Anakonda Amazon Cruise
Rainforest River Cruises
About
The Anakonda Cruise allows you to have authentic and mystical experiences of daily living in a river in the Amazon. Look closely at ancient local indigenous communities and also fascinating walks in the virgin jungle. All walks begin with a small motorized canoe trip, then by your own feet you will enter a jungle full of endemic flora and fauna. With a little luck, you can see toucans, lazy, pink river dolphins and perhaps many more animals, while the sun hides, giving a dream and reserved show for a few who decided to take a walk in the Anakonda.
Highlights
- Paddling by canoe to Piranha Lake in search of white caiman and Water monkey fish.
- Observe up to hundreds of parrots descending on a “clay lick.”
- Explore the waterways of the flooded Pañayacu Biological Corridor
- Learn about traditions of indigenous Kichwa women
- Visit to indigenous villages at the river’s edge.
- Rainforest hikes, birding walks, nocturnal river safaris…
Amazon Jungle Trips
This journey takes us into the endless heart of biodiversity, the Amazon Basin. Our First-Rate River Cruise Vessel makes it possible for you to explore the remote nature of this jungle in total comfort and leisure. The Anakonda Amazon Cruise is our state-of-the-art vessel specifically designed to navigate on the Napo River in the Ecuadorian Amazon. Our wide array of onboard services and amenities will ensure your full comfort and enjoyment as you explore this region of the world.
The Anakonda Amazon Cruise, winner of the World Travel Award as South America’s Leading Boutique Cruise, offers an exclusive experience characterized by comfort, exceptional culinary offerings and once-in-a-lifetime journeys involving Amazonian cultural immersion, unique and vibrant wildlife, and the unrivaled wonders of its many ecosystems. In this rich and diverse environment, we have the chance to observe enchanting animals such as the pink river dolphin, giant otters, and turtles, as well as hundreds of native birds and primates, while navigating along the region’s freshwater rivers, both white-water and black-water.
Our guests will enjoy Ecuador’s pristine Amazon region in total comfort on board with our first-class facilities: 14 Standard Suites offering spacious accommodations, air conditioning, private bathrooms with hot water, French balconies and ceiling-to-floor windows. Our 4 Deluxe Suites come complete with all of the above, plus private balconies and private whirlpool bathtubs. We invite you aboard to experience our cozy Bar and Lounge, Conference Room and Reading Room featuring breathtaking views; our Al Fresco Shaded Lounge, Panoramic View Restaurant and Outdoors Hot Tub on the vessel’s top deck. We also have a Boutique and concierge for a journey that is both relaxing and exhilarating!
We are committed to caring for natural resources and the conservation of local cultures by applying responsible and sustainable tourism practices and community involvement in all of our operations. We have also developed Capi’s Amazon River Program (CARP), two non-profit sustainable rescue programs for endangered animals in the Ecuadorian Amazon rainforest: the charapas turtle and the pink river dolphin
Our adventure begins in the city of Quito, Capital of Ecuador. After taking a short 30- minute flight from Quito to the Amazon city of Coca, located in the Province of San Francisco de Orellana, we will transfer to the dock and board our motorized canoe to begin our 90-minute journey down the river, taking in the first sights and sounds of the Amazon. Soon, we will reach the Anakonda Amazon Cruise and receive our welcome aboard.
Once we have settled into the Anakonda Amazon Cruise, we will be joined by expert local naturalist guides who will provide us with a brief and informative introduction to the Ecuadorian Amazon. After, guests will have their first opportunity to discover the exciting features of our cruise ship: spacious social areas, comfortable suites, and the observation deck that allows us to admire the changing rainforest landscape as we glide down the Napo River.
After dinner, we will plunge straight into the Amazon rainforest by going for a nighttime forest walk (optional excursion) to observe the forest’s nocturnal activity and experience the thrill of the vivid noises and aromas that come from so much biodiversity.
DAY 2: THURSDAY THE HEART OF YASUNI NATIONAL PARK
After a delicious breakfast, we will go on a motorized canoe to spend some time exploring one of the large islands where we could see eagles, oropendolas, woodpeckers, and many other birds.
We will then board the Anakonda Amazon Cruise for lunch and enjoy of the onboard experiences such us a spectacular ever-changing scenery view from the Amazon hut tub, a delicious cocktail at the bar and lounge, or admire the breathtaking landscapes from the observation deck.
Later in the afternoon, we will visit Yasuní National Park, a pristine and relatively undisturbed region of the Ecuadorian Amazon. Our guests will be pleased to learn that this is the home of the legendary pink river dolphin! In this area, we can also find anacondas, river turtles and various primate species, as well as the colorful hoatzin, a unique bird that is known locally as the stinky turkey.
Near Yasuní live the Secoyas, a minority community that our guests will have the opportunity to visit and share their traditions and lifestyle.
DAY 3: FRIDAY KICHWA FAMILY & LIFE ON BOARD
We will start the day off by visiting an authentic Kichwa family located on the banks of the Napo River, where we will have the opportunity to learn directly from members of the local community.
We will then board the Anakonda Amazon Cruise for some leisure time as we continue our navigation upstream. At this time, our guests will be delighted with our life onboard activities and participate in a cooking lesson with our expert chef who will share recipes and techniques using fresh and organic ingredients to prepare exquisite traditional Ecuadorian food that you can replicate at home. After lunch, guests are also invited to try their hand at making traditional handicrafts and attend an ancestral cultures lecture with one of our local guides. For our more active guests, a kayaking activity is the best choice to explore the surrounding nature. There is an option for everyone!
DAY 4: SATURDAY OBSERVATION CANOPY TOWER & FOREST ADVENTURE
Our guests can relax and enjoy the Anakonda Amazon Cruise during the morning. After, they will disembark to visit an observation tower in the rainforest canopy, which offers astonishing 360-degree vistas. The perspective at the top of this observation tower is truly glorious, looming above the lush treetops and providing a view of the sheer vastness of the Amazon Basin. This is the perfect photo opportunity! Birdwatchers and bird-lovers alike will especially enjoy this outing.
In the afternoon, we will explore the nearby forest for a walk to discover a myriad of different animals and plant species that can only be found in the Amazon basin. A kayak activity is also available to explore this area.
DAY 5: SUNDAY – RETURN
This is where our adventure ends! Enjoy the last part of our return journey onboard and then disembark the Anakonda Amazon Cruise to take the motorized canoe back to Coca (90 minutes ride approximately).
| PRICES IN US DOLLARS AND PER PERSON |
STANDARD SUITE | |
| 4 Days / 3 Nights | |
| Single | 4054,50 |
| Double | 2703,00 |
| Triple | 1486,65 |
| Children under 12 yrs old | 1351,50 |
| 5 Days / 4 Nights | |
| Single | 5067,00 |
| Double | 3378,00 |
| Triple | 1857,90 |
| Children under 12 yrs old | 1689,00 |
| 8 Days / 7 Nights | |
| Single | 8107,50 |
| Double | 5405,00 |
| Triple | 2972,75 |
| Children under 12 yrs old | 2702,50 |
DELUXE SUITE | |
| 4 Days / 3 Nights | |
| Single | 5067,00 |
| Double | 3378,00 |
| Triple | 1857,90 |
| Children under 12 yrs old | 1689,00 |
| 5 Days / 4 Nights | |
| Single | 6334,50 |
| Double | 4223,00 |
| Triple | 2322,65 |
| Children under 12 yrs old | 2111,50 |
| 8 Days / 7 Nights | |
| Single | 10132,50 |
| Double | 6755,00 |
| Triple | 3715,25 |
| Children under 12 yrs old | 3377,50 |
- Onboard accommodations
- All meals on board
- Scheduled excursions according to the itinerary with a certified naturalist guide
- Unlimited supply of water, coffee, and tea
- Exclusive access to our VIP Lounge (before and after the cruise)
- Transfers from/to the Vessel when arriving at our recommended flights
- Private & personalized assistance for Quito – Coca – Quito flights at both airports when arriving at our recommended fights
- Air ticket Quito – Coca – Quito, USD 230.00 net per person. This rate includes (if purchasing the air ticket with us): private and personalized assistance for Quito – Coca – Quito flights at both airports. Exclusive access to our VIP Lounge (before and after the cruise) with air conditioning system, where we will provide our guests with complimentary coffee, tea, water, and light snacks.
** For those passengers who choose not to purchase their air tickets with us, an additional fee of USD 40.00 per person, shall apply for the services listed above.
* Subject to change without prior notice - Admission to local communities and natural reserves (USD 70.00 net per person for 4 & 5-day cruises, USD 80.00 net per person for an 8-day cruise)
* Subject to change without previous notice. - Transfers to and from Quito’s airport
- Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages
- Gratuities
- Wi-Fi Internet (Due to the remote area of navigation, satellite internet is only available in certain zones and during certain times. Should our guests require this, we are able to offer it for the price of $15 for the entire duration of the cruise)
- Personal expenses
- Other services not specified in the program
Medical and Health:
Good physical health is required to best enjoy an Amazon River Cruise. Visitor sites are accessible by small, motorized boats, and will possibly need wet landings. Uneven terrain may be present during hikes and daily nature excursions, and a degree of physical effort is occasionally required while embarking and disembarking. Travelers do not need vaccinations for malaria and yellow fever, although we recommend you consult your physician.
Dietary Needs:
Anakonda Amazon Cruise requires written notification 30 days before departures from travelers requesting specific nutritional needs. Every effort will be made to cater to the requested dietary needs, as long as the products are available in Ecuador.
Insurance:
We strongly recommend that you plan to arrive in Quito an extra day before the cruise departure date, given that no refunds are applicable in the unlikely event that weather-related flight cancellations cause you to miss your embarkation. Flight cancellation is beyond our control, and as a cruise operator, we must adhere to strict operating standards which include our schedules. We advise travelers to purchase trip cancellation insurance, to reimburse the cost of air tickets and other non-refundable fees incurred during trip reservations in the event of unexpected cancellations. Standard international medical, baggage loss, and airline delay insurance are also recommended.
Vessel Replacement:
Anakonda Amazon Cruise reserves the right to replace the cruise vessel when required (i.e., force majeure or inclement weather). Should travelers not agree with the adjustment, Anakonda Amazon Cruise reserves the right to cancel the trip, offering a pro-rata refund per cruise night not used or offer a credit toward a future cruise onboard the Anakonda Amazon Cruise.
Visits to the Amazon Communities and Natural Reserves:
A portion of our excursions take place within protected areas, and visitors are required to comply with these areas’ rules and regulations. Naturalist guides will inform guests about these rules. Anakonda Amazon Cruise, represented by its onboard guides, reserves the right to deny access to any guest who ignores, violates, or is unable to comply with these regulations. We appreciate your understanding.
The Ecuadorian Amazon basin is a special place, teeming with natural life and adventure at every turn. There is no telling what you will see or experience, and the unexpected is most certainly one of its treasures.
Of course, there are constants as well. The Amazon is located in the lowland equatorial tropics in a humid environment. Excursions on land usually take place in the mornings and afternoons, as the temperature rises at midday when we regularly are on board the Anakonda Amazon Cruise. The weather is relatively constant throughout the year (we’re on the equator, so there are no sharply demarcated seasons).
It is a rainforest, so rain is a regular occurrence and is what makes the area so lush and beautiful. Rain showers are often short-lived and serve to cool the air, which is always welcomed and refreshing. The insects here are a unique, colorful, and natural part of the environment. Like most everywhere in the world, you’ll find mosquitoes, but you’ll be pleasantly surprised to learn that they are quite manageable with a little repellent from time to time.
Forest trails can be uneven (a sturdy walking stick is helpful if you do not feel steady on your feet), and one can expect to encounter mud and puddles on specific segments. While a good pair of hiking boots with appropriate traction might be helpful, they are not always the best footwear. Usually, you are better off with rubber boots and a waterproof poncho (both of which we provide onboard). By the way, the clothes you bring along should be lightweight and quick-dry. (Please refer to our packing list below).
When we say that things are unexpected in the Amazon, we mean it! You never know what you will encounter, and there is always something new. The Amazon is so unique and magical that for those who experience this environment for the very first time, it can prove to be a profound and life-changing experience.
The sound of the forest is unbelievable. When paddling along one of the winding black-water streams, we invite you to close your eyes and try to take in the plethora of fascinating sounds that fill the air. We invite you to slow down, live in the present, and experience the natural beauty and richness all around you. Just let go, enjoy, and allow the spirit of the Amazon to envelope and enthrall you.
- Passport (and a color copy kept in a separate bag)
- Comfortable walking shoes or tennis shoes
- Walking stick (optional)
- Several lightweight pants (more than two)
DON’T BRING JEANS! - 3 or more long and short-sleeved shirts or blouses
- Vests with pockets are useful for carrying camera equipment and other accessories
- A windbreaker or sweater for breezy afternoons
- Waterproof socks (one pair per day)
- Small, sturdy umbrella (one)
Shorts (at least one pair) - T-shirts (at least three)
- Bathing suit/swimwear
- Cotton underwear
- Hat or cap
- Water bottle
- Sunscreen lotion
- Sunglasses
- A flashlight and extra batteries
- Binoculars (available on board as a rental item)
- Small waterproof backpack (available for purchase on board)
- Insect repellant
- Camera, spare batteries and enough memory cards
- Personal first-aid kit
- Plastic bags for storing wet clothing
- Your medications, if applicable. Don’t forget them!
- Cash – we also accept credit cards on board.
- Opt for neutral clothing colors and avoid conspicuous clothing in bright colors or white, so as not to distract or frighten animals. The more you can blend into your surroundings, the better!
- Make sure your electronic equipment is at least somewhat waterproof or packed in a waterproof bag or pouch, especially if you plan to use it during excursions.
- Speak softly when on forest trails or canoe trips – loud voices can scare away the wildlife that everyone wants to see.
- Watch your step and follow the group.
- Don’t try to get ahead of the guide or tour leader, and avoid lagging behind.
- Always tell your guide if you see something and don’t hesitate to ask questions. That’s what your guide is there for!
- Don’t Litter! Respect the forest and its wildlife. Bring a backpack or plastic bag in which you can discard plastic, wrappers, paper, and other waste.
- You are in good hands with our guides and staff. You can trust us! We have decades of experience showing guests the wonders of the Amazon. We are not only here to guide you and show you around, but also to take care of you and make you feel at home.
- Take advantage of as many outings as possible. The adventure lies “out there.” We guarantee that, given the right conditions, every outing we have selected for our itinerary has been customized to offer unique and extraordinary experiences.
- If you have physical limitations or concerns, do not hesitate to ask our guides if particular trails or activities are right for you. Most of them don’t require excessive physical effort, but please let us know if you are feeling any discomfort during an outing, and feel free to ask us for more information about what you may encounter once we have explained what it entails.
- Don’t hesitate to share your interests and preferences with our staff! It is important to us that you make this adventure your own. We can offer a certain degree of flexibility in terms of alternatives to our daily activities. Although it is not always possible, we will do what we can to personalize your Amazon cruise experience.
