Travel deep into the Ecuadorian Amazon on a 4-day cruise aboard the M/V Manatee, starting in Quito and flying to Coca. Journey by motorized canoe along the Napo River and discover blackwater lakes, remote rainforest, and vibrant wildlife. Explore the Pañacocha Biological Corridor, home to primates, birds, and white caimans. Paddle a kayak, swim in Piranha Lake, and walk forest trails with expert guides. Visit the parrot clay licks, where colorful Amazon birds gather, and explore a Kichwa Cultural Center to learn about local traditions. This Amazon cruise includes river expeditions, nature walks, community visits, and opportunities to support local artisans. Experience the Amazon’s sights and sounds from the ship’s observation deck or during a nighttime forest walk.
Highlights
Watch parrots gather at clay licks near Napo River
Learn Amazon traditions, cuisine, and customs from local guides
Observe nocturnal wildlife during an optional nighttime forest walk
Activity options vary depending on destination and operator. Activity level is determined by the range and intensity of activities you choose to participate in. Discuss with your Trip Planner which options are best for you.
The adventure begins in Quito, the capital of Ecuador. After a 30-minute flight to the Amazon city of Coca in Orellana Province, transfer to the dock and board a motorized canoe for a 90-minute ride down the river. This marks the first look—and listen—at the Amazon.
Arrival at the Manatee Amazon Explorer includes a welcome aboard and time to settle in. Expert local naturalist guides will give a short introduction to the Ecuadorian Amazon, setting the stage for the days ahead. Guests can explore the ship’s features, including spacious social areas, comfortable suites, and an observation deck offering wide views of the rainforest along the Napo River.
After dinner, an optional nighttime walk in the forest offers a chance to observe nocturnal wildlife and experience the sounds and scents of the Amazon after dark.
Continue downstream to the Pañayacu River delta for a canoe trip through this remote water reserve. Pañacocha Lake, meaning “Piranha Lake” in the Kichwa language, is a blackwater ecosystem surrounded by protected rainforest. The area supports nine species of primates, over 500 bird species, and more than 100 types of fish, including piranhas, paiches (one of the world’s largest freshwater fish), and white caimans.
Guided nature walks are offered in the area, followed by time to relax at a nearby campsite with an Amazon-style BBQ and cold beverages.
After lunch, guests can kayak or take a swim in Pañacocha Lake. Despite the name, swimming here is safe and supervised. Back aboard the Manatee Amazon Explorer, guests can attend a lecture led by the concierge and view an educational documentary about the region.
Day 3: Parrot's Clay Licks | Amazonian Communities
This morning, you will set out on canoes to observe one of the most incredible sights on this side of the Western Amazon – the parrot clay licks. This unique place is rich in minerals and attracts hundreds of colorful parrots, parakeets, and Amazon birds every day.
Later in the afternoon, you will visit a Kichwa Cultural Center, where you will learn about Amazon communities and their ancestral culture, traditions, and cuisine. Members of the local community will teach you about indigenous lifestyles along the Napo River. Guests will have the opportunity to support the local community by purchasing handicrafts, local products, and souvenirs.
Back on board the Manatee Amazon Explorer, you will be delighted with an exquisite farewell dinner.
Day 4: Disembark | Coca
1 Breakfast
This is where your adventure ends! Enjoy the last part of your return journey onboard and then disembark the Manatee Amazon Explorer to take the motorized canoe back to Coca (approximately 90 minutes ride).
Apologies for the inconvenience. Prices for not yet published. Below per person rate based on previous season. Contact us to confirm upcoming season pricing.
Prices for are estimated based on inflation. Contact us to confirm pricing and availability for your desired departure date.
$2,415
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Standard
20 sq meters, 10 cabins, 8 with twin single or double beds and 2 triple occupancy cabins with a twin bunk and a single bed. Each cabin features large picture windows and a balcony. Equipped with air conditioning, closets, bedside table, 24 hours of electricity and 110-voltage outlets and switches.
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Deluxe
24 sq meters, 4 suites with twin single or double beds, or a double bed and a single pull out bed in the triple occupancy cabins. Each cabin features large picture windows, a balcony, and private Jacuzzi style baths. Each cabin is equipped with air conditioning, closets, bedside table, 24 hours of electricity and 110-voltage outlets and switches.
Initial deposit is $400, and most travelers will call our office and pay the deposit with a credit card.
Final payment is due 100 days prior to departure by Bank transfer, check or credit card. All final payments by credit card may be subject to a surcharge and maximum of $20,000 charge
Beyond expectations! Then again we weren't sure what to expect. Lovely stay at the lodge, met other like-minded travelers (many had their trips planned by Adventure Life) and the owner was a gracious hostess. It felt like you were one happy family, visiting with a favorite aunt.
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