Setting

WHAT TO EXPECT
Pure Amazon operates almost exclusively in and aroundthe Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve, a place of exceptional beauty and biodiversity and Peru’s largest protected area – 21,000 square kilometres, about the size of Wales. June to November is low-water season. Birders and wildlife lovers will leap at the opportunity to venture into the habitat of some of the rarest and most iconic species on earth. In high-water season, from December to May, the Amazon River and its tributaries the Marañón and Ucayali flood, and most of the Pacaya-Samiria reserve is submerged. Though this may sound limiting, it also opens up a perspective on the entire land- and riverscape that is nothing less than enchanted.

DAY-TO-DAY
Pure Amazon offers three-, four- and seven-night itineraries, with all available for private charter. Regardless of the length of the itinerary, there will usually be at least two expert-led excursions a day by motorised skiff, one in the morning and one in the late afternoon, when birds and other wildlife are most active. Depending on the season, forays into the rainforest on foot may be possible. Other daytime activities include kayaking and fishing. Visits to local village communities provide insights into the way of life of the Amazon Basin’s ribereños.

The evening might begin with sundowners on the Sundeck, followed by dinner, a talk or Q&A session, and conclude with hosted stargazing beneath the clearest of night skies.
 

Accommodation

WHAT TO EXPECT
With discreetly sumptuous interiors by renowned architect Adriana Granato of Studio Ibsen, Pure Amazon is surely the most elegant riverboat in the region. Its 12 cabins (10 double suites, two singles) are decorated in muted tones of earth, sky, forest and water; traditionally patterned Peruvian textiles introduce an element of joyful vibrancy. And, yes, those sublime views endlessly unspooling through the vast panoramic windows don’t hurt either.

CABINS & SUITES
• 12 cabins, 10 of them double suites, with two singles and two sets of interconnecting suites (opening up the possibility of creating two triple suites, suitable for families)
• Exceptionally elegant, regionally inspired contemporary design
• Panoramic windows, including in the bathroom
• Queen-size beds with sumptuous Peruvian linen
• Spacious living area with chaise longue or armchair and desk
• Complimentary minibar stocked with soft drinks and water
• Coffee and tea selection
• Pillow menu
• Nightly turn-down service
• Complimentary Starlink Wi-Fi
• Interactive tablet for news, updates and reservations
• In-suite wellness treatments (by appointment)
• Amenities including bathrobes and slippers, body wash, shampoo, conditioner, body lotion, mosquito repellent and vanity kit. Toothbrushes, toothpaste and shaving kits are also available on request
 

Dining

Peru’s profile among serious foodies has skyrocketed in recent years, with Lima’s restaurants featuring heavily on The World’s 50 Best Restaurants lists. A cruise aboard Pure Amazon is effectively two adventures in one – one that takes place on and around the river, and one that takes place three times a day in the riverboat’s elegant open-plan dining room.

Pure Amazon’s onboard chef delivers impeccable cuisine reflecting not only the unique flavours of the region through which you are travelling but also the full diversity of Peru – this is, you will recall, the land that gave the world Nobu Matsuhisa, whose signature black cod in miso heralded nothing less than a culinary revolution. A well-rounded complement of more familiar international options is available, too, at breakfast, lunch and dinner. Afternoon tea is served daily. Naturally there is a carefully curated selection of wines and spirits to provide just the right accompaniment to every dish, occasion or whim. Individual dietary requirements, including fully vegetarian menus and menus for children, are scrupulously catered for.