Our moderate trips require an average level of fitness. Itineraries may include walks or short hikes of up to two to three hours with little elevation gain, sustained walking at higher altitudes, and/or other similar level physical activities. Many activities are optional.
How We Rate Our Trips
Easy: Our easy tours generally require fairly little exertion. Each day will involve walking, sightseeing and general travel-related activities such as getting in/out of vans, planes, boats, and zodiacs.
Moderate: Our moderate trips require an average level of fitness. Itineraries may include walks or short hikes of up to two to three hours with little elevation gain, sustained walking at higher altitudes, and/or other similar level physical activities. Many activities are optional.
Difficult: Our difficult trips may involve hiking over uneven terrain, with some hikes including significant elevation gain or loss and at higher elevations (up to 12,000 ft). Itineraries may include three to six hour hikes and other activities such as horseback riding, mountain bicycling, rafting and kayaking, which require no previous experience. On many trips, passengers may elect to skip a day's activity, depending on logistics.
Most Difficult: Our most difficult expeditions are for the adventurer who is in good physical condition. Itineraries may involve multi-day hiking and trekking excursions over steep, rugged terrain and/or where altitude may exceed 14,000 feet. Many trips include camping in remote areas and/or high altitude sites in varying temperature and weather conditions. Trips may also involve many days of demanding Class IV-V rapids, longer sea kayaking trips, horseback riding, and/or mountain bicycling. Training for the physical demands of these tours is highly encouraged.
In the realm of riverboat cruises, passengers aboard the Delfin I receive the best of both worlds—all the comforts of luxury accommodations and amenities in the most exotic of settings, the Amazon Rainforest. You spend each of your days in primordial forest on two or three hikes or on boating excursions in watercraft guided by an experienced naturalist, exploring wildlife-rich regions of the Peru Amazon in and around the spectacularly remote Pacaya Samiria National Reserve. While onboard, ... READ MORE >>
In the realm of riverboat cruises, passengers aboard the Delfin I receive the best of both worlds—all the comforts of luxury accommodations and amenities in the most exotic of settings, the Amazon Rainforest. You spend each of your days in primordial forest on two or three hikes or on boating excursions in watercraft guided by an experienced naturalist, exploring wildlife-rich regions of the Peru Amazon in and around the spectacularly remote Pacaya Samiria National Reserve. While onboard, you’ll be pampered by a wellness specialist and enjoy regional cuisine prepared by a gourmet chef.
This Amazon River journey is made all the more memorable for its eight passengers by the casual elegance of the air-conditioned vessel with open observation decks, bars, comfy seating areas for sightseeing and stargazing, plus spacious suites, all with private terraces and panoramic views. You may even shop for indigenous crafts of the region while you navigate between destinations. Natural wonders, dramatic scenery, bilingual guides knowledgeable about the flora, fauna and Amazon indigenous cultural history, wholesome, delicious meals and attentive crew make this a contemplative, rejuvenating voyage.
Itinerary
Itinerary (Delfin I - 4 days / 3 nights)
Day 1: Arrive in Iquitos, Peru - Travel to Nauta
Day 2: Canopy Walk - Yanayacu Pucate - San Regis - Nauta Cano Creek Exploration
Day 3: Fundo Casual Jungle Hike - Amazonas Village - Amazon River Headwaters
Day 4: ACOIBA – Iquitos Airport
Itinerary (Delfin I - 5 days / 4 nights)
Day 1: Arrive Iquitos, Peru - Travel to Nauta
Day 2: Canopy Walk - Primary Forest Hike - Yanayacu Pucate
Day 3: Fundo Casual Jungle Hike - Nauto Cano Creek Exploration
Day 4: Amazonas Village - Yarapa River
Day 5: ACOIBA - Iquitos - Transfer to Iquitos Airport
Your guides will meet you when you arrive at the Iquitos airport in the heart of the Peruvian Amazon. Enjoy the scenery on the 1.5-hour ride to the 19th century indigenous town of Nauta, situated between Iquitos and the Marañon River. Here you will board the Delfín I, your small Amazon River vessel, to get settled and await your launch at dusk. Tonight’s cocktail hour starts off with Peru’s signature cocktail, the Pisco Sour, made with Peruvian brandy, followed by your first sampling of Amazonian-Peruvian cuisine in the cozy dining room at the back of the ship’s second deck. On the top observation deck, your guides will conduct a brief orientation to describe the wildlife, history and geography you can expect on your upcoming Amazon tour, followed by live music under the stars. (L, D)
The day begins with a gourmet breakfast before heading out on the only canopy walk in this area, and one of the longest in the world. The boardwalk is suspended between 14 of the area’s largest trees 85 feet in the air. The path extends a third of a mile (500m). The canopy tour is accessible to all fitness levels and requires no special skills or equipment.
Next you’ll visit Yanayacu Pucate, one of the best-protected areas of the Pacaya Simiria National Reserve. Head out on a paddleboard across the water to see the wildlife first hand, or jump in and swim with the pink river dolphins that frequent the area. Afterward you’ll visit the small remote village of San Regis to meet Carola, the area’s local Shaman in charge of the spiritual and physical health of the local population.
Back aboard the Delfîn, you’ll enjoy lunch before heading out to kayak on Nauta Caño Creek. Cruising quietly along the shoreline is the best way to appreciate the variety of wildlife that populates these rivers and nearby marshes, streams and oxbows. Fish for piranha, and see for yourself how their carnivorous, bloodthirsty reputation is an exaggeration.
Equipped with powerful spotlights, this evening’s guided Amazon Rainforest safari takes you in search of night herons, pauraques, and speckled owls along the river’s banks. Spot caimans alligators in the pristine water, and watch fireflies flicker as the sky darkens. (B,L,D)
Early rising is always rewarding in the Amazon because wildlife is abundant and very active. Before breakfast you can choose to take an early morning bird watching excursion on the Fundo Casual jungle trail.
Later you’ll go to Amazonas, a remote village of 500 people deep in the jungle, where the only transportation is by canoe. You’ll meet a number of friendly villagers, who will show you how they peel and grate cassava and the process and tools they use to grow rice.
You’ll finish the day watching the sunset at the Unión de los Rios, where the Ucayali and Marañon tributaries merge to give birth to the mighty Amazon River. The area is a favorite feeding spot for the pink river dolphin. (B,L,D)
This morning before disembarking you’ll have the option of another visit to Amazonas after breakfast. On the trip back from Nauta to Iquitos Airport by van, you’ll stop at the Rescue and Rehabilitation Center for River Mammals (ACOBIA), where you can meet, pet and learn more about manatees, a gentle river mammal on the endangered species list. Your guides will then take you to the airport for your flight back to Lima, finishing your Amazon riverboat trip with Southern Explorations. (B)
Your guides will meet you when you arrive at the Iquitos airport in the heart of the Peruvian Amazon. Enjoy the scenery on the 1.5-hour bus ride to the 19th century indigenous town of Nauta, situated between Iquitos and the Marañon River. Here you will board the Delfín 1, your small Amazon River vessel, to get settled and await your launch at dusk. Tonight’s meal service kicks off with Peru’s signature cocktail, the Pisco Sour, made with Peruvian brandy, followed by your first sampling of Amazonian-Peruvian cuisine in the cozy dining room at the back of the ship’s second deck. On the top observation deck, your guides will conduct a brief orientation to describe the wildlife, history and geography you can expect on your upcoming Amazon tour, followed by live music under the stars. (L, D)
The day begins with a delicious breakfast. Today’s Amazon tours include the only canopy walk in this area, and one of the longest in the world. At a height of 85 feet (over 25m), it is suspended between 14 of the area’s largest rainforest trees and extends a third of a mile (500m). It is accessible to all physical fitness levels and requires no special skills or equipment. For today’s Amazon Rainforest hike, you’ll be on terra firma, unlike many of your other excursions in flooded forest.
Next you’ll visit Yanayacu Pucate, one of the best-preserved areas of the Pacaya Simiria National Reserve, where you’ll have the chance to experience the biodiversity first hand. Head out on a paddleboard across the water, or jump in and swim with the pink river dolphins. Afterward you’ll visit the small remote village of San Regis and meet Carola, the area’s local Shaman who is in charge of the spiritual care and physical health of the area’s inhabitants. (B,L,D)
Early rising is always rewarding in the Amazon because wildlife is abundant and very active. This morning you can take an early morning bird watching excursion on the Fundo Casual jungle trail before enjoying your gourmet breakfast.
Next you’ll head out to kayak on Nauta Caño Creek. Cruising quietly along the shoreline is the best way to observe the diversity of wildlife that populates these rivers and nearby marshes, streams and oxbows. Fish for piranha, and see for yourself how their carnivorous, bloodthirsty reputation is an exaggeration. Twenty-five different piranhas are found in the Amazon Basin, including black, white and red-bellied species.
Equipped with powerful spotlights, this evening’s guided Amazon Rainforest safari takes you in search of night herons, pauraques, spectacled owls, an assortment of species croaking from the river’s edge, and fish bats that fly over the water, scooping up fish. Speckled and black caimans are found in these pristine waters, and fireflies light up the surrounding jungle. (B, L, D)
Today after breakfast you’ll get a chance to explore Amazonas, a village of 500 people deep in the jungle, where the only transportation from place to place is by canoe. You’ll meet a number of friendly villagers, who will show you how they peel and grate cassava for their local bread and the process and tools they use to grow rice.
Later in the day, you’ll head up the Yarapa River for an intimate exploration of this Amazon tributary. The wide creek eventually opens into a hidden lagoon, home to hawks, terns, herons and several species of monkeys. These include the pygmy marmoset, the squirrel monkey and the Monk Saki with its thick fur and bushy tail. You’re also likely to see rivereños, the indigenous people who live in the area. (B, L, D)
This morning after breakfast you’ll leave the boat for the 95-kilometer trip back from Nauta to Iquitos Airport by private vehicle. On the way back to Iquitos, you’ll stop at the Rescue and Rehabilitation Center for River Mammals (ACOBIA) where you can meet, pet and learn more about manatees, a gentle river mammal on the endangered species list. Your guides will then take you to the airport for your flight back to Lima, finishing your trip with Southern Explorations. (B)
Weather
When to Visit
jan
feb
mar
apr
may
jun
jul
aug
sep
oct
nov
dec
Peru is a diverse country. With beaches, mountains, rainforest and desert, there is no off-season. But it does pay to know a bit about where you're going, and what you'll need on your Peru tour:
The Andes - Though officially part of the dry season, April and May are considered the Andean spring, while June through October marks the Andean summer. Mid-day temperatures range from 70 to 80 F in the sun. Nighttime temperatures in Cusco range in the 40s F and can dip into the 30s F. Weather is usually clear in the morning with clouds accumulating in the afternoon. Rain can happen in any season, so quality rain gear is essential.
The Amazon - A rainforest environment, the Peruvian Amazon has varied weather conditions and frequent unpredictable rain showers. It is generally hot and humid during the day with more comfortable temperatures through the night. Daytime high temperatures average between 82° and 93° F, and the average nighttime low is between 62° and 73°. Nevertheless, in some areas cold fronts can sweep into the Amazon and push daytime high temperatures down to 50° F and nighttime lows to 43° F. Any time of year, one should always be prepared for cooler temperatures and rain showers. Around 80% of the annual average 79 inches of rainfall occurs during the rainy season (December through March) when heavy rain may continue for hours or days.
Year Round Temperatures in °F, Rainfall in Inches
LIMA
Min-Max Air Temp
Avg Rainfall
JAN
68-79
0.0
FEB
69-80
0.0
MAR
69-80
0.0
APR
67-76
0.0
MAY
63-72
0.0
JUN
61-69
0.1
JUL
60-67
0.2
AUG
60-66
0.1
SEP
60-67
0.1
OCT
60-69
0.1
NOV
62-72
0.0
DEC
64-76
0.0
*Year Round Temperatures in °F, Rainfall in Inches
CUSCO
Min-Max Air Temp
Avg Rainfall
JAN
44-65
6.3
FEB
44-65
5.2
MAR
43-66
4.3
APR
41-67
1.8
MAY
39-67
0.3
JUN
33-66
0.1
JUL
32-66
0.2
AUG
35-67
0.3
SEP
39-68
0.9
OCT
42-69
1.9
NOV
43-69
3.1
DEC
44-69
4.7
*Year Round Temperatures in °F, Rainfall in Inches
PUNO
Min-Max Air Temp
Avg Rainfall
JAN
38-62
5.2
FEB
38-62
4.3
MAR
38-62
3.8
APR
33-62
1.5
MAY
25-62
0.4
JUN
19-61
0.1
JUL
18-61
0.1
AUG
22-63
0.2
SEP
29-64
0.8
OCT
33-65
1.5
NOV
35-66
2.0
DEC
37-64
3.6
*Year Round Temperatures in °F, Rainfall in Inches
PUERTO MALDONADO
Min-Max Air Temp
Avg Rainfall
JAN
71-88
13.6
FEB
70-87
12.8
MAR
70-88
11.9
APR
69-87
6.1
MAY
66-86
4.2
JUN
63-84
2.3
JUL
62-85
2.2
AUG
64-88
2.5
SEP
66-90
3.9
OCT
69-90
6.5
NOV
70-89
9.3
DEC
70-88
12.1
*Year Round Temperatures in °F, Rainfall in Inches
Boat Details Latest updates: Refurbished in 2010 Type of vessel: River vessel Port of Embarkation: City of Nauta Vessel´s Registry: Peru Length: 67 feet Beam: 33 feet Draft: 5´8” Capacity: 12 passengers Cruising Speed: Average 8 knots Life Jackets: one per passenger, available in each Suite
(click for enlargement)
Our trip was rather complex with three different sections (Amazon, Galapagos, and Machu Picchu (Peru)). There were a number of internal flights as well as trains, boats, and more. We also had coordination of people joining us part way through, special guides, and special activities for some people. I was very impressed that all of the transfers, activities, and connections occurred without a hitch. There were ample opportunities for things to go wrong, but the whole trip went exceptionally smoothly. All of the guides were outstanding - knowledgeable, personable, with good communication skills, and a good sense of humor. I appreciated the very small groups, which afforded just the right balance. We were able to see more than expected. It couldn’t have been better. - Linda Tredupp, Wisconsin (Amazon, Galapagos Island Cruise & Peru)
I was very impressed with the organization of our trip. Everything Southern Explorations was responsible for went smoothly and everything was on schedule. The Manatee on the Amazon had some initial trouble but it could not have been known or anticipated by SE. Once again I would like to compliment Jorge on his work. He made our comings and goings to and from Quito very easy. If I go to South America again my first call will be to Southern Explorations. Thank you. - Peter Tuck, CA (Corals & Manatee)
I have traveled many places in the world but the trip put together by Southern Explorations may well be the best. The amazing biology we saw on the Galapagos and in the Amazon, wonderful guides both on the Eclipse and at Sacha lodge, excellent food, and great coordination of the different parts of the trip made for an incredible journey. -Marilyn Parsons, USA (Galapagos Island Cruise & Amazon)
Please consider strongly using Southern Explorations to book your trip to South America. These folks are well organized and provided excellent preparation materials. The two tours that I took (Galapagos Islands and the Amazon) were outstanding, in part due to the people working with Southern Explorations. There was excellent communication between Southern Explorations staff and myself which helped markedly in planning the trip, the exact locations to be visited, and the accommodations. Do not miss this opportunity to work with this wonderful group! - Renée Leboeuf (Galapagos Island Cruise & Amazon)
Thank-you for the trip of a life time and I have already recommended you to everyone who asks! - Wendy Williams, Canada (Amazon, Machu Picchu & Galapagos Island Cruise)
Southern Explorations did a superb job creating an individual guided trip for us to the Amazon, Cusco, Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. The guides were terrific - well-informed, friendly and flexible. The accommodations were excellent. The trip was a thrilling experience for us - exceeded our expectations at all of the locations. Thank you!! - David Bergen & Rhea Feldman, USA (Amazon & Peru)
We had an outstanding time on our Galapagos Adventure + stay at the Sacha Lodge. Everything ran seamlessly and our guides were fun and knowledgeable. It was the perfect mix of activity, education, and relaxation! We also highly recommend the Sacha Lodge. - Eric & Leah Monson, USA (Galapagos Island Land & Amazon)
A: We offer a wide variety of itineraries suitable for all ages, fitness levels and personal interests. Figuring out the total number of days you are available to travel is a good starting point and your Adventure Travel Coordinator can guide you through the options.
Q: Can I make changes or additions to these tours?
A: Yes! We are happy to modify any tour to meet your needs and also add pre and post-excursion extensions. If you sign up for a group departure we cannot change the group portion, but we can add extensions before and after.
Q: When is the best time to go to Peru?
A: Many travelers like to visit Peru between the months of April and October, when the chances of rain are much lower. Avoid the height of summer (June through August) and the Christmas holiday season for smaller crowds and the best selection of accommodations.
Q: What is the weather like in Peru?
A: The most traveled section of Peru, where Cusco and Machu Picchu are located, has a dry season (April – October) and a rainy season (November – March) with daytime temperatures in the 60s and 70s and lows in the 40s. Rainfall and temperatures vary in other regions depending on season and elevation. Please see the weather tab on your specific trip for more details.
Q: What is a typical day like in Peru?
A: A typical day in Peru will vary from tour to tour, but generally you can expect to start your excursions right after breakfast with a full day of scheduled activities or sightseeing. Contact your Adventure Travel Coordinator to discuss the specifics of your tour.
Q: How physically fit do I need to be to enjoy a trip to Peru?
A: Our trips vary in level of activity, so the requirements differ based on itinerary. It’s important to keep in mind that much of Peru is at or above 8000’ above sea level which can add some difficulty to the activities. Please check our physical ratings for each itinerary to see what may be required of you when assessing your ability to enjoy a trip. If you have any specific questions, please contact your Adventure Travel Coordinator. We have personal experience with these activities and can help you decide whether a trip is right for you.
Q: How much time do we need to visit Peru?
A: We offer trips as short as 5 days, but recommend 7 days to adequately explore the Andean highlands (Cusco, Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu). If you wish to visit more than one region, we recommend travelling for at least 12 days.
Q: How far in advance should I book?
A: Peru is a popular destination and space at the most desirable hotels fills up quickly. As a rule, the further in advance you can plan, the more options you will have. We recommend planning at least six to nine months in advance throughout the year, and a year ahead of time for anything over the Christmas holiday season.
Q: What are your booking and cancellation policies?
A: Click here to see our booking and cancellation policies.
Q: Do you use certified guides?
A: Our guides have been carefully selected for their knowledge, professionalism, experience and ability to effectively manage groups with finesse. We hire only guides who are native to the destination and are licensed and/or certified in accordance with the government regulations of their country. All are fluent in Spanish and English, and some also speak indigenous languages. Most have advanced degrees in tourism, biology, native culture or other related field. All guides are experienced in the outdoors and trained in basic first aid.
Q: What kind of accommodations can I expect?
A: We primarily work with 3 and 4-star hotels that meets our standards. We also work with several amazing 5-star properties. All of our hotels are clean, comfortable, well-located, offer en suite bathrooms and have been personally vetted by a Southern Explorations’ staff member.
Q: Do tours include airfare?
A: We will confirm all airfare within South America and this price will be listed separately from our base tour costs. You are responsible for booking international flights to/from Peru.
Q: How many people are on your tours?
A: We operate our scheduled group trips with a minimum of two and a maximum of eight guests, except on the Inca Trail trips, which have a maximum of 12 guests. This policy minimizes our environmental impact, allows us to travel to areas less visited, and makes the sightseeing experience more personal. It allows our guides sufficient time to attend to the individual needs of each visitor. Traveling in small groups also increases the likelihood of encountering wildlife in some areas, such as the Amazon. Some all-inclusive lodges and cruises offer excursions with their in-house guides and groups for those days may exceed eight travelers.
Q: Will I get more information on packing, vaccines, currency, electricity, etc.?
A: After booking you will receive a link to our online trip portal which includes all of the need-to-know information that is specific to your itinerary. This includes packing lists, restaurant recommendations, tipping guides, FAQs, vaccine recommendations and currency information. Your Adventure Travel Coordinator will also be a great resource for any other information you may need.
“This was our second trip of a life time with Southern Explorations! Thank you for all of your help and attention to details! This was truly a wonderful trip!”
Kathy Tyndall - MD
Custom Private Argentina Tour
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