Ecuador Amazon River Cruise - MANATEE - 3 Nights

30-minute flight from Quito to the city of Puerto Francisco de Orellana also known as El Coca, the starting point of your jungle tour in Ecuador.

Transfer to the dock to board a motorized canoe to travel down the Napo river (1 hour 30 min) and meet the crew of your Manatee Amazon River Cruise.

Once settled in your cabin, you will meet your expert local naturalist guides who will provide a brief and informative introduction to the Ecuadorian Amazon.

Free time to enjoy the exciting features of the cruise ship: the spacious social areas, comfortable suites, and an observation deck with spectacular panoramic views.

Throughout the journey, your ship will be your window to the rainforest, the lush landscape and the biodiversity that inhabits the banks of the great Napo River rolling before your eyes.

After dinner set off on an evening walk to immerse yourself in the rich sounds and aromas of the forest's vibrant nocturnal activity.

Overnight onboard.

Your journey continues downstream to the Pañayacu River delta for a canoe trip on the blackwaters of the Piñacocha lake, a fascinating nature reserve. Gliding on the calm waters of the lake keep an eye out for pink river dolphins and common squirrel monkeys.

The surrounding protected rainforest is home to 9 species of primates, 500 species of birds and more than 100 fish species.

Pañacocha (Piranha Lake, in Quechua) is a water-flooded ecosystem, the perfect habitat for the infamous piranha, as well as the water monkey fish (arawana) and white caiman.

After lunch, you will be doing the paddling on your kayak, and the most adventurous ones will enjoy a nice refreshing swim in the Piranha Lake. It is not as dangerous as it sounds!

Back on board of the Manatee, an interesting lecture and an educational documentary about the region will be waiting for you.

Overnight onboard. 

If weather allows, you will paddle 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.

You will then visit a Quechua 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 and you will have the opportunity to support the local community by purchasing handicrafts, local products, and souvenirs.

Before sunset, you will climb up an observation tower above the rainforest canopy, with astonishing 360-degree view of the Amazon basin and stunning photo opportunities. A perfect outing for birdwatchers and bird-lovers alike. 

Return to your ship. 

Overnight onboard. 

Before sunrise, you will sail to Itaya, where you will disembark the Anakonda Amazon River Cruise, in order to be transferred by a motorized canoe to El Coca (1 hour 30 min). 

Transfer to the airport for your direct flight back to Quito (30 min).