Leaving for an Amazon Cruise is an experience like no other. For many travelers, this is a life-long dream, especially for those who are passionate about nature. You should feel fortunate to have the opportunity to visit the Amazon River.
In fact, this is one of the most unique and spectacular parts of the world, where biodiversity reaches its peak, and you can immerse yourself in uncharted territories. Here you can live experiences that you will not find anywhere in the world, such as admiring the high Kelimutu volcano. If you feel overwhelmed by the number of things you can try and live on your Amazon cruise, here you can find our pieces of advice on how to embark upon this venture!
Have You Ever Seen a Pink Dolphin?
One of the most fantastic experiences you can have on your Amazon cruise is swimming with the beautiful Pink Dolphins. This species is very rare, and it is usually found in the Orinoco rivers in South America.
These animals are generally very gentle and shy, but you can still try to feed them. They tend to live and move in a pack, and they can be seen while swimming together, especially in clear waters. It isn’t easy to approach them, but there are now groups of pink dolphins that have become more accustomed to interaction with humans.
Taste the Local Cuisine
Of course, one of the first things you should do on the Amazon is trying the local cuisine, which offers a great selection of delicious meals. They are all based on what the nature surrounding the area has to offer, which is fish, rice and even insects.
In Ecuador and Peru, the ceviche is one of the most recommended delicacies. It is made of raw fish, marinated with a mixture of citrus and spice, and served with salad and plantain chips. If you prefer meat, you should try the juanes, made of rice and pork (or chicken) and served on banana leaves.
Particularly brave (and curious) travellers should spend an afternoon in one of the food markets that can be found in the Peruvian Amazon. It is there that you can try some insects-based snacks. Although it may not look very appetizing and appealing, this kind of food is rich in protein and has a low quantity of fat.
Walk the Canopy Bridges
When travelling in the Amazonian Rainforest, you are not very likely to find an Uber. What you can do is to use the local hanging bridge networks. These bridges offer a thrilling passage among several areas of the forest and are one of the best points from which you can observe nature all around you.
They are usually positioned above 25 meters high, and they may not look very sturdy and stable. However, you shouldn’t worry! Locals use canopy bridges every day, and they have been designed to be safe to use.
Spend a Night in the Jungle
We all grew up reading The Jungle Book and dreaming of chilling with panthers and other beautiful and majestic animals. You can now make your dream come true and spend a night deep in the rainforest.
From Manaus, in Brazil, there are several tours or just groups of tourists and travellers gathering to leave for this adventure together. In fact, you mustn’t be wandering about the wild jungle on your own, but you should always hire a local guide.
These tours are the perfect opportunity to learn survival techniques, find out more about local traditions, and be taught about jungle life. Some Amazon deserves located deep in the jungle hosts rare species of primates and other animals, which can be observed during feeding time. Don’t forget to try some Amazonian food, prepared by resident chefs with fish, meat, banana leaves and insects. In fact, there is no McDonald’s in here (or at least, not yet).
Go Searching for Caimans
The caiman is a carnivorous semi-aquatic alligator who lives in the Amazon River and its tributaries. It is usually lurking in the vegetation at the water’s edge and doesn’t like to be bothered nor to take selfies with tourists. They are nocturnal animals, and they can see in the dark thanks to their red eyes, which can be very scary.
If you decide to embark upon a night canoe safari, you can see these creatures’ eyes staring at you and evaluating how good you could be as a midnight snack. But don’t worry: if you stay with your group and your guide, no one is going to try to eat you. Some caimans may try to get on canoes, but they end up being safely released back into the river afterward.
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