Riverboat to the Heart of the Amazon | 9 Days of Wildlife & Wild Waters

📍 Peru | Guided | All Essentials

Drift deep into Pacaya–Samiria aboard the 28-passenger Amatistasix nights of skiff safaris, jungle walks, and stargazing from the top deck.

Spot pink river dolphins, sloths, macaws, and caiman on dawn and night runs, meet a local shaman and an Indigenous family, and savour regional dishes between outings. Light activity, big wildlife, zero faff—the Amazon, comfortably in focus.

Lima → Lima

Lima → Lima

Moderate | Ages 12+

Moderate | Ages 12+

Hotels/Riverboat

Hotels/Riverboat

200% CO₂  Offset

200% CO₂  Offset

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Riverboat to the Heart of the Amazon | 9 Days of Wildlife & Wild Waters
Tour Overview

Riverboat to the Heart of the Amazon | 9 Days of Wildlife & Wild Waters

Slip from Lima into the green world of Pacaya–Samiria National Reserve, living aboard the 28–passenger Amatista while naturalist guides lead daily skiff forays at dawn and after dark. Think mirror–calm creeks, pink river dolphins, canopy calls, and night runs where caiman eyes flash like embers. On board, regional cuisine and breezy decks keep the tempo unhurried; on shore, village visits and jungle walks bring the rainforest close.

This is the Amazon done deeply but comfortably: six nights on the riverboat, flexible skiff landings tailored to water levels, and time to learn from local experts—including a visit with a local shaman and an Indigenous family. Start and finish in Lima, with flights to/from Iquitos and an included arrival transfer to keep things smooth. Light activity level—the adventure is in the setting.

Quick Facts

  • Duration: 9 days | Start/Finish: Lima → Lima (internal flights to/from Iquitos)

  • Style: Marine (small-ship) | Service Level: Upgraded | Group: Small group, max ~28, Age 12+

  • Difficulty: Light (2/5) — skiff outings, short jungle walks

  • Stays: 6 nights aboard Amatista, 2 nights upgraded hotels (Lima)

  • Meals: 8 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 6 dinners (drinks & tips on board not included)

Trip Highlights

  • Daily motorized skiff excursions (dawn & night) for wildlife: sloths, macaws, monkeys, pink dolphins

  • Pacaya–Samiria backchannels and lake systems—flexible routing with naturalist guides

  • Jungle walks for medicinal plants; village time in Nauta and an Indigenous family visit

  • Local shaman encounter for cultural context and rainforest knowledge

  • Manatee Rescue Centre stop en route back to Iquitos, time in Lima on either end

Good to Know

  • Included arrival transfer in Lima; internal flights are built in.

  • Expect hot, humid days and occasional rain; skiff landings use simple riverbank steps—light, grippy footwear is ideal.

  • Cabins are air-conditioned; the top deck is the go-to for sunrise coffee and dusk wildlife.

  • Drinks and tips on board are not included; allow a little extra for the bar and crew gratuities.

Booking Terms & Conditions

Open | Live Dates & Availability
Itinerary
Day 1 | Lima Arrival, Transfer & Welcome


Arrive any time—arrival transfer included. Meet a G Representative for your welcome briefing in the evening.

Optional (own expense):Lima Cooking Class (4 hrs) — market visit + hands-on prep and lunch (best booked with a pre-night in Lima).

Stay: Upgraded hotel (e.g., Radisson RED or similar), Lima.

Included meals: None.

Transport: Private airport transfer (≈45–60 min).

Day 2 | Fly to Iquitos → Board Amatista → Day & Night Skiff Safaris


Early flight to Iquitos, then transfer to the Amatista riverboat and settle in. Afternoon motorized skiff run—scan for grey & pink river dolphins, raptors, and riverbank life. After dinner, head back out for a night safari: listen for frogs, spot black caiman eye-shine, and watch the forest switch to its nocturnal cast.

Stay:Aboard Amatista (air-conditioned cabins).

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Transport: Flight Lima → Iquitos; embark riverboat.

Day 3 | Pacaya–Samiria: Dawn Birds, River Wildlife & Jungle Community Walk


Sunrise birding skiff (parrots, macaws, herons, black-collared hawks). Midday rest on deck, then a wildlife skiff along quiet creeks—look for squirrel & woolly monkeys, sloths, unusual fish, and river plants. Later, a jungle walk and community visit to learn local traditions. Optional night run to Piranha Creek after dinner.

Stay:Aboard Amatista.

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Included activities: Dawn birdwatching; river wildlife skiff; jungle/community walk.

Day 4 | Nauta Town, Sapi Sapi Lake & Back to the Backwaters

Come ashore to explore Nauta: hop local motocarros, browse the market, and practice your bargaining. Visit Sapi Sapi Lake—watch for turtles and the colossal arapaima. Rejoin the riverboat and continue deeper into the reserve; afternoon jungle walk focusing on medicinal plants, monkeys, and reptiles.

Stay: Aboard Amatista.

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Included activities: Nauta visit; Sapi Sapi Lake stop; guided forest walk.

Day 5 | Reserve Dawn Run, Yucuruchi & Victoria Regia, Night Safari


Early Amazon excursion as the forest wakes—iguanas, river turtles, wattled jacanas. Later, walk the Ucayali/Yucuruchi banks to see Victoria regia water lilies (leaves up to ~3 m). Dusk on deck, then another night skiff for the after-dark cast (bats, caiman, amphibians).

Stay:Aboard Amatista.

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Included activities: Dawn wildlife outing; Yucuruchi walk; night boat excursion.

Day 6 | Indigenous Family Visit & Shaman Encounter; Lectures & Skiff Options


Midday Local Living visit with a local Indigenous family—share a home-cooked meal and everyday perspectives. In the afternoon, meet a local shaman for insights into spiritual practice and the rainforest’s healing plants. Between outings, join onboard talks with your naturalists.

Stay:Aboard Amatista.

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Included activities: Indigenous family visit (lunch); shaman visit; education sessions.

Day 7 | Tributary Forays & Flexible Wildlife Time

Your guides tune the plan to conditions: quiet-water skiff explorations, short jungle walks, and time to track favourite species (from pink dolphins to primates and caiman). Evenings are for stargazing from the top deck.

Stay: Aboard Amatista.

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Included activities: Skiff/shore excursions (locations vary with water levels).

Day 8 | Choroyacu Breakfast Run, Piranha Fishing, Manatee Centre → Fly Lima


Early shoreline skiff to a picnic breakfast spot; continue up the Nahuapa River for piranha fishing and glide a dugout canoe along Choroyacu Creek. Disembark and drive to the Amazonian Manatee Rescue Centre to learn about rehabilitation work. Fly Iquitos → Lima; evening at leisure. (Order of visits may shift to optimize time and weather.)Stay: Upgraded hotel (e.g., Radisson RED or similar), Lima.

Included meals: Breakfast.

Transport: Private vehicle Nauta → Iquitos; flight Iquitos → Lima.

Day 9 | Lima Departure (or Keep Exploring)


Depart at any time. Your CEO can help arrange extra nights or day tours if you’re not ready to say adiós.

Included meals: Breakfast.

Optional (own expense): Lima city tour, bike Miraflores & Barranco, Larco Museum by night with dinner, or cooking class if you add a post-night.

Key Tour Info

Route Map
Food & Accommodation

Where You’ll Be Staying & What You’ll Be Eating

Where You’ll Be Staying

  • Nights 1 & 8 — Lima: Upgraded hotel (e.g., Radisson RED or similar). Modern rooms, walkable neighbourhood, 24/7 reception. Handy for pre/post flights and optional city add-ons.
  • Nights 2–7 — Aboard Amatista (Riverboat):Cabins: Air-conditioned, en-suite bathrooms, daily housekeeping, screened windows.Ship life: Indoor lounge for briefings, open top deck for sunrise coffee and sunset wildlife, small library, bar (own expense).Operations: Power via generator; Wi-Fi not expected; sockets available for charging between excursions.Landings: Daily skiff launches from a stable platform; simple riverbank steps on shore—bring grippy footwear.Vibe: Unhurried small-ship rhythm—wildlife by day, breezy deck chats by night.

Bags & comfort: Soft luggage packs best in cabins. Air-con cools the heat/humidity after outings; a light jumper is useful indoors at night.

What You’ll Be Eating

  • Included meals: 8 Breakfasts, 6 Lunches, 6 Dinners (most meals while aboard; breakfast on hotel days).
  • Onboard style: Fresh, regional Peruvian Amazon cuisine—river fish, veggies, tropical fruit, rice/beans, soups. Coffee/tea/water available; bar for soft drinks/beer/cocktails (own expense).
  • Excursion touches: Dawn picnic breakfasts, skiff snack stops when conditions allow.
  • Dietaries: Common requirements (vegetarian/vegan/gluten-light, lactose-light, allergies) can usually be accommodated with advance notice—tell us at booking and remind the crew on embarkation.
  • Hydration & health: Safe drinking water provided on board; bring a reusable bottle. Heat/humidity are real—carry electrolytes for skiff days.
  • What’s not included (food/drink): Specialty coffees, soft drinks, alcohol, and bar gratuities.
What's Included & What's Not

✅ What’s Included

Transfers, Flights & Transport

  • Arrival transfer in Lima (Day 1)
  • Internal flights: Lima ↔ Iquitos (round trip)
  • All on-trip ground/water transport: riverboat Amatista, motorized skiffs, and private vehicles as per itinerary

Accommodation

  • 6 nights aboard Amatista (air-conditioned cabins, en-suite)
  • 2 nights upgraded hotel in Lima (pre/post riverboat)

Meals

  • 8 Breakfasts, 6 Lunches, 6 Dinners (most meals while aboard; breakfast on hotel days)

Guides & Crew

  • Professional naturalist guides for daily skiff/walk excursions
  • Onboard team (captain, crew, kitchen) and trip support/representative

Included Activities & Experiences

  • Day & night skiff safaris throughout Pacaya–Samiria
  • Dawn birdwatching outings
  • Jungle walks (medicinal plants, wildlife tracking)
  • Nauta town visit (market & motocarros)
  • Sapi Sapi Lake stop (turtles, arapaima)
  • Local Indigenous family visit (Local Living) with shared meal
  • Local shaman encounter (Wellness Moment)
  • Choroyacu & Nahuapa: piranha fishing + dugout canoe experience
  • Amazonian Manatee Rescue Centre visit en route back to Iquitos
  • Onboard educational talks/briefings with naturalists

Fees & Access

  • Pacaya–Samiria Reserve navigation/entry fees where required

Notes

  • Daily routes/landings are flexible and may vary with water levels and wildlife activity to maximize sightings.

🚫 What’s Not Included

  • International flights to/from Lima
  • Departure transfer in Lima (post-tour)
  • Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
  • Visas/entry documents (if applicable)
  • Optional activities in Lima (e.g., Cooking Class, City Tour, Bike Miraflores & Barranco, Larco Museum by Night)
  • Beverages from the bar, specialty coffees/soft drinks, and personal snacks
  • Tips/gratuities for guides, crew, and drivers
  • Personal expenses: laundry, phone/Wi-Fi (not expected onboard), souvenirs
  • Personal gear: reusable water bottle, insect repellent, electrolytes, rain gear, etc.
Weather Expectations

Seasonal Weather Expectations

Overview
This trip splits time between coastal Lima and lowland Amazon (Iquitos/Pacaya–Samiria). Close to the equator, temperatures are steady; the big swing is rainfall and river levels. Expect high humidity in the rainforest year-round.

Rainfall rhythm (rule of thumb)

  • Amazon (Iquitos/Pacaya–Samiria):High-water / wetter: Dec–May — frequent showers/storms, higher river levels (easier skiff access to backchannels, fewer beaches).Low-water / drier: Jun–Nov — fewer, shorter showers; lower rivers (more sandbars, longer skiff rides to some creeks).
  • Lima (coast):May–Nov: Cool, overcast garúa (coastal mist), very little rain.Dec–Apr: Warmer, sunnier, still dry.

Typical temperatures

  • Amazon (on/near the river): 23–33 °C by day, 22–25 °C at night; feels hotter with humidity. Cabins are air-conditioned.
  • Lima (coast): 16–22 °C in the cool season; 20–28 °C in summer. Evenings can feel cool with sea breeze.

What it feels like on tour

  • Heat & humidity: You’ll sweat on skiff landings and jungle walks; pace is gentle with shade and water breaks.
  • Showers: Downpours build and pass quickly; decks dry fast. Rain is part of the soundtrack.
  • Bugs: Mosquitoes peak at dusk/dawn and in shady creeks—long, light layers and repellent help.
  • UV: Strong even when overcast—sunhat, sunglasses, SPF 30+ are essential.

River & wildlife notes

  • High water: Skiffs reach deeper into flooded forest; wildlife often viewed from the waterline (tree-top birdlife closer).
  • Low water: More exposed banks and sandbars; good for caiman, waders, and beach roosts; some creeks may require longer approaches.

Daylight

  • Near-equatorial ~12 hours year-round. Dawn and dusk are prime wildlife windows (expect early starts and some night runs).

What to wear/bring for conditions

  • Quick-dry clothing, breathable long sleeves/long pants for sun/bugs.
  • Light rain shell; a small dry bag for phone/camera on skiffs.
  • Grippy closed-toe shoes (landings can be muddy/slippery).
  • Electrolytes and a reusable bottle; drink steadily, not just at meals.
  • Light mid-layer for air-con spaces and cool Lima evenings.

Expectation setting
Weather and water levels shape the daily plan—your guides flex routes to put you in the right place at the right time. Rain or shine, wildlife is active; we adjust, not cancel.

⭐ Reviews
What To Pack

What to Pack

Bags & carry

  • Soft duffel or backpack (50–70 L) as your main bag (cabin-friendly).
  • Daypack (20–25 L) for skiff runs and shore walks.
  • Dry bags (2–10 L mix) to protect phone/camera/leafy field notes.

Documents & money

  • Passport, travel insurance, required visas/entry docs (digital + printed).
  • Credit/debit cards + some PEN cash for tips/bar/snacks.
  • Copies of key docs stored separately.

Footwear

  • Closed-toe shoes with grippy soles (landings can be muddy/slippery).
  • Light sandals/flip-flops for the boat/cabin.
  • Optional: water shoes for wet landings.

Clothing (quick-dry everything)

  • 3–4 breathable tees + 1–2 long-sleeve sun shirts.
  • 2 pairs lightweight trousers (zip-off/convertible handy).
  • 1–2 pairs hiking/active shorts.
  • Light rain shell/poncho (showers are part of the soundtrack).
  • Thin mid-layer (A/C indoors; Lima evenings can feel cool).
  • Swimwear; sleepwear for warm, humid nights.
  • Wide-brim hat/cap, buff/neck gaiter.

Sun, bugs & trail

  • Sunscreen SPF 30+, lip balm SPF.
  • Insect repellent (DEET or picaridin), after-bite.
  • Lightweight long sleeves/long pants for dawn/dusk skiff runs.
  • Sunglasses (polarised helpful on the water).

Hydration & energy

  • Reusable bottle (1–1.5 L) or two smaller; safe water provided on board.
  • Electrolyte tablets/sachets (1–2 per outing).
  • Favourite snack bars/nuts for early starts.

Health & hygiene

  • Personal meds + small first-aid kit (plasters, antiseptic, pain relief, rehydration salts).
  • Hand sanitiser, wet wipes, pocket tissues.
  • Sea/motion tablets (for small-boat chop).
  • Small laundry soap for sink washes (quick-dry fabrics win).

Tech & power

  • Power bank (10–20k mAh) + cables.
  • Universal travel adaptor (ship has standard outlets; Wi-Fi not expected).
  • Waterproof phone pouch; optional compact camera/binoculars.

Nice-to-haves

  • Lightweight binoculars (birdlife galore).
  • Field notebook/pen; guide app downloaded offline.
  • Collapsible walking pole (muddy trails).
  • Silicone earplugs/eye mask (for the best zzz on the river).
  • Small dry towel (microfibre).

Packing notes

  • Keep the daypack lean—heat + humidity make extra kilos feel louder.
  • Cotton stays damp; synthetics/merino dry faster and smell kinder.
  • Bar drinks & tips are own expense—tuck a bit of PEN cash where it’s handy.
Local Insights

Local Insights

  • High water vs low water = different magic:Dec–May (high): Skiffs can nose into flooded forest—tree-top birds at eye level; fewer beaches.Jun–Nov (low): More sandbars and exposed banks—great for caiman and waders; some creeks take longer to reach.
  • Skiff etiquette = better sightings: Sit light and quiet, keep hands inside, and wear closed-toe shoes (mud happens fast). When the guide kills the engine, that’s your cue—binocs up, chatter down.
  • Bugs love dawn & dusk: Long, light layers + repellent win. Dark clothes attract mozzies; olive/khaki blends in and stays cooler.
  • Rain is not a plot twist: Showers pass quickly and often improve wildlife action. Pack a dry bag for phone/camera and lean into the soundtrack.
  • Shaman & Indigenous family visits: Dress respectfully, ask before photos, and listen more than you speak. A small purchase (crafts) or kind words go a long way.
  • Wildlife distance = respect: Guides know the legal/ethical buffer. No baiting, no touching, no flash at night—red lights preserve night vision.
  • Night runs feel electric: Expect black-caiman eye-shine, bats, tree frogs. Bring a headlamp (red mode if you have it) and a light layer; river breeze can feel cooler.
  • Hydration beats heroics: The Amazon is a sauna with birds. Sip water + electrolytes steadily; don’t wait until you’re thirsty.
  • Deck craft: Early coffee on the top deck is prime for macaws and river dolphins. Midday heat? Shade + a lens cloth to defog optics.
  • Footing & landings: Riverbanks can be slick; step where the guide steps. Poles help on muddy climbs; your future self (and knees) will thank you.
  • Photography tips:Fast shutter for skiff motion; burst mode for birds.Use lens hoods in drizzle and keep a microfibre cloth handy.At night, no flash—bump ISO, use the boat’s spotlight spill.
  • Lima bookends: Even “dry” Lima can feel cool under the garúa. A thin layer is smart for evening strolls; Miraflores + Barranco are easy pre/post options.
  • Money moves: Bring small PEN notes for tips and markets in Nauta. Bar tabs on board are own expense; settle up before disembarkation.
  • Connectivity reality: Treat the river as an offline zone—it’s part of the charm. Download podcasts/playlists and maps in Lima.
  • Health baseline: Hand-wash/sanitise before snacks; follow crew guidance on safe water (it’s provided). Motion-sensitive? Pack sea-bands or tablets for choppy side channels.
  • Leave No Trace, river edition: Nothing overboard, ever. Keep sunscreen reef/river safe and toiletries biodegradable.
  • Spanish sprinkles: A few phrases unlock smiles—buenos días, por favor, gracias, muy amable. Your guides translate, but warmth is universal.
  • Mindset tip: The itinerary flexes with water and wildlife. That’s not a bug—it’s exactly how you end up in the right creek at the right moment.
CO₂ Footprint Report
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CO₂ Footprint

Results Summary (Topline)

  • Per guest (9 days): ~3.9 tCO₂e
  • Per sailing (assumed 28 guests, vessel capacity): ~109 tCO₂e
  • Counter-impact applied: 200% (targeting ~7.8 tCO₂e per guest)
  • Method note: DEFRA-aligned factors with Well-to-Tank (WTT) and Radiative Forcing (RF)=1.9 for aviation; +10% uncertainty uplift applied. Conservative assumptions throughout.

Purpose

Give guests a clear, conservative estimate of total trip emissions and the scope of our 200% counter-impact.

Tour Header

  • Listing: Riverboat to the Heart of the Amazon | 9 Days of Wildlife & Wild Waters
  • Style/Service: Marine (small-ship) | Upgraded | Age 12+
  • Route: Lima ↔ Iquitos (Pacaya–Samiria Reserve)
  • Stays: 6 nights aboard Amatista, 2 nights Lima hotels

Scope & Boundaries (what’s counted)

  • Guest travel to/from tour: Single feeder hub → Lima (open return), Lima → feeder hub after tour.
  • On-tour transport: Round-trip internal flights Lima ↔ Iquitos, riverboat propulsion, motorized skiffs, and ground transfers.
  • Accommodation: Riverboat + hotels (HCMI-style proxies).
  • Meals: All meals for trip duration (included + own-expense) using a conservative per-meal factor.
  • Activities: Modest allowance for skiff operations and fuel.
  • Excluded: Long-haul beyond feeder hub choice, shopping, extraordinary add-ons not typical for this itinerary.

Feeder Hub — Single Origin City

  • Miami (MIA) used for this Peru program for consistency across Latin America reporting.

Emission Factors & Conservative Defaults

  • Aviation (economy, short/medium-haul): ~0.158 kgCO₂e/pax-km, × RF 1.9, + WTT.
  • Water transport (riverboat/skiffs): conservative shared-use allowance based on small-ship fuel intensity.
  • Ground vehicles: ~0.09 kgCO₂e/pax-km (incl. WTT).
  • Accommodation proxies: Hotel ~12 kgCO₂e/night; riverboat ~18 kgCO₂e/night (shared systems).
  • Meals: ~2.5 kgCO₂e/meal (production + prep).

Activity Data (applied)

  • Aviation (guest):MIA → LIM → MIA: ~8,480 km totalLIM ↔ IQT (internal): ~2,040 kmTotal aviation distance: ~10,520 km
  • Riverboat operations (6 nights) + skiff excursions: shared fuel/ops allowance applied.
  • Ground transfers: Airport ↔ hotel, Nauta ↔ Iquitos.
  • Accommodation: 6 riverboat nights + 2 hotel nights.
  • Meals: ~20 (8B/6L/6D) counted; own-expense items included via per-meal factor.

Results — Per Guest (rounded)

  • Aviation (10,520 km; RF+WTT): ~3.15 tCO₂e
  • Riverboat & skiffs (shared ops): ~0.20 tCO₂e
  • Ground transfers: ~0.01 tCO₂e
  • Accommodation (8 nts): ~0.13 tCO₂e
  • Meals (~20): ~0.05 tCO₂e
  • Subtotal: ~3.54 tCO₂e
  • +10% uncertainty uplift:~3.89 tCO₂e
  • Rounded for communication: ~3.9 tCO₂e per guest

Results — Per Sailing (assumed 28 guests)

  • Estimated total: ~109 tCO₂e

Assumptions (key)

  • Feeder hub fixed to Miami (MIA) for consistency; other hubs vary (e.g., LAX typically higher, ATL similar, JFK slightly higher).
  • Riverboat/skiff factor set conservatively to avoid undercounting propulsion and generator use.
  • Meals counted in full (included + own-expense) to avoid optimistic bias.
  • +10% uplift covers seasonal water-level routing, wildlife-led detours, and load-factor variability.

Versioning

  • Method: Zero Trace Standard v1.9 (DEFRA-aligned; WTT included; RF 1.9 aviation).
  • Date: 3 October 2025.
  • Preparer: Zero Trace (marketplace methodology; not the tour operator).
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Tour FAQ's
How fit do I need to be?

Light (2/5). Short jungle walks and frequent skiff outings at dawn/evening. Landings can be muddy/slippery—closed-toe shoes with grip are key

What is the boat like—are cabins air-conditioned?

You’ll spend 6 nights aboard Amatista (max ~28 guests). All cabins have A/C and en-suite bathrooms. There’s an indoor lounge for briefings and an open top deck for wildlife watching.

What wildlife might I see?

Common sightings include pink/grey river dolphins, sloths, several monkey species, macaws/herons/raptors, and caiman on night outings. Nothing’s guaranteed—part of the magic is the search.

Are flights and transfers included?

Yes: arrival transfer in Lima plus round-trip internal flights Lima ↔ Iquitos. International flights are not included.

More FAQ's

Can you handle dietary requirements?

Usually yes with advance notice (veg/vegan/gluten-light, lactose-light, allergies). Remind the crew at embarkation; options are more limited than in cities but we plan ahead.

What’s included vs not?

Included: 6 nights riverboat + 2 hotel nights, 8B/6L/6D, all listed skiff/jungle activities, Indigenous family visit, shaman encounter, Manatee Rescue Centre, reserve fees, guides/crew.

Not included: international flights, Lima departure transfer, bar drinks, optional Lima tours, tips, personal expenses/gear.

Is there Wi-Fi or phone service on board?

Treat it as offline. Power sockets for charging are available; Wi-Fi is not expected. Download music/podcasts/maps in Lima.

How buggy/hot is it—what should I wear?

The Amazon is hot and humid. Mosquitoes peak at dawn/dusk. Wear breathable long sleeves/pants, bring repellent, and carry electrolytes. A light rain shell and dry bag for skiff days are clutch.

Can I swim?

Generally no—currents, visibility, and wildlife (including caiman) make swimming unsafe. You’ll get close to the water by skiff instead.

Will I get seasick?

Unlikely; rivers are usually calm. If you’re motion-sensitive, bring sea-bands or tablets for occasional chop in side channels.

What’s the dress code for community/shaman visits?

Modest and respectful: shoulders/midriffs covered, no flashy logos; ask before photos and consider buying a small craft to support your hosts.

Is this suitable for families/solo travellers?

Minimum age is 12+. Solo travellers are welcome—cabins may be twin share unless a single supplement is booked (subject to availability).

How much cash should I bring?

Bring small PEN notes for tips, markets in Nauta, and bar tab on board (drinks are own expense). Cards are unreliable on the river.

What about health and vaccinations?

Safe drinking water is provided on board; practice good hand hygiene. For vaccines/meds (e.g., yellow fever, malaria prophylaxis), consult a travel clinic well before departure.

Any luggage limits?

Pack soft luggage that fits cabin storage and a 20–25 L daypack for skiff outings. Internal flights typically have standard economy limits—pack light.

Photography tips?

Use fast shutter/burst mode from moving skiffs; keep a microfibre cloth handy. At night, no flash—guides will light with spotlamps when appropriate.

Best time to go? (High vs low water)

  • Dec–May (high water): deeper skiff access into flooded forest; fewer beaches.
  • Jun–Nov (low water): more sandbars and exposed banks; great for caiman and waders.

    Wildlife is excellent year-round—the feel changes with the water.
CO₂ Emissions
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Before your booking is confirmed

  • If we can’t confirm your spots after you’ve paid a deposit, we’ll issue a full refund of that deposit.

After your booking is confirmed

  • Cancellations follow the operator’s cancellation schedule (varies by trip and how close you are to departure).
  • Expect possible fees or non-refundable items (e.g., internal flights, permits, certain accommodations).
  • If a refund or credit is due, we’ll process it once the operator releases the funds and pass it back to your original payment method.

Instant-confirmation bookings (live operator calendars)

  • The operator’s T&Cs apply immediately on these. Some departures are non-refundable or have stricter windows.

How to cancel

  • Email us your booking reference, names on the booking, and a one-line request (“Please cancel”).
  • We’ll reply with the exact penalties/refund or credit per your operator before proceeding.

If the operator cancels or significantly changes your trip

  • You’ll be offered an alternative date, a travel credit, or a refund according to that operator’s policy. We’ll advocate for the best outcome for you.

Good to know

  • Refunds are returned to the original payment method; bank/FX fees aren’t usually recoverable.
  • Travel insurance is your friend for recovering non-refundable costs.
  • The earlier you contact us, the better your options typically are.
Can I change dates or transfer my booking?

Short answer: Usually yes, but it depends on the operator’s rules and how close you are to departure.

Date changes

  • We’ll check new-date availability with the operator.
  • If a change is possible, you’ll pay any applicable operator change fee plus any price difference for the new date.
  • The closer to departure, the tighter (and costlier) changes become; some trips treat late changes as a cancel + rebook under the operator’s policy.

Transfer to another person (name change)

  • Many operators allow a name change/transfer up to a certain cut-off.
  • Fees and deadlines vary by operator and services booked (e.g., flights may be non-transferable).

Instant-confirmation bookings

  • If you booked via a live operator calendar, the operator’s T&Cs apply immediately. Some departures are non-changeable or have stricter windows.

How to request a change

  • Email us with your booking reference, preferred new date/person’s details, and any flexibility.
  • We’ll confirm options, fees, and any price differences before making changes.

Pro tips

  • Ask early—more seats = more options, lower fees.
  • Consider travel insurance that covers change/cancellation costs.
  • Always check booking terms and conditions, links displayed on each tour page under the overview.
Are you accredited / is my money protected?

Yes. Your money is protected by our own accreditation and safeguards, plus the protections of our tour partners and the payment methods we use.

Our business safeguards

  • Legally registered business with documented booking & refund policies.
  • Commercial insurance appropriate to our operations.
  • VTIC Quality Tourism Accreditation (Quality Tourism Accredited Business) confirming we meet industry standards for customer service, safety, and risk management.

Operator-level protection

  • We partner only with established operators who maintain their own financial protections and clear refund/credit policies.
  • When you book via a live operator calendar, payment is processed directly by the operator and their protections/terms apply immediately.

How your payment is handled

  • All card payments run through a secure, PCI-compliant gateway; we don’t store your full card details.
  • If you book through a live operator calendar, payment is processed directly into the operator’s system, and their terms & protections apply immediately.

Your legal rights

  • Your purchase is also covered by consumer laws in your country/state (fair trading/refund rights). We reference the applicable jurisdiction on your paperwork.

Extra peace of mind

  • Paying by credit card may add chargeback protection from your card issuer.
  • We strongly recommend travel insurance to cover situations outside operator/consumer protections (your own cancellation, medical, delays).
Do you offer price matching?

Absolutely. Our prices update live from the operator, but if you spot the same tour on the same dates with the same inclusions and terms advertised for less — even in a public sale or promo — we’ll match it.

Already booked? We’ll refund the difference to your original payment method (eligibility applies, based on the final checkout price including taxes/fees from an authorised seller). And yes, the matched price still includes our 200% carbon offset — no dilution of benefits.

Do I need travel insurance?

Not for every trip—but for most travellers, we strongly recommend it

Some itineraries and partner operators do require insurance (especially remote treks, glacier walks, or bookings made via live operator calendars with mandatory cover).

When it’s required

  • Certain partners/departures make insurance compulsory and may ask for proof before departure. If you book one of these, their T&Cs apply immediately.

What good cover includes

  • Medical treatment & emergency evacuation/repatriation (high limits).
  • Trip cancellation/interruption (protects your deposit and balance if plans change).
  • Baggage & travel delay, and supplier default where available.
  • Coverage for all activities on your itinerary (e.g., trekking, glacier hikes, kayaking) and any relevant altitudes/conditions.
  • 24/7 assistance hotline and a clear claims process.

When to buy

  • At booking. That way, cancellation benefits start immediately and you’re covered if something crops up before you travel.

How to share proof

  • Email us your policy certificate (names, policy number, assistance phone).
  • If you booked via an instant-confirmation operator calendar, follow their proof instructions and deadlines exactly.

Are departures guaranteed?

Most departures run as planned, but guarantees depend on the operator and minimum numbers. If there’s a wobble, we’ll tell you fast and give you options.

How it works

  • Minimum group size: Most partners need a minimum number of travellers to confirm a trip.
  • When we confirm: Each operator has a confirmation window (often 30–60 days before departure). We monitor load and update you as status changes.
  • Any listing from "G-Adventures" will be guaranteed to run with a booking

If a trip is under-subscribed

  • We’ll contact you with clear options:

Move to another date (same tour)

Switch to a comparable trip

Full refund of monies paid (per the operator’s terms)

  • Any price differences for new dates/trips will be discussed before you decide.

If a trip is suspended (weather, park closures, strikes, force majeure)

  • First, we’ll look to re-route or adjust (e.g., alternative park, similar activities).
  • If that’s not viable, you can move dates, choose a different trip, or receive a refund/credit according to the operator’s policy.

Our promise

  • Proactive comms: We’ll keep you posted as soon as we know more—no last-minute surprises if we can help it.
  • No pressure choices: You pick the outcome; we handle the admin.
  • Flight advice: Until your tour is confirmed, book flexible/refundable flights or add insurance that covers schedule changes.

TRAVEL

TRAVEL

RESTORE

RESTORE

REPEAT

REPEAT

- RESERVE YOUR SPOT NOW -