Zafiro on the Amazon river
  1. Home
  2. Amazon
  3. Peru
  4. Zafiro

Zafiro

Elegant luxury cruising into the depths of Peru's Pacaya Samiria National Reserve.

Overview

The Zafiro luxury riverboat, named after the Spanish word for “Sapphire,” lives up to its reputation as a jewel of the Amazon. Since 2015, the 19-suite ship has sailed four, five, and eight-day itineraries from Iquitos, Peru.

Life Aboard The Zafiro Amazon Cruise Ship

The Zafiro is 164 feet of refined style. Everywhere you look, modern amenities blend with stylish design for an upscale take on Amazon River cruising. Thirty-eight guests settle into four different room categories, with one lucky group making their home in the exclusive Zafiro Suite with its 180-degree, floor-to-ceiling, front-facing window, and balcony. Away from your suite, there is a wealth of social areas, both indoors and out. Make your way to the outdoor bar to grab a local beer before setting into a sunchair on the outdoor lounge, or take a soak in the Jacuzzi tub.

When you are ready for a break from the action, curl up with a book in the indoor reading lounge, or sip a cocktail at the indoor bar. In the dining room on the second deck, there is a celebration of gastronomy. The ship’s chef uses native ingredients to create unique recipes to let you savor new flavors for a true culinary experience. Work off the calories from a decadent meal in the ship’s gym, or schedule a treatment in the massage room for a little extra pampering. And, in keeping with the spirit of luxury, you can expect to receive attentive service from the 24-member crew.

Excursions From Your Zafiro Amazon River Cruise

Get to know the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve by selecting either a four- or five-day itinerary, or complete your Amazon experience by opting for the eight-day version, which combines the two shorter cruises. During all three schedules, a range of activities is aimed at providing hands-on, authentic, yet comfortable ways to discover the rainforest’s waters and land. A highly-trained naturalist guide leads each excursion.

The Zafiro travels with three auxiliary boats, two of which hold up to 25 passengers and the other of which has a capacity of 15. These support crafts take small groups on river explorations and ashore for land-based activities. During the four-day cruise, learn to catch piranha using local techniques on the Dorado River and visit the Huaysi community to learn about local traditions. During the five-day route, take a walk through the rainforest overhanging bridges, visit a local Shaman and help plant a tree in the rainforest.

Then, visit the Amazon Rescue Center, where endangered manatees are prepared to return to their natural environment.

An Amazon Cruise For The Whole Family

Mom, Dad, children, and grandparents can all fall in love with the rainforest on a Zafiro Amazon River Cruise. While parents will treasure the luxury retreat that the Zafiro provides, the wildlife-focused activities and dedicated kids program will delight the younger crowd, and everyone is sure to have plenty of space. The lower deck cabins in particular are great for families as you have the option of two sets of interconnecting rooms. There is also a fully-accessible suite, a rarity on riverboats, which opens up the Amazon’s beauty to those with mobility concerns.

From exotic cocktail-making lessons and revitalizing spa treatments, to relaxing in the Jacuzzi, there is something for everyone aboard the Zafiro. What stories will you tell after your Zafiro Amazon River cruise?

Itineraries & Prices

All itineraries are subject to change due to seasonal weather conditions (and resultant variations in river and tributary water levels) affecting accessibility to locations. Thus navigation routes, times and excursions may need to be modified at the cruise captain’s or your guide's discretion.

1 / 3
4-Day
5-Day
8-Day

4 Day - Amazon & Ucayali

itinerary map

Embarkation

AM: You’ll be picked up at Iquitos airport and transferred by private vehicle to Nauta to board the cruise ship.

PM: Our staff will show you to your suite, equipped with comfortable beds, 100% Peruvian Pima cotton sheets, cotton bathrobes, air conditioning, and a private bathroom with a shower and amenities. Before setting sail, our bartender will serve you a cocktail prepared with local fruit and pisco, the most popular liquor in Peru. You can sip it while enjoying 360° views from the observation deck or a panoramic view from the indoor or outdoor lounge.

After setting sail, our naturalist guides will offer an overview of the travel itinerary, including activities, routes, information about wildlife and vegetation, geographical and historical context, as well as other useful info. If you have any doubts or concerns, our guides are always available to answer your questions.

We’ll then enjoy the welcome dinner. Start your journey by sampling the selected wines and dining Peruvian cuisine with an Amazon flare. There are many options on our menu, including vegetarian alternatives. Please let us know in advance if you have any special dietary needs. After dinner, you’ll be able to take in stunning views of the starry night sky while we start our journey to the depth of the Amazon rainforest.

Zafiro’s 4-Day Itinerary Day One - Embarkation.
Location
Iquitos - Amazon River
Day
1 / 4

Ucayali River, Yanallpa of Ucayali, Tapiche River & Dorado River

AM: Before breakfast, we’ll head out on a skiff to the Yanallpa area of the Ucayali River in the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve, where we’ll see many native animal species. After breakfast, we’ll head out on a skiff to the Tapiche River in search of wildlife. Before midday, we’ll head back to the boat for a cooking demonstration by the executive chef.

PM: After lunch, whoever is interested may attend a talk about the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve, and in the afternoon, we’ll take a skiff to the Dorado River, where we’ll fish using local techniques. Before heading back on board, we’ll enjoy a nighttime outing in search of caimans, tarantulas, and other species that make an appearance after the sun goes down. Dinner will be served on board the Zafiro.

Zafiro’s 4-Day Itinerary Day Two - Fishing in the Amazon river.
Location
Amazon River
Day
2 / 4

Ucayali River, Yarapa of Ucayali (Black Waters), Amazon River, Tahuayo River & Huaysi Community Visit

AM: After breakfast, we’ll set out to explore the Yarapa River, where the infamous pink and gray river dolphins swim in its black waters. Back on the Zafiro, we’ll see the confluence of the Ucayali and Marañón rivers, which give rise to the Amazon River.

PM: After lunch, we’ll take the skiff out on the Amazon River to visit the Huaysi community. There, we’ll see how the locals live and learn more about their customs with our guides, who will act as interpreters. We’ll also take a dip in the Tahuayo River and, before heading back to the boat, enjoy a colorful Amazon sunset. Back on the Zafiro, you’ll have some time to relax and enjoy live music before the presentation by the crew and farewell dinner.

Zafiro’s 4-Day Itinerary Day Three - Community Visit.
Location
Amazon River
Day
3 / 4

Disembarkation

AM: After breakfast, we begin to disembark. On the way to the airport, stop by the Amazon Rescue Center (CREA), where biologists and volunteers take care of manatees (an endangered species) rescued by the authorities. We’ll see how the manatees are cared for and prepped for reinsertion into their natural habitat. We also get to see other animals that have been rescued from attempts to turn them into pets and other dangerous situations.

Afterward, you will be transferred to Iquitos airport for your departure flight back to Lima.

Zafiro’s 4-Day Itinerary Day Four - Disembarkation.
Location
Amazon River - Iquitos
Day
4 / 4
1 / 4

5 Day - Amazon & Marañón

itinerary map

Embarkation

AM: You’ll be picked up at the airport and brought to the DoubleTree Hilton Hotel Iquitos, where you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch. Afterward, you will be transferred by private vehicle to Nauta to board the cruise ship.

PM: Our staff will show you to your suite, equipped with comfortable beds, 100% Peruvian Pima cotton sheets, cotton bathrobes, air conditioning, and a private bathroom with a shower and amenities. Before setting sail, our bartender will serve you a cocktail prepared with local fruit and pisco, the most popular liquor in Peru. You can sip it while enjoying 360° views from the observation deck or a panoramic view from the indoor or outdoor lounge.

After setting sail, our naturalist guides will offer an overview of the travel itinerary, including activities, routes, information about wildlife and vegetation, geographical and historical context, as well as other useful info. If you have any doubts or concerns, our guides are always available to answer your questions.

We’ll then enjoy the welcome dinner. Start your journey by sampling the selected wines and dining Peruvian cuisine with an Amazon flare. There are many options on our menu, including vegetarian alternatives. Please let us know in advance if you have any special dietary needs. After dinner, you’ll be able to take in stunning views of the starry night sky while we start our journey to the depth of the Amazon rainforest.

Zafiro’s 5-Day Itinerary Day One - Embarkation.
Location
Iquitos - Amazon River
Day
1 / 5

Amazon River, Kukama Reserve (Yanayacu of Yucapana), Source of the Amazon, Marañón River, Puerto Prado Community & Nauta Creek

AM: Before breakfast, go out for a boating expedition on the Amazon River to explore the local flora and fauna. When you get back enjoy our breakfast buffet. We offer a daily selection of traditional dishes including Peruvian specialties, freshly baked goods, and a range of freshly squeezed juices. After breakfast, head out to see the confluence of the Ucayali and Marañón rivers, which give rise to the Amazon River. Here we can observe the pink and gray river dolphins.

PM: We'll go back to the boat for lunch by midday and then have time to rest. Make sure you attend the talk about the source of the Amazon and the hydrography of the river so that you'll be up to speed for our walk to Puerto Prado! Here we will see the "Victoria Regias", the largest water lily in the world. We'll then head back to the boat for dinner and live music. After dinner, enjoy a nighttime outing in search of caimans, tarantulas, frogs, and other nocturnal species.

Zafiro’s 5-Day Itinerary Day Two - Jungle Walk.
Location
Amazon River
Day
2 / 5

Yanayacu of Pucate, Japanese Lagoon, Yanayaquillo, San Regis & Amazonian Natural Park

AM: Breakfast and outing on the skiff to different lakes and lagoons, until we reach the Japanese Lagoon. There, we'll enjoy a picnic and one of the best conserved and protected areas of the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve. It's also a popular spot to view pink river dolphins from the skiff. Before heading back to the Zafiro, we'll take a trip to the Yanaquillo. Once we're back on the cruise ship, we'll get ready to go kayaking and take a dip in the black waters.

PM: Head back for lunch aboard the Zafiro. Before starting the afternoon activity, our guides will give a talk about the Amazon philosophy. Afterward, we'll take a walk through the rainforest overhanging bridges, where you can admire the riches of the rainforest from the treetops. Once we're back on the Zafiro, our bartender will give a demonstration of how to make Peruvian cocktails, and we'll then enjoy live music while we await the gala dinner with the captain.

Zafiro’s 5-Day Itinerary Day Three - Amazonian Cooking Classes.
Location
Amazon River
Day
3 / 5

Marañón River, San Regis & Shiriyacu

AM: Breakfast and visit to the community of San Regis, where we'll learn about the local people's way of life and traditions. We'll also learn about their ancestral traditions from the community's shaman. With our guides as interpreters, we'll be able to ask questions about spiritual connections and curing the soul. We'll then continue the ceremony by planting a tree as a positive contribution to the environment. There, we'll also see a market set up by women from the community to sell their handmade crafts.

PM: Head back for lunch aboard the Zafiro. After resting, the guides will tell us about the myths and legends of the Amazon. In the afternoon, we'll head out on a skiff to the Shiriyacu stream. There, we'll find the perfect spot to do some piranha fishing using local techniques and equipment. Back on the boat, we'll enjoy the stunning colors of the sunset. Back on the Zafiro, you'll have some time to relax and enjoy live music before the presentation by the crew and farewell dinner.

Zafiro’s 5-Day Itinerary Day Four - Meeting a Shaman.
Location
Amazon River
Day
4 / 5

Disembarkation

AM: Before breakfast, visit Nauta, the second most important city in the region. Upon arriving, we take a motorcycle taxi to the local market where you can see what business in the town is like firsthand. We also take a visit to the Sapi Sapi lagoon, an arapaima hatchery. This is the second-largest freshwater fish in the world. Here you can see Arrau turtles, butterflies, and different species of birds and fish that call this lagoon home.

After, we head back to the Zafiro for breakfast. After breakfast, we begin to disembark. On the way to the airport, stop by the Amazon Rescue Center (CREA), where biologists and volunteers take care of manatees (an endangered species) rescued by the authorities. We’ll see how the manatees are cared for and prepped for reinsertion into their natural habitat. We also get to see other animals that have been rescued from attempts to turn them into pets and other dangerous situations.

Afterward, you will be transferred to Iquitos airport for your departure flight back to Lima.

Zafiro’s 5-Day Itinerary Day Five - Disembarkation.
Location
Amazon River - Iquitos
Day
5 / 5
1 / 5

8 Day - Amazon, Marañón & Ucayali

itinerary map

Embarkation

AM: You’ll be picked up at the airport and brought to the DoubleTree Hilton Hotel Iquitos, where you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch. Afterward, you will be transferred by private vehicle to Nauta to board the cruise ship.

PM: Our staff will show you to your suite, equipped with comfortable beds, 100% Peruvian Pima cotton sheets, cotton bathrobes, air conditioning, and a private bathroom with a shower and amenities. Before setting sail, our bartender will serve you a cocktail prepared with local fruit and pisco, the most popular liquor in Peru. You can sip it while enjoying 360° views from the observation deck or a panoramic view from the indoor or outdoor lounge.

After setting sail, our naturalist guides will offer an overview of the travel itinerary, including activities, routes, information about wildlife and vegetation, geographical and historical context, as well as other useful info. If you have any doubts or concerns, our guides are always available to answer your questions.

We’ll then enjoy the welcome dinner. Start your journey by sampling the selected wines and dining Peruvian cuisine with an Amazon flare. There are many options on our menu, including vegetarian alternatives. Please let us know in advance if you have any special dietary needs. After dinner, you’ll be able to take in stunning views of the starry night sky while we start our journey to the depth of the Amazon rainforest.

Zafiro’s 8-Day Itinerary Day One - Embarkation.
Location
Iquitos - Amazon River
Day
1 / 8

Amazon River, Kukama Reserve (Yanayacu of Yacapana), Source of the Amazon, Marañon River, Puerto Prado Community Visit & Nauta Creek

AM: Before breakfast, go out for a boating expedition on the Amazon River to explore the local flora and fauna. When you get back enjoy our breakfast buffet. We offer a daily selection of traditional dishes including Peruvian specialties, freshly baked goods, and a range of freshly squeezed juices. After breakfast, head out to see the confluence of the Ucayali and Marañón rivers, which give rise to the Amazon River. Here we can observe the pink and gray river dolphins.

PM: We'll go back to the boat for lunch by midday and then have time to rest. Make sure you attend the talk about the source of the Amazon and the hydrography of the river so that you'll be up to speed for our walk to Puerto Prado! Here we will see the "Victoria Regias", the largest water lily in the world. We'll then head back to the boat for dinner and live music. After dinner, enjoy a nighttime outing in search of caimans, tarantulas, frogs, and other nocturnal species.

Zafiro’s 8-Day Itinerary Day Two - Canopy walk with wildlife.
Location
Amazon River
Day
2 / 8

Yanayacu De Pucate, Laguna de Japón, Yanayaquillo, San Regis & Amazonian Natural Park

AM: Breakfast and outing on the skiff to different lakes and lagoons, until we reach the Japanese Lagoon. There, we'll enjoy a picnic and one of the best conserved and protected areas of the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve. It's also a popular spot to view pink river dolphins from the skiff. Before heading back to the Zafiro, we'll take a trip to the Yanaquillo. Once we're back on the cruise ship, we'll get ready to go kayaking and take a dip in the black waters.

PM: Head back for lunch aboard the Zafiro. Before starting the afternoon activity, our guides will give a talk about the Amazon philosophy. Afterward, we'll take a walk through the rainforest overhanging bridges, where you can admire the riches of the rainforest from the treetops. Once we're back on the Zafiro, our bartender will give a demonstration of how to make Peruvian cocktails, and we'll then enjoy live music while we await the gala dinner with the captain.

Zafiro’s 8-Day Itinerary Day Three - Kayaking on the Amazon river.
Location
Amazon River
Day
3 / 8

Marañón River, San Regis & Shiriyacu

AM: Breakfast and visit to the community of San Regis, where we'll learn about the local people's way of life and traditions. We'll also learn about their ancestral traditions from the community's shaman. With our guides as interpreters, we'll be able to ask questions about spiritual connections and curing the soul. We'll then continue the ceremony by planting a tree as a positive contribution to the environment. There, we'll also see a market set up by women from the community to sell their handmade crafts.

PM: Head back for lunch aboard the Zafiro. After resting, the guides will tell us about the myths and legends of the Amazon. In the afternoon, we'll head out on a skiff to the Shiriyacu stream. There, we'll find the perfect spot to do some piranha fishing using local techniques and equipment. Back on the boat, we'll enjoy the stunning colors of the sunset.

Zafiro’s 8-Day Itinerary Day Four - Meeting a Shaman.
Location
Amazon River
Day
4 / 8

Marañon River, Nauta, Casual & Pahuachiro

AM: Before breakfast, we’ll visit Nauta, the second most important city in the region. Upon arriving, we’ll take a motorcycle taxi to the local market where we’ll see what business in the city is like firsthand. We will also take a visit to the Sapi Sapi lagoon, an arapaima hatchery. This is the second-largest freshwater fish in the world. Discover a new habitat, surrounded by fruit trees. We’ll also see Arrau turtles, butterflies, and different species of birds and fish that call this lagoon home. After, we’ll head back to the Zafiro for breakfast. After breakfast, we’ll head out on a skiff to Casual.

PM: We’ll have lunch at midday and then rest up for the afternoon activity: an outing on the skiff to explore the area of Pahuachiro and its wildlife. We’ll then head back to the boat for some free time until dinner.

Zafiro’s 8-Day Itinerary Day Five - Skiff Exploration.
Location
Amazon River
Day
5 / 8

Ucayali River, Yanallpa del Ucayali, Tapiche River & Dorado River

AM: Before breakfast, we’ll head out on a skiff to the Yanallpa area of the Ucayali River in the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve, where we’ll see many native animal species. After breakfast, we’ll head out on a skiff to the Tapiche River in search of wildlife. Before midday, we’ll head back to the boat for a cooking demonstration by the executive chef.

PM: After lunch, whoever is interested may attend a talk about the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve, and in the afternoon, we’ll take a skiff to the Dorado River, where we’ll fish using local techniques. Before heading back on board, we’ll enjoy a nighttime outing in search of caimans, tarantulas, and other species that make an appearance after the sun goes down. Dinner will be served on board the Zafiro.

Zafiro’s 8-Day Itinerary Day Six - Fishing in Peru's Amazon river.
Location
Amazon River
Day
6 / 8

Ucayali River, Yarapa of Ucayali (Black Water), Amazon River, Tahuayo River & Huaysi Community Visit

AM: After breakfast, we’ll set out to explore the Yarapa River, where the infamous pink and gray river dolphins swim in its black waters. Back on the Zafiro, we’ll see the confluence of the Ucayali and Marañón rivers, which give rise to the Amazon River.

PM: After lunch, we’ll take the skiff out on the Amazon River to visit the Huaysi community. There, we’ll see how the locals live and learn more about their customs with our guides, who will act as interpreters. We’ll also take a dip in the Tahuayo River and, before heading back to the boat, enjoy a colorful Amazon sunset. Back on the Zafiro, you’ll have some time to relax and enjoy live music before the presentation by the crew and farewell dinner.

Zafiro’s 8-Day Itinerary Day Seven - Swimming with Amazon Pink River Dolphins.
Location
Amazon River
Day
7 / 8

Disembarkation

AM: After breakfast, we begin to disembark. On the way to the airport, stop by the Amazon Rescue Center (CREA), where biologists and volunteers take care of manatees (an endangered species) rescued by the authorities. We’ll see how the manatees are cared for and prepped for reinsertion into their natural habitat. We also get to see other animals that have been rescued from attempts to turn them into pets and other dangerous situations.

Afterward, you will be transferred to Iquitos airport for your departure flight back to Lima.

Zafiro’s 8-Day Itinerary Day Eight - Sloth Sighting.
Location
Amazon River - Iquitos
Day
8 / 8
1 / 8

Accommodations

Social Areas

Balcony
Spa
Panoramic Dining
Outdoor Lounge
Observation Deck
Lounge Exterior
Jacuzzi
Indoor Lounge
Exercise Room
Boutique
Bar
Embarkation Port
Embarkation Port
Balcony onboard Zafiro
Massage in the spa
Dinning room
A couple on the lounge chairs
Man looking through the binoculars
Jacuzzi on the sun deck
A couple in a jacuzzi on the cud deck
Lounge with panoramic windows
Woman exercising
Colourful souvenirs on the shelves
Smiling bartender pouring a drink
Jungle Experiences Embarkation Port in Nauta
Embarkation Port

Suites & Cabins

Zafiro's Lower Deck Suite. Zafiro's Lower Deck Suite - Twin. Zafiro's Lower Deck Suite - Bathroom Amenities.
8 Cabins

Lower Deck Suite

Guests
2
Size
21 m² / 226 ft²
Beds
King / Twin

Spacious and elegant, with wall windows for privileged views, the lower deck suites are abound with amenities. From their orthopedic beds and safety deposit boxes, to their refreshing drink-stocked minifridges and writing desks from which to jot down your Amazon diary, your stay is sure to be relaxing and comfortable. Suites 5 & 7 and 6 & 8 are interconnecting and up to 4 guests, making them convenient for close friends or family members.

Zafiro's Upper Deck Suite. Zafiro's Upper Deck Suite - Twin. Zafiro's Upper Deck Suite - Bathroom Amenities. Zafiro's Upper Deck Suite - Twin. Zafiro's Upper Deck Suite.
8 Cabins

Upper Deck Suite

Guests
2
Size
21 m² / 226 ft²
Beds
King / Twin

Situated on the upper deck of the Zafiro, enjoy an elevated panoramic view of the Amazon through the window walls and from your very own private balcony. The suites feature air conditioning, a private bathroom boasting cotton bathrobes and Spanish style shower, and orthopedic beds with pure cotton sheets and pillows of 100% pure natural latex.

Zafiro's Master Suite. Zafiro's Master Suite - Twin. Zafiro's Master Suite - Bathroom Amenities.
2 Cabins

Master Suite

Guests
2
Size
23 m² / 248 ft²
Beds
King / Twin

Located at the front of the lower deck, with spectacular 90° panoramic windows, the Master Suites offer a fantastic view of the Amazon. Relax in the privacy and comfort of your own sitting area, find tranquility in the private bathroom with cotton bathrobes and Spanish style shower, and relax in its orthopedic beds with pure cotton sheets and pillows of 100% pure natural latex.

Zafiro's Zafiro Suite. Zafiro's Zafiro Suite - Bathroom Amenities. Zafiro's Zafiro Suite.
1 Cabin

Zafiro Suite

Guests
2
Size
45 m² / 480 ft²
Beds
King / Twin

This remarkable suite at the front of the upper deck features a window wall with 180° view allowing unobstructed views of the river as you navigate, and a balcony where you can unwind. The bathroom has a jacuzzi-style bathtub for you to soak in, and the spacious sitting area features a minifridge and sofa.

Technical Information

Deck Plan

Features

  • Connecting cabins
  • Cabins with balconies
  • Air conditioning
  • Pool / Jacuzzi
  • Excercise room
  • Massage room
  • Lecture room
  • Wheelchair access
  • Kosher Meals
  • Medical staff

Equipment

  • Satellite phone
  • Kayaks / Canoes
  • Fishing equipment
  • Yoga mats
** Use of certain equipment at additional cost, ask for details
As Featured In