The Amazon River in South America is the second longest river in the world and has the largest waterflow – it accounts for approximately one-fifth of the world’s total river flow. The river flows its way through seven South American countries covering roughly 40% of the country. It stretches from the Atlantic Ocean to the Andes Mountains over a course that takes it close to 4,000 miles (6,400 km). Flowing through its origins in the Andes Mountains through the world’s largest rain forest before flooding the plains of Brazil, the Amazon River is a force to be reckoned with.

An Amazon Cruise shows off one of the greatest natural resources on Earth and one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature – the Amazon Rainforest. Travel down the Amazon River and you will see the importance of the natural resources to the region and the world. Explore jungles, exotic wildlife and other natural wonders along the shores of this expansive river. The many small villages and towns give insights into the traditions of the different indigenous tribes that inhabit the river basin and its surrounding areas.

The Amazon River has been home to indigenous people for thousands of years. Each tribe celebrates different traditions, customs and languages. Many tribes practice sustainable hunting, fishing and farming just as their ancestors have done for centuries. During an Amazon River Cruise you will get unique insights into the histories that exist on the banks of the river and its basin.

A cruise on the Amazon River is a colorful showcase of nature and wildlife. “The more than 1,500 bird species of the Amazon region are colorful, vibrant and varied and include different types of macaws, parrots, toucans, ibis, owls, eagles and kingbirds and many other rainforest birds.” The Amazon rainforest is home to a distinctive ecosystem that is brimming with over 500 species – birds, red howler monkeys, three toed sloths, manatees, caimans and of course the rare pink Amazon River dolphins. The river itself is home to over 5,600 species of fish including sharks, eels and of course, the piranhas.

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Amazon River Cruise itineraries vary anywhere from 9 to 74 days depending on the size of the vessel. Many smaller ships are able to navigate down the river into the Upper Amazon region and often feature experienced naturalists on board to provide an education look and personal experience. Most of the excursions offered onboard involve taking scenic riverboat cruises or possibly even canoes into the smaller tributaries that the larger vessels are unable to navigate.

There are many cruise lines that travel the Amazon River, including:

• Avalon Waterways
• Crystal Cruises
• Holland America Line
• Oceania Cruises
• Princess Cruises
• Regent Seven Seas
• Silversea

There are many embarkation ports for an Amazon River Cruise, including:

• Barbados
• Buenos Aires
• Fort Lauderdale
• Lima
• Manaus
• Miami
• New York
• Quito
• Rio de Janeiro

The Amazon River provides a backdrop unlike any other for a memorable cruise vacation. Take the time to explore and experience what the river has to offer. Call now or book online to get exclusive rates and some special offers on your Amazon vacation!