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Amazon Rainforest Food: 11 Traditional Dishes You Have to Try

Welcome to Aventuras Naturales, the ultimate destination for travelers seeking unique and authentic experiences in the Amazon Rainforest. In this guide, we will take you on a culinary journey through the heart of the rainforest, showcasing 11 traditional dishes that you simply cannot miss. From exotic fruits to savory delicacies, our curated selection encapsulates the rich and diverse flavors of this enchanting region.

1. Juçara Açaí Bowl

Start your gastronomic adventure with a refreshing and nutritious Juçara Açaí Bowl. Made from the indigenous açaí berries found in the Amazon, this vibrant dish is packed with antioxidants and essential nutrients. Topped with fresh fruits, granola, and a drizzle of honey, it is the perfect way to kick-start your day.

Indulge in Tacacá, a traditional Amazonian soup that will tantalize your taste buds. This flavorsome broth combines tucupi (a yellow sauce extracted from cassava), jambu leaves (known for its unique numbing sensation), and shredded dried shrimp. It is a popular dish among locals and a great way to experience the authentic flavors of the rainforest.

3. Pirarucu Fish Stew

Experience the taste of the Amazon River with Pirarucu Fish Stew, a hearty and aromatic dish made with the renowned pirarucu fish. This large freshwater fish is known for its delicate texture and mild flavor, making it a favorite among locals. Simmered in coconut milk and seasoned with herbs and spices, this stew is a true culinary delight.

4. Tambaqui Grill

For the ultimate Amazonian grilling experience, try the Tambaqui Grill. Tambaqui, a freshwater fish found in the region, is marinated in a flavorful blend of garlic, lime juice, and Amazonian spices. Grilled to perfection, it is served with roasted cassava and Plantain, offering a mouth-watering combination of flavors and textures.

5. Cupuaçu Mousse

Indulge your sweet tooth with Cupuaçu Mousse, a creamy and luscious dessert made from the Cupuaçu fruit. Known as the "Amazonian chocolate," the Cupuaçu fruit has a delightful mix of flavors, reminiscent of pineapple and chocolate. Savor this heavenly dessert and experience the unique taste of the Amazon Rainforest.

Discover the traditional Brazilian dish, Pamonha, made with fresh corn and wrapped in corn husks. This moist and flavorful dish is similar to a tamale and can be enjoyed as a snack or a side dish. Whether sweet or savory, Pamonha is a favorite among locals and a must-try when visiting the Amazon Rainforest.

7. Amazonian Tapioca Pancakes

Sample the Amazonian Tapioca Pancakes, a staple breakfast dish in the region. Made from cassava flour, these gluten-free pancakes are light, crispy, and incredibly versatile. Whether you prefer them sweet or savory, filled with cheese or topped with fresh fruits, they offer a delightful start to your day in the rainforest.

8. Pato no Tucupi

Prepare your taste buds for a tantalizing explosion of flavors with Pato no Tucupi. This traditional duck dish is cooked in tucupi sauce, prepared from cassava root, and served with jambu leaves. The combination of tender duck meat, tangy sauce, and the unique numbing sensation of jambu leaves creates an unforgettable dining experience.

9. Chicha de Jora

Quench your thirst with Chicha de Jora, a traditional Amazonian corn beer. Prepared by fermenting maize, this ancient brew has been a staple in indigenous communities for centuries. Enjoy its mild sweetness and distinct aroma as you immerse yourself in the rich culture and traditions of the Amazon Rainforest.

10. Tucunaré Escabeche

Delight in the vibrant flavors of Tucunaré Escabeche, a dish that showcases the Amazonian peacock bass. Marinated in vinegar, seasoned with peppers and spices, and served with cassava flour, this tangy and zesty dish is a true manifestation of the region's culinary excellence.

11. Cupuaçu Caipirinha

Conclude your gastronomic journey with a twist by savoring a Cupuaçu Caipirinha. This delicious cocktail combines the refreshing flavors of the Amazonian Cupuaçu fruit with Brazil's national spirit, cachaça, and a hint of lime. Raise your glass and toast to an unforgettable adventure in the Amazon Rainforest.

At Aventuras Naturales, we bring you the best of the Amazon Rainforest's culinary heritage. Immerse yourself in the vibrant flavors, unique ingredients, and traditional cooking techniques as you embark on a remarkable gastronomic expedition. Book your trip today and let us guide you through an unforgettable culinary experience in the heart of the Amazon!

About Aventuras Naturales

Aventuras Naturales is a leading travel and tourism company specializing in immersive and sustainable journeys to the world's most captivating natural destinations. With a deep respect for the environment and local cultures, we offer exceptional experiences that connect travelers with extraordinary landscapes and enriching encounters. Our team of knowledgeable guides and experts ensure that every adventure with us is unforgettable, remarkable, and filled with awe-inspiring moments.

Explore the Amazon Rainforest with Aventuras Naturales

Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime exploration of the Amazon Rainforest with Aventuras Naturales. Our carefully curated trips combine thrilling activities, fascinating wildlife encounters, and immersive cultural experiences. Whether you wish to trek through the lush jungle, navigate the winding rivers, or engage with indigenous communities, we offer a variety of customized itineraries to suit your interests and preferences. Discover the wonders of the Amazon Rainforest with the guidance of passionate experts and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Ready to embark on an extraordinary adventure in the Amazon Rainforest? Contact Aventuras Naturales today to book your trip or to get more information about our tours and services. Our dedicated team is here to answer all your questions and ensure that your journey with us is seamless, inspiring, and unforgettable. Let us be your gateway to the mesmerizing beauty and rich cultural heritage of the Amazon Rainforest.

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What to expect from a 4-day trip on board of an Amazon Rainforest Cruise

A 3-day trip to Mashpi Lodge

Pinzon Island, Galapagos

My name is Evelyn – I’m part of the Ecuador and Galapagos Insiders Team. Recently I was lucky enough to enjoy a cruise in the Amazon rainforest in Ecuador. When offered the chance, I jumped at it immediately – after all, who wouldn’t want to spend a few days on a luxury Amazon rainforest cruise for work! Here I’ll fill you in on my experience on this lovely boat, including information about what you can expect to see and do, the local communities, service, food and the rooms. With the low-down you’ll be all set to decide whether this is the right trip for you.

The trip I took was a four-day, three-night Anakonda Rainforest Cruise into the depths of the Ecuadorian Amazon. Getting to the start of the trip was an adventure in itself. Ecuador and Galapagos Insiders organized a flight for me from Quito to Coca, a city in the Amazon region of Ecuador. From there a friendly guide collected me at the airport and transported me to the dock. This was when my excitement really started to kick in, as me and two other guests boarded a motorized canoe down-river to meet the Anakonda for my luxury cruise. In truth, I had expected the boat transfer to be a bit boring, but I was hit with a cacophony of birdsong and jungle noises the second I got on the boat. Along the way there was plenty to look at, and our driver pointed out and explained some of the birdlife we observed. We even saw a snake in a tree!

On that first day there was some down time to explore the luxury cruise ship, and enjoy its comfortable facilities. I was delighted to see that my room had its own private balcony from which I could relax with my book awhile, as we cruised gently along the river. My bed was gigantic, very comfortable, and I could observe out of the panoramic window as we drifted along the waterways. The air conditioning was fabulous, and helped to quickly cool me down. I decided to make the most of the luxury, and I soaked in a jacuzzi bath to refresh myself from the sweaty journey. Then I headed up to the observation deck to peruse my Amazon wildlife book. I lazed the late afternoon away on a comfy leather sofa, before heading to the El Dorado bar for a mocktail from the wait staff.

By Ecuador & Galapagos Insiders

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Tribal cuisine: exploring the food of the amazon rainforest.

There aren’t many places left in the world where mankind hasn’t been able to plant its stamp of modernization. The Amazon rainforest is one such place, where a number of indigenous tribes, some of them having absolutely no contact with the outside world, reside. Despite the many threats to their way of life, these communities’ often live a traditional life, meaning they eat the rainforest foods that they can hunt and gather near their homes in the jungle.

The Amazon rainforest area of South America has been rich hunting grounds for the indigenous tribes for centuries. These tribes do not cultivate fruits and vegetables to any large degree, instead they rely on hunting and gathering, with perhaps small farm plots to supplement their fruit and veggie intake, especially as they become less nomadic over time.  Because of their reliance on gathering from the abundance of the rainforest, their diets may vary depending on their exact location, but there are a few constants in the food of the jungle between these cultures.

With very limited food production and supply sources, the question arises – what types of food do these communities consume?  This is a fascinating question that’s fun to research before visiting a rainforest community in the Amazon and help you prepare for what you may encounter on your trip.

Fruits and Vegetables

The most commercially hyped fruit available to the hunter-gatherer tribes of the Amazon rainforests is the acai berry . Food shops around the world advertise it as a “super food” for the health benefits of its antioxidants. But for the Amazon dwellers it’s simply there, available to pick when they’re feeling hungry.

The Maracuja , also known as passion fruit (Passiflora incarnata), is another widely-used traditional fruit for the rainforest inhabitants. In the rainforest, maracuja grows on vines and the indigenous people reap many nutritional, health and medicinal benefits from this fruit. Maracuja leaves are also used to create drinks to calm the nerves as well as to make maracuja tea.

On the other hand, the Aguaje – a bright yellow and covered with dark maroon scales – is a fruit found widely throughout the rainforest but hasn’t gained the worldwide appeal of the acai berry. Its taste is similar to the one of a carrot and people in the Amazon often eat this fruit raw.

Chayote is a vegetable that was cultivated by the Aztecs and Mayans in Central America and is believed to be indigenous to this region. Chayote grows well in the higher altitudes of mountainous rain-forest regions and is widely-used throughout the Amazon.

Another popular vegetables are hot peppers. Indigenous to the lowland rainforests of Central and South America, hot peppers were domesticated by Native American shamans for their spice, which was also used for both medicinal and spiritual purposes. Approximately 25 wild hot pepper species originated in the Amazon rainforest.

So whether you’re visiting the Huaorani Ecolodge in Ecuador or the Tambopata Research Center  in Peru, you may be chowing down on a variety of fruits and veggies completely new to you — and some that may be surprisingly familiar.

Nuts & Spices

In addition to fruits and vegetables, several commercially used spices are found in the Amazon rainforest and are still used by the indigenous peoples. These spices include ginger, cinnamon, pepper and vanilla — which is surprising to most people.

Nuts are also plentiful and are a valuable source of nutrition and fat. Cashew and Brazil nuts are the most widespread nuts in the Amazon rainforest.

Of course, rainforest peoples cannot sustain themselves entirely gathering fruits, vegetables and nuts. Despite their primitive means, the indigenous people of the Amazon rainforest are skilled hunters. Considering the forests’ plentiful wildlife, providing fresh meat in the menu is always possible.  Everything from fish, birds, wild boars, even insects and bugs are at hunters disposal.  When visiting, you’re unlikely to encounter meals made with wild game as this is typically reserved for the community members and/or isn’t usually palatable to foreigners.

Whether you find their lifestyle and customs archaic or fascinating, visiting a community-owned rainforest lodge and learning more about their traditions is a valuable way to help them preserve their unique culture.

************* Interested in learning more about indigenous rainforest culture in person?  Check out all of Detour’s amazing and sustainable tours to the Amazon Rainforest .

Sani Amazon EcoLodge

This community-owned, sustainable lodge provides a mix of wildlife viewing and cultural interaction near Yasuni National Park. Sani is rustic and remote, with fantastic wildlife viewing and some of the best birding in the Amazon Basin of Ecuador. Trip Length : 4 or 5 Days Destination : Yasuni National Park, Ecuadorian Rainforest Lodging: Simple, mid-level Rainforest lodge Activities: Wildlife viewing, naturalist walks, interaction with local community

Tambopata Research Center Amazon Jungle Lodge

The Tambopata Research Center (TRC) is one of the most remote rainforest lodges in South America, situated inside an uninhabited area of the Tambopata National Reserve and next to the Bahajua-Sonene National Park. The surrounding rainforest ecosystem remains pristine, and the lodge is adjacent to one of the largest parrot and macaw clay licks in the world, making for incredible bird and wildlife viewing. Trip Length : 3, 4, 5, or more days Destination : Tambopata National Reserve, Peru Lodging: Basic & comfortable rainforest lodge Activities : Wildlife viewing, bird watching, hiking

Allie Savage

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Amazonian Food: Traditional dishes from the Brazilian Jungle cuisine

The Amazonian gastronomy of Brazil can be studied taking into account these four main aspects: its geographical context, the cooks or Chefs, the ingredients and the typical dishes.

A vast setting for a great gastronomy

Brazil is one of the largest (8,547,804 km2) and most populated countries in the world (210,147,125 inhabitants). The Amazon region of Brazil occupies about 60% of the total area of the Amazon basin.

The large Brazilian Amazon region, which comprises nine states (Amazonas, Pará, Amapá, Mato Grosso, Rondônia, Roraima, Acre, Tocantins, Maranhao), is home to some 21 million people. The most important cities of the entire Amazon region are located there.

Some of them are also among the most important cities in South America, and even in Latin America. This is the case of Manaus, capital of the state of Amazonas, with 2,145,444 inhabitants, the most populated city in the entire Amazon basin.

It is followed by another Brazilian Amazon city, Belém do Pará, capital of the state of Pará, with 1,485,732 inhabitants. Of the 10 most populous cities in the Amazon basin, with more than 370,000 inhabitants, eight belong to Brazil.

Only two are not: Santa Cruz de la Sierra, capital of the state of Santa Cruz, in the Bolivian Amazon , with 1,441,406 inhabitants, and Iquitos, capital of the Loreto region, in the Peruvian Amazon , with 377,609 inhabitants.

Brazilian Amazonian gastronomy in search of identity

In these two Brazilian Amazonian cities, Manaus and Belém, the heart of Brazil’s popular Amazonian gastronomy is concentrated.

In the popular markets of these two cities, one finds great cooks of popular extraction working in small and sometimes uncomfortable open spaces in the big markets.

Chefs dedicated to Brazil’s Amazonian gastronomy

The cook Lucilene Goncalves Torres, known as Dona Lucia, who, amidst loud laughter, greets people with affection and serves exquisite typical food from the tables of Dona Lucia’s Barraca, located in the Ver-o-Peso market, in Belém do Pará.

Doña Lucía is perhaps the most representative cook of this great market. Lucia won the award for best cook at the market in 2016. Two years later, in 2018, it won the National Dólma Award, and the trophy for the best popular restaurant in Belém.

Lucía’s cuisine is made with fresh ingredients. Every day at dawn, at the dock of Marajó Bay, where the Guamá and Acará rivers meet, he receives fish, fruits , vegetables and condiments brought by his long-time suppliers, who have been his friends for more than a decade.

And it begins to make its food, which is a mixture of its cultural roots, derived from the Amazonian miscegenation, where the knowledge and flavors of the indigenous, black, mestizo and white settlers’ cuisines are interrelated.

Haute cuisine of Brazilian Amazonian gastronomy

The other Amazonian cuisine, the haute Amazonian cuisine, is cooked mainly in the kitchens of Sao Paulo, which, with its metropolitan area, reaches 22 million inhabitants to be the largest city in South America and the largest financial center of Brazil.

There, in this immense city, closely linked to the Amazon region, the most renowned Brazilian chefs work with Amazonian ingredients, which they transform using avant-garde culinary techniques.

It is a cuisine with great presence in the city. Chefs such as Alex Atala, Helena Rizzo, Ivan Ralston, Bel Coelho, Rodrigo Oliveira, Morena Leite.

But there are not only great Amazonian cuisine chefs in Sao Paulo, but also in many cities such as Manaus, Rio de Janeiro, and even in cities like Campo Grande, in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul, where Paulo Machado lives, one of the most renowned Brazilian chefs, who also directs his own Food Research Institute, and is one of the standard bearers in the promotion of Amazonian cuisine in the world.

The most recognized worldwide is chef Alex Atala, who elevated Amazonian cuisine to its highest place, in times when almost no one spoke of it, even in his own country, where the Amazon was a distant legend that appeared only in books, but not in national geopolitics or intermingled with daily life.

Just three decades ago, the Amazon became part of Brazilian life and gained strength in large cities such as Sao Paulo, which, without being Amazonian, became its sounding board.

Atala’s temple is his restaurant D.O.M., from where the boom of Amazonian haute cuisine began, which he later extended to his other restaurants: Dalva e Dito and Bio.

Atala advocates, from them, a cuisine with fresh ingredients, native to the Amazon region, that is sustainable from an environmental perspective and respectful of nature and the rights of the indigenous groups that inhabit it. noted in an interview that:

“We always tend to value more what comes to us from outside, but the product from here, natural and little manipulated, is healthier, boosts the local economy, integrates production and consumption, and gives cultural value to the food.” Alex Atala

Atala is always researching new Amazonian products and is tireless in defending the survival of the Amazon, which is being deforested at an impressive rate.

The last time I heard him, at the Mesamerica festival in Mexico, he was obsessed with saving pirarucu or paiche (Arapaima gigas), the largest fish in the Amazon and one of the largest in the world, and in the search for Amazonian mushrooms that could be used in cooking.

Atala animates and directs, since 2013, with several partners, the ATA project at the Pinheiros Municipal Market, the largest market in Sao Paulo, which created the ATA certification that seeks to showcase and value Amazonian products, establishing urban marketing channels that allow any cook or housewife to access them, paying fair prices for the communities that produce them in the Amazon:

“Consumption has to be planned,” he says…The popularity of these ingredients and increased consumption will generate more demand and many just want profit without concern for sustainability. We have to be careful.” Alex Atala

ATA develops actions related to mushroom production with the Yanomami groups, pepper production with the Baniwa and pequi oil production with the Kizedje community, or with indigenous groups that consume the saúva ant.

Atala’s initiatives benefit the continuity and expansion of Amazonian gastronomy, while improving the income of the producing communities, respecting the sustainability of the forest and the way of life of indigenous and mestizo peoples. But Atala is not the only one.

Helena Rizo

From her restaurants Maní and Mandioca, she successfully develops new proposals of Amazonian cuisine with avant-garde techniques, achieving international notoriety that earned her the recognition, in 2014, of the best female chef in the world.

Ivan Ralston

Son of successful chefs who owned the Ráscal chain of Mediterranean cuisine, and who managed in his restaurant Tuju, with his own effort and creativity, to position himself as one of the great chefs of the world, receiving two Michelin stars.

Trained in New York and Europe, from her restaurant Clandestino, recreating her Brazilian roots and cultural identity.

Rodrigo Oliveira

In his efforts to exalt Brazilian cuisine and popularize it in his restaurant Esquina Mocotó, following in the footsteps of his father who imposed a style of Brazilian cuisine in his emblematic restaurant Mocotó.

Morena Leite

With his restaurants in cultural centers, showing a friendly face of great cuisine linked to the cultural traditions of his country.

Sandro Silva

Together with his wife Marta Seco, creators of the group El Paraguas, which has several restaurants: Ten con Ten, Ultramarinos Quintín, Numa and Amazónico, created in 2016, which has earned him many international recognitions. Or Fred Tibau, o….

Or many more, in a long list of excellent cooks committed to the Brazilian Amazonian gastronomic culture.

And the great chefs of Manaus, such as Mauricio Acuña, at the Patria restaurant, or the inexhaustible and extraordinary list of chefs of Belém do Pará, the popular culinary center of the Brazilian Amazon, with the outstanding presence of the brothers Felipe and Thiago Castanho, with their two great and beautiful restaurants Remanso do Bosque and Remanso de Peixe, of haute cuisine , or the many restaurants in Belém, headed by that wonderful cook Dona Lucia, with her famous Tacacá, or the other very good restaurants of Amazonian cuisine, such as Lá em Casa, Portinha, Raizes da Amazonia, Bar Meu Garoto, Emporio Amazónico, Estacao das Docas, Saloba aloca, and Tacacá da Dona Maria, on Nazaré Avenue, with its emblematic Tacacá dish.

Ingredients and mixtures of Brazilian Amazonian gastronomy

An important ingredient is the indispensable jambú (jambú or Pará watercress, Acmella oleracea, is a vegetable whose leaf, when bitten, anesthetizes the lip, produced by a substance called escipilantol).

Tucupi is also the name of a culinary preparation that appears as a broth of bitter, spicy or not, with dried shrimp, manioc gum and jambú leaves.

10 typical dishes of Brazilian Amazonian gastronomy

1. pato ao tucupi or pato no tucupi :.

Duck cooked in a sauce made from tucupí, which is the poisonous juice extracted from the bitter yucca in the process of making cassava or yucca starch (which is cooked to eliminate its concentration of hydrocyanic acid), and seasoned with achiote or saffron.

To use it as a condiment, jambú is cooked for a long time in salted water and then drained. The duck is roasted, cut into pieces and boiled together with the sauce called tucupi in Brazil, and yare in other Amazonian countries such as Venezuela and Colombia.

It is an indigenous broth served in clay bowls to keep it warm. It is a dish offered by the tacacazeiras in the streets of Belém or Manaus, in the Amazon. Tacacá has as ingredients tucupi, jambú leaves, cooked tapioca gum, small yellow peppers, dried shrimp, tapioca, basil, cilantro, onion, garlic and pepper.

3. Manicoba :

The name of the dish probably comes from maniva, which is a dough made from the cooked leaves of cassava. This dish is prepared in a clay pot. The cassava leaf is cooked for a long time, several hours, to bring out its flavor. Then add black beans, pork meat, and serve with white rice, manioc flour and chili to taste.

Soup containing okra, shrimp, basil, chicory, fine dry flour, palm oil (or dendé). The okra ( Abelmoschus esculentus ) is boiled together with basil, chicory and shrimps. The flour is added. Puree and add the palm oil. This dish is part of the food heritage of the African people brought to America as slaves.

5. Moqueca :

Cooked with a mixture of seafood and fish, onion, bell pepper, tomato, coriander leaves, palm or dendé oil and coconut milk. This is how they make it in Bahia, in northeastern Brazil, but in the state of Espirito Santo, in the south, they substitute palm oil for oil with achiote.

6. Rice with pequi:

It is a very popular food in Brazil. It contains pequi (Caryocar brasilense ), a yellow fruit with a strong smell and flavor, which is cooked with rice and oil, seasoned with garlic, onion, salt, pepper, parsley and chives. In some cases, when you want to add a protein, it is cooked with chicken (frango), then it is called frango com pequi.

7. Pirarucu cooked in Pará nut milk:

Preparation made with pirarucu and Pará nut milk. The pirarucu ( Arapaima gigas ) is a freshwater fish, the largest in the Amazon, and the Pará nut ( Bertholletia excelsa ) is the fruit of a gigantic wild tree. From the fruit, which contains crescent-shaped seeds, milk is extracted, with which the fish is cooked.

8. X-caboquinho:

A very popular sandwich in Manaus, consisting of French bread filled with coalho cheese, fried banana and tucumá (palm tree). The tucuma is the yellow-orange, oval fruit of a palm tree (Astrocaryum vulgare), whose pulp is oleaginous and yields an oil.

9. Munguzá:

Dessert made with corn, milk, condensed milk, coconut milk, butter, salt, and sprinkled with cinnamon on top before serving.

10. Copoazú cream:

Dessert made with copoazú pulp, cream, condensed milk, ice and cinnamon. Copoazú (Theobroma grandiflorum ) is also called white cocoa, which contains more pulp, with a slightly acid taste, than seed.

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Because of the pandemic, we had to reschedule our cruise from July of 2020 to December 2020. Airlines were not flying out of our city to Manaus in December, so we h...

I was very pleased with the experience

I was very pleased with the experience I had with my 11 year old twin grandchildren on our rainforest cruise followed by time in Lima, the Sacred Valley and Machu Pi...

In short, we loved every minute of it.

The Jangada cruise was awesome... The staff were knowledgeable and very hospitable. The food was fantastic and very Brazilian focused as this is what we wanted. The...

Travel experience I've ever had

I just want to thank you for arranging the trip of a lifetime for me. The visit to the Sacred Valley and, most of all, the week on the Amazon surpassed any travel ex...

Our trip was fabulous

Our trip was fabulous--we loved just about every minute. The crew was very attentive, the food was great and the guide, Vinnie, was amazing. There was a second guide...

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Editoral Review of Rainforest Cruises

Gulfport, Florida-based Rainforest Cruises is a conservation-minded agency specializing in small ship cruises on the Amazon River in three South American countries, as well as Galapagos Islands cruises. 

What Makes Them Stand Out?  

They have a narrow focus, are experienced in that niche, and can offer expert advice to help you choose your Amazon or Galapagos cruise. 

Who Travels With Them?

With so many options in price, style of ship, and destination, Rainforest Cruises appeals to any traveler of any age or budget who wants to visit the Amazon or Galapagos by small ship or riverboat. 

Where Do They Operate?

Primarily on the Amazon in Peru, Brazil, and Ecuador, as well as cruises in the Galapagos Islands. They have a minor presence in Panama and Bolivia. 

How Does It Work?

They feature four styles of riverboats and cruise ships: comfort, superior, luxury, and charter; suitable family and honeymoon choices are also noted. Comfort is the most basic level, while luxury vessels have the most amenities and largest cabins. You can charter a ship in any category at additional cost. Choose your cruise from among 25 ships in the Amazon region, 12 in the Galapagos and one each in Panama and Bolivia. The vessels range from houseboat-style to sailing ships to sleek yachts.  

Why Travel With Them?  

Rainforest cruises makes it easy to find the Amazon or Galapagos cruise that’s right for you.  All their ships are pictured on their website and categorized by style. You choose your destination and ship, with their advice if needed. You can also book land tour extensions through them to places like Machu Picchu and Iguazu Falls, or a stay at a jungle lodge.

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Solo friendly.

• No single supplement
• Trekking & Camping

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About the company.

Rainforest Cruises are the Amazon River Cruise specialists. We have searched the entire region to bring you a comprehensive collection of the Amazon's finest riverboats and strive to bring you a simple platform from which you can easily compare and contrast the entire market for river cruises in one place.

Our goal is to match our customers with the riverboat that best suits their interests and budget, and give them all the information, expert advice and excellent customer service they need to ensure a wonderful travel experience and an unforgettable adventure of a lifetime.

Many of our clients not only book cruises with us, but cruise packages with land tour extensions before or after their cruises to popular travel destinations in South America such as: Rio de Janeiro, Iguazu Falls, Machu Picchu, the Galapagos Islands, Amazon Lodges and more.

South America is a massive continent, and it is nearly impossible to know the ins and outs of each country. Rely on our knowledge and honest approach to be sure you are maximizing the potential for your well-deserved vacation!

It is worth noting that as members of The International Ecotourism Society, Rainforest Cruises are advocates for rainforest conservation. Rest safe in the knowledge that we adhere to strict sustainable ecotourism principles and that your cruise booking with us helps contribute to the preservation of the rainforest.

Cruise Styles:

So you've decided to do a cruise in South America, but with so many to choose from, where do you start? Rainforest Cruises have conveniently categorised Amazon River cruises into six styles: luxury, superior, comfort, charter, family and honeymoon.

While all our Amazon cruises offer comfortable accommodation, good food, interesting itineraries and knowledgeable guides, to distinguish between them we have defined our cruise styles based on a set of parameters including price, cabin comfort, public area amenities, customer service, cuisine, passenger-to-crew ratio, cruise itinerary and general tour experience.

We painstakingly review each riverboat to ensure that passengers have all the necessary information in hand prior to embarking upon their tour of the Amazon Rainforest, so you can rely on us to help you find the ideal cruise for your very own taste and budget.

Luxury Cruises: Rainforest Cruises has itineraries aboard vessels that we truly consider luxurious. See what makes these Amazon cruises so special. We guarantee to beat any price on the Aqua, Aria and Delfin I & II!

Superior Cruises: Our mid-range Amazon riverboats offer the perfect blend of comfort, adventure and affordability. Be pampered, informed and exhilarated in a breath-taking wilderness without breaking the bank.

Comfort Cruises: Our comfort cruises may be easier on the pocket but they boast some of the more interesting itineraries aboard traditional vessels full of character. Amazon cruises just like you imagined.

Cruise Charters: A riverboat charter allows you to explore the Amazon in the privacy and comfort of your very own exclusive cruise. Ideal for families and groups looking for that something a little bit special.

Family Cruises: Not all riverboats have the facilities to cater for families with young children. Here we have picked out the best cruise options for you aboard those vessels with great family-friendly features.

Honeymoon Cruises: Newly-wed and in search of a honeymoon unlike any other? Not many experiences can match the adventure and romance of the Amazon rainforest and its magical sunsets and starry night skies.

Rainforest Cruises Trips & Specials

Discovery Panama Cruise

Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Cormorant: 8-Day Cruise to Western & Central Islands

Anakonda: 8-Day Cruise

Queen Violeta: September Special: Save $180 on the Queen Violeta's 4-Day Pacaya-Samiria cruise in the Peruvian Amazon, departing Wed 16th September 2015. Valid for NEW bookings only and subject to availability.

Zafiro: Early-Bird Special Offer: Save up to $1,330! For bookings for 4, 5, or 8-day Peruvian Amazon cruises on the Zafiro between January and March of 2016 we are happy to offer these cruises at 2015 rates. Valid for NEW bookings only and subject to availability.

Selva Viva: Budget Amazon Cruises For Even Less!: Save up to $500 on cruises throughout 2015 in the Peruvian Amazon on the Selva Viva, with itineraries varying by departure. Valid for NEW bookings only and subject to availability.

Want a tailor-made trip instead?

Your trip, your way, planned by an expert:.

• You choose budget, destinations, activities, transport & lodging type
• Expert designs the itinerary for you, and once approved, takes care of logistics

Top Rainforest Cruises Trip Categories

Rainforest cruises company ranking by category, about travelstride, find your perfect trip, travel confidently.

PERU TOUR OPERATOR

Inca trail tours.

• LUXURY INCA TRAIL HIKE TO MACHU PICCHU 5 DAYS
• CLASSIC INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU 4 DAYS Best Seller
• INCA TRAIL EXPRESS TO MACHU PICCHU 1 DAY
• INCA TRAIL EXPRESS TO MACHU PICCHU 3 DAYS
• INCA TRAIL HIKE TO MACHU PICCHU 5 DAYS
• SHORT INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU 2 DAYS Best Seller

The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu tour is a classic for lovers of hiking and landscaping. This route offers you the best experience, from the first day you will take your tour you will witness the best preserved natural and archaeological wonder of the powerful empire of the Incas. Andean Great Treks has been working on this route to Machu Picchu for more than 15 years. Thus, we offer different routes with connection to the Inca trail. The classic 4-day Inca trail that was one of the first trails to be visited by tourists in the 60s. It continues to captivate with its landscape and archaeological charms, it is a 45 km trail, which in its 4 days offers you the best ecosystem ranging from the inter-Andean valley, subtropical mountainous forest, and the cloud forest jungle. Where the largest amount of natural flora and fauna reserves in Cusco are located. Its historical attractions in themselves describe a past full of power and magnificence, which this road represented in the Inca era. That is why you will have the opportunity to explore its religious, urban, agricultural and magical centers throughout its total area. Every day you will visit a different landscape with your route guide, who will explain and answer all your questions about this Wonder. And to finish the tour you will have the advantage of seeing the citadel of Machu Picchu from the famous Puerta del Sol. The short Inca trail tour is designed for people who are not very used to taking long walks, however this small route will delight you with its exclusive natural attraction of beautiful orchids, waterfalls, viewpoints, and the imposing palace of Wiñaywayna, which belonged to the most famous emperor of the Incas Pachacutec. From where you can see how it has an exquisite contrast with the mountains and the Verónica snow-capped mountain. On both tours you will visit the sacred city of Machu Picchu, you will see all the most important sectors, such as the temple of the three windows, royal palace, temple of the sun, sacred rock, houses of the nobles, granaries and terraces. For all of the above, you should visit Peru, a country full of wonderful places, and the best culinary destination in South America.

BEST ALTERNATIVE TREKS

• ANCASCOCHA TREK TO MACHU PICCHU 4 DAYS
• ANCASCOCHA TREK & CLASSIC INCA TRAIL 7 DAYS
• ANCASCOCHA TREK TO MACHU PICCHU 5 DAYS Best Seller
• AUSANGATE TREK TO SIBINACOCHA LAKE 6 DAYS
• AUSANGATE TREK & SHORT INCA TRAIL 6 DAYS
• AUSANGATE TREK & RAINBOW MOUNTAIN 7 DAYS
• AUSANGATE TREK & RAINBOW MOUNTAINS 6 DAYS
• AUSANGATE TREK + RAINBOW MOUNTAINS 5 DAYS
• AUSANGATE TREK + RAINBOW MOUNTAINS 4 DAYS
• AUSANGATE TREK & VINICUNCA MOUNTAIN 3 DAYS
• CLASSIC AUSANGATE TREK 4 DAYS
• CHOQUEQUIRAO & SALKANTAY TREK & INCA TRAIL 9 DAYS
• CHOQUEQUIRAO TREK TO MACHU PICCHU 5 DAYS
• CLASSIC CHOQUEQUIRAO TREK 4 DAYS Best Seller
• LARES TREK TO MACHU PICCHU 3 DAYS Best Seller
• Lares Trek & Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 5 Days Best Seller
• LARES TREK TO MACHU PICCHU 4 DAYS
• HUCHUY QOSQO TREK TO MACHU PICCHU 3 DAYS
• HUCHUY QOSQO TREK TO MACHU PICCHU 2 DAYS
• SALKANTAY TREK TO MACHU PICCHU 4 DAYS
• SALKANTAY TREK TO MACHU PICCHU 5 DAYS
• SALKANTAY TREK & CLASSIC INCA TRAIL 6 DAYS
• Salkantay Trek & Short Inca Trail Hike to Machu Picchu 5 Days Best Seller
• VINICUNCA RAINBOW MOUNTAINS & QUELCCAYA GLACIER 3 DAYS
• TREK TO QUELCCAYA GLACIER 2 DAYS Best Seller
• INCA QUARRY TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU 4 DAYS Best Seller
• SACRED INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU 4 DAYS
• SHORT INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU & YANACOCHA LAKE 4 DAYS

ANDEAN PERU TREKS

Andean Great Treks is a trekking operator in the city of Cusco. We organize high mountain tours and treks to the best mountain destinations, where you can enjoy the best landscapes surrounded by beautiful lakes, turquoise color, and an intense blue sky. Our mission is to make you know the greatest natural paradises such as the great Ausangate circuit, where we offer you the best trekking experience, lakes of glacial origin, of different colors, likewise you will visit the mountain of colors before any traveler manages to arrive and contemplate a sunrise just for you. Another highly recommended destination is the Lares Trek circuit, where you will directly appreciate the craft and textile traditions of the people of Lares, Wacawasi, and Cancha Cancha, they are considered the last descendants of the Incas, due to their wide wisdom in all fields of Andean science, such as natural medicine, organic agriculture, and constructive technology of agricultural terraces. The Inca Quarry tour is very special for its attractive landscape, in this trek you will enjoy varied landscapes such as the Veronica snow-capped mountain, and the Sacred Valley of the Incas, and a direct contact with mother earth, highly respected by the Incas. And finally we cannot miss the other major archaeological attraction of Cusco, the fabulous Choquequirao, this jewel of the Incas, is considered one of the best trekking circuits by the National Geografic magazine, which you must visit at least once in your life. This is due to the incredible landscape where this ancient Inca city has been built. Precisely you reach Choquequirao going down the canyon of the Apurimac river, and then an ascent to the cloud forest, and once there you will enjoy the best experience, since this adventure will be worth it, there is no other similar place like this Inca palace. To all these tourist attractions, our company organizes expeditions, in small groups, and an assistance service with the best quality standards, with the best route guides, highly experienced cooks, and the best trekking equipment for your maximum enjoyment. Decide your next adventure today, and get to know these unique and mysterious beautiful places.

Peru Vacations in Family and Friends

Manu Amazon Rainforest Tours

Manu amazon reserved zone 6 days.

• MANU AMAZON RESERVED ZONE 7 DAYS
• MANU AMAZON RAINFOREST 5 DAYS
• MANU AMAZON RAINFOREST 3 DAYS Best Seller
• TOUR MANU AMAZON RAINFOREST 8 DAYS

MANU AMAZON RAINFOREST 4 DAYS

Tambopata jungle tours.

• TAMBOPATA AMAZON MACAW CLAY LICK 3 DAY Best Seller
• AYAHUASCA RETREAT IN PERU AMAZON 3 DAYS
• AYAHUASCA RETREAT IN CUSCO 1 DAY
• LUXURY TAMBOPATA RAINFOREST 4 DAYS
• LUXURY TAMBOPATA RAINFOREST 3 DAYS

MACHU PICCHU TOURS

• CUSCO, SACRED VALLEY, MACHU PICCHU, HUMANTAY LAKE & 7-COLOR MOUNTAIN 5D/4N
• MACHU PICCHU, SACRED VALLEY, CUSCO, 7 COLOR MOUNTAIN 4D/3N
• SUNSET TOUR AT MACHU PICCHU 2D/1N
• CUSCO, MACHU PICCHU AND SACRED VALLEY 3 DAYS Best Seller
• MACHU PICCHU & SACRED VALLEY OF THE INCAS 2 DAYS Best Seller
• TOUR TO MACHU PICCHU BY TRAIN 2D/1N
• TOUR TO MACHU PICCHU BY TRAIN 1 DAY

Located on top of a mountain in the middle of a tropical forest, it is considered the best tourist attraction in Peru. The historical sanctuary of Machu Picchu  is a place that captivates tourists not only because of its dazzling architectural beauty, but also because of its important historical-cultural legacy, which has led it to be recognized and admired throughout the world. This ancient Inca city is one of Peru's most precious treasures. It was built in the mid-15th century and it is believed that it was one of the residences of the ninth Inca of Tahuantinsuyo, Pachacútec, although there are also the remains of a sanctuary. Its name means old mountain, and refers to the place where it is located, at about 2,453 meters above sea level, on a rocky premonitory between Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu. Currently, this Inca jewel is one of the tourist centers of the country. Travelers go to Aguas Calientes to start the Inca route that Hiram Bingham, of Yale professor, popularized at the beginning of the 20th century. The Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu is considered one of the seven new wonders of the modern world and was declared a World Heritage Site in 1983. It is probably the most amazing architectural construction of the Inca Empire. This citadel is made up of temples, palaces, terraces, monuments, ensembles and walls; In addition to water channels, built with large blocks of stone, without any type of amalgam, proof of the great wisdom of the Inca civilization. The flora and fauna of Machu Picchu are of great importance not only for their natural beauty, but also for their ecological and cultural value. The rich biodiversity present in the area is essential to maintain the ecological balance and sustainability of the region. The flora and fauna of the Machu Picchu area have been used for centuries by local inhabitants, both for food and for traditional medicine. The flora of Machu Picchu is varied, with more than 2,000 species of plants identified in the area. Among the most common plants are orchids, bromeliads, ferns, mosses and lichens. There is also a wide variety of trees, such as alder, cedar, cinchona and molle, growing throughout the valley. The fauna of Machu Picchu is equally impressive and varied, with more than 400 species of birds identified in the region. Among the most common birds are the hummingbird, the quetzal and the cock-of-the-rock. You can also find a wide variety of mammals, such as the spectacled bear, the llama, the puma. Reptiles and amphibians are also present in the area. Among the most common mammals in Machu Picchu are spectacled bears, who "usually feed on fruits, leaves, insects and small mammals." These animals are crucial to the area's ecosystem.

FULL DAY HIKES

• HIKE TO INCA SUN GATE 1 DAY
• TREK TO WAQRAPUKARA RUINS 1 DAY
• TOUR TO SINGRENACOCHA LAKE 1 DAY
• PALLAY PONCHO RAINBOW MOUNTAIN TREK 1 DAY
• TOUR TO PALCOYO RAINBOW MOUNTAIN 1 DAY
• VINICUNCA RAINBOW MOUNTAIN TREK 1 DAY Best Seller

FULL DAY TOURS

• TRAINING HIKE TO DO CLASSIC INCA TRAIL 1 DAY
• SOUTH VALLEY OF CUSCO HALF DAY
• CUSCO CITY TOUR HALF DAY
• TOUR TO QUESWACHAKA INCA BRIDGE 1 DAY
• INTI RAYMI-INCA’S SUN FEST 2024
• TOUR SACRED VALLEY OF INCAS 1 DAY Best Seller

THE MOST TASTIEST AMAZON RAINFOREST FOOD

Native foods of the amazon rainforest.

The Amazon Rainforest food is fast gaining international recognition for its vibrant and ever-evolving cuisine. Its incredible biodiversity gives rise to an astonishing variety of fresh and exotic ingredients, many of which are relatively unknown outside the region.

Although most travelers come for the wildlife, another highlight of a visit to the Amazon is the chance to sample many of the region’s best dishes, some traditional and some with a more modern twist, but all drawing heavily on local ingredients and the unique flavors of the surrounding rainforest.

Here we provide an overview of the typical ingredients that feature heavily in Amazon Rainforest food, and a list of our favorite mouth-watering Amazonian dishes to try:

Fish Dishes

Given the sheer size of the Amazon River and its tributaries, it’s unsurprising that freshwater fish forms the main source of protein in the Amazonian diet. The sheer variety of fish to be found in the region is almost limitless, but there are some firm favorites that are particularly flavorsome and have long been considered mainstays of the region’s cuisine.

All the fish you’ll encounter in the Amazon will likely be extremely fresh and flavorful. You’ll typically encounter fish in a wide variety of forms and dishes, either grilled, fried, steamed, or blended into a myriad of different sauces and stews. Combining fish either with tomatoes, coconut milk, or tucupi (a yellow sauce made of manioc juices popular throughout northern Brazil) is also very common.

In Peru, the paiche (one of the largest freshwater fish in the world) is a very popular and filling option, with a meaty texture not dissimilar to steak. Catching one of these prized fish can be enough to keep a large family going for an entire week. Other exceptionally delicious fish to watch out for include the pirarucu, the tambaqui, the jaraqui, and the surubim.

1. Patarashca

Patarashca is one highly renowned dish, consisting of fish grilled with a variety of vegetables such as onions, tomatoes, chilies, and coriander, all wrapped and cooked to perfection in a large bijao leaf.

Also, keep an eye out for Tacacá, a delicious shrimp soup from the Pará region of Brazil often served as street food. It is a broth made with wild manioc, jambu (a native variety of paracress), and small yellow peppers.

Meat Dishes

Although not as prevalent given the nature of the region, there is still a wide variety of filling meat dishes to choose from. Cecina (pork) is perhaps the most common.

3. Manicoba

In Brazil, maniçoba, is a dish made from the leaves of the manioc plant (which need to be simmered for seven days to remove poisonous hydrocyanic acid) combined with various pieces of bacon, sausage, and other types of salted pork.

4. Duck No Tucupi

Perhaps the most famous dish of the Brazilian Amazon is the distinctive pato no tucupi (duck served in exotic-tasting tucupi sauce), a traditional local favorite especially popular during holiday periods. The duck is roasted, shredded, and cooked with garlic, chicory, basil, and tucupi, and then served over rice with hot pepper and a sprinkling of fermented manioc flour.

Meanwhile, in Peru, you’re bound to come across the Juane, a specialty popular all over the jungle region. Whilst not always made with meat (fish and veggie-based versions are common too) this not-to-be-missed dish typically consists of chicken, rice, olives, hard-boiled egg, and turmeric all tightly wrapped in banana leaves, left to boil, and often served with fried plantain.

6. Tacacho with Cecina

Tacacho is a specialty of Iquitos and the wider Peruvian Amazon , which is very popular at breakfast time. Plantains are grilled or boiled, peeled, and then mashed in a mortar with small pieces of pork rind, lard, and plenty of salt which are then shaped into balls or patties. They are then served with cecina, dried, smoked pork made with traditional spices from the jungle.

Also commonly known as cassava or yucca, manioc is the ubiquitous starchy root vegetable of the region. Traditionally, it’s acted as the main source of carbohydrate for Amazonian people, filling the niche of the potato. In the Brazilian northeast, is commonly turned into manioc flour by grating and being left out to dry under the sun, and is pretty much used in everything. Manioc is a core component of many popular dishes such as manicoba and pato no tucupi, Brazilian specialties highlighted above. You’ll also find this delicious ingredient served as large succulent fries, in stews, or thinly sliced as a great snack alternative to chips.

7. Manioc Cookie

This delicious Brazilian snack is often served as an appetizer and just fits in your mouth perfectly. Cooked manioc is then mashed and stuffed with cheese and deep-fried in hot oil to create manioc dumplings that conceal an oozy cheesy filling inside.

Plantains are an unripe fruit similar to bananas, though not sweet, and can only be eaten after cooking by steaming, boiling, or frying (they cannot be eaten raw). In a savory dish, they have a similar texture and flavor to potatoes, and indeed their starchy nature makes them more similar to a vegetable than fruit from a cooking perspective. Plantains are popular in a wide variety of desserts, often fried and combined with sweet fruits.

8. Patacones

This is probably the most common way of serving plantain, as double-cooked chips that are crispy on the outside and soft inside. The technique involves using very green plantains, peeling them, and cutting them into two or three parts. They are then partially cooked in hot oil, then smashed flat, and then deep-fried until golden.

The Amazon rainforest is filled with a huge number of sweet, succulent, and exotic fruits used to make a wide variety of colorful drinks, desserts, and sauces. Brazil’s antioxidant-loaded açaí berry has gained worldwide notoriety as a superfood. Meanwhile, many other fruits such as the acerola, the graviola, or the cupuacú. remain relatively unfamiliar to most outsiders. In Peru, one of the most popular Amazonian super fruits is the camu camu, which contains an astonishing amount of vitamin C. All these fruits are used to make cocktails, ice-creams, breakfast juices, and even incorporated into savory dishes to create exotic and unexpected flavor combinations.

9. Cupuacú Ice-Cream

This Brazilian fruit is cacao’s lesser-known, tangy cousin. It has an almost pineapple scent and a chocolatey flavor and makes delicious ice cream (or any other kind of dessert for that matter). All it takes is a blender, some condensed milk, limes, and frozen cupuacú.

A special mention needs to go to the Amazonian palm trees, whose constituent materials are used for anything from construction to cooking and cuisine. Cooking-wise, their leaves are often used to bind and wrap many ingredients together before cooking in a variety of ways, their natural oils, and fragrance complementing the complex seasonings trapped inside. From a cuisine perspective, the succulent heart of palm found inside forms the basis of many salads in the region.

10. Chonta Salad

Made with raw hearts of palm cut in strings like fettucini and seasoned with local spices, this salad may look plain, as it usually does not include any other vegetable, but it is extremely fresh and bursting with flavor. It is a great option for vegetarians.

The genera Capsicum species, to which all peppers belong, originated in the Amazon Rainforest . Here you will find the greatest concentration of wild pepper species, including the red Amazon Pepper, with its light, fiery flavor with hints of celery, and the ají charapita, a tiny pepper 10 times hotter than a jalapeño. They are used to spice up rice, yuca, and plantain dishes and are the basis for many sauces.

11. Charapita tomato sauce

Common to the Peruvian Amazon, this sauce is a popular accompaniment to many Amazonian dishes and involves mixing raw onion slivers, tomatoes, lime and lemon juice, some coriander, and anywhere between a teaspoon to a tablespoon of chili sauce made from the charapita pepper, dependent on how spicy you like it.

RELATED TOURS

TAMBOPATA AMAZON MACAW CLAY LICK 3 DAY

Visit the beautiful Amazon jungle of Tambopata in South America and enjoy the most impressive natural spectacle, we are referring to the blue and yellow macaw clay lick. Accompanied by the best local guides.

Discover the majestic Amazon rainforest of the Manu National Park. This protected area is in Peru, it is one of the largest ecosystems on the planet, due to its great diversity of birds, insects, plants and mammals.

Manu National Park is an excellent way to experience an intense amazon wildlife.Is the biggest Amazon rainforest in the Americas, its incomparable natural wealth, host the greatest amount of flora and fauna of the world.

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• Daily housekeeping
• Complimentary 24-hour room service
• Elemis Aromapure soap, lotion, shampoo
• Luxurious bathrobes
• Hair dryers, makeup mirrors
• Generous storage
• Fresh fruit upon request
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Two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed—our signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, premium massage shower heads and a host of amenities are featured in these comfortable staterooms.

These expansive staterooms include include two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed—our Signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, premium massage shower heads, a host of amenities and an ocean view.

Filled with light from floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a private verandah, these staterooms include a sitting area, two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed—our signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, and bath tub with premium massage showerheads.

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These large, comfortable suites feature a spacious sitting area with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a private verandah, two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed—our signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, and one murphy bed for one person. The bathroom includes a dual-sink vanity, full-size whirlpool bath and shower, and an additional shower stall.

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With floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a private verandah, these spacious suites are flooded with light. They feature a large sitting area and two lower beds convertible to one king-size bed—our signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses. The bathroom comes with a dual-sink vanity, full-size whirlpool bath and shower, plus additional shower stall. Amenities include use of the exclusive Neptune Lounge, a private concierge and an array of complimentary services.

Your Ship: Noordam

Named for the Northern compass point, Noordam dazzles with museum-quality art and lavish staterooms. Guests of this Vista Class ship will have their pick of onboard activities. Sing along to your favorite hits at Billboard Onboard. Enjoy a Pilates class at the Fitness Center. Or savor the delights of one of our specialty restaurants. The Pinnacle Grill serves the juiciest steak at sea and Canaletto beckons with tantalizing Italian dishes.

• 1924 Guests
• 936 ft. Length
• 105.8 ft. Width

Dining & Onboard Activities

Each day on board offers delicious dining options, world-class entertainment and enriching activities.

The Dining Room

Our flagship dining experience is a welcoming and sophisticated setting for an exquisite breakfast, lunch or superb multicourse dinner.

For an elegant breakfast, leisurely lunch or unforgettable multi-course dinner, The Dining Room is your destination. For dinner, choose from classics such as Boneless Lamb Loin en Croute, Rosemary Roasted Chicken, as well as regionally inspired cuisine and artfully prepared vegetarian dishes. 

Pinnacle Grill

The ultimate steakhouse at sea, with an exceptional menu of Prime steaks, seafood and wine.

Pinnacle Grill is the ultimate steakhouse at sea, where an exceptional menu and impeccable service make for one of finest meals you’ll ever have. The refined menu features a selection of 28-day wet-aged USDA Prime steaks — meticulously chosen to guarantee the finest quality — as well as classic steakhouse dishes and innovative recipes from James Beard Award-winning chef and Culinary Council® member, David Burke. Every dish is exquisitely prepared, beautifully plated and complemented by a vast collection of award-winning wines. Here, your meal is an event unto itself, a celebration of fine dining and a triumph of flavor.

*Meals at Pinnacle Grill are half price for kids 12 years old or under, or free when they order from the kids’ menu.

Canaletto is a relaxed setting with authentic Italian cuisine that is best enjoyed when shared.

In Italy, there’s nothing more important than coming together to celebrate the joy of great food. This is the inspiration for our onboard Italian restaurant, Canaletto. Enjoy amazing Italian classics like braised chicken cacciatore al forno, branzino ai ferri or garlic shrimp ravioli. And for dessert: tiramisù, cannoli alla Siciliana, gelato, and more. Including pasta made fresh daily. Buon Appetito!

Meals at Canaletto are half price for kids 12 years old or under, or free when they order from the kids’ menu.

Lido Market

A casual, modern marketplace, Lido Market offers the widest range of food options on board for breakfast, lunch, dinner and a late-night snack.

Explore a world of intriguing culinary possibilities in the Lido Market. Steps from the Lido pool, this modern marketplace includes a curated selection of delicious options that you can grab on the go or have made to order: Breadboard, with freshly baked breads and pastries; Wild Harvest, offering a bountiful selection of hearty salads; Homestead, serving up comfort classics; Distant Lands, featuring global cuisine; Sweet Spot, for ice cream creations and desserts; Roasting Pan, hand-carved meats, fish and other hearty entrees; Perk, freshly brewed beverages and chilled juices; Quench, premium coffee, beer, wine, and soda available for purchase; Rise, savory quiches, croissants and sandwiches, and more.

This casual poolside grill serves up the best burgers at sea, Nathan’s Famous gourmet hot dogs, golden French fries and more.

Dive-In offers a variety of casual culinary classics, using the highest quality ingredients. Enjoy a burger, grilled to perfection and served on a toasted brioche with our own trade-marked secret sauce. Savor a succulent Nathan’s Famous gourmet hot dog with golden French fries. Or choose a grilled chicken breast sandwich or juicy portabella mushroom stack. Dive-In is the perfect spot to dine poolside on the best burgers at sea.

24-Hour Room Service

Enjoy breakfast in bed or an early dinner on your verandah — entrées and more are available whenever you wish.

Sleep in and have breakfast delivered. Enjoy an early dinner on your verandah before an evening excursion. Order a salad, sandwich or entrée any time. Room Service is only a phone call away. All selections are included in your cruise fare unless otherwise noted on the in-room menu.

Explorations Cafe

Our relaxing café with panoramic views is your home for handcrafted espresso drinks during the day and refreshing cocktails in the evening.

At Explorations Café, sink into plush chairs and sofas in a comfortable environment. Sip elegantly prepared espresso drinks and nosh on fresh pastries from the coffee bar. You can also take in fantastic views, catch up on your favorite book or browse the web. 

Crow's Nest

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Enjoy cocktails and sunsets in this lounge, featuring panoramic views.

Holland America Line offers you a wide selection of lounges onboard. The panoramic view takes center stage in The Crow's Nest at the top of the ship, where you can relax just about any time of day and enjoy your favorite drink.

Explorer's Lounge

Elegant and refined, stop by for a glass of wine or your favorite cocktail.

The Explorer’s Lounge is an elegant and refined space to enjoy a glass of wine, a cocktail, or your favorite liqueur.

Enjoy cocktails and ocean views while listening to live music.

Holland America Line offers you a wide selection of lounges. This popular bar is at the top of the atrium and is the perfect locale for cocktails and dancing.

Billboard Onboard

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Sing along, test your music trivia knowledge, or sit back and enjoy as chart-topping hits fill the room each night.

2 pianos - 60 Years of Chart Toppers - 100s Of Songs.  Sing along, test your music trivia skills or just sit back and enjoy as the hits fill the room each night.

World Stage

World Stage features innovative cruise ship shows and a two-story LED screen that creates a vivid wraparound display.

World Stage, the largest theater on board is home to a variety of performances day and night. Our exclusive EXC® Talk lecture series features captivating regional stories told by local experts and narrated by your Cruise & Travel Director. In the evenings, Step One Dance Company, vocal sensation Cantaré, BBC Earth in Concert and more take the stage.  Koningsdam, Nieuw Statendam  and  Rotterdam  bring the World Stage experience to the next level by surrounding you in spectacular sight and sound with a two-story, panoramic LED screen.

Rolling Stone Lounge

Our 7-piece band brings you the best in rock, pop, country and more.

Dance to your favorite songs with one of the best bands at sea. From rock and pop to country and beyond, we provide the perfect playlist live, each and every cruise.

Onboard Shopping

Enjoy a wide variety of duty-free shopping onboard.

Enjoy a wide variety of duty-free shopping in such signature shops as The Vault, Diamonds and Gemstones by Merabella, which offers the best diamonds at sea, brought to you by Effy.

Fitness Center

Take a class in our professionally staffed Fitness Center.

Stop by the professionally staffed Fitness Center equipped with the latest cardio and weight machines. Try one of our classes on indoor cycling, Pilates and more or work out at your own pace. You can also head out for fresh air and exercise on deck, where you'll find basketball and volleyball courts, and two refreshing pools (available on select ships). Some classes may have a nominal fee.

Holland America Line Navigator

Personalize your cruise experience with our free mobile-friendly tool.

Personalize your cruise experience once you’re on the ship with our free mobile-friendly tool. Plan your daily activities, browse and purchase shore excursions, view restaurant menus, make dining reservations, check your account balance and more. 

Casino Action

The Casino offers games for all levels.

Your Holland America Line ship’s Casino offers a wide array of gaming options. Whether you prefer slot machines or want to try your hand at blackjack or poker, our dealers and staff are available to provide complimentary instruction — and we offer many engaging tournament options. The Casino is only open at sea.

Pickleball at Sea

Enjoy complimentary lessons, tournaments, and courts with amazing top-deck views.

Play the fastest-growing sport in the U.S. with Holland America Line, the exclusive cruise line partner of the Professional Pickleball Association. All our cruise ships feature pickleball courts with amazing top-deck views. The equipment and courts are available for a match anytime, so long as the weather allows. Frequent pickler? Join a pickleball tournament at sea and put your dink shot to the test. Hesitant amateur? Learn the basics at complimentary beginner’s lessons, starting in spring 2023. Commemorative starter kits will soon be available in our retail shops — purchase as gifts for avid players or as souvenirs, so that you can always look back on your pickleball cruise memories.

Kids ages 3 to 17 can enjoy an array of activities. Registration required for children under 13.

Holland America Line's youth activities program, Kids Club, offers an array of entertaining events for kids and teens ages 3-17, supervised by a full-time, professionally trained staff. They'll have an opportunity to join other kids their age for arts and crafts, sports, video game competitions, scavenger hunts, challenging team games and themed parties. Note: Kids Club is not offered on cruises of 25-days or longer, including all Legendary and Grand Voyages. We will offer a selection of children’s activities throughout these longer voyages for any children who may be onboard.

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• Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Best of Moscow by high speed train

By shuguley , February 15, 2014 in Regent Seven Seas Cruises

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Sure would appreciate someone who has taken "Best of Moscow by high speed train" from St. Petersburg could please share their impressions of this shore excursion. From the description this sounds like a very long day.

Wondering how the 4 hour train trip was in terms of accommodations, etc. Also what time did you leave the ship and what time at night did you return? Were both legs of the trip on the high speed rail (I read that slower trains also travel the same tracks)?

My wife and I are considering this excursion. We thought that if we are making all the effort to go to Russia then how could we pass up going to Moscow, walking in Red Square, seeing St. Basil, etc.

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If you are considering this on the 2015 June Baltic cruise on Voyager; my suggestion is don't. There is so much to do in St. Petersburg and although a train is one of my favorite ways to travel the time would be far better spent in St. P.

Thanks for the advice. Yes, this would be on the Voyager during the 2015 season but not yet sure exactly which cruise.

We did the Moscow excursion "on a different luxury line", but from your brief description it sounds very much like the same trip, so I will operate on that assumption. It is a VERY long day! We left the ship at 5:30 AM and returned at 12:30 AM. The highspeed train trip is comfortable, and while they call it "Business Class" it does not compare well to the equivalent class on say Rail Europe. When we did it in 2011, we did have highspeed both ways, and the trip back seemed much longer as the adrenaline and excitement had worn off!:D

Moscow itself is not that terribly different from any other big city in the world, but this Cold War kid never thought he would ever stand in Red Square, never mind walk the grounds of The Kremlin, or tour The Kremlin Palace, or see (but not visit) Lenin's Tomb, or visit The Armoury. But he did, and he loved every minute of it! Yes, it is a long day, and you barely scratch a scratch on the surface, but it is worth it. There is a tremendous amount to see in St. Petersburg, but every Baltic cruise goes to St. Petersburg, so you can go back if you choose to. Not every cruiseline offers you the chance to see Moscow.

I have not personally done this tour, but our last time in St Petersburg, the private guide that we hired for a day was leading the regent tour to Moscow on the high speed train the next day. He said it was way better than the previous alternative, which was flying to Moscow and back. He said that you actually got to Moscow faster because you didn't have to deal with airline checkin etc. it did seem like a very long day to me, and there is so much to see and do in st. Petersburg that I didn't consider doing it.

countflorida

We toured to Moscow from St. Petersburg via the hi-speed SAPSAN train last September, from a Baltic cruise on the Oceania Marina. You need to have a two-night, three day port call in St. Petersburg to take this tour because the tour typically leaves the ship around 5:00 - 5:30 AM and doesn't return until after midnight the next day. We didn't take the ship's tour; we made private arrangements with TravelAllRussia for three days of touring, the first and third days in St. Petersburg and the second day the tour to Moscow by train. Our cost for the private tour for three days was about the same as what the ship charged for the excursion to Moscow alone. There are a number of private tour agencies that operate in St. Petersburg and offer the Moscow train tours; we would strongly recommend them over the ship's tours.

All three days had private guides with car and driver. The second day, the driver picked us up at the ship and took us to the train, but we were alone on the train, and met in Moscow by the guide on the station platform. After our tour and dinner, we were brought back to the train and after the return train trip met by the driver and taken back to the ship. Because you are alone on the train you must have your own Russian visas.

If this is your first visit to St. Petersburg, I would agree there is much more to see there. We found Moscow somewhat a disappointment, particularly Red Square. The Kremlin and the cathedral in Red Square were also worth seeing. But the best thing we saw was the Moscow subway! I worked for the Washington Metro system back in the 1980s as it grew from 40 to 80 miles and although I was in the computer area, I learned a lot about the challenges of running a subway system. We used the Moscow system to get across the city from where we had dinner to the train station, and I was amazed at the cleanliness', speed of operation, the short headways maintained, and the courtesy of everyone involved. A very impressive experience!

We had been to St. Petersburg before, and so had the time to take a day and go to Moscow. Also, I really like trains, and the SAPSAN is a German train set running on Russian rails. Seats are like first class domestic air, spacious but not too plush or comfortable, but with enough room. Not too much recline, and almost 8 hours on the train in two shots is a lot for an old man. They come through and sell drinks, candy, etc. but the sellers don't speak English and no one around us helped, so we had just poor coffee once coming, and brought stuff with us for the trip back. Not too much to see from the train either, particularly on the return when it is night the whole way.

If you decide to go, take a private tour and avoid the overly expensive ship's tour. I'm glad we did it, but wouldn't bother to repeat the tour; we've seen Moscow.

Thanks so much to all of you for the thorough and thought insight. Yhe information you have provided is most helpful.

countflorida: Your detailed post is very helpful. We are not quite ready for a Baltic cruise but should do so within a year. Time enough to do our pre travel research, bookings and visa gathering.:) Thank you!

Emperor Norton

Sure would appreciate someone who has taken "Best of Moscow by high speed train" from St. Petersburg could please share their impressions of this shore excursion. From the description this sounds like a very long day.   Wondering how the 4 hour train trip was in terms of accommodations, etc. Also what time did you leave the ship and what time at night did you return? Were both legs of the trip on the high speed rail (I read that slower trains also travel the same tracks)?   My wife and I are considering this excursion. We thought that if we are making all the effort to go to Russia then how could we pass up going to Moscow, walking in Red Square, seeing St. Basil, etc.

I did this on Seabourn. IMO DONT. Take Aeroflop (er Aeroflot). The train has non folding seats where you are literally knee to knee with your fellow passenger (facing each other). Further they don't believe in air conditioning. It's also the worlds slowed bullet train. I think I would have found more enjoyment wandering around the St. Petersburg and Moscow airports.

Countflorida,

This is a little off topic,, however we had planned a river cruise in Russia but decided we would rather stay on land and have booked about two weeks with Travel-All-Russia using the private guide and driver. I'm curious as to how you found them as a tour company.

The guides they provided were fine. We had a different guide each of the days in St. Petersburg, but both were flexible, pleasant, knowledgeable and spoke English very well, as did the guide in Moscow, incidentally. She was a bit aloof, distant, not too friendly, but otherwise fine. In fact, she was the one who suggested taking the Metro, which unexpectedly became one of the highlights of the Moscow excursion. If I have a complaint with AllTravelRussia, it is with their plan and its execution (more later).

I had requested emphasis on World War II (in Russia, the Great Patriotic War) sites and info. In scheduling us, they weren't careful about dates and a couple of the sites we wanted to see were scheduled on the third day, after we'd been to Moscow. But both sites were closed that day of the week, and that info was readily available, right on web sites describing them. Also, the included meals (lunches in St. Pete, dinner in Moscow) were not what we asked for: light meals with some choices, so we could avoid things we didn't like and choose things we did like. My request was ignored; we were given full Russian meals with a fixed menu, no choice. On the first day, a fish dish was the entre, but I am allergic to fish. Fortunately, I had the e-mail I'd sent with me and showed it to the guide, and she was able to change my entre to chicken, which was very good actually. But we didn't want a 3-4 course lunches or dinner (in Moscow). We had the guide drop the lunch the third day, although we never got any credit or refund. But, particularly in contrast to the ship's tours, the prices were so reasonable we didn't worry too much about it.

The people who were on the ship's tour to Moscow saw us boarding the same train for which they were forced to queue up and wait on the way back, and asked us what we had done. I was candid and open so they were not happy when I explained what we had arranged and particularly what it had cost. Also, when we returned to the ship, we found they had laid on a late supper for those who had gone to Moscow, so up we went and had something. Well, it turns out the late supper was supposed to be just for those on the ship's tour, but we and others on 'independent' tours, there were a dozen or more of us, crashed the party, actually got there first, and they didn't realize it until the larger group arrived and there weren't enough tables/places set. By that time, the 'independents' had all gotten served and were eating; what could they do?

A couple from the larger group sat down with us and asked us about our tour, and they were the ones I told about our arrangement and its cost. They turned to others who’d been with them and announced the details, loudly enough so the whole room heard, which started a lot of bitching and complaining. I gathered they weren't very happy with the ship's tour to begin with, and this was the straw that broke the camel's back. We finished up and beat it out of there, but overheard later that one of the excursion staff came to check on something and ran into a real mess. I caught a cold on the trip, which forced me to bed the second day following in Tallinn, so by the time we reappeared we heard about the contretemps' but apparently no one recalled who started it, thankfully.

Because of what happened to us, I would probably not use AllTravelRussia if I were to go again, or if I did, I would be sure to get confirmation of every detail of the tour. They do have good reviews generally, and we were certainly helped by their visa department and liked the guides and drivers. Their weakness, I say now with full 20:20 hindsight, is that once the sales person who plans the tour, sells it to you and collects your money, he (or she) transfers the plan to their Russia office for implementation; there is no follow-up to make sure it gets done right. And that is where our problems arose; we paid for a custom tour but got a standard package with a few destinations switched, and no one checked them out, even to see when they were open the day we were scheduled to go. If you check every detail that’s important to you, it should be OK, but that’s a hell of a way to have to do business, in my opinion.

Thank you for the 20/20 hindsight observation on your Russian tour operator, and better priced than the ship's excursion cost.

Thanks very much for the feedback.

We had the same experience as you so far as price. We originally booked a Viking Cruise but, hearing some things about the river cruises that made us unhappy, looked into other options. T-A-R cost the same or less than a cruise and had us in hotels for 11 days. We opted for the private tour. They have three tour levels, based on hotels. We originally opted for the four star as it did not cost much more than the three star hotels. Finally we decided to throw it all in and upgraded to five star. In Moscow we will be at the newly opened Kempinsky which is two blocks from Red Square. In St. Petersburg it is the Grand Hotel Europe, one of the most vaunted luxury hotels in Russia. Location is important for us as the tours use up only part of the day so being in the center of everything for our independent touring is important. As with many other cities, the less you pay, the farther out of the center of town you are.

We have been working with our salesman in D.C. and he seems to get back to us with the changes we want. He recently returned from Russia so is up on everything. When I asked they said they paid the full TA commission if I wanted so I got my usual TA on board so he is watching our back and giving us that extra level of comfort. He also set up our air, which I know pays him little or nothing, and got us business class for much less than T-A-R wanted for economy, though it took working for a while with a consolidator. He's happy to get his 10 percent on this trip without having booked it. He also took care of the trip insurance. We've been doing a lot of research on the CC sister site Trip Advisor and will write a report there. We will, I guess, become a source of info for CC members after having spent 5 days in Moscow and 6 in SP.

• 4 months later...

scubacruiserx2

Anybody considering a day trip to Moscow from St. Petersburg on the Sapsan may want to look at our travelogue filled with pictures.

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1927687

Very informative. Thanks dor sharing. Jeff

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