Delfin I Amazon river boat cruises through muddy water on a sunny day, with 3 wooden decks & 2 sage green metal hulls.

two small ship cruise passengers stand on the balcony overlooking the river on a sunny day with the jungle in the distance on the delfin amazon river cruise

Aerial view of 2 stand-up paddlers & a solo kayaker beside rustic huts over the water & dense Amazon rainforest beside.

A small caiman pokes his head up through the surface of the water with water plants while on Delfin I Amazon River Cruise in Peru

Amazon sunset viewed from the water, with purple, pink & orange sky beside glassy water & green rainforest.

$5000^USD

Starting At

4-5

Days

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

South America Amazon Cruise

Delfin I Amazon River Cruise

The 8-guest Delfin I is one of the most intimate, luxurious and active vessels from which to experience Amazon Peru. Cruise in splendid harmony through the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve on this 4- or 5-day Amazon cruise aboard the Delfin I, which boasts only 4 suites, each with floor-to-ceiling windows and private balconies—a truly unique Amazon small ship experience.

The rich rainforest ecosystem permeates every aspect of the vessel and operations: irapay leaves (typically seen on residential huts) form the Delfin I’s waterproof roof, lamps made from paiche fish scales adorn common areas, quality woods from the forest form the very boat and suites, and custom-made repellants and lotions made of natural jungle ingredients serve every guest. Itineraries are carefully crafted to showcase the best flora and fauna of the Marañon and Ucayali Rivers in the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve.

Highlights of all Delfin I Amazon River Cruise itineraries include added adventure options like stand-up paddleboarding and a fleet of double kayaks, plus a canopy walk, high above the jungle floor. A visit to the Rescue & Rehabilitation Center of River Mammals (Amazon Forever) in Iquitos to meet baby manatees and other animals perfectly rounds out this Amazon small ship cruise.

The Delfin I offers high-water and low-water itineraries. High-water season is November to May and may allow for more extensive exploration and access via water. These months are ideal for travelers who prefer to duck into otherwise isolated corners of the reserve aboard speedy boats. Low-water season is June through October and may allow for more trail walks. This time of year is ideal for travelers who prefer to walk through the rainforest and discover its flora and fauna. All listed activities depend on water levels, weather and season. Travelers equipped with a sense of adventure and openness tend to enjoy their Delfin III journey in the Amazon rainforest even more.

Travel aboard the luxurious 8-guest river vessel Delfin I for comfort, panoramic windows and suites with private terraces, two with cold-water whirlpool baths. This vessel is an AdventureSmith favorite for private charter cruises due to her mix of luxury and her intimate size.

Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Amazon cruises and Amazon trips.

5-Day High-Water Itinerary

The 5-Day High-Water Delfin I Amazon River Cruise operates round-trip from Iquitos, traveling along the Maranon River. Both 4- and 5-day High-Water itineraries uniquely visit Nauta Cano.

Route map of Delfin I 5-Day Amazon River Cruise, operating round-trip from Iquitos, Peru, with stops at Pahuachiro, Nauta Cano, Yanayacu Pucate, Amazon Natural Park, Yachay, Yanayaquillo, Piranha Creek, Puerto Miguel, the Yarapa River & the Rescue & Rehabilitation Center of River Mammals.

Day 1

THU - Arrive Iquitos, Peru, Embark Nauta & Pahuachiro

Arrive to Iquitos and be met at the airport then transferred in a comfortable private vehicle to Nauta. Enjoy a boxed lunch on the way. Nauta is a small riverside town on the banks of the Marañon River and was the first city founded in the department of Loreto. Enjoy a VIP greeting at the private port along the shores of the Marañon River where the vessel awaits you.

Aboard Delfin I, qualified staff members introduce you to your exquisite and cozy suite, specially equipped with all the best amenities: orthopedic beds, pure cotton sheets, pillows of 100% pure natural latex, cotton bathrobes, air conditioning and private bathroom with Spanish style hot water showers all framed with a spacious private terrace. Fantastic panoramic views from the third deck observation area are complemented by exotic cocktails made with regional fruits and pisco, the beloved national brandy liquor of Peru. The naturalist guide outlines the journey’s schedule, activities, route, highlights, wildlife and vegetation, geographical and historical background and other useful details to prepare you for your Amazon cruise.

Head down the Marañon River to a location known as Pahuachiro. Spend some time in search of birds and playful monkeys. The naturalist guide spots various creatures. Enjoy great photo opportunities while witnessing the first Amazon Rainforest sunset.

Accommodations

Delfin I

Meals

lunch, dinner

Day 2

FRI - Amazon Natural Park & Samiria River Night Safari

Experience the unique opportunity of walking the only canopy walkway in the area—an experience unequaled in the rainforest. At a height of over 85 feet and extending for one-third of a mile, the Canopy Walkway provides a view of the rainforest from the treetops, the best vantage point for observing Amazon wildlife and vegetation. Spread between 14 of the area’s largest rainforest trees, the suspended walkway is one of the longest in the world and is accessible to all, requiring no special skills or equipment. Next, enjoy the terra firma forest and note the differences between your previous hike and this one.

At nightfall, join the naturalist guides on board one of the skiffs. At night, the biodiversity of the jungle totally changes. Search for alligators, bats and more nocturnal creatures that are so interesting and unique from the daytime.

Accommodations

Delfin I

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 3

SAT - Samiria River & Nauta Cano Night Safari

In skiffs, skim the Samiria River and its tributaries, where an abundance of wildlife hides in the deep rainforest, such as blue and yellow macaws, scarlet macaws, toucans, umbrella birds, monkeys, river others, capybaras and more. Your naturalists and their expert eye pinpoint all the biodiversity of this region. This is also a popular dolphin feeding spot so you won’t be the only one enjoying the plethora of fish below.

At night explore the Nauta Caño Creek, known for squirrel and silver back tamarillo monkeys, birds, dolphins and even sloths! Skim the riverbanks for small caimans and spiders, as well as insects of all colors, shapes and sizes.

Accommodations

Delfin I

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 4

SUN - Fundo Casual, Community Visit & Confluence

The walk at Fundo Casual jungle trail will take you deep into the rainforest on terra firma (non-flooded forest) where your guide will point out the dynamic creatures and vegetation of the Amazon. Be sure to keep an attentive eye open for spotting surprises! Its almost unbelievable how with every step you find something along the way. Almost definitely Anaconda, Rainbow Boas, Tarantulas, Poison Frogs and most recently porcupines have been spotted. This is one of the very few places in the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve Amazon Rainforest where you will spot the ever so elusive two-toed sloth.

On board the skiffs, visit a community to meet local villagers who have called Amazonia their home for generations. You may step into a typical schoolhouse where the children will be very happy to have visitors, and then stop by an area to see the women of this community who have a most amazing arts & craft market.

Next, experience the confluence at Puerto Miguel. Better known as the “Unión de los Ríos,” toast and witness the distinguished colors of the three rivers. The Ucayali River, which in turn confluences with the Marañón River upstream of Iquitos, Peru, forms a main stem of the Amazon River.

Accommodations

Delfin I

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 5

MON - Disembark Nauta, Rescue & Rehabilitation Center & Bee Tour to Iquitos, Peru

At the port of Nauta, take a private vehicle back to the city of Iquitos, about 59 miles’ journey by paved road.

On the way from Nauta back to Iquitos airport, visit the Rescue & Rehabilitation Center of River Mammals (Amazon Forever) for a chance to meet baby manatees and learn why these wonderful and docile creatures are on the endangered species list. There are also some other animals cared for by the center that have been rescued from capture by people who want to turn them into pets and from other threatening conditions. Donations to this ambitious organization and education center are encouraged.

Before going to the airport, enjoy an interactive activity to learn more about melipona bees and their importance in the Amazon ecosystem.

Personnel at the airport are waiting with your boarding passes to help you check in at Francisco Secada Vignetta International Airport in Iquitos. The return flight will take you directly to the city of Lima, the capital of Peru.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast, boxed lunch

Details

Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

All meals while on board; all excursions and equipment, including use of rubber boots and rain ponchos; group transfers to/from vessel when arriving on recommended flights to Iquitos; entrance fee to Pacaya Samiria National Reserve; coffee, tea, purified water, local soft drinks, local beer, house liquors, Pisco-based cocktails and house wine 24/7.

Exclusions

Airfare to/from destination; cost of medical emergencies or evacuation; insurance of any kind; gratuities; additional transportation services; any additional bar consumptions (premium wines & spirits, imported mineral spirits, imported beers); spa services; laundry and items of a personal nature.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of $750(2025) is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 151 days – full refund except for $200 service charge
150 to 91 days – 100% of deposit
90 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Arrival & Departure

The Delfin I Amazon River Cruise begins and ends in Iquitos, Peru (IQT). Group transfers to/from Iquitos airport to embarkation and disembarkation points are included for travelers arriving and departing on scheduled arrival/departure days and recommended LAN flights. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Activities

Kayaking

Each day, check with your naturalist guide about the day’s weather conditions for the use of kayaks. Water level and weather forecast permitting, you are welcome to register, at your discretion, for the kayak sessions. These sessions will be conducted in calm waters where you can paddle in a very relaxed manner in kayaks ideal for 2 passengers. The kayaking group will always be accompanied by an experienced naturalist guide for the entire duration.

Paddleboarding

Because of the calm, often ripple-less waters of the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve, paddleboarding is a great activity for all ages. The coolness of the river water over your feet while you paddle past the banks searching for wildlife is an experience you won’t want to miss.

Explorations

All excursions are included with your cruise rate. For all short transport (such as from the vessel to land for hiking) and wildlife seeking excursions, travel is via skiff boats. Skiffs are quick to launch, stable to ride and ready to navigate into the most hidden corners of the Amazon. Each skiff seats 8 passengers and comes with its own expert naturalist guide and captain and abides by all safety regulations.

Nature Walks

Due to the conditions of the wet and humid rainforest, you will be outfitted with waterproof rubber boot rentals (included) for your comfort and convenience. Before each outing, the boots will be provided for you; after each outing, they will be returned to the staff for cleaning. Rain ponchos are also provided for your use.

Fishing

In the depths of the Amazon jungle, deep inside lagoons and creeks, pursue the fierce fishes of the Peruvian Amazon while enjoying the comfort, security and style of a Delfin Amazon Cruise experience. Encounter the ubiquitous piranha, gigantic awe-inspiring Amazon catfish and other exotic sporting species. As a commitment to the environment, there is a strict policy of catch and release.

Community Visits

It is possible to create very intimate experiences with the local native community people. For example, there are many young children and families in communities who have various needs in the absence of their own resources, so any help will be very useful. Kids love t-shirts, pencils, notebooks and toys.

Room Configuration

Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy cabin may do so at a 75% supplement of the per-person listed rate in select cabins upon availability. Triple occupancy may be arranged if needed with a futon bed for a child or adult.

Families & Children

Kids 7 years and older are welcomed aboard all departure dates. Children aged 11 or under at time of departure are eligible for a 20% discount from the adult rate. A third guest on an extra bed is also eligible for a 20% discount (non-cumulative).

Travel Insurance

Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.

Itinerary Notes

Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, season, wildlife, National Park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.

5-Day Low-Water Itinerary

The 5-Day Low-Water Delfin I Amazon River Cruise operates round-trip from Iquitos, traveling along the Maranon River. Low-Water itineraries are similar to their High-Water counterparts but do not visit Nauta Cano.

Day 1

THU - Arrive Iquitos, Peru, Embark Nauta & Marañon

Aboard Delfin I, qualified staff members introduce you to your exquisite and cozy suite, specially equipped with all the best amenities: orthopedic beds, pure cotton sheets, pillows of 100% pure natural latex, cotton bathrobes, air conditioning and private bathroom with Spanish style hot water showers all framed with a spacious private terrace. Enjoy fantastic panoramic views from the third deck observation area as the naturalist guide outlines the journey’s schedule, activities, route, highlights, wildlife and vegetation, geographical and historical background and other useful details.

Head down into the Marañon River. Spend some time in search of birds and playful monkeys. The naturalist guide spots various creatures. Enjoy great photo opportunities while witnessing the first Amazon Rainforest sunset.

Accommodations

Delfin I

Meals

lunch, dinner

Day 2

FRI - Las Palmas, Amazon Natural Park & Yanayacu Pucate

This morning, consider getting up early to appreciate one of the most important zones of the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve. The early morning hours are the best time of day to watch birds. Jump on the skiffs and head to this area with large trees and old palm trees, watching for several parrot species and a number of other birds. Look for the famous hoatzins nesting a few feet above water, and perhaps a sloth or two of the three-toed kind.

Next, experience the unique opportunity of walking the only canopy walkway in the area—an experience unequaled in the rainforest. At a height of over 85 feet and extending for one-third of a mile, the Canopy Walkway provides a view of the rainforest from the treetops, the best vantage point for observing Amazon wildlife and vegetation. Spread between 14 of the area’s largest rainforest trees, the suspended walkway is one of the longest in the world and is accessible to all, requiring no special skills or equipment. Next, enjoy the terra firma forest and note the differences between your previous hike and this one. Participate in a nature walk to learn about medicinal plants. The Peruvian Amazon region is considered the largest pharmaceutical reserve in the world with 965 species of wild plants and 59 cultivated plant species that local people use to cure and to prevent many illnesses.

Next, cruise through the Yanayacu and Pucate Rivers, peeking into different creeks and lagoons. This is one of the best preserved and protected zones of the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve. The guide pinpoints all the biodiversity of this region. Because of the low level of the river in the low water season, you will visit a natural beach that only appears at this time of year.

At nightfall, join the naturalist guides on board one of our skiffs. At night, the biodiversity of the jungle totally changes. Search for alligators, bats and more nocturnal creatures that are so interesting and unique from the daytime.

Accommodations

Delfin I

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 3

SAT - Pucate, Community Visit & Fundo Casual

Continue exploring the Pucate area of the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve. To interact directly with the waters of the Amazon, jump into the kayaks. Get a closer look at the surrounding nature, including the magical pink river dolphin.

On your visit to the community, be welcomed by smiling faces and friendly people. Around the community, people are happy to show you the process of peeling and grating cassava, while another may invite you in for a look at the tools used to process the rice (grown locally). A day in the life of a local ribereño is eye-opening to how far we have come in this day and age and a reflection of how simple yet rewarding life is for others.

The walk at Fundo Casual jungle trail will take you deep into the rainforest on terra firme (non-flooded forest) where the guide will point out the dynamic creatures and vegetation of the Amazon. Be sure to keep an attentive eye open for spotting surprises! Its almost unbelievable how every step reveals something along the way. Almost definitely anaconda, rainbow boas, tarantulas, poison frogs and most recently, porcupines have been spotted. This is one of the very few places in the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve Amazon Rainforest where one can spot the ever so elusive two-toed sloth.

Accommodations

Delfin I

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 4

SUN - Yarapa River & Confluence

Venture along the Yarapa River and explore the tributary in the kayaks, listening closely for the sounds from within the mysterious jungle. Arrive at the wide creek of Cumaceba that leads to an attractive hidden lagoon. Absorb the beauty of the landscape and reflect on the wildlife. Notice many more inhabitants of the Amazon, the rivereños, who are an important part of this complex bionetwork. Look out for specific types of monkeys like the pygmy marmoset, squirrel monkey and monk saki; a medium-sized monkey with thick fur and bushy tail that looks more like he is dressed for the Arctic than the Amazon.

Accommodations

Delfin I

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 5

MON - Disembark Nauta, Rescue & Rehabilitation Center to Iquitos, Peru

At the port of Nauta, take a private vehicle back to the city of Iquitos, about 59 miles’ journey by paved road.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast, boxed lunch

Details

Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

Exclusions

Payment & Cancellation

Terms & Conditions

Arrival & Departure

Activities

Kayaking

Paddleboarding

Explorations

Nature Walks

Fishing

Community Visits

Room Configuration

Families & Children

Travel Insurance

Itinerary Notes

4-Day High-Water Itinerary

The 4-Day High-Water Delfin I Amazon River Cruise operates round-trip from Iquitos, traveling along the Maranon River. Both 4- and 5-day High-Water itineraries uniquely visit Nauta Cano.

Route map of Delfin I 4-Day Amazon River Cruise, operating round-trip from Iquitos, Peru, with stops at Pahuachiro, Nauta Cano, Las Palmas, Yanayacu Pucate, Amazon Natural Park, Yachay, Yanayaquillo, Piranha Creek & the Rescue & Rehabilitation Center of River Mammals.

Day 1

MON - Arrive Iquitos, Peru, Embark Nauta & Night Safari

Aboard Delfin I, qualified staff members introduce you to your exquisite and cozy suite, specially equipped with all the best amenities: orthopedic beds, pure cotton sheets, pillows of 100% pure natural latex, cotton bathrobes, air conditioning and private bathroom with Spanish style hot water showers all framed with a spacious private terrace. Enjoy fantastic panoramic views from the third deck observation area as the naturalist guide outlines the journey’s schedule, activities, route, highlights, wildlife and vegetation, geographical and historical background and other useful details.

Head down into the Marañon River, an ideal place to spend some time in search of birds and playful monkeys. As your naturalist guide spots various creatures for you, the landscape adorned by the usual colors of the sun’s reflections is a great photo opportunity as you witness your first Amazon Rainforest Sunset. At night, the biodiversity of the jungle totally changes. You will search for alligators, bats and more nocturnal creatures that are so interesting and unique as daytime.

Accommodations

Delfin I

Meals

lunch, dinner

Day 2

TUE - Amazon Natural Park, Yanayacu Pucate & Night Walk

This morning, experience the unique opportunity of walking the only canopy walkway in the area—an experience unequaled in the rainforest. At a height of over 85 feet and extending for one-third of a mile, the Canopy Walkway provides a view of the rainforest from the treetops, the best vantage point for observing Amazon wildlife and vegetation. Spread between 14 of the area’s largest rainforest trees, the suspended walkway is one of the longest in the world and is accessible to all, requiring no special skills or equipment. Next, enjoy the terra firma forest.

You will have the opportunity to get to know Carola. She is a spiritual caretaker and healer to literally hundreds of jungle dwellers spread over many roadless miles. Her prestige and position are beyond reproach. The role of shaman is often misunderstood in the west, associated with black magic and spells. While these things all have their place, the actual practitioners are as varied as in any profession. Carola is known as a “White” shaman, a healer and spiritual guide.

Next, cruise through the Yanayacu and Pucate Rivers, peeking into different creeks and lagoons. This is one of the best preserved and protected zones of the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve. The guide pinpoints all the biodiversity of this region. Consider interacting directly with the waters of the Amazon by going out on a kayak or stand-up paddleboard. You will even have the opportunity to fish the famous piranhas!

After dinner, you will enjoy a night walk trail.

Accommodations

Delfin I

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 3

WED - Nauta Cano, Fundo Casual, Community Visit & Confluence

Nauta Caño Creek is known for squirrel and silver back tamarillo monkeys, birds, dolphins and even sloths! Skim the riverbanks for small caimans and spiders, as well as insects of all colors, shapes and sizes.

On board the skiffs, you will visit a community to meet local villagers who have called Amazonia their home for
generations. You may step into a typical schoolhouse where the children will be very happy to have visitors, and then stop by an area to see the women of this community who have a most amazing arts & craft market.

Accommodations

Delfin I

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 4

THU - Disembark Nauta, Rescue & Rehabilitation Center & Bee Tour to Iquitos, Peru

At the port of Nauta, take a private vehicle back to the city of Iquitos, about 59 miles’ journey by paved road.

Before going to the airport, enjoy an interactive activity to learn more about melipona bees and their importance in the Amazon ecosystem.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast, boxed lunch

Details

Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

Exclusions

Payment & Cancellation

Terms & Conditions

Arrival & Departure

Activities

Kayaking

Paddleboarding

Explorations

Nature Walks

Fishing

Community Visits

Room Configuration

Families & Children

Travel Insurance

Itinerary Notes

4-Day Low-Water Itinerary

The 4-Day Low-Water Delfin I Amazon River Cruise operates round-trip from Iquitos, traveling along the Maranon River. Low-Water itineraries are similar to their High-Water counterparts but do not visit Nauta Cano.

Day 1

MON - Arrive Iquitos, Peru, Embark Nauta & Marañon

Aboard Delfin I, qualified staff members introduce you to your exquisite and cozy suite, specially equipped with all the best amenities: orthopedic beds, pure cotton sheets, pillows of 100% pure natural latex, cotton bathrobes, air conditioning and private bathroom with Spanish style hot water showers all framed with a spacious private terrace. Enjoy fantastic panoramic views from the third deck observation area as the naturalist guide outlines the journey’s schedule, activities, route, highlights, wildlife and vegetation, geographical and historical background and other useful details.

Accommodations

Delfin I

Meals

lunch, dinner

Day 2

TUE - Las Palmas, Amazon Natural Park & Yanayacu Pucate

Participate in a nature walk to learn about medicinal plants. The Peruvian Amazon region is considered the largest pharmaceutical reserve in the world with 965 species of wild plants and 59 cultivated plant species that local people use to cure and to prevent many illnesses.

Cruise through the Yanayacu and Pucate Rivers, peeking into different creeks and lagoons. This is one of the best preserved and protected zones of the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve. The guide pinpoints all the biodiversity of this region. Because of the low level of the river in the low water season, you will visit a natural beach that only appears at this time of year.

Accommodations

Delfin I

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 3

WED - Fundo Casual, Community Visit & Confluence

On your visit to this community, be welcomed by smiling faces and friendly people. Around the community,
people are happy to show you the process of peeling and grating cassava, while another may invite you in for a look at the tools used to process the rice (grown locally). A day in the life of a local ribereño is eye-opening to how far we have come in this day and age and a reflection of how simple yet rewarding life is for others.

Accommodations

Delfin I

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 4

THU - Disembark Nauta, Rescue & Rehabilitation Center to Iquitos, Peru

At the port of Nauta, take a private vehicle back to the city of Iquitos, about 59 miles’ journey by paved road.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast, boxed lunch

Details

Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

Exclusions

Payment & Cancellation

Terms & Conditions

Arrival & Departure

Activities

Kayaking

Paddleboarding

Explorations

Nature Walks

Fishing

Community Visits

Room Configuration

Families & Children

Travel Insurance

Itinerary Notes