Selva Viva Amazon Cruise

Built in 2007, in a traditional Brazilian wooden riverboat style, the Selva Viva is arguably the best Amazon River boat with private cabins - for the price - in the upper Amazon region of Peru.

While the facilities are functional, rather than luxurious, the Selva Viva is still big enough to be comfortable ... and small enough to access the small tributaries where larger cruise ships cannot go. The boat is able to slip under the close canopy of the jungle, within narrow waterways, where the best wildlife-watching is to be had.

The Selva Viva offers a wide range of itineraries, from three days to the Allpahuayo-Mishano Reserve to a 12-day epic up the Curaray River to the border with Ecuador! We have only presented a small range of their shorter tours here, but if you need more details, please get in touch. 

The Selva Viva is also available for charter, and its competitive pricing make this an excellent alternative for four people or more.

Moreover, as the boat is owned and operated by a French-Peruvian NGO, passengers have the comfort of knowing that any money generated from their experience goes towards helping grassroots projects in the vast and undeveloped Peruvian Amazon department of Loreto.

3-Day Tapira Cruise Itinerary

This 3 day cruise takes you to the confluence of the Maranon and Ucayali rivers, the birthplace of the mighty Amazonas River!

Open your eyes, ears and hearts, in order to share this rewarding and unforgettable experience on board the Selva Viva. This cruise not only gives passengers the opportunity to discover the amazing flora and fauna, but also the culture and way of life of the people who inhabit one of the wildest regions on earth.

This Selva Viva tour guarantees 100% nature in a timeframe that is ideal for those with a limited stay in Iquitos.

Please note that the itinerary below is dependent on the river water level, weather conditions, wildlife behavior, and accessibility to locations, so may vary.

Day 1: Iquitos – River Itaya

(Lunch & Dinner)

Pick up from the airport no later than 10am to be transferred to the M/F Selva Viva.

We begin sailing upstream on the Itaya River, with the chance to spot the playful and smiling pink dolphins at the mouth of the mythical Amazon River.

Lunch on the sundeck as the boat continues to sail, with plenty of bird-spotting opportunities from the boat.

In the afternoon, we arrive at a special remote destination to embark on an adventurous walk through the jungle, a real taste of what it must have been like for those early explorers. Don't worry, you will be accompanied by a local guide who will lead the way.

Surrounded by the sounds of the jungle keep your eyes peeled for the abundant and exotic wildlife all around you. Later on there is even the possibility of swimming and piranha fishing, not at the same time though of course!

Dinner on board followed by an after-dark excursion in the skiff to immerse ourselves in the nocturnal atmosphere of the jungle and find caimans, whose eyes shine in the darkness.

Overnight on board, whilst moored at a wild location.

Day 2: River Itaya - River Tapira - Tapira Chico
(All meals)

Breakfast on board as we sail along the Tapira River to our next destination, the village of Tapira Chico. There a local guide will take us on a jungle hike to explain all about how the local tribes manage the natural resources offered by the rainforest, and in particular their fascinating use of medicinal plants. On our return to the village we will get the chance to see some of the colorful local handicrafts.

Lunch on board and we continue to sail towards the mighty Amazonas River. In the afternoon we will take a skiff excursion to try our hand at fishing for the infamous piranha. If we are successful, they will make an excellent dinner!

We then make another trip by skiff to some small river lagoons that are inaccessible in the larger Selva Viva and where there is abundant fauna, especially monkeys and birds.

Return to the boat for dinner.

Overnight on board in a wild, isolated mooring.

Day 3: Rio Amazonas -Tamshiyacu - Iquitos
(Breakfast & Lunch)

Early morning excursion by skiff to enjoy dawn in the jungle, as the fauna ‘wakes up’.

Return to the boat for breakfast, as we sail down the Amazonas back towards Iquitos.

We stop by the village of Tamshiyacu where you will discover the hustle and bustle of a typical Amazon market and then stop to visit a little factory of the traditional Amazonian handcrafted peke-pekes (wooden boats).

We return to the boat to continue sailing and enjoy lunch onboard on the sundeck.

We arrive in Iquitos around 3pm, and once disembarked, we transfer you to the airport or a hotel if you have decided to prolong your stay in Iquitos.

4-Day Yarapa Itinerary

Discover the mythical Amazon River … and one of its smallest tributaries!

Amongst the abundance of the world’s largest river, and the incredible diversity of the Yarapa River, this cruise will allow you to discover the Amazon fauna and flora, as well as the culture and way of life of the people who inhabit one of the wildest regions on earth.

We invite you to share this intimate and enriching experience on board the Selva Viva.

Please note that the itinerary below is dependent on the river water level, weather conditions, wildlife behavior, and accessibility to locations, so may vary.

Day 1: Iquitos - River Amazonas - Quebrada Tamshiyacu
(Lunch & Dinner)

Pick-up from Iquitos airport, and transfer to the M/F Selva Viva, where you will be installed in your cabin.

We begin sailing upstream. Lunch is on the sundeck as we continue sailing until mid-afternoon when we reach the Quebrada Tamshiyacu, the northernmost part of the Tamshiyacu-Tahuayo Reserve. We stop to enjoy the spectacular dance of the grey and pink river dolphins, around the boat.

In the afternoon we take the our first of many skiff excursions for our first contact with the tropical jungle and its diverse and exotic flora and fauna that call this vast reserve their home.

After dinner, it is possible to take an excursion by skiff to uncover the nocturnal life of the jungle and particularly caimans.

Overnight on board.

Day 2: River Yarapa - Jaldar
(All meals)

Breakfast on board as we continue to sail towards the Yarapa River and the village of Jaldar. After lunch on board we arrive at the village to receive a presentation about the rainforest and the production of local handicrafts.

Nearby to the village is a lagoon giving us the perfect opportunity to observe its abundant wildlife (probably sloths, squirrel monkeys and birds) and go sunset fishing for piranhas.

As night falls we venture out on a hunt for one of the jungle's most famous hunters, the tarantula, and other creepy crawlies.

Dinner and overnight on board, in an isolated, remote mooring.

Day 3: River Tapira - Tapira Chico
(All meals)

Today we awake early to head out on a dawn jungle trek to experience the sights and sounds as the fauna 'wakes up'. With the help of our specialist local guide we will also learn about the medicinal plants used by local communities for hundreds of years.

We return to the boat for breakfast and further navigation of the River Tapira, observing various different species of birds along the way.

In the afternoon we reach the village of Tapira Chico, where there will be the chance to delve deep into the rainforest and spot some of the more elusive wildlife on an adventurous 3 hour jungle trek.

We return to the village for a demonstration of local handicrafts by the village women.In the evening we let our hair down with the locals as there is a party with traditional band, dances and drinks.

Overnight on board with dinner, in the vicinity of the village.

Day 4: Tamshiyacu - Iquitos
(Breakfast & Lunch)

Breakfast on board as we navigate back towards Iquitos.

We stop by the village of Tamshiyacu where you will discover the hustle and bustle of a typical Amazon market and then stop to visit a little factory of the traditional Amazonian handcrafted peke-pekes (wooden boats).

We return to the boat to continue sailing and enjoy lunch onboard on the sundeck. We may be lucky enough to observe the playful pink and grey dolphins on the Itaya River on our way.

We arrive in Iquitos around 3pm, and once disembarked, we transfer you to the airport or a hotel if you have decided to prolong your stay in Iquitos.

5-Day Pacaya Samiria Riverboat Cruise

Explore Peru’s most important natural park, the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve, covering 2 million hectares and well-known as one of the richest areas of biodiversity in the World. The abundant vegetation and colorful waters are home to more than 250 species of fish, 130 mammals, 450 birds and 250 reptiles and amphibians.

A microcosm of the Amazon to be discovered aboard the Selva Viva and a must for any nature lover.

Please note that the itinerary below is dependent on the river water level, weather conditions, wildlife behavior, and accessibility to locations, so may vary.

Day 1: Iquitos – Nauta – Marañon River – Solterito Village
(Lunch & Dinner)

We welcome you at the airport (no later than 10am) and transfer you to Nauta, which is a two hour drive away.

Once in Nauta, we settle you into your cabin and then start sailing upstream, on the Marañon River, while we have lunch on board. From the boat’s sun deck, we have our first contact with the Amazon jungle’s flora and fauna, especially the birdlife.

Arrival at the indigenous village of Solterito in the late afternoon, and enjoy a welcome evening with the locals.

Dinner and overnight on board, near the village.

Day 2: Solterito Village – Samiria River
(All meals)

Breakfast on board followed by a visit to Solterito and their smallholdings, with the villagers acting as guides.

We make an excursion in canoes to the village lake, to see the famous Victoria Regia giant water lilies, and to do some fishing: for piranhas, which are relatively easy to catch and for larger, more combative fish for experienced fishermen.

Return to the boat for lunch and continue to sail up the Marañon River to the mouth of the Samiria River. Around the boat, we can expect to see a spectacular dance of various pink and grey dolphins.

Nighttime excursion by skiff to find caimans and immerse ourselves in the nocturnal atmosphere of the jungle.

Dinner and overnight on board.

Day 3: Samiria River – San Martin de Tipischa – Nuevo Arica
(All meals)

Breakfast on board as we sail into the Reserve to the Cocama village of San Martín de Tipishca. We visit the village to learn about their agricultural techniques in a floodwater zone and see their handicrafts.

Lunch on board, followed by a jungle hike to the village of Nuevo Arica, with a local guide. One of the highlights is to see giant Ceiba trees, which are an endangered species.

Return to San Martin for a presentation of traditional Cocama dances.

Dinner on board, followed by a choice of night fishing or a nocturnal walk.

Overnight on board near the village.

Day 4: Pacaya Samiria: Bolivar Village – Las Vegas
(All meals)

Second day in the Reserve. Breakfast on board as we sail to the village of Bolivar.

Jungle excursion to enjoy the immense biodiversity of the area, observing the animals present, especially monkeys. The wildlife varies according to the time of year.

Return to the boat for lunch and continue sailing to the village of Las Vegas. For those who want, there is the option of a nighttime walk.

Dinner and overnight on board, near the village.

Day 5: Fondo Casual – Nauta – Iquitos
(All meals)

Breakfast on board as we sail to Fondo Casual. Here we make an excursion in the primary rainforest, accompanied by a local guide.

Return to the boat for lunch and sail to Nauta. Once disembarked in Nauta, we transfer to Iquitos by bus or taxi, arriving in Iquitos around 5pm.

Transfer to the airport or an Iquitos hotel if you have decide to prolong your Amazon stay.

Peru Amazon Tour Prices: Selva Viva

3 Day Tapira Cruise:

~ 1 - 5 Passengers                              $649

~ 6+ Passengers                                 $529
 

4 Day Rio Yarapa or Pacaya Samiria Cruise:

~ 1 - 5 Passengers                              $849

~ 6+ Passengers                                 $749

5 Day Pacaya Samiria Cruise:

~ 1 - 5 Passengers                              $1,099

~ 6+ Passengers                                 $949

5 Day Three Borders Cruise:

~ 1 - 5 Passengers                              $1,599

~ 6+ Passengers                                 $1,399

7 Day Pacaya Samiria Cruise:

~ 1 - 5 Passengers                              $1,499

~ 6+ Passengers                                 $1,299

8 Day Iquitos - Manaus Cruise:

~ 1 - 5 Passengers                              $1,599

~ 6+ Passengers                                 $1,399
 

10 Day Pacaya Samiria Cruise:

~ 1 - 5 Passengers                              $2,099

~ 6+ Passengers                                 $1,799
 

10 Day Pucallpa - Iquitos Cruise:

~ 1 - 5 Passengers                              $1,289

~ 6+ Passengers                                 $1,099

12 Day Curaray River Cruise:

~ 1 - 5 Passengers                              $3,099

~ 6+ Passengers                                 $2,799

Note: Selva Viva requires a minimum of 4 passengers to guarantee a departure. For departures with less than 4 people there is an additional cost to confirm dates.

Price Policy:
- All prices listed are PER PERSON
- Published Prices for 2013 Amazon Cruises only
- For 6+ Passengers Charter rates may save you money!

Included:
- All meals
- Accommodation in double cabins
- Excursions as described in the itinerary
- Bilingual naturalist guide
- Airport Transfer
- Pacaya Samiria Entrance Ticket for applicable cruises

Not Included:
 - Soft Drinks or alcoholic beverages
 - International or Domestic Airfares
 - Airport Taxes
 - Cost of medical emergencies including evacuation
 - Gratuities
 - Souvenirs or additional services
 - Travel Insurance
 - Cost of relevant visas
 - Anything else not listed as included

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Selva Viva Amazon Cruiseship Specifications

Built: 2007 in Belen, Iquitos

Type of vessel: River vessel in traditional Brazilian wooden style

Port of Embarkation: City of Nauta or Iquitos

Vessel Registry: Peru

Length: 22m / 72 feet

Beam: 6m / 20 feet

Draft: 1.5 m / 5 feet

Decks: 3

Capacity: 18 passengers (including crew)

Crew: 7

Cabins: 4 doubles & 2 singles

Electricity Generation: 8 solar panels & 1 small wind turbine

Engine: 125 HP

Cruising Speed: Average 6 knots

Water: Water treatment plant of filtration and osmosis

Navigation: Sonar & GPS

Radio Communication: UHF with 500km range

Launch Boat: 1 small, fast aluminium 7-passenger skiff, 4m / 13ft long, designed to enter the narrowest creeks

Summary:

The Selva Viva has three features unusual in the upper Amazon that provide you with valuable benefits.

1. Eight solar panels store power in a bank of batteries. When the sun shines all day, there is enough stored energy to last all night, depending on use. There is an electrical generator for back-up power when necessary. The benefit to you is when the crew ties up the boat for the night, and shuts off the motor, you get to listen to the sounds of the jungle, instead of the rumble of the generator. You can appreciate this more if you have spent time on a boat where the generator runs 24 hours per day.

2. The GPS-Sonar unit makes navigation safer.

3. A combination filtering system and osmosis provides unlimited potable water.

One of the best features of the Selva Viva is the shaded observation deck with hammocks. That is where you may want to spend most of your time, as it is a very pleasant area.

The observation deck can also double as the outdoor dining room, when conditions make it practicable.

Amazon Cruiseship Selva Viva: 3-Day Tapira Itinerary Departure Dates:

~ Mon, 20th - Wed, 22nd May, 2013

Amazon Cruiseship Selva Viva: 4-Day Yarapa River Itinerary Departure Dates:

~ Sat, 15th - Tue, 18th Jun, 2013
~ Sat, 27th - Tue, 30th Jul, 2013
~ Sat, 17th - Tue, 20th Aug, 2013

Amazon Cruiseship Selva Viva: Pacaya-Samiria Itinerary Departure Dates:

4-Day Cruise

~ Wed, 31st Jul - Sat, 3rd Aug, 2013
~ Fri, 9th - Mon, 12th Aug, 2013
~ Tue, 13th - Fri, 16th Aug, 2013

5-Day Cruise

~ Tue, 25th - Sat, 29th Jun, 2013
~ Fri, 5th - Tue, 9th Jul, 2013

7-Day Cruise

~ Tue, 26th Nov - Mon, 2nd Dec, 2013

Amazon Cruiseship Selva Viva: 10-Day Special Pucallpa - Iquitos Departure:

~ Sat, 19th - Mon, 28th Oct, 2013: SOLD OUT

Please note that with 4 or more passengers new departures can be scheduled, subject to boat availability. Contact us to schedule a departure.