Delfin II amazon river boat cruising on calm water with a bright cloud and rainbow behind it.
You could kayak and see the jungle while with the National Geographic Upper Amazon River Cruise
Take the opportunity to take a photography class and improve skills while with the National Geographic Upper Amazon River Cruise
Take a skiff tour and bring your binoculars to scope out the animals while with the National Geographic Upper Amazon River Cruise
You will be aboard the Delfin II as seen here docked while with the National Geographic Upper Amazon River Cruise
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South America Amazon Cruise

National Geographic Delfin II Upper Amazon Cruise

This comprehensive 10-day Upper Amazon cruise includes pre- and post-cruise accommodations in Lima, a morning city tour of Lima and the added bonus of exploring the Amazon with professional National Geographic guides. Such inclusions set the National Geographic Upper Amazon Cruise cruise apart from other Amazon small ship cruises. The Delfin II is also one of the only ships cruising the Amazon with a full fleet of kayaks for up-close and personal exploration.

Spend 10 days experiencing Peru travel like never before. Search for three-toed sloths, piranhas, squirrel monkeys, tamarins, white-throated toucans, the famous pink Amazon river dolphin and hundreds of birds roosting and feeding along riverbanks. Enthusiastic and experienced National Geographic guides lead daily motorized skiff rides to beautiful rainforest walks (depending on water levels), past towering tropical trees and down remote tributaries. Kayak in the quiet blackwaters between giant lily pads or swim in a lake in the reserve’s deep interior. Bird-watchers, experienced explorers and those new to travel will enjoy the abundance of Amazon wildlife with equal amazement. Guided night walks reveal caimans, frogs, fishing bats and other creatures of the night. Daytime community visits illuminate how the ribereños, who live on the riverbanks, understand the Amazon and maintain their age-old traditions. 

When the Peruvian Government established the Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve in 1982, they encouraged the preservation of wilderness resources of the Amazon Basin, the longest extension of rainforest in the world. Named for the Pacaya River and Samiria Rivers running through it, the Pacaya-Samiria Reserve is bordered by two large and powerful rivers: the Marañón and the Ucayali, which converge to create the Amazon River. Seasonal flooding make the reserve unique in that aquatic species are often more abundant than land wildlife. Some 94 communities live within the Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve and their main economy is centered around fishing, agriculture, gathering and hunting, which remains their first and most important activity and main food source.

Itineraries in the Peruvian Amazon vary based on high-water season and low-water season. High-water season is November to May and may allow for more extensive exploration and access via water. Low-water season is June through October and may allow for more trail walks. All listed activities depend on water levels, weather and season. Travelers equipped with a sense of adventure and openness tend to enjoy their experience in the Amazon jungle more.  

The luxury 28-guest riverboat Delfin II operates the National Geographic Upper Amazon Cruise, and is the perfect way to personally experience the Amazon while remaining comfortable and relaxed. The open decks and panoramic views make wildlife viewing easy at all times of day. Onboard amenities create a leisurely atmosphere while world-class chefs present the finest Peruvian gourmet cuisine. To truly experience Peru’s Upper Amazon, spend 10 days cruising through flooded forests, kayaking up winding tributaries and interacting with the people and wildlife that call the Amazon’s Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve home.

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



Itinerary

Upper Amazon Aboard Delfin II Itinerary

This 10-day National Geographic Upper Amazon Cruise operates round-trip from Lima, Peru, exploring with National Geographic guides and a fleet of kayaks.

Upper Amazon Pacaya-Samiria Reserve Delfin II cruise route map.
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Day 1
Arrive Lima, Peru

Arrive in Lima in the late evening and transfer to your conveniently located hotel, Wyndham Costa del Sol Lima Airport Hotel.

Accommodations

Wyndham Costa del Sol Lima Airport Hotel

Meals

n/a

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Day 2
Lima to Iquitos & Embark Nauta

After breakfast, fly to Iquitos and continue overland to the riverside village of Nauta, where the Delfin II awaits. Settle into your cabin and gather for a welcome dinner of fine Peruvian cuisine on board. Tonight, step out on deck to gaze at the magnificent Amazon night sky.

Accommodations

Delfin II

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Days 3 - 8
Exploring the Pacaya-Samiria Reserve

Spend this week exploring the Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve, a pristine swath of jungle stretching more than five million acres and harboring some of the Amazon’s most fascinating flora and fauna. It is bordered by the Marañón and the Ucayali, two powerful rivers that converge to create the famed Amazon, which floods annually with nutrient-rich waters. Locally, the area is known as the Mirrored Forest for the reflections created by its glassy water.

Daily excursions are by skiff, kayak and—when the water level permits—hikes on dry land. Skim past giant lily pads afloat on blackwater lakes and venture deep into the rain forest on narrow tributaries. Spot sloths and monkeys, including variably colored saddleback tamarins, noisy howlers and shaggytailed monk saki monkeys. Watch for an astounding variety of birds, from tanagers and hummingbirds to parrots and endangered scarlet macaws. In the river, look for massive paiche fish, the Amazon’s largest; rare pink dolphins; and the infamous piranhas.

Enjoy an opportunity to swim in a lake in the reserve’s interior. Seek out victoria amazonica, a giant water lily that grows in small lagoons. Go on a bird-watching hike, listening for the vocal oropendola and then looking for its telltale yellow tail. Watch the sunset and listen to a cacophonous symphony of nocturnal animals calling out across the treetops. Then slip through the forest in a skiff as night falls, using a spotlight to find caimans, frogs, fishing bats and other creatures of the night.

One of the unexpected joys of traveling in the Upper Amazon of Peru is interacting with the local ribereños, the traditional people who live on the riverbanks. Visit one of the local communities and see the projects that this cruise supports through a local non-profit, including a variety of handicrafts, women’s health initiatives and sustainable farming.

Accommodations

Delfin II

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 9
Disembark Nauta to Iquitos, Fly to Lima & Overnight

Disembark in Nauta, stopping at the Amazon Rescue Center on the drive to Iquitos. Fly to Lima, visit Museo Larco then celebrate with a farewell dinner. Overnight at the Wyndham Costa del Sol Lima Airport Hotel.

Accommodations

Wyndham Costa del Sol Lima Airport Hotel

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 10
Depart Lima, Peru

After breakfast, transfer to the airport in Lima for your flight home.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast

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Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

Accommodations aboard ship and in hotel as indicated on itinerary (or similar); meals as indicated; beer, wine & full bar; excursions; services of expedition leaders, naturalists and a medic assistant; port charges and service taxes. Gratuities for all departures of National Geographic Explorer, Orion, Endurance, Resolution, Sea Cloud, Jahan and Lord of the Glens.

Exclusions

Air transportation (starting at $440 in 2024 for domestic flights); immigration fees; extensions; meals not indicated; reserve wines & premium spirits; gratuities for all departures of Delfin II, Endeavour II, Islander II, Venture, Quest, Sea Bird and Sea Lion; personal items such as emails, laundry, voyage DVD, etc.; and insurance of any kind.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 15% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 120 days before the departure date. Special payment terms apply for groups of 8 or more; inquire for details. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person fees, based on number of days prior to departure:
120 or more days – 100% of deposit**
119 to 90 days – 50% of total trip cost
89 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost
**Advance payments will be credited in the form of a Lindblad Expeditions Travel Certificate, valid for 12 months from the date of cancellation, and which may only be applied towards final payment on any future booking. 

(For expeditions booked prior to May 1, 2023: Please refer to your invoice for your payment and cancellation terms.) 

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 National Geographic Upper Amazon Cruise begins and ends in Lima, Peru (LIM). Plan to arrive in Lima anytime on Day 1 of the itinerary. Plan to depart Lima anytime after breakfast on Day 10 of the itinerary. We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Internal Flights

The National Geographic Upper Amazon Cruise Itinerary has a required flight between Lima and Iquitos on Day 2 and Day 9 of the itinerary. These internal Peru flights are not included in the cruise price (see Exclusions), but are arranged for you by AdventureSmith Explorations through your ship. Your Adventure Specialist will book these flights for you on the scheduled Amazon flight for your particular departure.

Activities

Activities include skiff rides exploring the various tributaries and waterways, kayaking, hikes, walks, wildlife viewing from the ship, swimming and visiting local communities. The Delfin II is the only ship in the region equipped with a fleet of kayaks, providing the rare privilege of intimate up-close experiences in this magical environment. On ship activities include spending time on deck or enjoying a rejuvenating massage (added cost). Each day the choice of what to do is yours.

Room Configuration

In addition to the listed Solo cabin rates, select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. Holiday solo rates may fluctuate. Some rooms in the Suite category may be interconnected for families. Contact AdventureSmith for further details and availability.

Families & Children

Children under the age of 18 are eligible for $500 off the double occupancy rate. Skilled staff members trained with National Geographic Education organize activities that inspire curiosity in young people of all ages. Programming for kids may include activities like photo workshops, journaling, scavenger hunts, Zodiac-driving lessons, hands-on nature and science programming and kid-friendly menu options.

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. Coverage for a pre-existing medical condition is also available if you purchase the Travel Select plan within 15 days of the initial trip payment; refer to plan details. 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 and guides’ discretion. Itineraries in the Amazon vary based on the high water season of November to May and low water season of June to October. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.

Rates & Dates

Cruise Rates & Dates

High-water season is November to May and allows for more extensive exploration and access via water. Low-water season is June through October and may allow for more trail walks.

Rates are variable per remaining availability and are subject to change.

Dec 07 - Dec 16, 2024
Delfin II • 10 days
From $8511USD
Per Person
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Dec 14 - Dec 23, 2024
Delfin II • 10 days
From $8422USD
Per Person
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Jan 11 - Jan 20, 2025
Delfin II • 10 days
From $9527USD
Per Person
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Jan 18 - Jan 27, 2025
Delfin II • 10 days
From $9949USD
Per Person
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Jan 25 - Feb 03, 2025
Delfin II • 10 days
From $10050USD
Per Person
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Feb 22 - Mar 03, 2025
Delfin II • 10 days
From $10514USD
Per Person
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Mar 22 - Mar 31, 2025
Delfin II • 10 days
From $9627USD
Per Person
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Mar 29 - Apr 07, 2025
Delfin II • 10 days
From $9145USD
Per Person
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Apr 12 - Apr 21, 2025
Delfin II • 10 days
From $9748USD
Per Person
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Apr 19 - Apr 28, 2025
Delfin II • 10 days
From $9238USD
Per Person
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Apr 26 - May 05, 2025
Delfin II • 10 days
From $9053USD
Per Person
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May 10 - May 19, 2025
Delfin II • 10 days
From $9145USD
Per Person
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May 17 - May 26, 2025
Delfin II • 10 days
From $9145USD
Per Person
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May 24 - Jun 02, 2025
Delfin II • 10 days
From $9627USD
Per Person
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Jun 21 - Jun 30, 2025
Delfin II • 10 days
From $9145USD
Per Person
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Jun 28 - Jul 07, 2025
Delfin II • 10 days
From $10408USD
Per Person
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Jul 19 - Jul 28, 2025
Delfin II • 10 days
From $9627USD
Per Person
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Jul 26 - Aug 04, 2025
Delfin II • 10 days
From $9428USD
Per Person
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Aug 02 - Aug 11, 2025
Delfin II • 10 days
From $9530USD
Per Person
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Sep 06 - Sep 15, 2025
Delfin II • 10 days
From $9145USD
Per Person
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Sep 20 - Sep 29, 2025
Delfin II • 10 days
From $9145USD
Per Person
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Sep 27 - Oct 06, 2025
Delfin II • 10 days
From $9627USD
Per Person
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Oct 04 - Oct 13, 2025
Delfin II • 10 days
From $9627USD
Per Person
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Nov 08 - Nov 17, 2025
Delfin II • 10 days
From $9095USD
Per Person
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Nov 15 - Nov 24, 2025
Delfin II • 10 days
From $8640USD
Per Person
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Dec 06 - Dec 15, 2025
Delfin II • 10 days
From $8640USD
Per Person
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Dec 13 - Dec 22, 2025
Delfin II • 10 days
From $8640USD
Per Person
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Dec 20 - Dec 29, 2025
Delfin II • 10 days
From $10408USD
Per Person
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Jan 10 - Jan 18, 2026
Delfin II • 9 days
From $8372USD
Per Person
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Jan 17 - Jan 25, 2026
Delfin II • 9 days
From $8837USD
Per Person
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Jan 24 - Feb 01, 2026
Delfin II • 9 days
From $8837USD
Per Person
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Feb 28 - Mar 08, 2026
Delfin II • 9 days
From $9530USD
Per Person
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Mar 14 - Mar 22, 2026
Delfin II • 9 days
From $8837USD
Per Person
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Mar 21 - Mar 29, 2026
Delfin II • 9 days
From $8372USD
Per Person
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Mar 28 - Apr 05, 2026
Delfin II • 9 days
From $8372USD
Per Person
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Apr 11 - Apr 19, 2026
Delfin II • 9 days
From $8837USD
Per Person
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Apr 18 - Apr 26, 2026
Delfin II • 9 days
From $8372USD
Per Person
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Apr 25 - May 03, 2026
Delfin II • 9 days
From $8372USD
Per Person
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May 09 - May 17, 2026
Delfin II • 9 days
From $8372USD
Per Person
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May 16 - May 24, 2026
Delfin II • 9 days
From $8372USD
Per Person
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Jun 13 - Jun 21, 2026
Delfin II • 9 days
From $8372USD
Per Person
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Jun 20 - Jun 28, 2026
Delfin II • 9 days
From $8372USD
Per Person
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Jun 27 - Jul 05, 2026
Delfin II • 9 days
From $8372USD
Per Person
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Jul 18 - Jul 26, 2026
Delfin II • 9 days
From $9530USD
Per Person
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Jul 25 - Aug 02, 2026
Delfin II • 9 days
From $8372USD
Per Person
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Aug 01 - Aug 09, 2026
Delfin II • 9 days
From $8372USD
Per Person
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Aug 08 - Aug 16, 2026
Delfin II • 9 days
From $8372USD
Per Person
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Sep 05 - Sep 13, 2026
Delfin II • 9 days
From $8372USD
Per Person
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Sep 19 - Sep 27, 2026
Delfin II • 9 days
From $8372USD
Per Person
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Sep 26 - Oct 04, 2026
Delfin II • 9 days
From $8372USD
Per Person
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Oct 03 - Oct 11, 2026
Delfin II • 9 days
From $8372USD
Per Person
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Oct 17 - Oct 25, 2026
Delfin II • 9 days
From $8372USD
Per Person
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Nov 14 - Nov 22, 2026
Delfin II • 9 days
From $7915USD
Per Person
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Dec 05 - Dec 13, 2026
Delfin II • 9 days
From $7915USD
Per Person
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Dec 12 - Dec 20, 2026
Delfin II • 9 days
From $7915USD
Per Person
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Dec 19 - Dec 27, 2026
Delfin II • 9 days
From $7915USD
Per Person
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Accommodation

Learn About the Small Ship & Hotel on Your Itinerary

Luxury
Delfin II

The 28-guest Delfin II is one of the most innovative and sustainable ships in the Amazon; it is the first to host a full fleet of kayaks. Luxury and authenticity combine perfectly on this river vessel, which brings influence and cultural awareness throughout the Peruvian Amazon.

Deal

Current Deals on This Trip

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Offer expires December 31st, 2024
Groups Save 5% On Select 2024 & 2025 Nat Geo Fleet Worldwide

Save 5% when traveling as a group of 8 or more on a variety of 2024 or 2025 National Geographic expeditions worldwide.

Expert Review

Reviews from Our Experts So You Know What to Expect

Arielle Lightcap • May 25th, 2023
Expert Aboard: Delfin Amazon Cruises Review

Hear from two AdventureSmith experts about their time sailing aboard the Delfin riverboat fleet in the Amazon. Get insight on which ship is right for you and their favorite experiences aboard.

Testimonial

Hear It from Travelers Who Have Explored with Us

"A Wonderful Experience"

The naturalists were excellent, full of information and willing to answer any questions--dumb or otherwise--we asked. The entire trip was a wonderful experience.

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5 /5 Star Created with Sketch.
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Extend Your Trip

Additional Travel Options Before or After Your Cruise

In conjunction with this cruise, the following pre-cruise options are available for a seamless land-and-sea group travel experience with National Geographic guides and fellow passengers. Contact AdventureSmith Explorations for pricing.

Lima is a 3-day pre-cruise extension. Relax and explore vibrant, cosmopolitan Lima on this pre-voyage extension, featuring two nights at the classic Country Club Lima Hotel in fashionable residential San Isidro. See the Plaza de Armas and heart of colonial Lima on an included half-day tour.  Sample celebrated Peruvian cuisine on your own for dinner.

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5 - 6 Day Land Tour
Machu Picchu Explorer

Travel to Peru's most spectacular archaeological monument in South America: the ancient Inca site of Machu Picchu. This 5- or 6-day Machu Picchu Explorer adventure includes Cusco, the Urubamba Valley and upscale accommodations.

From $2335USD
Year Round
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5 Day Land Tour
Peru Amazon Adventure

Combine your Peru travels with an extension to the Amazon. Visit Lake Sandoval and Tambopata while staying at the famed Inkaterra Reserva Amazónica lodge. Birds, primates, extraordinary landscapes and breathtaking scenery await.

From $795USD
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11 Day Land Tour
Peru Highlights

On this 11-day Peru Highlights tour, visit Lima, Arequipa, Lake Titicaca, Cusco, the Sacred Valley of Urubamba, Machu Picchu and more. Stay in upscale hotels, meet the people and traditions, delight your palate, embrace nature and discover Peru.

From $3855USD
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National Geographic Delfin II Upper Amazon Cruise

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