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Peruvian Amazon & Machu Picchu Exploration

16 Days | Lima to Lima

4.9/5  86 reviews

Starting at $26,799* per person based on double occupancy.

From $26,799* per person based on double occupancy.

*Available on a limited number of staterooms

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Peruvian Amazon & Machu Picchu Exploration
  • 16 Days
  • 1 Country

Experience the very best of Peru over 16 days of wonder and amazement.

From a deep dive into Lima—the “City of Kings”—to the legendary Machu Picchu, this 16-day cruise/tour is an all-encompassing adventure into the marvels of Peru and the Amazon rainforest.

Journey into the Amazon Rainforest onboard the Aria Amazon, a five-star ship designed for your Peruvian adventure. Embark on river skiffs as you explore the Ucayali and Marañón Rivers. Admire the diverse flora and fauna in the Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve.

Discover the beauty of the heartland of the Inka Empire, known as the Sacred Valley. Of course, no trip to Peru could truly be complete without a trek to the world-famous Machu Picchu. A must-see, this spectacular piece of history has fascinated both historians and archaeologists alike.

With no shortage of awe-inspiring beauty, this trip is sure to be an unforgettable adventure.

We facilitate donations on this itinerary to give guests like you the opportunity to gift local communities with much-needed supplies. Visit our Donations page to learn how you can participate.

Note: The cruise itinerary will vary depending on water levels.

Also note: Due to cultural differences and other factors, the beverage policy for Peru programs differ from our European programs. Please refer to the “What’s Included” section at the bottom of this page for inclusions details.

Map

Peruvian Amazon & Machu Picchu Exploration Map
LEGEND
  • UNESCO
  • Motorcoach
  • Embark/Disembark

Itinerary & Excursions

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Optional, Rio de Janeiro & Iguazu Falls Pre-Cruise Extension

Rio de Janeiro
Expand your South American journey with a pre-cruise extension to Brazil and Argentina, where you’ll experience two of the world’s most awe-inspiring destinations: Rio de Janeiro and the Iguazu Falls. Start in Rio, with a stay at one of the city’s most famous hotels and a local guide to introduce you to the city’s greatest highlights, from cuisine to landscapes and everything in between. Then it’s on to Iguazu. Right on the Argentinian-Brazilian border, this is the largest system of waterfalls in the world. Explore its system of nearly 300 waterfalls from above and below, catching the most memorable vistas available across its mile-and-a-half stretch of cliffs.
  • 2 nights at the Copacabana Palace, A Belmond Hotel (or similar)
  • 2 nights at the Hotel das Cataratas, A Belmond Hotel (or similar)
  • Breakfast daily, 2 lunches
  • All service charges, taxes, and porterage
  • Christ the Redeemer Statue, Sugarloaf Mountain & Iguazu Falls
  • English-speaking guides

Click here for full details.

Day 1

Lima

Lima

Arrive at Jorge Chávez International Airport in Lima. If you have arranged a Uniworld arrival transfer, a Uniworld representative will be on hand to greet you and escort you to the beautiful Country Club Lima Hotel. Its charm and comfort will offer you the perfect home for your exploration of the city.

Seasons: The Aria Amazon sails year-round, and every voyage is uniquely appealing, based on the changing seasons. During the high-water season (approximately November through May), the river and estuaries grow, allowing launch boats to venture deeper into the flooded forest. During the low water season (approximately June through October), the river recedes and beautiful sandy river beaches form. Of course, water levels do not always follow a calendar; day-by-day programs might require adjustments due to these water level fluctuations.

Note: For Arrival, Departure and Transfer details, please visit Uniworld.com/transfers. For Port Location details, please visit Uniworld.com/ports.

Day 2

Lima

Known as the “City of Kings,” Lima was founded in 1535. A melting pot of cultures, flavors, and history, this bustling metropolis has something for everyone, and today you get to discover it all.

Included excursions designed to enhance your journey

Lima City Tour

This panoramic drive will take you around the coastline of Lima in Miraflores. You’ll stroll...

Lima City Tour

This panoramic drive will take you around the coastline of Lima in Miraflores. You’ll stroll around the “Plaza San Martín” and “Plaza de Armas,” the main square. Afterward, your guide will take you to the San Francisco Monastery. A maze of tunnels and catacombs await you here.

Later, you'll visit Casa Aliaga. Built in 1535, the “Plaza de Armas” is one of Lima’s oldest buildings. A colonial mansion of the Aliaga family, it has been passed down the family for 17 generations. You will meet a family member who will give you a tour and show you items from centuries past. Lunch will be served at the mansion.

Day 3

Lima, Fly to Iquitos (Nauta), Embark

You will be picked up at your hotel and taken to the airport for your flight to Iquitos. Upon your arrival at Iquitos International Airport, a Uniworld representative will be on hand to greet you and escort you to the Aria Amazon.

In the evening, you will be welcomed with a reception dinner by Chef Pedro Miguel Schiaffino. Famous for his innovative take on Amazonian cuisine, this dinner will be bursting in flavors unique to the Peruvian Amazon.

Included excursions designed to enhance your journey

Iquitos Panoramic City Tour

Before heading to the ship to begin sailing, a local guide will take you on a captivating tour through...

Iquitos Panoramic City Tour

Before heading to the ship to begin sailing, a local guide will take you on a captivating tour through the Belen market. This busting market is a unique and vibrant place, and our guided tour allows you to explore its lively atmosphere while interacting with locals. You'll also head to the Nanay Bridge for breathtaking views of the Nanay River, showcasing the natural beauty of the Amazon region.

Day 4

Ucayali River, Clavero Lake, Yarapa River

Amazon Rivers

Your day starts at the headstream of the Amazon River, the Ucayali. Kayak, canoe, and swim in the black waters of Clavero Lake, or learn about traditional customs of the area at a remote village along the Ucayali River. Once the sun sets, we’ll explore the Yarapa River in search of the nocturnal wildlife of the Amazon.

Included excursions designed to enhance your journey

Ucayali River Wildlife Exploration

We start the day searching for the incredible wildlife along the Ucayali River. Parrots, egrets, hawks,...

Ucayali River Wildlife Exploration

We start the day searching for the incredible wildlife along the Ucayali River. Parrots, egrets, hawks, and monkeys are among some of the Amazonian wildlife you may come across.

Clavero Lake Excursion

This afternoon, it's your choice: kayak, canoe, or swim the black waters of Clavero Lake. Alternatively, ...

Clavero Lake Excursion

This afternoon, it's your choice: kayak, canoe, or swim the black waters of Clavero Lake. Alternatively, take the unique opportunity to interact with some of the native ribereños—which roughly translates to "river people," Amazonian villagers who live on the banks of the rivers—and learn about their culture.

Wildlife & Stargazing on the Yarapa River

At dusk, head out on an excursion with your naturalist guide in search of the nocturnal wildlife native...

Wildlife & Stargazing on the Yarapa River

At dusk, head out on an excursion with your naturalist guide in search of the nocturnal wildlife native to the Amazon. While cruising the Yarapa River in search of these creatures, don't forget to turn your gaze skyward for a crystal-clear view of the constellations.

Day 5

Amazon River, Tahuayo River, San Pedro Forest

Today we’re exploring the vibrant wildlife and lush greenery thriving in the Amazon.

Included excursions designed to enhance your journey

Amazon River Wildlife Exploration

Explore with your naturalist guide, who will teach you all about the diverse flora and fauna unique to...

Amazon River Wildlife Exploration

Explore with your naturalist guide, who will teach you all about the diverse flora and fauna unique to the region.

Tahuayo River Exploration

Explore the Tahuayo River, a black water tributary of the Amazon River. Learn about the Tahuayo River...

Tahuayo River Exploration

Explore the Tahuayo River, a black water tributary of the Amazon River. Learn about the Tahuayo River through the stories shared by your naturalist guide.

Flora & Fauna of the Amazon

Following lunch onboard, venture out on a jungle walk through the forest to explore the Amazonian flora...

Flora & Fauna of the Amazon

Following lunch onboard, venture out on a jungle walk through the forest to explore the Amazonian flora and the fauna of Puerto Prado.

Day 6

Nauta

One of the oldest inhabited areas in the Peruvian Amazon, Nauta is nestled between the Marañón and Ucayali Rivers. You’ll explore the town’s market, which is full of fresh fish, fruits, and vegetables. From there, it’s a short journey to the birthplace of the Amazon River.

Included excursions designed to enhance your journey

Nauta Market Visit

Discover some of the exotic fruits unique to the area, such as Camu Camu or Maracuya. Meet local...

Nauta Market Visit

Discover some of the exotic fruits unique to the area, such as Camu Camu or Maracuya. Meet local fishermen and see what the catch of the day is. Maybe even indulge your taste buds in an unfamiliar treat.

Birthplace of the Amazon

Despite centuries of exploration, the Amazon River remains a fascinating destination, shrouded in...

Birthplace of the Amazon

Despite centuries of exploration, the Amazon River remains a fascinating destination, shrouded in mystery. Journey to where this mighty river is born, where the Ucayali and Marañón Rivers join. While all the lush greenery is breathtaking, you’ll especially be amazed at the giant water lilies growing in the river basin.

Day 7

Marañón River, Yanayacu-Pucate River, Amazon River

Experience life as an Amazon River dweller as you cruise along the Marañón River. Search for Taricaya turtles and other wildlife lurking just beyond the river. Once the sun sets, we’ll take to the Amazon River, on the lookout for nocturnal beasts.

Included excursions designed to enhance your journey

Marañón River Bird Watching & Jungle Walk

One of the most important water sources in Peru, and a main Amazon tributary, the Marañón...

Marañón River Bird Watching & Jungle Walk

One of the most important water sources in Peru, and a main Amazon tributary, the Marañón River is abundant in animal and plant life. Be on the lookout for one of the 64 rare bird species native to the area.

Yanayacu Pucate River Skiff Ride & Village Visit

Explore the black waters of the Yanayacu Pucate River, keep an eye out for sloths, egrets, parrots, and...

Yanayacu Pucate River Skiff Ride & Village Visit

Explore the black waters of the Yanayacu Pucate River, keep an eye out for sloths, egrets, parrots, and the Taricaya turtles. After your skiff ride, visit an Amazon village to witness a demonstration of Aguaje palm harvesting.

Piranha Fishing on the Amazon River

After lunch, embark on a top bucket-list adventure for your Amazonian trip, piranha fishing. Your guide...

Piranha Fishing on the Amazon River

After lunch, embark on a top bucket-list adventure for your Amazonian trip, piranha fishing. Your guide will show you how to safely hunt for the notorious fish from the safety of our comfortable river skiffs.

Nocturnal Wildlife Exploration along the Amazon River

Set out at dusk with your naturalist guide in search of the exotic nocturnal wildlife of the Amazon.

Nocturnal Wildlife Exploration along the Amazon River

Set out at dusk with your naturalist guide in search of the exotic nocturnal wildlife of the Amazon.

Day 8

Samiria River, Ucayali River

The rewards of our early start today are plentiful, including a picnic lunch under the Amazonian shade, orchestrated to the sound of the jungle symphony. Go fishing along the black waters of Samiria River and choose to go on a jungle walk, canoeing, kayaking, or swimming inside the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve. Later, cruise along the Ucayali River and enjoy the sunset.

Included excursions designed to enhance your journey

Night Sailing on the Ucayali River

At dusk, enjoy a sunset cruise along the Ucayali River, while keeping an eye out for pink river...

Night Sailing on the Ucayali River

At dusk, enjoy a sunset cruise along the Ucayali River, while keeping an eye out for pink river dolphins.

Fishing along the Samiria River

Today, your naturalist will guide you on a fishing expedition along the black waters of the Samiria...

Fishing along the Samiria River

Today, your naturalist will guide you on a fishing expedition along the black waters of the Samiria River.

Pacaya Samiria National Reserve Exploration

This afternoon, choose to explore the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve one of four ways: by canoeing,...

Pacaya Samiria National Reserve Exploration

This afternoon, choose to explore the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve one of four ways: by canoeing, kayaking, swimming, or on a jungle walk.

Day 9

Puerto Prado Forest, Amazon River

Spend the morning jungle walking, canoeing, kayaking, or swimming before a visit to Puerto Prado Forest.

Included excursions designed to enhance your journey

Marañón River Skiff Tour

Today, you'll be exploring the Amazon rainforest by skiff as you cruise the Marañón River. ...

Marañón River Skiff Tour

Today, you'll be exploring the Amazon rainforest by skiff as you cruise the Marañón River. If you're lucky, you may spot some pink river dolphins.

Puerto Prado Village Visit

Visit an indigenous village to learn about local life in the Amazon, and take the opportunity to view...

Puerto Prado Village Visit

Visit an indigenous village to learn about local life in the Amazon, and take the opportunity to view the giant water lilies that can be found here. These lily pads are known to grow up to 10 ft. in diameter and have been recorded being able to hold hundreds of pounds without sinking under the water.

Day 10

Nauta (Iquitos), Disembark, Fly to Cusco, Urubamba (The Sacred Valley)

Take a morning walk through the town of Nauta before disembarking the Aria Amazon. Your guide will take you on a few excursions on your way to the Iquitos airport for your flight to Cusco.

Once you’ve landed in Cusco, you will be taken to the Tambo del Inka hotel in the Sacred Valley.

Included excursions designed to enhance your journey

Nauta Town Visit

Founded in 1930, Nauta is a central gathering place for Amazonian villagers to buy and trade their local ...

Nauta Town Visit

Founded in 1930, Nauta is a central gathering place for Amazonian villagers to buy and trade their local harvest. Your guide will show you the town and give you insight into the daily life of these remote people.

Manatee Rescue Center

Manatees in the Amazon face multiple threats, from habitat destruction to hunting. The Amazon Rescue...

Manatee Rescue Center

Manatees in the Amazon face multiple threats, from habitat destruction to hunting. The Amazon Rescue Center, funded by the Dallas World Aquarium Zoo, takes in orphaned calves, rehabilitates them, and releases them back into the wild. Since their founding, they’ve rescued over 40 orphaned baby manatees. During this visit, you’ll have a chance to get up close to these majestic creatures.

Day 11

Urubamba (The Sacred Valley)

Enjoy this day of leisure to get the most out of your stay at the wonderful Tambo del Inka. Treat yourself to a relaxing service at their Kallpa Spa, considered one of the best in the country, take a dip in the heated pool, or savor delicious Andean cuisine. Situated in the heart of the Sacred Valley, the Tambo del Inka is also the perfect location from which to head out on your own to explore the incredible nature, cities, and historical sites available nearby.

Day 12

Urubamba, Ollantaytambo, Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu)

Cusco

Today you will explore the heartland of the Inka Empire, known as the Sacred Valley. Your guide will take you to Moray and Ollantaytambo, two historic sights of significant importance. You’ll experience the unique way of living in the Sacred Valley as you meet locals. We finish the day with a train ride to Aguas Calientes, the small villages nestled at the bottom of Machu Picchu. 

Please note: You are only allowed one 11 lb piece of luggage on the train to Aguas Calientes. All other luggage will be taken to your hotel in Cusco.

Included excursions designed to enhance your journey

Moray–Agricultural Terraces & Weaving

A pre-Inkan site, Moray is considered to be a significant Inka agricultural research center. Your guide...

Moray–Agricultural Terraces & Weaving

A pre-Inkan site, Moray is considered to be a significant Inka agricultural research center. Your guide will give you a tour of the round, agricultural terraces. Afterward, you will meet with local women who will show you traditional Peruvian weaving techniques.

Ollantaytambo Family Home Tour with Picnic Lunch

One of the few battles where the Spaniards lost to the Inkas took place at Ollantaytambo, an impressive...

Ollantaytambo Family Home Tour with Picnic Lunch

One of the few battles where the Spaniards lost to the Inkas took place at Ollantaytambo, an impressive fortress that overlooks one of the oldest villages in Cusco. After your tour of the fortress, you will walk to the “last living Inka village of Peru,” which sits under Ollantaytambo. Experience the fascinating way of living in the Sacred Valley at a family home visit. Afterward, enjoy a picnic to the sounds of traditional local Inkan instruments before making your own panpipe.

Day 13

Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu), Cusco

A breathtaking, historical sight, Machu Picchu is one of the “must-see” archeological sites in the world. This remarkable Inkan Empire site was never found by the Spaniards and was rediscovered during the 20th century. Today, archeologists continue to excavate this ancient city. While many mysteries still surround it, Machu Picchu tells a story of a history that goes back thousands of years. Following your day at Machu Picchu, you will take a train to Ollantaytambo and then a motor coach will take you to the Palacio del Inka hotel in Cusco.

Included excursions designed to enhance your journey

Machu Picchu

Your day starts early with a shuttle bus up to the ancient citadel. Your guide will share stories about...

Machu Picchu

Your day starts early with a shuttle bus up to the ancient citadel. Your guide will share stories about the Inka civilization, the site’s discovery, and all the theories surrounding this spectacular piece of history. Enjoy lunch at the famous Sanctuary Lodge before heading back down to Aguas Calientes.

Day 14

Cusco

Located in the Andes Mountains, Cusco was the heartland of the Inkan Empire. Today, you will explore all the wonders of this city as you admire the cobblestone streets, colorful textiles, and art galleries. A perfect blend of ancient Andean cultures with Spanish colonial influence, Cusco is not to be missed. Overnight, you will stay in the Palacio del Inka hotel.

Included excursions designed to enhance your journey

Cusco City Tour

Start your morning off at Sacsayhuamán, the Inkan ceremonial fortress dedicated to the sun....

Cusco City Tour

Start your morning off at Sacsayhuamán, the Inkan ceremonial fortress dedicated to the sun. Indulge your senses at the San Pedro market as you wander through the colorful stands overflowing with fruits, vegetables, spices, and local products. Your tour continues after lunch with visits to the renaissance-style Cathedral and Koricancha, the temple dedicated to the sun “Inti.” Finally, your day ends with a dining experience inside the San Francisco Monastery of Cusco.

Day 15

Cusco, Fly to Lima

We’re headed back to Lima today. After a brief walk around town, you’ll head to the Wyndham Grand Costa del Sol Lima Airport hotel.

Included excursions designed to enhance your journey

San Blas Walking Tour

Abundant in beautiful handicrafts and antique stores, San Blas is a vibrant neighborhood. You’ll...

San Blas Walking Tour

Abundant in beautiful handicrafts and antique stores, San Blas is a vibrant neighborhood. You’ll visit the Hilario Mendivil Museum, showcasing the work of Mendivil, an artist famous for statues of saints with notoriously long necks. Wander down small alleys with your guide before enjoying lunch at a local restaurant.

Day 16

Lima

Your majestic Peru adventure ends this morning. Your guide will walk you from the Wyndham Grand Costa del Sol Lima Airport hotel to the Lima International Airport check-in. To participate in this complimentary assisted walk to the airport check-in area, please provide Uniworld your flight information in advance of your trip.

Featured Excursions do not require booking. Excursions that are listed as "Choose between..." must be booked onboard however there is no additional cost. Please refer to the excursion details below to view purchasing options for our Masterpiece Collection excursions where applicable. Note: The itineraries presented are subject to modification due to water levels, closures because of public holidays or other uncontrollable factors. Every effort will be made to operate programs as planned, but changes may still be necessary throughout the cruise. This day-to-day schedule is subject to change. Your final day-to-day schedule will be provided onboard on the first day of your cruise.

What's Included

Aria Amazon dining room

Dining

  • Meals onboard prepared using the finest and freshest ingredients
  • Five-star cuisine with menu by top chef Pedro Miguel Schiaffino
  • 15 breakfasts, 11 lunches, 10 dinners
  • Complimentary house wine and beer, spirits, soft drinks, tea, and coffee will be served on the Aria Amazon, between 6am and 11pm throughout the cruise. Onboard lunches and dinners include complimentary house wine and beer, soft drinks, coffee, and tea. Onshore lunches and dinners include complimentary soft drinks, coffee, and tea
Amazon community

Excursions

  • 13 days of excursions, all fully hosted by English-speaking local experts and naturalist guides
Aria Amazon suite

Accommodations

  • 7-night cruise in a riverview stateroom on the luxurious Aria Amazon
  • Lavishly appointed riverview suites with floor-to-ceiling windows
  • 2 nights in Lima at the Country Club Lima Hotel (or similar)
  • 2 nights in Urubamba at the Tambo del Inka hotel (or similar)
  • 1 night in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu) at The Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel (or similar)
  • 2 nights in Cusco at the Palacio del Inka hotel (or similar)
  • 1 night in Lima at the Wyndham Grand Costa del Sol Lima Airport hotel (or similar)
Mirrored Forest

Experiences

  • 1 country: Peru
  • 4 UNESCO World Heritage sites
  • Services of an experienced Uniworld Cruise Manager
  • Cultural enrichment
  • Flights included between Lima & Iquitos, Iquitos & Cusco, and Cusco & Lima
  • Gratuities for onboard and onshore personnel (ship staff, crew, Cruise/Tour Manager, local experts, drivers) are included both during the cruise/tour as well as on any pre- or post-cruise land extensions

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Peruvian Amazon & Machu Picchu Exploration

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