Planning a cruise down the Amazon is an exciting time. One of the main questions we get from people planning is how much does an Amazon River cruise cost?
So, to answer this, we have written this detailed guide on all the costs associated with an Amazon river cruise. With 10% of the world’s animal species and 20% of the world’s bird species, your cruise will be a once in a lifetime experience and shouldn't be ruined by unexpected costs!.
Whilst the cruise itself is the main cost, there are a number of other financial factors that travellers often forget to budget for. These include flights, insurance, tips, gear and much more.
To help you budget for your Amazon cruise, we have broken down each cost element into separate sections below. We've tried to be as transparent as possible so you don't get any financial shocks along the way.
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How Much Does An Amazon River Cruise Cost?
The largest budget factor is of course the cruise itself. Due to the region's popularity, there are plenty of options when it comes to boats, itineraries and regions. Because of this, prices can vary quite dramatically.
When it comes to choosing a region, you have three options; Ecuador, Peru, and Brazil. Of the three regions, Brazil is the most popular due to the fact that much of the Amazon lies within the country. Saying this, Peru is probably better for wildlife (particularly birds), and Ecuador is better for native community interactions. A Brazil river cruise will allow you to penetrate much deeper into the Amazon though.
In terms of price, all three regions are fairly similar. The lowest price you could expect for a 3 day cruise would be in the region of $600-750. This wold be a basic boat with little in the way of luxuries or cabin space. Boats such as the Clavero in Peru, or the Lo Peix and the Amazon Clipper in Brazil are in the price bracket.
At the other end of the spectrum, luxury cruise boats can cost anywhere from $2,500 - $4,000 for a 4 day cruise. Boats such as the Delfin I in Peru and the Peralta in Brazil are good examples.
For the more popular 8 day itineraries, prices start around $3,000 for a basic boat and go upwards of $7,000 for the more luxurious options. There is also the option to hire a charter boat. Costs for a basic charter boat begin at around $7,000 for 7 days.
Prices for an 8 day itinerary:
Basic: $3,000, Mid-Level: $5,000, Luxury: $7,000
Last Minute Cruises
We often get asked about last minute cruises to the Amazon and whether they are a good idea. Whilst it's true that you may get a good deal by taking a last minute Amazon river cruise, there are some crucial factors to consider.
Firstly, in order to get a last minute deal, you already need to be in the departure port waiting around for this deal. This means you can't plan ahead as you never know if you'll get on a boat or not. Many people tend to spend more on accommodation in Iquitos or Manaus simply waiting for a cruise to free up.
Secondly, you have no control over itinerary. It may be that an opening arrives on a luxury boat or very short itinerary. You may have to spend just as much because you're on a better boat!
Last minute cruise tend to be a good idea for people who are in the region anyway and can drop everything at a moments notice.
Expedition Guides
Although you may not imagine it, the level of guide you have on board your boat makes an incredible difference to your overall trip. Not only does a good guide have excellent knowledge of the surrounding flora and fauna, but they are able to communicate the information effectively.
This is where paying the extra money comes in really useful. Good guides, with good English tend to work on the more expensive boats for obvious reasons. This is not to say that a basic boat will have a bad guide, it's just to say that you're guaranteed an excellent guide on the higher end boats.
Flight Costs
Flight costs are something many people overlook when planning an Amazon cruise. Unlike other South American cruise destinations such as the Galapagos or Patagonia, certain Amazon cruise ports are not as easy to reach.
For Peru cruises you'll need to embark at Iquitos. There are no direct flights from North America, instead you'll need to take a flight from Lima. Direct flights from North America to Lima fly from New York, Miami, Houston, Atlanta, Los Angeles, and Toronto. We suggest budgeting at least $1,000 for this per person.
For European visitors, direct flights to Lima depart from Madrid, Paris and Amsterdam almost daily. Flights are more expensive from euros and you should budget at least $1,500 return per person.
For people taking a Brazilian cruise you will need to get a flight to Manaus. This is slightly easier as direct flights leave from Miami most days. If you're not near Miami, the best option is to fly into either Panama City, Rio de Janeiro or Sao Paulo and take an internal flight to Manaus.
Remember, your operator should be able to provide detailed guidance on the best options available to you - so don't be afraid to ask!
Gear and Clothing
How much you spend on gear and clothing very much depends on what you own already. The Amazon is a hot and humid place all year-round and having lightweight, protective clothing is key to enjoying yourself.
You'll need to bring lightweight breathable shirts, preferably with ling sleeves for protection from both the sun and mosquitos. You'll also want a good sun hat, durable hiking boots, and a light wind-breaker jacket.
When you add in the little extras like sunscreen, headbands, bug spray, dry-wipes etc. the costs can build up quickly. We suggest budgeting $250 for gear and clothing.
Please click here for detailed cruise packing list.
Extra Activites
There are always a number of optional extra activities offered on Amazon river cruises. These include camping, night forest walks, fishing, and kayaking. We always advise doing at least one extra activity. They are super fun and you experience something completely new and exciting!
Each excursion price varies depending on the operator. Kayaking and camping can be anywhere between $100 - $500, whilst fishing is slightly cheaper.
We suggest budgeting $250 per person for an extra activity. Make sure you book ahead as there is limited availability on some of the activities.
Get a Cruise Quote!
Expedition Cruise do not sell tours, we simply provide impartial advice. If you would like an exact quote with our recommended specialist click Get a Quote.
Insurance
Travel insurance is one of the most commonly overlooked costs when booking an Amazon cruise. This is many because cruise goers assume their standard travel insurance policy will cover them.
Sadly though, this is not the case. Almost all basic travel insurance policies (including ones you get with your bank) do not cover cruise travel! Standard policies also do not cover activities like kayaking. These are extras you need to add on to your policy when purchasing travel insurance.
For a good policy you should expect to pay at least $75 - $200 depending on your location, itinerary length, and previous medical history. We suggest budgeting $100 per person.
Please see our detailed page on cruise insurance for more information.
Miscellaneous costs
As with all travel, there are many small costs that can often add up to a large cost! Below is a list of the most common costs associated with an Amazon cruise. Most operators try to be as transparent as possible, but it's always good to be prepared.
Passport and visa expenses: Government arrival and departure taxes vary significantly depending on your country of arrival. US citizens will need to pay $160 upon arrival in Brazil for instance.
Hotel costs: Most people spend a day or two before or after exploring the Amazon region. This means budgeting for a hotel. We suggest $75 per night.
Transportation: Although not a large cost, transportation to and from the airport will cost at least $30.
Drinks: Generally all non-alcoholic drinks are included in your cruise. But lets face it, we're going to have a glass or two of wine on our cruise! Budget at least $50 per person.
Tips: Tipping the staff and guides is fairly customary at the end of a cruise. We suggest 20$ per day, per person. It's really up to you though.
Total Budget
The below budgets are an average only and include 1 activity. The budget is for an 6 day cruise.
The Please note that the earlier you book, the better the price will be.
Economy Budget
$2,950
Mid-range Budget
$4,000
Luxury Budget
$5,500
FAQ
If you have any queries or questions regarding Amazon river cruise costs, please feel free to contact us or leave a comment below.
Thank you and happy travels!
Expedition Cruise Team