Explore the Rio Negro on board Motor Yacht Tucano, journeying farther than any other visitors into the UNESCO Natural World Heritage site, the Central Amazon Conservation Complex. Tucano is small and nimble with only 18 guests, allowing you to experience small villages, wildlife, and rainforest that other yachts simply cannot access. On the last day of the cruise, visit the Encontro das Aguas, the confluence of the world’s two largest rivers, the Rio Negro and the mighty Amazon River.

Day 1: Manaus, Rio Negro Settle into your home for the next week aboard the 24-metre motor yacht Tucano. With just nine ensuite cabins, air conditioning, a lovely salon, and viewing decks, Tucano offers a comfortable way to journey deep upstream on the Rio Negro. Leaving Manaus, the yacht navigates the world’s largest river island system, the Anavilhanas Archipelago. By mid-afternoon, thick rainforest borders the river with all settlements left far behind. Enjoy the forest vistas, magnificent birdlife, and look out for pink river dolphins. Following sundowners and dinner, venture out for a night safari by launch looking for caiman and the Potoo bird.

Day 2-3: Rio Negro Start the day exploring the rainforest in launches or kayaks, led by a naturalist guide. Listen for howler monkeys and the morning call of toucans. Spend the rest of the morning exploring on foot and learning about forest ecology before re-joining Tucano and continuing the voyage upstream. An early start in the cool morning air allows for wonderful walking in the forest and a chance to see sloths. Return to the yacht for breakfast, after which there is the option for further walking or excursions by launch. Tucano will move off, travelling in the afternoon.

Day 4: Rio Jaueperi Continue exploring the river with walking and boat excursions in the morning before cruising in the afternoon, keeping an eye on the shore for wildlife as you go. In the afternoon, arrive at Rio Jaueperi, where the forest is known as ‘varzea’ and offers unique wildlife viewing opportunities.

Day 5: Western Rio Negro Explorations continue in this little-visited area of the river. Tucano turns downstream in the late afternoon towards the confluence with the Amazon River, while you sip a Caipirinha and perhaps try a bit of samba on the top deck under the stars.

Day 6: Encontro das Aguas Start with a dawn excursion to see the waking wildlife. In the mid-afternoon, Tucano continues to journey downstream, arriving late in the day at the ‘Encontro das Aguas’ where the Amazon and the Rio Negro join in a swirl of water, with brown and black water mixing together. At sunset, continue upstream once more to an overnight anchorage north of the City of Manaus.

Day 7: End of Arrangements In the morning, disembark from the Tucano and transfer to the airport for your departure.

Price Guide

Per person sharing: from £3,002 (based on twin share cabin in October)

• This itinerary is available year-round.
• This trip starts and ends in Manaus.

Includes

• accommodations, guided excursions, and meals as indicated in the itinerary.
• bottled water is served free of charge.
• transfers on arrival and departure to Manaus (hotel)

International Flights Our partners can book international flights for you as required.

A wonderful adventure exploring the jungle of Corcovado National Park in Costa Rica and transiting the fabled Panama Canal. Experience the diverse wildlife, lush rainforests, and the engineering marvel of the canal, with exclusive visits to the Smithsonian Research Institute.

Day 1: San José, Costa Rica to Puerto Caldera Upon arrival in San José, transfer by land to Puerto Caldera and embark the ship, National Geographic Quest. This modern vessel is ideal for navigating the Pan-American waters with its twin boarding platforms and shallow draft, allowing for quick and flexible wildlife sightings.

Day 2: Corcovado National Park Anchor off the Osa Peninsula to explore the pristine lowland rainforest of Corcovado National Park. Enjoy swimming in waterfall pools, optional horseback riding on the coast, or trekking through the rainforest to spot howler, spider, and capuchin monkeys.

Day 3: Golfo Dulce / Osa Peninsula Go ashore in Playa Blanca and meet local families working with cocoa, heart of palm, and sugar cane. Hike mature rainforest or kayak in Golfo Dulce, ending the day with a beautiful sunset.

Day 4: Golfo Dulce Explore the mangrove-fringed Golfo Dulce by Zodiac, paddleboard, and kayak. Encounter dazzling avifauna, including tanagers, toucans, aracaris, and parakeets. Enjoy the vibrant flora and take a refreshing swim in the bay.

Day 5: Isla Coiba National Park Arrive at Isla Coiba in Panama, part of a UNESCO World Heritage site. Discover endemic species and rich marine life while snorkeling, kayaking, hiking, or relaxing on the beach.

Day 6: Gulf of Panama Islets / Panama Canal Transit Explore the islets of the Gulf of Panama by Zodiac or kayak, spotting seabirds like frigatebirds and pelicans. In the afternoon, set sail for the Panama Canal, beginning the dramatic night-time crossing.

Day 7: Gatún Lake / Panama Canal Transit Anchor in Gatun Lake near the Barro Colorado Nature Monument. Choose from hikes, Zodiac cruises at the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, or boat rides to the Chagres River. Continue through the canal’s lock system in the evening.

Day 8: Disembark Colón / Transfer to Panama City After breakfast, disembark in Colón and transfer to Panama City for your flight home, concluding your unforgettable adventure.

Price Guide

Per person sharing: from £5,265 

• This itinerary is available December – March.
• This trip starts in San Jose and ends in Panama City.

Includes

• Excursions and airport transfers, as indicated in itinerary
• Kayaks, Zodiac cruises, stand-up paddleboards, full complement of snorkeling gear, glass-bottom boat rides, where relevant
• Guidance and expertise of expedition staff
• All meals as indicated in itinerary
• Beer, wine, non-alcoholic beverages, hors d’oeuvres, and snacks
• Park and site entrance fees, special access permits, and port taxes
• 24-hour access to shared spaces, such as the lounges and fitness centre

International Flights Our partners can book international flights for you as required.

A classic small ship cruise into the nooks and corners of Southeast Alaska that larger vessels can only dream about. This is remote, wilderness country that few get to visit and fewer get to experience. Spend your days admiring the wonderful wildlife against a backdrop of 15,000-foot mountains, huge glaciers, and vast forests. Expect to see dozens of whales and a great deal of smaller wildlife as we cruise and explore by Zodiac, kayak, and on foot. The Safari Endeavour, a newly refurbished 86-guest yacht, departs Saturdays from Juneau.

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Juneau You start your adventure in Juneau, a city first settled during the gold rush days. Board the 232-foot Safari Endeavour cruise ship, your home for the next week.

Day 2: Lynn Canal or Chatham Strait Your Captain selects the route today based on conditions. Look out for bald eagles, seals, and orcas as you navigate the stunning coastline. These areas are perfect for exploring by kayak and paddleboard.

Day 3: Glacier Bay National Park Head to Glacier Bay National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Biosphere Reserve. At Bartlett Cove, a park ranger joins you to share the park’s history. Watch for puffins, guillemots, gulls, and sea lions. End the day with views of Margerie and Grand Pacific Glaciers.

Day 4: Icy Strait The remote Icy Strait is prime territory for marine mammals. Look for dolphins, spouts, and fin slaps. Your crew will find a quiet spot to moor while you explore this rugged area.

Day 5: Chichagof Island / Peril Strait Navigate glacier-carved fjords along the Chichagof coast before exploring land and sea by kayak. Keep an eye out for bears, as this area has one of the world’s largest populations.

Day 6: Sergius Narrows / Neva Strait Sail through the narrow Sergius Narrows, which squeezes to only 300 feet wide. Skiff ashore and hike into the backcountry. As you wind into Neva Strait, watch the changing scenery from the hot tub.

Day 7: Krestof & Nakwasina Sounds Explore the western side of Baranof Island, with its remote, uninhabited islands, secluded coves, and calm inlets. Kayak, paddleboard, or skiff alongside curious sea lions and possibly whales. Enjoy beachcombing in rocky intertidal zones.

Day 8: Sitka Disembark in Sitka this morning after breakfast, marking the end of your incredible Alaskan adventure.

Price Guide

Per person sharing: from £3,875

• This itinerary is available April – September.
• This trip starts in Juneau and ends in Sitka.

Includes

Highlights of Alaska

Alaska, often likened to Western Canada without the crowds, offers vast, rugged wilderness and abundant wildlife. This state is renowned for its super-sized natural wonders and remote beauty.

Denali National Park: Home to North America’s highest peak, Mount Denali at 20,310 feet. This six-million-acre park features taiga forest, alpine tundra, and diverse wildlife. Drive the 92-mile Denali Park Road to explore.

Glacier Bay National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage site with 3.3 million acres of mountains, fjords, forests, and glaciers. Rich marine life includes humpback whales, orcas, and sea otters, alongside brown and black bears.

Kenai Peninsula: Premier destination for bear watching, just south of Anchorage. Spot whales, sea lions, puffins, seals, and mountain goats. Boat tours from Seward and hikes like the Harding Icefield trail offer stunning experiences.

Wildlife of Alaska

Birds:

• Bald Eagles: Majestic and commonly seen along coastlines.
• Puffins: Found in coastal areas, particularly around the Kenai Peninsula.

Marine Mammals:

• Humpback Whales: Known for their acrobatic breaching.
• Orcas: Often spotted in Glacier Bay and coastal areas.
• Steller Sea Lions: Seen basking on rocky shores.
• Harbour Seals and Sea Otters: Common in the fjords and bays.

Terrestrial Mammals:

• Bears: Brown and black bears are prevalent, especially in Denali and Kenai.
• Moose: Often seen in taiga forests and wetlands.
• Mountain Goats: Found in mountainous regions, particularly on the Kenai Peninsula.

Highlights of Brazil

Brazil, the world’s fifth largest nation, requires careful planning to make the most of your visit. From vibrant cities to expansive wild spaces, Brazil offers diverse attractions. Essential stops include Rio de Janeiro, Paraty, and Salvador de Bahia, but the country’s natural wonders are the true draw.

Iguazu/Iguassu Falls:

• Straddling the Argentinean-Brazilian border, the falls comprise around 200 cascades, with the most spectacular section being the Garganta del Diablo (Devil’s Throat). Explore tropical forest trails to see toucans, capuchin monkeys, and more. Visit between September and April for the best experience.

The Pantanal:

• The world’s largest wetland and Brazil’s wildlife capital, home to over 700 bird species and 80 mammals. The Caiman Ecological Refuge offers nearly guaranteed jaguar sightings and supports Onçafari, a jaguar conservation organisation. Visit between July and October during the dry season for optimal wildlife viewing.

The Amazon:

• Split into Northern (gateway Manaus) and Southern Amazon (gateway Cuiabá). Best explored through river cruises and eco-lodges. The Amazon offers a chance to see jaguars, giant river otters, anteaters, capybaras, monkeys, and diverse bird species. The meeting of the Rio Solimões and Rio Negro near Manaus is a must-see phenomenon.

Access and Additional Highlights:

• The Pantanal can be accessed via flights to Campo Grande or Cuiabá, followed by a light aircraft flight or a 3-hour drive to lodges. The southern Pantanal combines well with Bonito for eco-tourism activities, while the northern Pantanal pairs with Chapada dos Guimarães for trekking.
• The coast offers whale watching between July and November at Bahia and Santa Catarina.
• Bahia state is known for its fashionable beaches and colonial history, with Salvador as its capital.

Wildlife of Brazil

Birds:

• Toucan: Vibrant and iconic, commonly seen in forested areas.
• Capuchin Monkeys: Frequently spotted in tropical forests.

Marine Mammals:

• Humpback Whales: Best seen between July and November off the coast of Bahia.
• Southern Right Whales: Spotted along the coast of Santa Catarina.

Terrestrial Mammals:

• Jaguars: Nearly guaranteed sightings at the Caiman Ecological Refuge in the Pantanal.
• Giant River Otters: Often seen in the Amazon.
• Anteaters, Capybaras, and Monkeys: Abundant in the Pantanal and Amazon regions.

Highlights of Peru

Peru offers a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty. From ancient Incan ruins to the depths of the Amazon rainforest, here are some must-visit destinations:

The Inca Trail, Aguas Calientes, and Machu Picchu:

• Follow ancient Inca stone paths through spectacular Andean scenery to the Lost City of the Incas, ending at the Sun Gate with breathtaking views.
• The classic 4-day trek covers 43km, starting at kilometre 82.
• Post-trek relaxation in Aguas Calientes is highly recommended.

The Colca Canyon:

• One of the world’s deepest canyons, home to Andean condors.
• Trekking the remote canyon base, some 4km down, is a highlight.

Puno and Lake Titicaca:

• Puno is the gateway to the world’s highest navigable lake.
• Lake view hotels offer a great base for exploring, including the floating reed islands of the Uros.

The Amazon:

• Iquitos in the northern Amazon is the main gateway for jungle experiences.
• Explore the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve by river boats, kayaks, and skiffs with naturalists.

Wildlife of Peru

Birds:

• Andean Condors: Best seen in the Colca Canyon and the Cordillera Blanca.
• Macaws: Observe them at clay licks in Tambopata National Reserve during the dry season (May to October).
• Humboldt Penguins: Found along the coast at San Lorenzo, Palomino, and the Ballestas Islands.

Amazon Wildlife:

• Jaguars: Elusive but possible to spot along riverbanks.
• Giant River Otters and Black Caimans: Common predators in the Amazon’s waterways

Highlights of Costa Rica

Arenal Volcano: One of Costa Rica’s most recognisable landmarks, Arenal’s conical silhouette towers over rich rainforests teeming with monkeys, birds, and sloths. Enjoy trails on foot or horseback and soak in nearby hot springs.

Monteverde: This cloud forest is Costa Rica’s most biodiverse region. Look out for spectacular orchids and hummingbirds.

Nicoya Peninsula: Known for its beautiful beaches and surf breaks, it’s also the prime spot for witnessing Olive Ridley turtles nesting between August and December.

Osa Peninsula and Corcovado: Wild and pristine, this region is home to Costa Rica’s largest national park and offers exceptional bird-watching opportunities.

Tortuguero: Accessible only by boat, this national park features dense jungle, caiman, and moonlit turtle nesting on black sand beaches.

Wildlife of Costa Rica

Sea Turtles:

• Olive Ridley: Best seen nesting at Ostional Beach (Nicoya) from September to October.
• Green: Largest nesting site at Tortuguero Beach from July to mid-October.
• Leatherback: Found at Grande Beach within Las Baulas National Marine Park between October and February.
• Hawksbill: Present on both coasts.

Whales:

• Humpback Whales: Northern Hemisphere humpbacks visit the Pacific coast from December to early April, while Southern Hemisphere humpbacks are seen from late July to November, particularly around the Osa Peninsula.

Birds:

• Scarlet Macaws: Can be seen in Carara National Park and the Osa Peninsula.

Monkeys:

• Four species: white-faced capuchin, mantled howler, squirrel monkey, and spider monkey.

Sloths:

• Two species: the nocturnal two-toed sloth and the diurnal three-toed sloth.