The Amazon is not your typical river experience, and the Pure Amazon, Abercrombie & Kent’s inaugural riverboat in South America, offers an extraordinary journey unlike any other.
Envision a floating boutique hotel and vibrant safari, but instead of spotting lions, expect to encounter pink dolphins, sloths, and an array of colorful birds amidst the mesmerizing backdrop of Peru’s Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve.
Photo Credit: Jeri Clausing
The Pure Amazon is only the second vessel to navigate the waters of Peru’s vast river system in over ten years, joining a select group of less than a dozen riverboats operating in the region. The ship is a proud addition to the A&K Sanctuary collection, which features 13 luxury safari lodges, four Nile cruise ships, and now, the Pure Amazon.
A Unique Boutique Experience on Water
With accommodations for just 22 guests and a ratio of one staff member per guest, the Pure Amazon resembles an intimate boutique hotel rather than a cruise ship. Guests can expect lavish suites adorned with locally sourced materials, showcasing the culture and environment of Peru.
The lounge area on Deck 1 features a luxurious ceiling reminiscent of the sacuara plant, while the suites boast ceilings made from the region’s traditional totora reeds. Each suite, measuring over 270 square feet, includes amenities such as king beds, a spacious bathroom with an expansive shower, and panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows to soak in the river views.
Photo Credit: Jeri Clausing
The top deck invites relaxation with a bar, lounge, spa, and gym, while offering sweeping views ideal for sunset contemplation. Outdoor seating with a large hot tub also enhances the experience.
Culinary Delights Inspired by Peru
Dining on the Pure Amazon is equally impressive, featuring splendid meals with floor-to-ceiling views. Breakfast and lunch are served buffet-style, showcasing a variety of dishes, including traditional Peruvian tamales and mouthwatering lomo saltado. Dinner is a gourmet five-course affair paired with exquisite wines, showcasing acclaimed Peruvian whites that are hard to find outside the country.
Favorites on the menu include catfish ceviche marinated in coconut milk, exemplifying the rich culinary heritage of the Amazon region.
Wildlife Encounters and Cultural Immersion
Despite its newness, the crew on the Pure Amazon brings vast experience, with guides and naturalists who have spent years exploring the Amazon. They provide insightful commentary on the local fauna, enriching guests’ understanding of the unique ecosystem.
Photo Credit: Jeri Clausing
Guests can enjoy various excursions, including sunrise skiff rides, jungle walks, fishing for piranhas, and swimming. A highlight is the opportunity to witness vibrant local life, with villages where traditional fishing techniques coexist alongside modern river transport.
Stops at local communities reveal daily routines intertwined with the natural world, showcasing families and fishermen navigating the river’s currents as they wait for ferries to transport them across its expansive waters.
Photo Credit: Jeri Clausing
Embarking on the Pure Amazon offers a unique travel experience, merging luxury with the raw beauty of the Amazon. This riverboat not only highlights the region’s biodiversity but also immerses guests in the rich cultural tapestry of the communities along its shores.
