The good news is that Amazon River’s drainage basin covers approximately 2,900,000 square miles, stretching nearly the entire width of the South American continent. Brazil’s portion may be the largest, but the Ecuadorian and Peruvian Amazon offer impressively pristine places for wildlife lovers to explore.
Here’s an overview of three exceptional adventures that allow you to see some of the 1400 mammal species, 1500 bird species, 1000 amphibian species, and endless array of insects that call the Amazon home:
The Peruvian Amazon
The Amazon rainforest covers approximately 60% of Peru, the largest extension in any country after Brazil. Peru has the largest number of birds and the third largest number of mammals in the world, largely due to the rich biodiversity found within the Amazon. IE’s Amazon River Cruise offers an immersive experience that benefits from their 38 years of guiding trips in this pristine part of Peru.
Over the course of 10 days, guests venture some 600 miles along the river and its tributaries in the newly chartered luxury riverboat Zafiro. Along the way, they’ll visit the Manatee and Pilpintuwasi Rescue Centers, explore the remote Pacaya-Samiria Reserve, and look for wildlife such as Howler Monkeys, Pink River Dolphins, countless tropical bird species, and occasional big cats (Jaguars, Ocelots, etc.). But my personal favorite memory of the Peruvian Amazon was our time with the Ribereños, who welcomed us into their homes and ultimately stole our hearts.
The Brazilian Amazon
IE’s Jaguars, Rainforests & Falls Brazil tour offers travelers an opportunity to explore three iconic areas of Brazil– the Amazon, Iguaçu Falls, and the Pantanal. The trip’s Amazon portion finds guests based at Cristalino Lodge, which National Geographic Traveler readers voted as one of the world’s best eco lodges.
From there they’ll get a chance to see wildlife from a canopy tower and numerous hiking trails through the forest. The area’s many streams are great places for spotting endemic Amazonian animals such as the Crimson-bellied Conure, Red-Nosed Saki, and White-cheeked Spider Monkey.
The Ecuadorian Amazon
IE’s Ecuador Andes & Amazon tour gives guests an experience in two very different ecosystems, from the mountains of Otavalo and Quito to the Napo River (one of countless Amazon tributaries). The trip includes four nights aboard the M/V Anaconda, a luxury riverboat whose amenities include an al fresco lounge, kayaks, observation deck, and outdoor Jacuzzi. You can also request special activities from the concierge, such as night camping in luxury tents.
During the day you’ll explore the Ecuadorian Amazon is small groups via canoe, with naturalist guides pointing out all sorts of amazing animals along the way. Look out for the famous Pink River Dolphin, Black Caiman, and the bizarre bird called the Hoatzin (a.k.a. “punk rock bird,” or “stinky turkey”). You’ll also get to visit a local community, to learn more about the warm, welcoming villagers and their traditional way of life.
