The Amazon is the second longest river in the world at an incredible 4,000 miles in length, reaching widths of up to six miles and stretching across South America through Brazil, Columbia and Peru. This mighty waterway is brimming with majestic scenery and fascinating wildlife, cutting through the vast Amazon Rainforest, as well as many intriguing and important South American towns and cities.
A river cruise is one of the best ways to experience the many wonders along the banks of the Amazon, offering the opportunity to visit a wealth of fascinating destinations and areas of outstanding natural beauty throughout this world-famous region. This blog will take a look at just some of the many awe-inspiring sights, amazing excursions and spectacular destinations to experience on an Amazon river cruise holiday.
At RiverVoyages.com, you can now book an exciting 12 day From the Inca Empire to the Peruvian Amazon river cruise along the Amazon River with Avalon Waterways from £5,089. This amazing journey will take you on a round-trip from the Peruvian capital of Lima to some of South America’s most sought-after locations aboard your elegant river cruise ship – the Avalon Aria.
Beginning your voyage in beautiful Lima, you‘ll have chance to tour the city’s historic old quarter to see a wealth of wonderful colonial landmarks, from Plaza de Armas to the Government Palace and San Francisco Monastery. From Lima, you’ll then fly over to the splendid Andean city of Cusco – the gateway to many of the country’s most historically and culturally significant Incan sites and landmarks. Spend time in the iconic Sacred Valley and observe the ancient area’s brilliant collection of impressive monuments, which include the colossal Temple of Sacsayhuaman and Kenko Amphitheatre. You will also have the opportunity to visit a quaint local market in the remote mountain settlement of Pisac and gain an insight into local life and culture.
Perhaps Peru’s most impressive and well-known historical site is Machu Picchu, which you’ll get chance to see whilst in this historic region. This extraordinary archaeological site is set against a spectacular mountainous backdrop, and you are sure to create unforgettable memories during your trip here. A guided tour of the ruins is available to river cruisers and your guide will no doubt regale you with fascinating stories of Machu Picchu’s long and mysterious history.
After your trip to Machu Picchu, you’ll return to Cusco to sample local cuisine and shop for souvenirs in the city’s many excellent shops and restaurants, before flying to the city of Iquitos in the Amazon Basin to board your ship and begin your river cruise.
As you cruise through the Amazon, you’ll be astonished by the seemingly infinite array of wonderful flora and fauna to observe throughout the region’s thick rainforest. Some of the wildlife you will have chance to see along this verdant river include sloths, monkeys and a multitude of exotic birds, as well as the rare and beautiful pink river dolphin. The forest also comes alive at night when all of the area’s nocturnal animals begin to emerge. As you continue along the river, you can travel by skiff to an Amazonian village, offering the chance to meet native people and learn about their fascinating culture, heritage, customs and folklore.
An Amazon river cruise is a truly spectacular once-in-a-lifetime experience, leading you through the vast and verdant Amazon Rainforest and to some of South America’s most magnificent destinations. To find out more about what you can expect on a river voyage along this iconic river, head to RiverVoyages.com to see our latest deals and itineraries.
For more information and advice about Amazon river cruises, or to book your place on-board, call our dedicated River Cruise Concierge team on 0800 197 0854. They will guide you through your booking and find you your ideal river cruise.
