Continue Your Journey
16 Day Peruvian Amazon & Machu Picchu Exploration

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Experience the very best of Peru over 16 days of wonder and amazement.
From a deep dive into Lima—the “City of Kings”—to the legendary Machu Picchu, this 16-day cruise/tour is an all-encompassing adventure into the marvels of Peru and the Amazon rainforest.
Journey into the Amazon Rainforest onboard the Aria Amazon, a five-star ship designed for your Peruvian adventure. Embark on river skiffs as you explore the Ucayali and Marañón Rivers. Admire the diverse flora and fauna in the Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve.
Discover the beauty of the heartland of the Inka Empire, known as the Sacred Valley. Of course, no trip to Peru could truly be complete without a trek to the world-famous Machu Picchu. A must-see, this spectacular piece of history has fascinated both historians and archaeologists alike.
With no shortage of awe-inspiring beauty, this trip is sure to be an unforgettable adventure.
*14 nights in the same stateroom: + $100pp (double occupancy)
*14 nights in the same stateroom: +$200pp (single occupancy)
*There are only a limited amount of staterooms available on each sailing where moving is not going to be necessary.
Accommodations
- 7-night cruise in a riverview stateroom on the luxurious Aria Amazon
- Lavishly appointed riverview suites with floor-to-ceiling windows
- 2 nights in Lima at the Country Club Lima Hotel (or similar)
- 2 nights in Urubamba at the Tambo del Inka hotel (or similar)
- 1 night in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu) at The Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel (or similar)
- 2 nights in Cusco at the Palacio del Inka hotel (or similar)
- 1 night in Lima at the Wyndham Grand Costa del Sol Lima Airport hotel (or similar)
Dining
- Meals onboard prepared using the finest and freshest ingredients
- Five-star cuisine with menu by top chef Pedro Miguel Schiaffino
- 15 breakfasts, 11 lunches, 10 dinners
- Complimentary house wine and beer, spirits, soft drinks, tea, and coffee will be served on the Aria Amazon, between 6am and 11pm throughout the cruise. Onboard lunches and dinners include complimentary house wine and beer, soft drinks, coffee, and tea. Onshore lunches and dinners include complimentary soft drinks, coffee, and tea
Excursions
- 13 days of excursions, all fully hosted by English-speaking local experts and naturalist guides
Experiences
- 1 country: Peru
- 4 UNESCO World Heritage sites
- Services of an experienced Uniworld Cruise Manager
- Cultural enrichment
- Flights included between Lima & Iquitos, Iquitos & Cusco, and Cusco & Lima
- Gratuities for onboard and onshore personnel (ship staff, crew, Cruise/Tour Manager, local experts, drivers) are included both during the cruise/tour as well as on any pre- or post-cruise land extensions

Priority Access
» Priority check-in
» Priority access to specialty restaurant reservations
» Priority line at the Guest Services desk
» Priority line at the Shore Excursions desk
» Priority access to tenders ashore in select ports
» Priority disembarkation
Premium Dining
» Expanded 24-hour room service breakfast menu
» Pinnacle Class ships: Private dining venue for breakfast and dinner with an expanded menu
» All other ships: Priority seating in the Dining Room for breakfast and dinner with an expanded menu
Exclusive Amenities
» Complimentary stateroom upgrade
» Dedicated concierge service
» Welcome glass of sparkling wine on embarkation day
» Premium bathrobes
» Club Orange keycard
» Exclusive Club Orange tote bag (one per stateroom)
More information
Machu Piccu
Machu Picchu is an Incan citadel set high in the Andes Mountains in Peru, above the Urubamba River valley. Built in the 15th century and later abandoned, it’s renowned for its sophisticated dry-stone walls that fuse huge blocks without the use of mortar, intriguing buildings that play on astronomical alignments and panoramic views. Its exact former use remains a mystery.
Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca)
Rainbow Mountain is located in the Peruivan Andes, about a 3.5hr bus ride outside of Cusco, it was discovered in 2015 as it was covered by snow and glaciers until climate chage caused the amazing colors to be revealed, they are quickly becoming one of the hottest spots to see in South America. The hike to the top of the mountain can be very challenging and it is highly recommended you do not do this without a tour operator, some tour operator offers the trek partly on horseback! It is recommended that you spend at least 48 hrs in Cusco before to allow you to adjust to allitude. Pervians consider this mountain to be holy, and is a site of daily worship and offerings by local citizens.
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Museo Casa Concha
Museo Casa Concha houses the largest and most comprehensive collection of Incan artifacts from Machu Picchu in the world. Here you will also find artifacts that were discovered in the archeological excavations durning the restoration of Casa Concha, which was once the residence of the royal lineage of Tupac Inka Yupanqui. Although it was destroyed twice by earthquakes the architecture of the house dates back to the 18th century. The museum provides through interactive videos a glimpse into the daily life and challenges faced by the Incas at Machu Picchu.
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Day 1: Lima
Arrive at Jorge Chávez International Airport in Lima. If you have arranged a Uniworld arrival transfer, a Uniworld representative will be on hand to greet youand escort you to the beautiful Country Club Lima Day 1Hotel. Its charm and comfort will offer you the perfecthome for your exploration of the city.
Day 2: Lima
Known as the “City of Kings,” Lima was founded in1535. A melting pot of cultures, flavors, and history,this bustling metropolis has something for everyone,and today you get to discover it all.Featured excursionsincluded in your journeyLima City Tour This panoramic drive will take you around the coastline of Lima in Miraflores. You’ll stroll around the“Plaza San Martín” and “Plaza de Armas,” the main square. Afterward, your guide will take you to the San Francisco Monastery. A maze of tunnels and catacombs await you here.Later, you'll visit Casa Aliaga. Built in 1535, the “Plaza de Armas” is one of Lima’s oldest buildings. A colonial mansion of the Aliaga family, it has been passed down the family for 17 generations. You willmeet a family member who will give you a tour and show you itemsfrom centuries past. Lunch will beserved at the mansion.
Day 3: Lima, Fly to Iquitos (Nauta), Embark
You will be picked up at your hotel and taken to the airport for your flight to Iquitos. Upon your arrival at Iquitos International Airport, a Uniworld representative will be on hand to greet you andescort you to the Aria Amazon.Featured excursionsincluded in your journeyIquitos Panoramic City Tour Before heading to the ship to begin sailing, a local guide will take you on a captivating tour through the Belen market. This busting market is a unique and vibrant place, and our guided tour allows you toexplore itslively atmosphere while interacting with locals. You'll also head to the Nanay Bridge forbreathtaking views of the Nanay River, showcasing the natural beauty of the Amazon region.
Day 4: Ucayali River, Clavero Lake, Yarapa River
Your day starts at the headstream of the AmazonRiver, the Ucayali. Kayak, canoe, and swim in the blackwaters of Clavero Lake, or learn about traditionalcustoms of the area at a remote village along theUcayali River. Once the sun sets, we’ll explore theYarapa River in search of the nocturnal wildlife of the Amazon.Featured excursionsincluded in your journeyUcayali River Wildlife ExplorationWe start the day searching for the incredible wildlife along the Ucayali River. Parrots, egrets, hawks, andmonkeys are among some of the Amazonian wildlife you may come across.Clavero Lake ExcursionThis afternoon, it's your choice: kayak, canoe, or swim the black waters of Clavero Lake. Alternatively,take the unique opportunity to interact with some of the native ribereños—which roughly translatesto"river people," Amazonian villagers who live on the banks of the rivers—and learn about their culture.Wildlife & Stargazing on the Yarapa RiverAt dusk, head out on an excursion with your naturalist guide in search of the nocturnal wildlife native tothe Amazon. While cruising the Yarapa River in search of these creatures, don't forget to turn your gazeskyward for a crystal-clear view of the constellations.
Day 5: Amazon River, Tahuayo River, San Pedro Forest
Today we’re exploring the vibrant wildlife and lushgreenery thriving in the Amazon.Featured excursionsincluded in your journey Amazon River Wildlife ExplorationExplore with your naturalist guide, who will teach you all about the diverse flora and fauna unique to theregion.Tahuayo River ExplorationExplore the Tahuayo River, a black water tributary of the Amazon River. Learn about the Tahuayo Riverthrough the storiesshared by your naturalist guide.Flora & Fauna of the AmazonFollowing lunch onboard, venture out on a jungle walk through the forest to explore the Amazonian floraand the fauna of Puerto Prado.
Day 6: Nauta
One of the oldest inhabited areas in the Peruvian Amazon, Nauta is nestled between the Marañónand Ucayali Rivers. You’ll explore the town’s market, which is full of fresh fish, fruits, andvegetables. From there, it’s a short journey to the birthplace of the Amazon River.Featured excursionsincluded in your journeyNauta Market VisitDiscover some of the exotic fruits unique to the area, such as Camu Camu or Maracuya. Meet localfishermen and see what the catch of the day is. Maybe even indulge your taste budsin an unfamiliartreat.Birthplace of the AmazonDespite centuries of exploration, the Amazon River remains a fascinating destination, shrouded inmystery. Journey to where this mighty river is born, where the Ucayali and Marañón Riversjoin. Whileall the lush greenery is breathtaking, you’ll especially be amazed at the giant water lilies growing in theriver basin.
Day 7: Marañón River, Yanayacu-Pucate River, Amazon River
Experience life as an Amazon River dweller as you cruise along the Marañón River. Search for Taricaya turtles and other wildlife lurking just beyond the river. Once the sun sets, we’ll take to the Amazon River, the lookout for nocturnal beasts. Featured excursions included in your journey Marañón River Bird Watching & Jungle WalkOne of the most important water sourcesin Peru, and a main Amazon tributary, the Marañón River isabundant in animal and plant life. Be on the lookout for one of the 64 rare bird species native to the area.Yanayacu Pucate River Skiff Ride & Village Visit Explore the black waters of the Yanayacu Pucate River, keep an eye out for sloths, egrets, parrots, and theTaricaya turtles. After your skiff ride, visit an Amazon village to witness a demonstration of Aguaje palmharvesting.Piranha Fishing on the Amazon RiverAfter lunch, embark on a top bucket-list adventure for your Amazonian trip, piranha fishing. Your guidewill show you how to safely hunt for the notoriousfish from the safety of our comfortable river skiffs.Nocturnal Wildlife Exploration along the Amazon RiverSet out at dusk with your naturalist guide in search of the exotic nocturnal wildlife of the Amazon.
Day 8: Samiria River, Ucayali River
The rewards of our early start today are plentiful,including a picnic lunch under the Amazonian shade,orchestrated to the sound of the jungle symphony. Gofishing along the black waters of Samiria River andchoose to go on a jungle walk, canoeing, kayaking, orswimming inside the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve.Later, cruise along the Ucayali River and enjoy thesunset.Featured excursionsincluded in your journeyNight Sailing on the Ucayali RiverAt dusk, enjoy a sunset cruise along the Ucayali River, while keeping an eye out for pink river dolphins. Fishing along the Samiria RiverToday, your naturalist will guide you on a fishing expedition along the black waters of the Samiria River.Pacaya Samiria National Reserve Exploration This afternoon, choose to explore the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve one of four ways: by canoeing,kayaking, swimming, or on a jungle walk.
Day 9: Puerto Prado Forest, Amazon River
Spend the morning jungle walking, canoeing, kayaking,or swimming before a visit to Puerto Prado Forest.Featured excursionsincluded in your journeyMarañón River Skiff TourToday, you'll be exploring the Amazon rainforest by skiff as you cruise the Marañón River. If you'relucky, you may spot some pink river dolphins.Puerto Prado Village VisitVisit an indigenous village to learn about local life in the Amazon, and take the opportunity to view thegiant water liliesthat can be found here. These lily pads are known to grow up to 10 ft. in diameter andhave been recorded being able to hold hundreds of pounds without sinking under the water.
Day 10: Nauta (Iquitos), Disembark, Fly to Cusco, Urubamba (TheSacred Valley)
Take a morning walk through the town of Nauta before disembarking the Aria Amazon. Your guidewill take you on a few excursions on your way to the Iquitos airport for your flight to Cusco.Once you’ve landed in Cusco, you will be taken to the Tambo del Inka hotel in the Sacred Valley.Featured excursionsincluded in your journey Nauta Town VisitFounded in 1930, Nauta is a central gathering place for Amazonian villagersto buy and trade their localharvest. Your guide will show you the town and give you insight into the daily life of these remote people.Manatee Rescue CenterManateesin the Amazon face multiple threats, from habitat destruction to hunting. The Amazon RescueCenter, funded by the Dallas World Aquarium Zoo, takesin orphaned calves, rehabilitatesthem, andreleasesthem back into the wild. Since their founding, they’ve rescued over 40 orphaned baby manatees.During this visit, you’ll have a chance to get up close to these majestic creatures.
Day 11: Urubamba (The Sacred Valley)
Enjoy this day of leisure to get the most out of your stay at the wonderful Tambo del Inka. Treat yourself to a relaxing service at their Kallpa Spa, considered one of the best in the country, take adip in the heated pool, or savor delicious Andean cuisine. Situated in the heart of the Sacred Valley,the Tambo del Inka is also the perfect location from which to head out on your own to explore theincredible nature, cities, and historical sites available nearby.
Day 12: Urubamba, Ollantaytambo, Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu)
Today you will explore the heartland of the InkaEmpire, known as the Sacred Valley. Your guide willtake you to Moray and Ollantaytambo, two historicsights of significant importance. You’ll experience theunique way of living in the Sacred Valley as you meetlocals. We finish the day with a train ride to AguasCalientes, the small villages nestled at the bottom ofMachu Picchu.Please note: You are only allowed one 11 lb piece ofluggage on the train to Aguas Calientes. All otherluggage will be taken to your hotel in Cusco.Featured excursionsincluded in your journeyDay 12Moray–Agricultural Terraces & WeavingA pre-Inkan site, Moray isconsidered to be a significant Inka agricultural research center. Your guide willgive you a tour of the round, agricultural terraces. Afterward, you will meet with local women who willshow you traditional Peruvian weaving techniques.Ollantaytambo Family Home Tour with Picnic LunchOne of the few battles where the Spaniardslost to the Inkastook place at Ollantaytambo, an impressivefortressthat overlooks one of the oldest villagesin Cusco. After your tour of the fortress, you will walk tothe “last living Inka village of Peru,” which sits under Ollantaytambo. Experience the fascinating way ofliving in the Sacred Valley at a family home visit. Afterward, enjoy a picnic to the sounds of traditionallocal Inkan instruments before making your own panpipe.
Day 13: Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu), Cusco
A breathtaking, historical sight, Machu Picchu is one ofthe “must-see” archeological sites in the world. Thisremarkable Inkan Empire site was never found by theSpaniards and was rediscovered during the 20thcentury. Today, archeologists continue to excavate thisancient city. While many mysteries still surround it,Machu Picchu tells a story of a history that goes backthousands of years. Following your day at MachuPicchu, you will take a train to Ollantaytambo and thena motor coach will take you to the Palacio del Inka hotelin Cusco.Featured excursionsincluded in your journeyMachu PicchuMachu PicchuYour day starts early with a shuttle bus up to the ancient citadel. Your guide will share stories about theInka civilization, the site’s discovery, and all the theoriessurrounding thisspectacular piece of history.Enjoy lunch at the famous Sanctuary Lodge before heading back down to Aguas Calientes.
Day 14: Cusco
Located in the Andes Mountains, Cusco was the heartland of the Inkan Empire. Today, you will exploreall the wonders of this city as you admire thecobblestone streets, colorful textiles, and art galleries.A perfect blend of ancient Andean cultures withSpanish colonial influence, Cusco is not to be missed.Overnight, you will stay in the Palacio del Inka hotel.Featured excursionsincluded in your journeyCusco City TourStart your morning off at Sacsayhuamán, the Inkan ceremonial fortress dedicated to the sun. Indulgeyour senses at the San Pedro market as you wander through the colorful stands overflowing with fruits,vegetables, spices, and local products. Your tour continues after lunch with visitsto the renaissance-styleCathedral and Koricancha, the temple dedicated to the sun “Inti.” Finally, your day ends with a diningexperience inside the San Francisco Monastery of Cusco.
Day 15: Cusco, Fly to Lima
We’re headed back to Lima today. After a brief walkaround town, you’ll head to the Wyndham Grand Costadel Sol Lima Airport hotel.Featured excursionsincluded in your journeySan Blas Walking TourAbundant in beautiful handicrafts and antique stores, San Blasis a vibrant neighborhood. You’ll visit theHilario Mendivil Museum, showcasing the work of Mendivil, an artist famousfor statues of saints withnotoriously long necks. Wander down small alleys with your guide before enjoying lunch at a localrestaurant.
Day 16: Lima
Your majestic Peru adventure ends this morning. Yourguide will walk you from the Wyndham Grand Costa del Sol Lima Airport hotel to the Lima InternationalAirport check-in. To participate in this complimentaryassisted walk to the airport check-in area, pleaseprovide Uniworld your flight information in advance ofyour trip.
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