MANATEE AMAZON EXPLORER
The experience of taking a cruise in the Amazon is unique! Monkeys that can fit in your hand, young falcons, unique, that still have claws on their wings like their prehistoric ancestors, insects of a thousand colors, hairy spiders and gigantic snakes, palm trees, that can walk, countless specimens, and, that has not, yet, been identified by science, all this, and, more, awaits you in the Amazon.
We will sail, followed by “Orellana”, in its search for the “Amazonas”, not only attesting to its wonderful biological diversity, but meeting people and cultures who have been able to live in harmony in this pristine world, cherishing it, and, keeping it in unchanged form, as much as possible.
The experienced crew of “Manatee” has been assembled, specifically, to make your adventure the most enjoyable and unforgettable. Our programming staff has thought of the best possible itineraries so that you can return with the “big picture” of the Amazon, in all its cultural and natural glory. Always in support of the conservation of protected areas, we visit the “Yasuní” National Park, the “Cuyabeno” Reserve, “Limoncocha” Biological Reserve, etc. –
The “Manatee Amazon Explorer” is fully equipped and maintained to handle the most difficult conditions and circumstances. The canoes used for daily shore landings are robust and versatile and are operated responsibly by experienced personnel. On board you will be fully informed of all relevant safety issues, as well as our environmental policy. Also, passengers receive appropriate and detailed information sessions before each collision.
The “Manatee Amazon Explorer” offers superb river cruise programs from 3 to 8 days.
Included
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- Native Guide
- Transport
- Full Board
Not included
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- Drinks
- Park Tickets
Itinerary
Day 1+
Departure from Quito. A short 30-minute flight will take you to the border town of “Coca” (“Francisco de Orellana”). Transfer to the docking station, where we will board a motor canoe to navigate along the river, approximately 1 ½ hours, to arrive at the “MANATEE AMAZON EXPLORER”. During the entire trip, you will have the chance to admire the landscape of the rainforest and the banks of the great “Napo” river. Immediately after boarding the “Manatee”. Passengers will have their first opportunities to enjoy the comfort of the “Manateem” with spacious social areas, comfortable suites, and an observation deck, which offers spectacular views. An evening walk is organized, after sunset, which will give us the opportunity to discover the nocturnal activity of the forest and listen to the incessant sounds of nature
Day 2+
After a delicious breakfast, we will disembark ashore to explore the rainforest, where, we will learn more about the relationship between plants and animals, while looking closely for samples of the Amazon's fascinating biodiversity at every turn. After lunch, the “Manatee” accesses one of the most pristine and little explored sections of the Ecuadorian Amazon, home to the legendary pink water dolphin, black caiman and anaconda. We can also find river turtles and various species of monkeys, as well as the primitive "Hoatzin", a bird known locally, as "the Stinky Turkey". The only way to visit this ecosystem is by canoe, and, therefore, to discover the beauty of a unique world.
For our more adventurous passengers, please inquire about our camping program.
Day 3+
Breakfast on board, afterwards we will visit a school, located on the banks of the "Napo" river, where we will have the opportunity to interact with local children and learn more about the educational system of a remote jungle community in Ecuador. Return aboard the “Manatee” for lunch, and a moment of relaxation while we sail. We will offer a screening of conferences and documentaries, and, if time permits, learn more about the typical crafts of the region. In the afternoon, we explore one of the largest islands in the “Napo” river.
Day 4+
In the morning, after breakfast, visit the 100 feet high observation tower, built on a giant kapok tree. From the top of the tower, we will be blessed with this unique perspective of the forest, which allows us to see the treetops and the grandeur of the Amazon basin.
In the afternoon, we will visit the “Limoncocha” biological reserve, a fascinating protected area, where more than 478 species of birds and several species of monkeys have been recorded. This activity will continue into the evening, when we will have a chance to see the black caiman with the help of our flashlights. Return to “Manatee” for dinner.
Day 5+
In the morning, disembarkation from the “Manatee” and transfer by motorized canoe to Coca (1 ½ hour journey); flight to Quito.