On the Expedition

Help conserve the Amazon Basin’s pink dolphins, giant river otters, monkeys, turtles, fishes, macaws and more.

Based on The Ayapua, a vintage boat from the Amazon’s rubber boom period, you’ll work with a team of skilled Peruvian biologists to collect information about the wildlife populations in one of two river areas, the Lago Preto Conservation Concession or the Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve, depending on the season. From a motorized canoe, you’ll rotate tasks like conducting surveys of dolphins, manatees, giant river otters, fish, and river turtles. You’ll also count macaws and conduct land surveys of peccaries, tapirs, deer, monkeys, and game birds. At night, you’ll search for caimans with a spotlight. With expedition staff to guide you, you’ll meet and talk to local people about their fishing, hunting, and conservation efforts.

In your recreational time, you can peruse The Ayapua’s well-stocked library, enjoy a selection of Amazon-themed films, or simply relax on deck as you glide through one of the Earth’s greatest wild places.

Meals and Accommodations

The Ayapua is a recently restored, 33-meter, three-deck boat, with eight double cabins and one triple cabin. Each cabin is air-conditioned and has a bathroom with shower. After mornings and afternoons in the field, you can head to the air-conditioned dining room and be treated to an array of local delicacies as well as familiar offerings like roast beef and freshly-caught fish. Mid-morning coffee and afternoon tea (and cakes), are served daily, and beverages are available on the upper deck.

About the Research Area

The rainforests of the Amazon basin are virtually overflowing with a diverse array of plant and animal species. You’ll share this tropical environment with beautiful birds, flowers, monkeys, and more aboard a restored riverboat you’ll call home during your expedition.

During your expedition you’ll have the opportunity to interact with indigenous people from a number of villages. The Principal Investigator and his research team have formed very positive relationships with these communities over the past 16 years. These people have always accommodated visitors with openness and friendliness.