools, yet maintain the vessel’s signature panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows and the same amenities as the Deluxe Suites.

Deluxe Suite

Located on the main deck, two spacious Deluxe Suites of 360 square feet are wrapped by 180° panoramic windows stretching from floor to ceiling. They feature private terraces of 320 square feet each with cool water plunge pools, which makes Delfin I the first and only river vessel with this luxurious feature.
Ship Specification
Built In: Refurbished by Delfin Amazon Cruises (2010)
Type of vessel: River vessel
Port of Embarkation: City of Nauta
Length: 67 feet
Beam: 33 feet
Draft: 5´8″
Capacity: 8 passengers
Generator: Caterpillar 45KW
Engine: Cummins 189HP diesel turbo boosted
Cruising Speed: Average 8 knots
Water: Water treatment plant with 5.0 cubic meter capacity
Sewage Waters: 2.5 cubic meter septic tank
Radio Communication: VHF, UHF and satellite phone on board
Launch Boats: 2 aluminum 8 passenger skiff equipped with four stroke low emission engines + radio communications with main vessel, life jackets and flares
Any additional services are not included
Here are some occurrences that may arise where Delfin Amazon Cruises may assist for an additional charge:

Supposing the passenger arrives earlier than the recommended arrival time on the departure day of their cruise. We may arrange them to be privately taken from Iquitos airport into the city, enjoy a comprehensive and expertly led city tour, and/or taken to a restaurant.
Supposing the passenger arrives later than the recommended arrival time on the departure day of their cruise, and needs private transportation to the port of Nauta and then a private boat to catch the vessel.
Instead of going on an organized shore excursion, can we go off on our own?
No. For safety reasons, passengers are required to be with one of our naturalist guides whenever they are on land.












Is motion sickness ever a problem?
Not really. Even though the main Amazon River looks like an open sea, we will be sailing in tributaries and creeks that are some of the calmest waters in the world with almost no waves. In addition, stabilizers and advance availability of accurate weather information have decreased the incidence of motion sickness.
Do you have insect repellent and sunscreen protection available?
We offer complimentary organic options on board. However, we recommend that you bring your own, especially insect repellent products with 100% DEET.
Are there more natural ways to combat mosquitoes and insects?
Taking vitamin B12 is a more natural way to gain some resistance to mosquitoes. It can be ingested as vitamin pills or found in some foods with high levels of B12 such as shellfish (clams, oysters, mussels), fish, crustaceans (crabs), soy products (milk, tofu), bran cereals, red meat (lamb, beef), low fat milk, select cheeses, and eggs. We suggest taking B12 supplements around 2-3 weeks before arriving in Iquitos.
Do I need any shots before traveling to the Amazon?
No specific vaccination or preventative treatments are required to enter Peru (including malaria and yellow fever). To reference, the USA Center of Disease for travel to Peru nevertheless requires a current yellow fever vaccination for trips to rainforest regions. This vaccination is normally required or recommended for all rainforest regions around the world. Malaria pills are recommended usually when travelling to tropical regions but the places we cruise are Malaria Free Places. No anopheles mosquitoes (which are known to carry the disease) proliferate in the areas which we cruise in. For more specific details, we encourage you to discuss with your doctor.
What if I don´t like my tablemates? Is room service available?
This is rarely a problem. However, we do have different solutions depending on which vessel you are sailing on. Aboard Delfin I, please speak with the Maître d’ to arrange a private in-suite meal on your terrace. Throughout dinner service, you will have your own waiter to serve you. This is a very enjoyable experience for special occasions such as birthdays or milestones as well. Aboard Delfin II & III, please speak with the Maître d’ or the Cruise Manager to find a table location that works for you. No matter which vessel, our staff will make every effort to seat you with more comfortably and with compatible dining companions, of course with full discretion and courtesy. We do not offer room service.
Is the cuisines as good as I’ve been told? Can I get a special diet?
Yes. The food is simply world class. Our guests 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 or perhaps a freshly pressed juice. If you have special dietary requests, please inform Delfin Amazon Cruises at the time of booking, or at least by 30 days prior to embarkation because some items may have to be shipped and imported (no roads lead to Iquitos!). Every effort will be made to cater to special dietary needs and to accommodate special requests, subject to a given products’ availability in Peru.
What should I pack?
Life is casual aboard our vessels. Bring comfortable walking shoes, light-weight long pants, and long-sleeved tops, a wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen, extra socks, mosquito repellent with DEET, bathing suits and of course, your camera, with charger and extra batteries on excursions. Binoculars are very important to enjoy the wildlife (provided on Delfin I & II). Do not forget to include some items that you can give away to the locals (t-shirts, pens, and paper are especially prized, and perhaps some chocolates or candies for little kids). During meals in the dining room, we ask our guests to wear casual clothing and shoes. We provide rubber boots for wetland excursions and wet landings, and recommend taking comfortable walking shoes. We also provide waterproof ponchos with hoods to protect against rain. Our Suites all have 220-110 volt outlets.
How much luggage can I bring? Are there porters available at the airport and the pier?
We allow you to bring as much luggage as you like, but suggest the use of soft suitcases/bags for easy storage. We have special storage for heavy luggage at our embarkation port in Nauta city, so we can keep them well stored and locked until you disembark. How much you bring, however, may be determined by the airlines, which have limits on both checked and carry-on baggage. LATAM Airlines for example, allows 20 kilos (44 pounds) of checked luggage and 8 kilos (18 pounds) of carry-on baggage. Porters are available at both the airport and our port in Nauta. They will make sure that your bags arrive well at our private embarkation port storage facility and your suite. At the embarkation port, you may also tell the guides if there is any luggage you would like to be stored at our facilities so they can give you a special identification tag.
When is the best time of year to travel to the Amazon?
The Amazon basically has 2 seasons: the flooded and the dry season. Both offer rich rewards, fabulous sites, and amazing opportunities to view plant and animal life. The Amazon Basin is as rich, lush, and green as it is because it gets an abundance of rain (12 feet a year on average). In a typical year, that totals 200 rainy days, which means that there will be days of heavy rain even in the dry season. Also it is hot in the Amazon any time of year. Two key points to remember, as you choose between the Amazon in flooded season or in dry season: there will be some rain whichever season you choose, and yet you will see spectacular wildlife and plant life whether you go in wet or dry season. All the rest is details.
Is there any difference between the lower-deck and upper-deck suites?
Dimensions and all features are exactly the same for both decks, respective of each boat.
Are all suites river view?
Yes. All suites on our vessels have outward-facing panoramic windows, giving every cabin a river view. The dawn light will awaken you in the mornings, and you can see what the weather is like without leaving your suite.
Does sailing on board the Delfin give good vacation value?
Yes. Our travel experience offers excellent vacation value. Our rates include all meals, very comfortable accommodation, excursions with knowledgeable naturalist guides, Pacaya Samiria National Reserve entrance fees, onboard lectures, and evening entertainment. Transportation from/to the airport if you arrive and depart on our recommended flights is also included. Your only extra expenses will be airfare, select alcoholic drinks, onboard purchases, and gratuities.
What services are available onboard?
If you need to contact your home or office for any emergency, all our vessels are equipped with a satellite phone. The cost of your call can be paid directly on board. We will inform you, prior to calling, of the current price of an international call. We do not have Internet connection onboard the vessels. For cellular phone contact you may need a special telephone that can operate on a foreign signal. Please check with your carrier. However, keep in mind that most areas outside Iquitos are so remote that you will be unable to get a signal. There is laundry service on all vessels, though not ironing service. We have paramedics on all vessels. There are no handicapped facilities.
What about tipping?
We are often asked what gratuity is appropriate for guides and crew, and our response is that the quality of service should determine the amount of any tip. From past experience, we recommend an amount in the range of USD 120 per passenger for the crew (to be divided among all the crew members and guides). Please bear in mind that this is merely a suggestion, since we believe that gratuities are a very personal matter. Tips are recommended in US Dollars or Peruvian Soles.
Will I get bored or feel confined? What if I don’t want to go on an excursion?
No. Being in the Amazon gives you a feeling of being completely transported to a new world. Every day will be packed with discoveries as you explore remote places, spot unusual wildlife, and meet with local native people. All of our vessels are floating boutique hotels where you will never feel confined. If there are days when you choose not to go onshore for a jungle expedition, you can stay on the vessel, where all our crew will be ready to pamper you. On board the Delfin II & III, there is an Exercise Room and Spa for massages and treatments which you can enjoy. Otherwise, lie back in a lounge chair, breathe in the Amazon air, soak up the sun, read a good book, watch the ever-changing view, and simply experience total relaxation in the heart of the Amazon jungle.
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