Overview

Journey deep into the Ecuadorian Amazon aboard the luxurious Anakonda Amazon Cruise, an unforgettable expedition through one of the most biodiverse regions on Earth. This 8-day adventure combines immersive wildlife encounters, authentic indigenous cultural experiences, and exceptional onboard comfort as you navigate the mighty Napo River and explore the legendary Yasuní National Park.

From spotting pink river dolphins and colourful parrots to kayaking through blackwater lagoons and walking beneath the rainforest canopy, every day reveals a new side of the Amazon. Along the way, guests enjoy elegant suites, gourmet cuisine, expert naturalist guides, and once-in-a-lifetime encounters with local Kichwa and Secoya communities.

Perfect for wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and adventurous travellers alike, this cruise offers one of the most comfortable and enriching ways to experience the Ecuadorian Amazon rainforest.

Day by Day Itinerary

Day 1 | Quito – Coca – Napo River

Your Amazon adventure begins with a short flight from Quito to Coca, gateway to the Ecuadorian Amazon. From here, travel by motorised canoe along the Napo River, soaking in your first sights and sounds of the rainforest before boarding the luxurious Anakonda Amazon Cruise.

After settling into your suite, meet the expert naturalist guides who will introduce you to the incredible ecosystems and wildlife of the Amazon Basin. Enjoy dinner onboard before heading into the rainforest on an optional night walk, where the jungle truly comes alive with nocturnal sounds and creatures.

Day 2 | Yasuní National Park & Secoya Community

Today explores the heart of the legendary Yasuní National Park, one of the most biodiverse places on the planet. Travel by canoe through pristine waterways in search of pink river dolphins, monkeys, river turtles, exotic birds, and perhaps even an anaconda hidden within the dense vegetation.

Later, visit the Secoya community and gain insight into their traditions, culture, and deep connection with the rainforest environment. Return to the ship to relax in the observation deck or enjoy a cocktail while surrounded by spectacular Amazon scenery. 

Day 3 | Kichwa Community & Life Onboard

Visit a traditional Kichwa family living along the banks of the Napo River and learn about everyday life in the Amazon. This immersive cultural encounter offers a fascinating insight into indigenous customs and ancestral knowledge.

Back onboard, enjoy a range of activities including Ecuadorian cooking demonstrations, handicraft workshops, lectures on Amazonian culture, and optional kayaking excursions. Adventurous guests may also choose an optional overnight glamping experience deep within the rainforest. 

Day 4 | Canopy Tower & Rainforest Exploration

This morning offers time to relax onboard before venturing into the rainforest to climb an observation canopy tower rising high above the jungle floor. From here, enjoy panoramic views across the endless Amazon Basin and excellent birdwatching opportunities.

In the afternoon, continue exploring the forest on guided nature walks where your naturalist guide will point out medicinal plants, insects, birds, and hidden wildlife unique to this extraordinary ecosystem. Optional kayaking is also available.

Day 5 | Indillama River & Northern Yasuní

Paddle silently through the calm waters of the Indillama River by kayak or canoe, entering remote sections of Yasuní National Park inaccessible to larger vessels. The peaceful atmosphere offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities as you drift through lush rainforest surroundings.

After sunset, relax on the observation deck beneath a sky full of stars or join an optional night walk to discover the Amazon’s nocturnal creatures and hidden sounds.

Day 6 | Pañacocha Biological Corridor

Today’s adventure takes you to the remarkable Pañacocha Biological Corridor, a blackwater ecosystem rich in wildlife. Explore the waterways by canoe while searching for monkeys, birds, white caiman, piranhas, and giant freshwater fish.

Enjoy guided nature walks before stopping at a rainforest campsite for a traditional Amazon-style BBQ lunch. Later, guests can kayak across the lagoon or even swim in the famous “Piranha Lake” before returning to the ship for an evening lecture and documentary about the region.

Day 7 | Parrot Clay Licks & Amazonian Communities

One of the Amazon’s greatest wildlife spectacles awaits this morning as hundreds of brightly coloured parrots and parakeets gather at mineral-rich clay licks along the riverbanks.

Later, visit a Kichwa Cultural Centre where local community members share their traditions, cuisine, music, and crafts. This is a wonderful opportunity to support local artisans and learn more about indigenous Amazonian life before enjoying a farewell dinner onboard the Anakonda Amazon Cruise.

Day 8 | Return to Coca

After breakfast, enjoy your final moments surrounded by the Amazon rainforest as you travel back by motorised canoe to Coca for your onward journey.

Why we love it

Wildlife

Cultural Traditions

Adventure

Culinary Experiences

Gallery

All images courtesy of © Anakonda Amazon Cruises