Manatee Amazon Cruise | Ecuador Amazon River

Manatee Amazon Explorer Cruise

Almost 500 years have gone by since the discovery of this remarkable river system, which flows through the world’s largest primeval forest. This ecosystem harbors 10% of the Earth’s trees, 70% of known medicinal compounds, and indigenous communities that coexist harmoniously with their surroundings. It is a haven for wildlife, where you might have the chance to spot—or be spotted by—freshwater dolphins, 500 species of birds, several types of monkeys, caimans, tapirs, and an impressive 2,500 species of butterflies.

Begin your adventure with a morning flight from Quito to Coca, arriving around 9:00 AM. From the Napo River port, enjoy a two-hour motorized canoe ride downstream, accompanied by a box lunch and regional insights. Once aboard the Manatee Amazon Explorer, continue your journey down the Napo River, exploring its wonders throughout the afternoon. In the evening, embark on your first immersive Amazon experience, which may include a night walk or canoe ride, depending on weather and water levels.

Delve into a tributary of the Napo River, deep within Yasuní National Park, to search for rare wildlife like Giant River Otters, Jaguars, and Spider Monkeys. After the excursion, the journey continues toward the Peruvian border. In the evening, a nocturnal exploration may reveal animals such as Capybaras and Caimans. An optional overnight camping experience is also available for an unparalleled jungle encounter.

Sail along the Aguarico River, the largest tributary of the Napo River, into the Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve. This biodiverse area offers opportunities to observe rare flora and fauna. A stop at a Peruvian town along the way provides a chance to interact with the local community and learn about their culture.

Spend the day visiting a local indigenous community within the forest. Guided by naturalists and community members, discover traditional uses of medicinal plants and daily forest life. Visit a local home to experience their way of living, enjoy traditional food, and shop for handmade crafts unique to the region.

Explore the Lagarto (Alligator) River and its surrounding ecosystems. Lagartococha, a lake system straddling the Ecuadorian-Peruvian border, is home to Pink River Dolphins, Black Caimans, and the mysterious Amazon Manatee. The area also hosts Red Howler Monkeys, Three-Toed Sloths, and the unique Hoatzin bird. A canoe trip offers close encounters with this rich wildlife, and an overnight camping option is available for those seeking an authentic jungle experience.

Begin your return journey, cruising along the Napo River. Spend the day relaxing while observing the lush riverbanks and rainforest. In the afternoon, explore tropical islands and search for bird species such as Umbrella Birds, Blue-Gray Tanagers, and Kingbirds.

Navigate upstream to the Pañayacu River for a canoe excursion into the Piranha Lake ecosystem. This whitewater habitat is home to Piranhas, Arawanas, and White Caimans, as well as Pink River Dolphins and monkeys. The day ends with an optional nocturnal excursion for nighttime wildlife viewing.

Conclude your journey with a visit to the parrot and parakeet clay licks in Yasuní National Park, where hundreds of birds gather in a vibrant display. Later, explore the CICAME Archaeological Museum to learn about the Omagua culture, one of the Amazon’s earliest civilizations. Transfer to Coca for your flight back to Quito, marking the end of your unforgettable expedition.