Manatee Amazon River Boat Ecuador

Upon arrival to Quito's Mariscal Sucre International Airport, you will be greeted by representatives of the M/V Manatee who will assist with check-in. After a short flight from Quito to the Amazon city of Coca, you will be transferred to the dock to board motorized canoes and begin a 90-minute journey down the river, taking in your first sights and sounds of the Amazon. Soon, you will reach the M/V Manatee and enjoy a warm welcome aboard. Once settled, join expert local naturalist guides for a brief and informative introduction to the Ecuadorian Amazon, and then relish your first opportunity to discover the exciting features of the vessel: spacious social areas, comfortable suites, and an observation deck that allows you to admire the changing rainforest landscape as you glide down the Napo River. After dinner, plunge straight into the Amazon rainforest on a nighttime forest walk to observe the forest's nocturnal activity and experience the thrilling noises and aromas that come from so much biodiversity.

Continuing to travel downstream, you will soon reach the Pañayacu River delta. Here is the perfect place for a canoe trip to experience the sights of this fascinating water reserve. Pañacocha Lake is an ecosystem flooded by black-waters, and Pañacocha means "Piranha Lake" in the native Kichwa language. The surrounding protected rainforest is home to 9 species of primates, 500 species of birds and more than 100 fish species. It is the ideal habitat for piranhas, paiches (one of the largest freshwater fiches in the word) and the white caiman. In this little piece of paradise, participate in nature walks led by local naturalist guides and later relax at a nearby campsite where a delicious Amazon-style BBQ with refreshing beverages will be served. After lunch, it's time for some kayaking, and the bravest globetrotters can enjoy a nice refreshing swim in the Piranha Lake! Don't worry, it's not as dangerous as it sounds! Back on board the M/V Manatee, you're invited attend a lecture given by concierge and to settle in for an educational documentary about the region.

This morning, 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, visit a Kichwa Cultural Center to 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, and you will have the opportunity to support the local community by purchasing well-made and authentic handicrafts, local products, and souvenirs.

The day begins kayaking along the Indillama River, one of the Napo River's tributaries, which leads into Yasuní National Park. Kayaks are smooth and silent, providing the very best opportunity to observe wildlife. Canoes can also be used to travel in search of more wildlife. The choice is yours! In these waters, you will find yourself surrounded by lush greenery. After an adventure-filled day, you may choose to take advantage of our observation deck where you can relax and experience a magical view under the stars. Energetic guests may choose to unwind with a night walk through the jungle to observe nocturnal creatures.

After a delicious breakfast, set out on a motorized canoe to spend some time exploring one of the large islands with an aim to spot eagles, oropendolas, woodpeckers, and many other birds. Back aboard for lunch and spectacular onboard experiences like watching the changing scenery of the Amazon from a hot tub, a delicious cocktail at the bar and lounge, or admiring the incredible landscapes from the observation deck. Later in the afternoon, visit Yasuní National Park, a pristine and relatively undisturbed region of the Ecuadorian Amazon. This is the home of the legendary pink river dolphin, and the area is also host to anacondas, river turtles and various primate species, as well as the colorful hoatzin, a unique bird that is known locally as the stinky turkey. Near Yasuní live the Secoyas, a minority community that you will have the opportunity to visit.

The day starts with a visit to a local Kichwa family located on the banks of the Napo River, where you will have the opportunity to learn directly from members of the local community. Following some leisure time as the vessel navigates upstream, participate in a cooking lesson with the ships expert chef who will share recipes and techniques using fresh and organic ingredients to prepare exquisite traditional Ecuadorian food that you can replicate at home. After lunch, you are invited to try your hand at making traditional handicrafts and attend an ancestral cultures lecture with one of the M/V Manatee's local guides. For a more active adventure, a kayaking activity is the best choice to explore the surrounding nature. There is an option for everyone!

Relax and enjoy the sounds of the river during the morning. Later, disembark to visit an observation tower in the rainforest canopy, which offers astonishing 360-degree vistas. The perspective at the top of this observation tower is truly glorious, looming above the lush treetops and providing a view of the sheer vastness of the Amazon Basin. This is the perfect photo opportunity! Birdwatchers will especially enjoy this outing. In the afternoon, explore the nearby forest for a walk to discover myriad animals and plant species that can only be found in the Amazon basin. A kayak activity is also available to explore this area. Back on board the M/V Manatee, get set for a delightful farewell dinner.

This is where your Amazonian adventure ends! Soak in the last leg of your journey onboard the M/V Manatee and then disembark onto motorized canoes which will return you to Coca (a 90-minute ride approximately). Upon arrival, you will be transferred to the airport where you will board an outbound flight to Quito.