This morning transfer from your hotel in Manaus to embark on your thrilling Amazon River Expedition Cruise that ventures deep into these untouched rainforests.
The Amazon Rainforest is a 2.7-million square mile (6.7 million sq. km) conservation area that is the largest in the world, spreading across nine countries - Brazil, Bolivia, Peru, Ecuador, Colombia, Venezuela, Guyana, Suriname and French Guyana. Weaving in and out of small channels of the Rio Negro, the least inhabited river in the Amazon, we travel upstream to seek out the colourful tropical birds and fascinating wildlife that live here, with daily excursions led by experienced naturalist guides.
As we leave Manaus, we cruise through the Anavilhanas Archipelago, the world’s largest river island system. The boat will weave along a winding channel, with rainforest on both sides and from the observation deck you can see the riot of brilliant vegetation at the water’s edge. By mid-afternoon we leave the city behind, with both shores covered by dense rainforest. Here we may see some squirrel monkeys and perhaps hear howler monkeys. We may also see pink river dolphins. The Amazon has one of the greatest collection of birds in the world and we are sure to see some of these brightly coloured jewels perched in the treetops.
In the late afternoon we board the launches in search of wildlife. After returning to our riverboat for hors d’oeuvres on the observation deck, enjoy a rainforest sunset. Following dinner we set off in our launches again - this time in search of nocturnal creatures such as the caiman (a type of Amazonian crocodile). We may also see one of the large night birds, such as a potoo with its bulging eyes and large mouth adapted to swallowing huge moths.
Note: The exact routing of the boat will be adapted according to water levels and river conditions.