This is a journey that takes us into the endless heart of biodiversity, the Amazon Basin. Our First-Rate River Cruise Vessels make it possible for you to explore the remote nature of this jungle in total comfort and leisure. The Anakonda Amazon Cruises and Manatee are state-of-the-art vessels specifically designed to navigate the Napo River in the Ecuadorian Amazon. Our wide array of onboard services and amenities will ensure your full comfort and enjoyment as you explore this region of the world.
Cruise Itinerary:
Anakonda: Sundays – Wednesdays
Manatee: Fridays – Mondays
Day 1
QUITO – COCA – NAPO RIVER
Our adventure begins in the city of Quito, Capital of Ecuador. After taking a short 30- minute flight from Quito to the Amazon city of Coca, located in the Province of San Francisco de Orellana, we will transfer to the dock and board our motorized canoe to begin our journey down the river for approximately an hour and a half, taking in the first sights and sounds of the Amazon. Soon, we will reach the Amazon Cruise Ship and receive our welcome aboard.
Once we have settled into the Amazon Cruises, we will be joined by expert local naturalist guides who will provide us with a brief and informative introduction to the Ecuadorian Amazon, after which guests will have their first opportunity to the exciting features of our cruise ship: spacious social areas, comfortable suites, and the observation deck that allows us to admire the changing rainforest landscape as we glide down the Napo River.
After dinner, we will plunge straight into the Amazon by going for a nighttime forest walk to observe the forest’s nocturnal activity and experience the thrill of the vivid noises and aromas that come from so much biodiversity.
Day 2
PAÑACOCHA BIOLOGICAL CORRIDOR
We continue to travel downstream to the Pañayacu River delta, where we will take a canoe trip to experience the sights of this fascinating water reserve. Pañacocha Lake is an ecosystem flooded by blackwaters. Pañacocha means “Piranha Lake” in the native Quechua language. The surrounding protected Rainforest is home to 9 species of primates, 500 species of birds and more than 100 fish species. This is the perfect habitat for Piranhas, the Water Monkey Fish (Arawana) and the White Caiman.
In this little piece of paradise, we will participate in nature walks led by our local naturalist guides, and relax at a nearby campsite where we will enjoy a delicious Amazon-style BBQ and refreshing beverages.
After lunch, we will do some kayaking, and the bravest among us will enjoy a nice refreshing swim in the Piranha Lake! We promise it’s not as dangerous as it sounds!
Back on board the Anakonda Amazon Cruises, our guests will have the opportunity to attend a lecture given by our concierge and watch an educational documentary about the region.
Day 3
PARROT CLAY LICKS – AMAZONIAN COMMUNITIES & OBSERVATION TOWER
This morning, we will set out on canoes to observe one of the most incredible sights on this side of the Western Amazon – the Parrot Clay Licks. This unique place is rich in minerals and attracts hundreds of colorful parrots, parakeets and amazon birds, every day.
Later, we will visit a Quechua Cultural Center, where we will learn about Amazon communities and their ancestral culture, traditions, and cuisine. Members of the local community will teach us about indigenous lifestyles along the Napo River and we will have the opportunity to support the local community by purchasing handicrafts, local products, and souvenirs.
Before sunset, we will visit an observation tower in the rainforest canopy, which offers an astonishing 360-degree view of the Amazon basin and is the perfect photo opportunity! Birdwatchers and bird-lovers alike will especially enjoy this outing.
Day 4
RETURN
This is where our adventure ends! Enjoy the last part of our return journey onboard and then disembark the Anakonda Amazon Cruises to take the motorized canoe back to Coca (one-and-a-half-hour ride).
Rates in 2020
Based on double occupancy. For single or triple rates, please inquire.