Manatee Amazon Cruise

Our adventure starts in Quito, Ecuador's capital. After a 30-minute flight to the Amazonian city of Coca, we transfer to the dock and board a motorized canoe for a 90-minute river journey to the Manatee Amazon Explorer. Greeted warmly, we join expert local guides for an informative introduction to the Ecuadorian Amazon. Guests can explore the cruise ship and admire the rainforest as we glide down the Napo River. After a delicious dinner, a nighttime forest walk offers the chance to hear rainforest sounds and observe nocturnal wildlife.

In the morning, we’ll journey along the lower Napo River, where we’ll have the chance to observe a variety of bird species, including woodpeckers, eagles, and oropendolas. Our afternoon adventure takes us to Yasuni National Park, one of the most biodiverse areas on Earth and the habitat of the legendary pink dolphin. Here, we’ll participate in our pink dolphin conservation program, which we operate in partnership with the Martinica community in the Cocaya region. This initiative ensures these dolphins have a protected environment to live and feed, free from hunting threats. Nearby, the Secoyas people, an ancient minority culture, will welcome us and demonstrate how to make traditional cassava bread.

We will begin our day by visiting an authentic Kichwa family on the banks of the Napo River, providing a unique cultural experience with the local community. Afterward, we'll return to the Manatee for lunch as we journey upstream. Guests can join a cooking class with our expert chef to prepare traditional Ecuadorian dishes. Additionally, guests can explore traditional handicrafts or enjoy our onboard amenities, including the Rainforest Spa, the Amazon Hot Tub, cocktails at our Bar and Lounge, and even stargazing from the Observation Deck.

We begin the day at an observation tower in an ancient kapok tree, offering a breathtaking 360° view of the Amazon canopy and prime bird-spotting opportunities. In the afternoon, we explore the primary forest, encountering diverse plant and wildlife species. We may spot the unique hoatzin, also known as the "stinkbird." Our knowledgeable guides will share fascinating insights about the forest's rich biodiversity, enhancing our appreciation for this extraordinary ecosystem.

Embark on a serene kayaking journey along the Indillama River, leading to Yasuni National Park’s lush northern reaches. Glide silently in comfy kayaks, perfect for wildlife encounters. Opt for canoes to delve deeper into nature’s wonders. Post-adventure, our observation deck offers starlit panoramas, while the spirited may choose to unwind with a night walk through the jungle in search of nocturnal creatures.

Journey down the Pañayacu River to the mystical Pañacocha Lake, a serene blackwater ecosystem embraced by the rainforest. Here, the Kichwa’s “Piranha Lagoon” awaits, a biodiverse paradise for the piranha, majestic Paíche, and white caimans. Amidst the green canopy, primates and birds thrive. After a nature walk, savor an authentic Amazonian BBQ at a local camp. Post-meal, engage in aquatic adventures like kayaking or swimming. As the day unwinds, enrich your knowledge with captivating stories from our guides aboard the Manatee, deepening the connection to this extraordinary region.

We will set out on our motorized canoes down the river to a remarkable spectacle within Ecuador’s Western Amazon - the renowned parrot clay licks. This mineral-rich sanctuary draws a vibrant array of parakeets, parrots, and avian life, congregating to ingest the clay, an act that enhances their digestive health. Post noon, our exploration leads us to the Kichwa women’s initiative. Here, we immerse ourselves in the Napo river’s indigenous way of life, understanding their deep-rooted culture and community. This visit also presents a chance to contribute to their livelihood through the purchase of artisanal crafts and local wares. Additionally, we partake in the Charapas Turtle Conservation, a collaborative effort with the community to preserve these creatures.

Our journey reaches its conclusion here. Yet, before we part ways, we’ll savor the voyage back to Puerto Providencia. Here, we’ll step off the Manatee Amazon Explorer and glide through the waters to Coca city aboard our motorized canoe. Once there, you’ll proceed to your flight, bound for Quito, carrying memories of the Amazon’s wonders.