River
River
An Amazon river cruise reaches one of the most biodiverse regions on Earth, along the largest river in the world by volume. Running more than 4,000 miles through Peru, Colombia, and Brazil, the river winds through the heart of the Amazon Rainforest, a vast and ecologically rich landscape often called the lungs of the planet.
An Amazon river cruise is a rare chance to explore remote ecosystems and spot extraordinary wildlife, from pink river dolphins and sloths to toucans and caimans, while connecting with the Indigenous communities living along the banks. Most luxury cruises sail the Peruvian Amazon, leaving from Iquitos and pushing deep into the Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve, a protected area teeming with life.
From sunrise skiff rides and jungle hikes to village visits and canopy walks, an Amazon river cruise blends soft adventure with hands-on learning. The ships are typically small and eco-conscious, built to operate gently in the environment while still offering real comfort in one of the planet's most striking natural settings.
For what you will see on the water, read our guide to the best wildlife expedition cruises.
Peru (Upper Amazon)
Iquitos, Peru
As the largest city in the Peruvian Amazon, and one of the few major cities in the world with no road access to the outside, Iquitos is the primary gateway for Amazon River cruises in Peru. This lively city blends colonial charm with rainforest energy, offering colorful markets, rubber-boom architecture, and riverfront culture. Most luxury cruises, including those by Aqua Expeditions and Delfin, begin with a flight into Iquitos, followed by a transfer to the embarkation point.
Nauta, Peru
Located about two hours from Iquitos by road, Nauta is a small riverside town that serves as the launch point for most Upper Amazon itineraries. It offers easy access to the Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve, a vast protected area known for its remarkable biodiversity. Cruises from Nauta often venture deep into rainforest tributaries, where travelers may encounter sloths, macaws, pink dolphins, and remote communities along the banks.
Brazil (Middle and Lower Amazon)
Manaus, Brazil
Manaus is the cultural and economic center of the Brazilian Amazon, and one of the most important cruise ports in the region. Known for the striking Amazon Theatre and the natural phenomenon called the Meeting of the Waters, Manaus offers a mix of jungle and city. It serves as a departure point for both river cruises and expedition ships heading into the depths of the rainforest or toward the Atlantic coast.
Santarém, Brazil
Situated between Manaus and Belém, Santarém is a charming river port that offers access to one of the Amazon's quieter highlights, Alter do Chão. This nearby village is famed for its white-sand beaches, clear water, and laid-back feel. Santarém is often featured on longer cruise itineraries, particularly those exploring the Tapajós River, a tributary known for its calm beauty and diverse wildlife.
Belém, Brazil
Positioned at the mouth of the Amazon River where it meets the Atlantic Ocean, Belém is a lively port city with strong Portuguese influences. It is a turnaround point for some Lower Amazon itineraries and a fascinating destination in its own right. Belém's Ver-o-Peso market is one of the largest open-air markets in South America, showcasing Amazonian produce, seafood, and local culture. It's an ideal starting or ending point for travelers who want a mix of rainforest access and city exploration.
Colombia (Amazon Trifrontier)
Leticia, Colombia
Located at the intersection of Colombia, Peru, and Brazil, Leticia is a small but culturally rich port town on the Amazon River. Though less developed for cruising, it serves as a base for jungle lodges, wildlife excursions, and regional river journeys. Reachable by air from Bogotá, Leticia offers a more off-the-beaten-path entry into the Amazon, with chances to visit Indigenous communities, rainforest trails, and the unusual dynamics of the tri-border region.
River sailings
We'll send the Amazon departures we sell across the lines that sail it, with starting fares. Reply with your dates and a specialist will tell you the best months to sail and help you choose.