Peru has been chosen as the best river cruise destination in the world during the first edition of the World Cruise Awards. The Andean country has also been recognized as the top river cruise destination in the region, specifically in Latin America.
These awards, recently created, aim to acknowledge, reward, and celebrate excellence in the global cruise industry, as explained by the organization itself. The winners are determined through votes from industry professionals, media, and consumers.
Peruvian tourism authorities emphasize the importance of the cruise industry as an opportunity for the development of sustainable practices around natural resources and iconic landscapes, such as the Amazon River. Peru will continue to work on enhancing the services related to river tourism.
The cruise tourism industry is particularly important for regions that see opportunities in the development of sustainable practices around natural resources and emblematic landscapes such as, for example, the Amazon River.
The fact that we are an award-winning country as a must-see destination for river tourism.
It pushes Peru to improve the tourism services that revolve around it, to recognize the great opportunities and potential of this segment for the development of our regions, as well as to promote the decentralization of tourism, integrating itself to the national tourism reactivation plans for the medium and long term.
While traveling and discovering new cruises in Peru you may need to use one of our mobile phone plans for tourists to have a tourist SIM card. In order to understand and find new adventures, here in PeruSIM
River Cruises in Peru
Peru offers a unique experience of river cruises, providing tourists with the opportunity to explore stunning natural landscapes and discover the country’s rich history and culture. Here is a guide with relevant information for tourists interested in taking a river cruise in Peru:
Main Rivers
Peru has several navigable rivers that are ideal for river cruises. Here are some of the most prominent rivers:
Amazon River:
The Amazon River is one of the longest and most voluminous rivers in the world. A cruise along the Amazon allows you to venture into the Amazon rainforest, explore its unique biodiversity, and visit indigenous communities.
The Amazon River is the largest river in terms of water discharge and the second longest river in the world, stretching over 6,400 kilometers (4,000 miles).
It flows through several countries, including Peru, Brazil, Colombia, and Ecuador, with a significant portion of it running through the Peruvian Amazon.
The Amazon River Basin is home to the most extensive tropical rainforest on Earth, known as the Amazon Rainforest, which is famous for its remarkable biodiversity.
Cruising along the Amazon River offers the opportunity to encounter diverse wildlife, including pink river dolphins, caimans, monkeys, and a vast array of bird species.
Visitors can explore remote villages and interact with indigenous communities to learn about their way of life, traditions, and cultural practices.
Ucayali River:
It is a significant tributary of the Amazon River and offers a fascinating route for river cruises. Navigating the Ucayali River allows you to observe the Amazonian flora and fauna in all its splendor.
The Ucayali River is a major tributary of the Amazon River, originating in the Andes Mountains of Peru.
It merges with the Marañón River near the city of Nauta to form the Amazon River.
Navigating the Ucayali River provides an opportunity to witness the transition from the Andean highlands to the lush Amazon rainforest.
The river is surrounded by dense vegetation, providing a habitat for a diverse range of flora and fauna.
Traveling along the Ucayali River allows for encounters with local river communities, where you can learn about their traditional customs, folklore, and livelihoods.
Marañón River:
This river is the main source of the Amazon River and offers breathtaking scenery. A cruise along the Marañón River takes you through deep canyons and allows you to explore historical and cultural sites.
The Marañón River is one of the main headwaters of the Amazon River and originates in the Peruvian Andes.
It is known for its dramatic canyons, including the famous Marañón Canyon, which rivals the Grand Canyon in scale and beauty.
The river journey along the Marañón takes you through breathtaking landscapes, rugged terrain, and stunning natural formations.
Along the riverbanks, you can find archaeological sites and remnants of ancient civilizations, offering glimpses into Peru’s rich historical past.
The Marañón River is a popular route for adventurous river cruises, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in both natural and cultural wonders.
Highlighted Destinations:
Peru has various destinations along its rivers where river cruises make stops. Here are some of the most popular destinations:
Iquitos:
Located in the Amazon rainforest, Iquitos is a common gateway for Amazon River cruises. From here, you can embark on a cruise and explore the lush nature of the region.
Nauta:
Situated at the confluence of the Ucayali and Marañón rivers, Nauta is another starting point for river cruises in the Peruvian Amazon. Here, you can embark on a cruise and discover the beauty of the Amazon.
Pucallpa:
It is a city located on the banks of the Ucayali River and serves as a departure point for cruises along this waterway. Pucallpa offers a unique blend of Amazonian culture and urban amenities.
How to Get There from Lima:
If you are in Lima and wish to embark on a river cruise in Peru, there are several options to reach the departure destinations:
Flights:
The most convenient way to reach Iquitos, Nauta, or Pucallpa from Lima is by taking a flight. There are airlines that offer regular flights to these cities. Nauta is one hour away from Iquitos, it does not have an airport, you can only get to Nauta from Iquitos by car.
Land Transportation:
If you prefer a more adventurous option, you can take a bus from Lima to Pucallpa. However, keep in mind that this journey is long and can take several hours.
Useful Tips:
– Research and carefully choose the river cruise company that suits your needs and preferences.
– Pack lightweight, comfortable, and suitable clothing for the hot and humid climate of the Amazon region.
– Don’t forget to bring insect repellent, sunscreen, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun and insects.
– Inform yourself about recommended vaccines and take necessary precautions to protect your health during the trip.
Remember that river cruises in Peru will provide you with the opportunity to discover breathtaking landscapes, interact with the local culture, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Amazon region. Enjoy this unforgettable experience!
An award-winning year for Peru
Despite the pandemic and the slow opening of borders, Peru’s tourism industry has received numerous awards this 2021:
‘Best culinary destination in South America’, at the World Travel Awards (WTA).
‘Best cultural destination in South America’, at the World Travel Awards (WTA).
‘Best tourist attraction in South America’ for Machu Picchu, at the World Travel Awards (WTA).
South America’s Leading Tourism Office’ for Promperu at the World Travel Awards (WTA).
Finally, we know that you have to keep communication with your relatives and friends, that you need to be able to orient yourself in new cities, that you might need help with translation and that you might need to search for restaurants or hotels. That’s why with PeruSIM you can buy a SIM card including the data plan of your need without having to worry about high roaming costs.