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Iconic Amazon: Tambopata & Delfin III
Spot elusive animals and explore the deep jungle at fascinating Tambopata Research Center, then travel down the Amazon by ship on the stunning Delfin III.
SPECIAL OFFER
8.2*
ECO SCORE
2
PASSENGERS
11
DAYS
3.5/5
ACTIVITY LEVEL
The Amazon: Drink It In
Welcome Aboard the
Delfin III
Travel by motorized canoe deep into the Peruvian rainforest to visit the Tambopata Research Center, one of the most remote lodges in South America. By day, explore the lush habitat you've only imagined where sightings can be had of capybara, brightly colored macaws, dart frogs, and other exotic species. By night, enjoy lovely accommodations and expert service. Next, journey to Iquitos and board the lovely Delfin III. Breathtaking sceneries, luxuriant forests, and endless expanses come together with first-rate service to create a magical environment on this Amazon river trip. This iconic ship and land exploration of the Peruvian Amazon is an experience you'll never forget.
- • Experience the Amazon jungle both by land and by river on this rare itinerary that offers you the very best of both.
• Choose from a wide variety of nature hikes, canopy walks, skiff explorations, and even night walks that focus on a plethora of species including butterflies, monkeys, macaws and medicinal plants.
• Travel with this Peruvian operator who gives back to local communities and on a ship that uses all local materials crafted by local artisans.
Travel Curator’s Insights:
SPECIAL OFFER:
Rates:
From $7,195 per person
Policies and protocols provided before you book.
Year-Round Departures
Ask us for your custom dates
Year-Round Departures
Ask us for your custom dates
Departures:
Trip Sustainability Awards
Carbon
Staff and clients participate together in reforestation campaigns
Education
Company annually funds and builds new libraries in rural communities.
Community
Peruvian operator provides jobs and training to local communities
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive Lima
Transfer to your hotel located in the bohemian district of Barranco. No meals on this day.
Accommodation: Hotel B
Hotel B: The only Relais & Châteaux hotel in Lima, this restored Belle Époque mansion was first built in 1914 as a summer home for a wealthy Lima family. After extensive restoration work, this white stucco mansion regained its former glory and began a new life as a luxury boutique hotel in May 2013.
Day 2: The Colors & Tastes of Lima
This morning, explore one of the most iconic and picturesque markets in Lima. See, taste and purchase the most popular ingredients used in Peruvian cuisine such as chirimoya, passion fruit, native varieties of potatoes, tubers, roots, aromatic herbs and grains. And don’t forget the impressive seafood section! After the market, we will continue to a popular restaurant for a very personal cooking experience with our culinary expert and the restaurant's chef.
After lunch, continue to Barranco. The Bohemian district of Barranco is renowned for its art culture, designers, musicians and creative tribe. First, we will head to Dedalo, which is considered to be one of Lima’s best shopping examples of contemporary Peruvian art. Head to the contemporary art museum, the MAC, which presents a collection of national and international contemporary art dating from 1950 onwards.
Finally, get to know and try various types of coffee and chocolate through well designed pairings for an optimal experience of both products, which are made in Peru. This day includes Breakfast and Lunch.
Accommodation: Hotel B
Alternate Option: Visit the Larco Herrera Museum, housed in an 18th century colonial mansion in the district of Pueblo Libre. This museum holds the most extensive collection of pre-Columbian art in Peru.
Day 3: Lima – Puerto Maldonado – Tambopata Research Center
Fly from Lima to Puerto Maldonado and travel by motorized canoe to the lodge. Your first glimpse of the massive Amazon jungle will happen during this boat ride deep into the verdant forest. As we cross the confluence with the Malinowski River, we leave the final traces of human habitation behind. Within the 700,000 hectares uninhabited nucleus of the reserve, sightings of capybara, caiman, geese, macaws and other large species will become more frequent.
The next days are yours to take advantage of the variety of included activities at Tambopata Research Center which are designed to connect you with the dense rainforest, maximize wildlife encounters, and share the local culture. Although you can design your own Amazon experience and let your inner explorer out, the following itinerary is a suggestion for your stay.
Amazon Overlook Trail: This afternoon, join the Amazon Overlook Trail. A three to five-kilometer hike through a regenerating old bamboo forest will lead us to the edge of stunning overlooks which commands magnificent views of the capriccios Tambopata River as it winds its way into the lowlands. Duration: 1.5 hours. Difficulty level: Moderate.
Night Walk: Join an amazing night walk. Walking through the rainforest at night challenges all your senses. In deep darkness, surrounded by an array of jungle sounds and with the aid of your guide’s powerful spotlight, you enter a world inhabited by the most unique, diverse and shy night creatures. If fortunate, you will be able to find poison dart frogs, night monkeys, tarantulas, amphibians and insects with the most unique adaptations to life under the cover of darkness. Duration: 1 hour. Difficulty level: Easy. This day includes all meals.
Accommodation: Tambopata Research Center.
Tambopata Research Center: Tambopata offers a unique travel experience. The rooms have modern amenities with comfortable beds, with mosquito nets. The outside walls are open to the jungle. The lodge features 300 meters (almost 1000 feet) of elevated walkways! These walkways are located in the perfect level of the forest — in between the canopy and the floor — where wildlife becomes more active, allowing you unprecedented opportunities to spot animals. The service is expert and the cuisine is wonderful. Since 1989, researchers have been carrying out groundbreaking Macaw conservation research from the Tambopata Research Center.
Day 4: Tambopata Research Center
Here are some recommended activities for this day:
Macaw Clay Lick - Colorado: Before breakfast, on most clear mornings of the year dozens of large macaws and hundreds of parrots and parakeets congregate in a raucous and colorful spectacle on a cliff located near the lodge. This spellbinding spectacle inspired a National Geographic cover story. We will install ourselves on the opposite side of the Tambopata River at approximately fifty meters (165 feet) from the cliff. From our unobtrusive spot and with the assistance of powerful telescopes and weather permitting, we will be able to observe Green-winged, Scarlet and Blue-and-gold Macaws and several species of smaller parrots and parakeets as they descend to ingest clay. Outings are at dawn when the clay lick is most active. Return to the lodge. Duration: 2.5 hours. Difficulty level: Easy
Monkey Search: An entirely different habitat featuring smaller, thinner trees atop hills and slopes is covered by this five-kilometer trail. A favorite ecosystem for the many monkey species who inhabit Tambopata region. Great opportunity to learn about these curious and lively habitants of this captivating forest. Duration: 1.5 to 2.5 hours. Difficulty level: Moderate.
Island Exploration and Pond: After lunch and ten minutes upriver from the lodge is a small pond with a platform in the middle. It is a great place to spot waterfowl such as the beautiful Agami heron, Capped heron, the rare curassow, Muscovy duck, Sunbittern and hoatzins along with woodpeckers, oropendolas, flycatchers and parakeets that call this pond their home. You will also have an opportunity to learn about the varieties of fish that live in the amazon. If you are fortunate, you may even get to see a caiman or two. Duration: 2 hours. Difficulty level: Moderate.
Macaw Project Lectures: After dinner scientists will provide an in depth look at the biology of macaws. You will learn about their feeding habits, the theories for clay lick use, their breeding and feeding ecology, population fluctuations and the threats to their conservation. These lectures also will provide you with an opportunity to find out how to get involved and/or support this amazing project. Duration: 45 minutes. All meals included this day.
Accommodation: Tambopata Research Center.
Day 5: Tambopata Research Center
Every morning is different at the clay lick, because of that you have another chance to join the morning excursion. Here are some additional jungle opportunities:
Amazon Creek Trail: In the morning, continue your exploration of the rainforest and it’s endless diversity by hiking in the Terra Firme forest, which is traversed by many creeks that wind their way towards the Tambopata River. Our main focus during this activity is to have an in-depth understanding of the surrounding forest and creek ecology. Duration: 3 hours. Difficulty level: Challenging
Palm Swamp Trail: This afternoon, growing on the remains of an oxbow lake and providing both arboreal as well as terrestrial mammals with fruits throughout the year, the aguaje palms are one of the most important food sources in the rainforest. Unfortunately, this habitat is also in high demand by humans since the swamps provide ideal conditions for planting rice, making the palm swamps one of the most threatened habitats in the rainforest. Once thing is certain. Swamps are truly picturesque habitats and should be in everyone’s short list of places to visit during your stay at Tambopata Research Center. Duration: 3 hours. Difficulty level: Challenging. All meals included this day.
Accommodation: Tambopata Research Center.
Day 6 Tambopata Research Center
Have a relaxing morning, visit the clay licks again or try one of these activities:
The Rainforest Master Hike: This is the perfect outing for the hardcore hiker and nature lover. Crisscrossing through an array of ecosystems and an endless network of trails, this hike will take around 6 hours and maximize your opportunities for wildlife. Bring plenty of water and repellent! Duration: Half-day. Difficulty level: Challenging.
The World of Butterflies: If you love butterflies you will enjoy this activity. The Tambopata region holds the record for more species of butterflies in the world. Our researchers and guides have identified their favorite habitats according to the species. Large, small, colorful, transparent… you are in for a delightful visual experience. Also this is a great chance to photograph these colorful creatures. Apart from witnessing an extraordinary nature show, you will have the opportunity to learn about their behavior and amazing adaptations methods to survive in the rainforest. Duration: 2 hours. Difficulty level: Easy. All meals included.
Accommodation: Tambopata Research Center.
Day 7: Puerto Maldonado – Iquitos
Your visit will make a direct contribution to the Macaw Project and the National Reserve of Tambopata. You will take the journey back to the city to the airport for your national flights onwards, first to Lima and then Iquitos. Upon arrival, transfer to your Iquitos hotel and stay overnight. This day includes Breakfast.
Accommodation: Double Tree Iquitos
Double Tree Iquitos: Overlooking Plaza de Armas de Iquitos, our hotel sits at the historic heart of Iquitos, steps from St. John the Baptist Cathedral. We're two blocks from the portside, linked to the Amazon River, and less than three kilometers from the airport. Enjoy a luxurious outdoor pool and waterfall, massage therapy, and a warm welcome cookie upon arrival.
Day 8: Amazon River via Delfin III
Arrive at Nauta port. Nauta is a small riverside town on the banks of the Marañon River and was the first city founded in the department of Loreto. Once we reach Nauta, you will enjoy a VIP greeting at our private port along the shores of the Marañon River where the vessel awaits you.
Embarkation: 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. Orthopedic 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.
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. 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.
Marañón River: We head down into the Marañon River to a location known as Pahuachiro. This lovely spot is an ideal place to spend some time in search of birds and playful monkeys. As your naturalist guide spots various creatures for you, The landscape adorned by the usual colors of the sun's reflections is a great photo opportunity as you witness your first Amazon Rainforest Sunset. All meals included.
Accommodation: Delfin III
Day 9: Amazon River via Delfin III
On your first morning onboard, we recommend getting up early to appreciate one of the most important zones of the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve. Never does nature seem more bountiful than in the tropics, and early rising is always rewarding since wildlife is most abundant and active with the rising of the sun. The early morning hours are the best time of day to watch birds, observe their special displays and listen to their songs.
We will jump on the skiffs and head to this area with large trees and old palm trees as well, these components favor the presence of several parrot species. This particular spot also has a great number of other birds of different species. We will look for the famous hoatzins nesting a few feet above water, and perhaps a sloth or two of the three toed kind.
Amazon Natural Park: This very unique opportunity, you will get to the only Canopy Walkway in this area, an experience unequaled in the rainforest! At a height of over 25 meters (85 feet) and extending for 500 meters (one-third of a mile), the Canopy Walkway provides a view of the rainforest from the treetops, the best vantage point for observing Amazon wildlife and vegetation. The Canopy Walkway is accessible to all and requires no special skills or equipment. The suspended walkway is spread between 14 of the area’s largest rainforest trees and is one of the longest canopy walkways in the world.
Yanayacu Pucate: Cruise through the Yanayacu and Pucate Rivers, peeking into different creeks and lagoons. 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 kayaks or paddle boards. You will even have the opportunity to spot the famous pink dolphins! After dinner, enjoy a night safari on Nauta Caño. All meals included.
Accommodation: Delfin III
Day 10: Amazon River via Delfin III
Nauta Caño Creek is known for squirrel and silver back tamarillo monkeys, birds, dolphins, and even sloths! We will skim the riverbanks for small caimans and spiders, as well as insects of all colors, shapes and sizes.
Fundo Casual: The walk at Fundo Casual jungle trail will take you deep into the rainforest on terra firme (non-flooded forest) where your guide will point out the dynamic creatures and vegetation of the Amazon. Be sure to keep an attentive eye open for spotting surprises! Its almost unbelievable how with every step you find something along the way. Almost definitely Anaconda, Rainbow Boas, Tarantulas, Poison Frogs, and most recently porcupines have been spotted. This is one of the very few places in the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve Amazon Rainforest where you will spot the ever so elusive 2-toed sloth. All meals included.
Accommodation: Delfin III
Day 11: Departure
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.
On our way from Nauta, visit the Rescue & Rehabilitation Center of River Mammals (Amazon Forever) 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. 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. Fly from Iquitos to Lima and then home after midday.
Delfin III
The Delfin III offers 22 suites with the highest levels of comfort for up to 44 passengers. On the first deck, there are 8 Suites complete with floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows as well as 2 spacious Corner Suites facing the front of the ship. The second deck is comprised of 10 Upper Suites and the largest of all, the Owner’s Suite. The top deck features beautiful indoor and outdoor lounge areas, a sundeck with plunge pool, a spa and gym, and of course the bar.
The Owner’s Suite has the most spacious interior of all the cabins. Located on the second deck in the front of the ship, guests will enjoy breathtaking views of the expansive river through 180 degrees of floor-to-ceiling windows. Added amenities include: one complimentary 30-minute spa treatment per guest, stocked minibar, scented bath upon request and complimentary laundry. Our 2 Corner Suites offer breathtaking views of the expansive river through 90 degrees of floor-to-ceiling windows. Upper Suites and Suites enjoy king-size beds with fine Peruvian cotton and comfortable sitting areas. From birdwatching to adventurous excursions, trail walks, paddle boarding, fishing and more, the Delfin III has it all!
Capacity: 44 Guests
Cabins: 22
Specialists: Highly-credentialed Naturalists, Expert Crew
ACHIEVEMENTS
Two-time Winner: Conde Nast Johansens’ Excellence Award
Exclusive Relais & Châteaux member
Featured in Travel & Leisure's River Cruise Guide to South America
"All three of the Delfin ships are stunning to look at and feature the use of local materials in all their construction and furnishings. These ships are run by a Peruvian company and are deeply committed to protecting the fragile communities and environment lining the shores of the Amazon. The Delfin III has all the luxury amenities you would expect including Relais & Chateaux fine dining and, very importantly, air conditioning. In addition, this operator's connection to the local people and economy make you feel great about selecting her for your Amazon adventure."
Wild Nectar
Life On Board
Deck Plan
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Questions?
Rates
Questions?
We asked our Peru operator to design this itinerary expressly for our travelers who prefer both luxury and a powerful experience of this unparalleled destination. This land and ship approach offers the very best of what the Amazon has to offer.
Joy Martinello, Founder
Questions?
What’s Included & Cancellation Policy:
WHAT'S INCLUDED
All meals while on board (arrival day: 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 Iquitos; Entrance fee to Pacaya Samiria National Reserve; House drinks vary per vessel.
NOT INCLUDED
International or domestic air tickets; Excess baggage charges; Additional nights during the trip due to flight cancellations; Alcoholic beverages; Insurance of any kind (recommended); Laundry; Phone calls, radio calls or messages; Other items of personal nature; Gratuities; Extra expenses originated in itinerary changes or others due to force majeure or other circumstances beyond this operator's control.
Not Included on Delfin III:
Air tickets to/from Iquitos; Cost of medical emergencies (including evacuation); We strongly recommend you purchase travel insurance; Gratuities (amount suggested per guests: US$ 120.00); Any additional transportation services; Any additional bar consumptions, and Spa services.
