Amazon River Cruises
Pink dolphins, scarlet macaws and a canopy alive with sound. An Amazon river cruise ventures deep into the world’s greatest rainforest by intimate expedition ship.
An Amazon river cruise trades ports for rainforest: small expedition ships and skiffs carry you along Peru’s Upper Amazon around Iquitos or Brazil’s vast lower river from Manaus, with naturalist guides, jungle walks and wildlife at every bend. A specialist matches the region, ship and season and adds Machu Picchu or Rio.
Why Cruise the Amazon?
Wildlife up close
Pink dolphins, macaws, sloths and caiman by skiff.
True expedition
Small ships and naturalist guides off the beaten path.
Peru or Brazil
Iquitos’ Upper Amazon or Manaus’ mighty river.
Add the icons
Pair with Machu Picchu, Cusco or Rio.
Along the Amazon
Iquitos, Peru
Gateway to the Upper Amazon and Pacaya-Samiria.
Manaus, Brazil
Meeting of the Waters on the lower Amazon.
Skiff safaris
Dawn and dusk wildlife launches.
Rainforest walks
Guided jungle treks and village visits.
Popular Amazon Itineraries
- Peru — Upper Amazon from Iquitos
- Brazil — the lower Amazon from Manaus
- Skiff wildlife safaris & night excursions
- Machu Picchu & Cusco add-ons (Peru)
- Rio de Janeiro & Iguazú extensions (Brazil)
Ready to cruise the Amazon?
Tell us your dates, region and add-ons and we’ll compare the best sailings. Get up to 5 free, no-obligation quotes from a river cruise specialist.
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Amazon River Cruises — Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time for an Amazon cruise?
High-water season (roughly December–May) floods the forest for deeper skiff access; low water (June–November) exposes beaches and trails. A specialist advises by region.
Peru or Brazil for the Amazon?
Peru’s Upper Amazon (Iquitos) offers intimate luxury expedition ships; Brazil (Manaus) offers the mighty lower river. Both deliver superb wildlife.
Are Amazon ships comfortable?
Yes — most are small, well-appointed expedition vessels with guides, skiffs and included excursions.
How do I get an Amazon cruise quote?
Request up to 5 free, no-obligation quotes from a river cruise specialist and compare ships and land add-ons.