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*Please Note: This itinerary is operated during high-water season (November-May) and is for reference only. The itinerary may vary due to weather and other conditions. The low water season (June-October) runs with a slightly different route.
The Aqua Nera, currently under construction, is set to create a new level of luxury in the Amazon, perfectly combining contemporary design with affluent finishes. The design of the boat is inspired by the blackwater lagoon of the Amazon River, where the name Aqua Nera comes from. With this in mind, the interiors of the vessel consists of rich, dark-hued wooden elements complimented by Peruvian decor. The 1:1 guest to staff ratio guarantees a personalised service for all aspects of your Peruvian Amazon experience. With a maximum occupancy of 44 passengers, in 20 design suites, each and every guest will feel that they are on an exclusive and immersive adventure. Experience an unparalleled culinary experience with a menu designed by world-renowned chef Pedro Miguel Schiaffino complimented by first-class mixology. There are plenty of social areas to relax and unwind in, some of which include; both indoor and outdoor dining areas, lounges and bars along with an observation deck, outdoor plunge pool, a library, on board spa to only name a few.
Receive a warm welcome at Iquitos International Airport upon your arrival by the Aqua Expeditions crew and before enjoying lunch at a local restaurant. Your afternoon will continue with an introduction to the historic city of Iquitos and the opportunity to visit an indigenous Amazon community. In the early evening, you will embark on the Aqua Nera and settle into your generously-sized suite as you begin one of life’s greatest adventures. Following an introduction to your naturalist guides and a routine safety drill, gather at the restaurant for the first of many Amazonian cuisine experiences created by Aqua Nera’s consulted chef Pedro Miguel Schiaffino, whose restaurant, ámaZ, is one of Peru’s most renowned dining establishments.
Aboard the comfortable skiffs, set sail from the Amazon River to the Yarapa River for your first excursion. Ready your binoculars to spot tropical songbirds, black collared hawks and sloths. Line-fish for Amazon’s notoriously ferocious piranhas while the naturalist guides share stories of Lake Moringo. In the afternoon, sail on to Lake Clavero where villagers rely on traditional dugout canoes to get around. Swim in the lake’s calm waters or visit native residents of Amazonia who welcome you to their community with open arms.
Explore the blackwater tributaries of the Yanallpa River by skiff, disembarking to walk deep into the wildlife-rich Amazonian rainforest. Later, board the skiffs again to cruise along the El Dorado River for a dusk excursion in search of exotic nocturnal creatures.
In the morning, take a guided visit to the local market and marvel at the regional produce of the Peruvian Amazon, and sample exotic snacks if you wish. Return to the Aqua Nera for breakfast before disembarkation. En route to the airport, visit the Manatee Rescue Center, where orphaned Amazonian manatees rehabilitate before they are released back into the wild.